The next day, things felt… off.
Not immediately. Not obviously. But to someone like Riku Aoyama—who had grown accustomed to quietly watching the world behind a mask of calm intelligence—something in the air hummed wrong.
A low pressure.
A breath held too long.
A silence too perfect.
Still, classes continued normally—lecture on political mana theory, a practical on flame containment barriers, even a lunch break with Ayumi where she tried (and failed) to convince him to try spicy soba noodles.
It was during Practical Spellforms that everything shifted.
"Riku Aoyama," came the voice of Professor Kiriya at the door. "You've been summoned."
Riku blinked. "By who?"
The teacher didn't answer.
Only handed him a sealed envelope.
No name.
No crest.
Just one line:
"Come alone. North Tower. Room B4. Immediately."
---
[System Alert: Unknown instruction detected. Potential trap probability: 63.4%]
[Accept challenge: Y/N]
Riku narrowed his eyes.
Accept.
---
