SOFIA TAKES THE STAGE

As the discussions quieted, the Vice Chancellor Reeves let out a contemplative sigh, his gaze lingering on Charlotte as she stepped back among the other top contenders. His eyes held a glint of intrigue, mixed with a hint of caution.

"Something doesn't add up," he muttered under his breath, drawing the attention of General Cao and the others gathered alongside him in the clouds. "A technique like The Divine Shield can't just appear out of nowhere."

General Cao nodded, a trace of concern in his expression. "From what we know, her background has always seemed… modest. Her only known family is an ill mother who's hardly able to walk, let alone wield something so ancient as elven magic." He paused, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "But perhaps there's more than we realize."

Carmilia tilted her head, her sharp gaze on Reeves. "You think she's connected to an older lineage, maybe one even she doesn't know of?"