9. Sorin: Practice Grounds

After a solitary summer patrolling a leyline through the Royal Forest, Sorin finds peace and distance from Magnes’s influence. Seeking rest at Nalore Monastery, she instead meets Magnes, who tempts and pressures her into returning to the Citadel as His Eye. Her mission: shadow the mysterious Arcady—the interloper who scarred her and commanded a dragon—and learn how their magic works without arousing suspicion.

Sorin accepts, torn between the lingering need for Magnes’s approval and a growing resentment of His control. Magnes frames Arcady and their patron as threats to the Veil and the world’s magic, insisting Sorin’s surveillance is essential to a permanent cure.

A sennight later at the Citadel, Sorin resumes routines, visiting her wyvern Jaculus before arms practice. On the practice grounds, Armsmaster Colla Hulm wards the weapons, and Sorin faces the hungover Willem Ansel. Though she can easily win, Sorin intentionally throws the bout to maintain her cover as a quiet acolyte rather than a seasoned killer.

While fighting, Sorin studies Arcady sparring with Damon Aldburn and notes Arcady’s weak training. Afterward, Arcady chats amiably with Sorin and Willem, mentioning the upcoming alchemy class and Willem’s connection to Professor Hayden. Sorin observes Arcady’s fatigue behind their cheerful mask and files away every detail for Magnes.

Privately, Sorin weighs curiosity against caution, convinced Arcady serves a false god. She recommits to the covert role: stay close, learn their magic, and never be detected—accepting that, once Magnes has what He needs, Arcady will likely disappear.