SWNOVELXO Chapter 9: Chapter 9 – The Principal’s Summon
It was a normal morning—or so it seemed.
Students chatted, practiced spells in the courtyard, and tried to ignore the tension the Mistwood incident had left behind. But then, a sudden flare of light glowed at the academy's bell tower.
> "All students to attention. Selected individuals, report to the Head Hall."
A chill ran through everyone.
The Principal was calling them. That never happened.
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🧓 The First Glimpse: Principal Alden
Inside the towering Head Hall, four students stood in front of the Academy's supreme authority: Principal Alden.
An elder mage clad in flowing robes, his aura was immense yet composed — a balance of terrifying power and calming wisdom. A glowing emblem hovered behind him like a sun.
He looked at them one by one:
Show, the fire wielder who'd drawn the attention of a cloaked enemy.
Chris, the calm stone-user with high academic marks.
Karen, sharp and precise, never failing a test.
Hibiki, loud but skilled, and surprisingly insightful in battle.
> Alden (voice firm yet measured):
"A new discovery has been made… one that cannot be ignored."
He waved his hand and a hologram appeared — a jagged cave carved into a sheer cliff, glowing faintly from deep within.
> Alden:
"This is the Cliffstone Cave. It has existed for centuries, sealed shut… until last night. A powerful mana pulse was detected — one so strong it reached the academy."
The projection flickered, revealing a glowing Mana Stone, pulsating with energy.
> Alden: "Your mission is to retrieve this stone. It could hold ancient power… or awaken something best left buried."
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🛡️ The Chosen Four
Chris, ever composed, bowed.
> "We'll complete the mission with full precision."
Hibiki: "Whaaat?! We're going into a glowing cave?! LET'S GOOO!"
Karen, arms folded:
> "This better not be like Mistwood…"
Show: "If it's power we're after… I'll bring it back. No matter what."
Alden nodded.
> "Good. But beware… the pulse you felt wasn't only magical. It was calling something."
He looked directly at Show, his tone quieter.
> "And I believe it was calling you."
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🏞️ Cliffstone Awaits
The team prepared for departure by noon. Armor reinforced. Mana reserves restored. Tools collected.
As they stood at the gates of Arcane Academy, the sun blazing behind them, the wind from the east carried an eerie chill.
> Show (to Karen): "Another death cave. You still think I'm reckless?"
Karen (rolling her eyes, but slightly smiling):
> "Still reckless. But now… a little less annoying."
Hibiki shouted from ahead:
> "Race you to the danger!"
And Chris, serious as ever, added:
> "Let's not awaken something we can't put back."
> TO BE CONTINUED
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