The fourth grade had begun, and with it, a new stage for Ares, Agust, and Dana. Liana's absence echoed in the group's heart, but change was inevitable.
Zack, the water warlock, was reserved but efficient. He had proven himself a talented mage, and although he had clashed with Emma in the past, he seemed to have matured. His calculating style contrasted with Agust's impulsiveness, sparking tension from the very first day.
But the true surprise was Melani.
Hair as white as snow, and golden eyes that shone like the morning sun. Her presence was serene, almost ethereal, and she didn't speak much… but when she did, everyone listened.
Agust couldn't help but look at her more than he should. It wasn't just physical attraction. There was something about her that intrigued him… something familiar yet impossible to decipher. Dana, noticing, raised an eyebrow.
—"What's wrong, prince?" she whispered with a mischievous smile. "Falling in love?"
For the first time, Agust didn't have an arrogant reply. He simply turned away, uncomfortable.
Ares observed from the sidelines. His bond with Dana had grown closer, though they still hadn't defined what they were. Liana's memory still weighed on his mind, but he knew he had to move forward.
During their first team training, Melani revealed astonishing magical mastery. Her style was clean, elegant… as if every spell she cast was part of an ancient dance.
—"Where did you learn that?" Ares asked, impressed.
—"I didn't learn it," Melani answered with a faint smile. "I remembered it."
Her words left everyone in silence.
Zack was the first to break it.
—"Interesting… very interesting."
The new Group 4 had potential. But it also carried secrets, unhealed wounds, and new emotions that were only beginning to surface.
And Ares's fire… was starting to burn with an intensity he hadn't felt in a long time.