Refusal
Ethan waited in a secluded corner of the Academy's training grounds, his mind still replaying the details he had gleaned from the library.
It's been three days since he read the books in the library. It turns out he doesn't need to go back to review them because he still remembers everything.
Ethan thought it must be because his Talent had awakened, and since his entire body had changed, his brain had also become much smarter than before.
He knew the journey to the Sanctum of Ash Lord would be perilous but he felt prepared. He had reached out to Irene for some specific items, knowing her connections within the Academy could expedite his preparations.
Soon enough, Irene approached, carrying a small black leather backpack. Her steps were quick, and her expression hard. She reached Ethan and handed over the backpack with a slight smile.
"Here you go," Irene said. "Everything you asked for is inside."