The academy's central garden was unusually crowded.
A group of students surrounded a girl with silver hair and violet eyes.
Elena Seraphine.
Another future protagonist.
She was the daughter of a minor noble family and possessed a rare Divine Radiance Lineage.
In the original novel, she would eventually become one of the continent's most influential holy figures.
At present, she was simply a talented student.
Adrian watched from a distance.
A small creature had become trapped beneath a broken wooden cart.
Several students were discussing how to move it.
Elena stepped forward.
Golden light appeared around her hand.
The cart lifted slightly.
The creature escaped.
The students applauded.
Adrian noticed the faint glow around her fingers.
Divine energy.
Even at this stage, her bloodline was remarkable.
He had no intention of challenging her.
Some bloodlines were too dangerous to pursue without preparation.
A moment later, Elena noticed him.
"Adrian von Valen?"
He nodded.
"Yes."
"I've seen you in the library."
"Then I must be spending too much time there."
Elena laughed.
"Not necessarily. The library is an excellent place."
Adrian learned that Elena was interested in healing magic and ancient religious history.
Before leaving, she asked:
"Are you interested in magic?"
"Interested, yes. Talented, not particularly."
"Talent isn't everything."
Adrian smiled.
"That's encouraging."
He left the garden.
In his notebook, he wrote:
Elena Seraphine – Divine Radiance Lineage. Potential ally. Avoid unnecessary hostility.
He had learned something important.
Not every powerful bloodline needed to become his.
Some people were more valuable as allies than as targets.