New Gear

Zane adjusted the leather strap on the travel bag he had "borrowed" from a distracted merchant. It wasn't exactly theft—more like a temporary exchange. He had left behind a roasted haunch of beast meat, which was more than generous, considering the merchant's cooking smelled like burnt bark.

He tugged at the new cloak he had "acquired" as well. It was durable, thick, and—most importantly—hooded. Perfect for traveling unnoticed. Ace, now fully awake and bounding beside him, looked up at his master with a satisfied grin, his sleek black fur rippling with energy.

"Alright, compass," Zane said, glancing at Nyx's dormant screen. "Which way now?"

"You could've just asked nicely." Nyx replied smugly, appearing with her arms crossed. "But fine. There's a trading hub north of here, and I picked up chatter—some kind of entrance exam is being held in two days."

Zane blinked. "Academy? That one the other students were from?"

"Exactly. If you want information, resources, and to blend in, it's your best bet."

Ace purred and headbutted Zane's leg as if agreeing.

"Fine," Zane muttered. "Let's see what this academy is all about. Just don't expect me to play nice."

With a new destination, new gear, and a shadow lynx trotting beside him, Zane set his eyes on the horizon. It was time to walk into the lion's den—again.