The gates swung open. I stepped inside.
And immediately felt like I'd walked into a完全不同 world.
The outer court had been intense but manageable. This place? The air itself felt heavier. Thicker. Like the magic here was alive and knew I didn't belong.
A massive palace stood ahead, silver-carved walls gleaming under the sun. A giant tree sat in the middle of the courtyard, its roots half in a glowing pool. Looked ancient. Like it had been here forever.
I followed the receptionist through the halls, trying to ignore the nerves twisting my stomach.
We entered a huge atrium. Ceiling so high it disappeared into mist. Walls covered in glowing glyphs, shifting like liquid gold. And at the center—an enormous mural.
Eight figures. Eight gates.
I stared at it, barely registering the voices nearby.
"Elder Veena took an interest in a new student? That's rare."
"The Ripe Gate is no joke. Only exceptional combat potential gets placed there. Her lineage is tied to the Dawnblades… same as Kai."
Dawnblade. The name hit me.
I looked back at the mural. Found a woman wreathed in golden light. Elder Veena Dawnblade – Guardian of the Ripe Gate.
So Kai was related to an Elder. That explained… something, I guess.
My eyes moved to the other names.
Ragnor Shadowcrest – Titan Gate. Strength.
Seraphis Voltaris – Void Gate. Shadows.
Aria Aerovault – Celestial Gate. Knowledge.
Each Elder's surname matched one of the Seven Devils.
Great. So this whole place is a family reunion I wasn't invited to.
"Mira."
I turned. The receptionist was calling me.
"Your room is in the Ripe Gate, third floor." He gave me a look. "Elder Veena rarely takes interest in students. If you're under her, you have a lot to prove."
I tightened my grip on my badge.
Great. More pressure.
Before I could respond, a group of boys sauntered up beside me. Smirks on their faces. Alarm bells in my head.
"Outer court girl, huh?" One leaned against the counter, amused.
"You sure you belong here?" Another snickered.
I exhaled. Not this already.
"Pretty sure," I said flatly, shoving my badge into my pocket.
The tallest one chuckled. "Better watch your back. The Seven Devils don't take just anyone. If they let you in, they've got plans for you." He tapped the counter. "Hope you can handle it."
I forced a smile. "Guess we'll find out."
They laughed and walked off. A few other students nearby were watching me a little too closely.
Great. Target on my back already.
The receptionist gave me a nod. "Don't let them get to you. The inner court tests everyone. If you're strong enough, you'll find your place."
I nodded back. Strong enough. Sure.
I climbed the steps to the third floor, badge in hand.
My old life was gone. But honestly? I was too tired to think about that right now. I just wanted to find my room and lie down for five minutes.