Before any of them could react, three figures appeared at the far end of the chamber, their presence announced by a blinding flash of light that momentarily forced everyone to shield their eyes. When the light faded, Amberine's heart sank as she recognized the newcomers. They were professors—powerful, highly respected members of the university's faculty. But the aura of malevolence that clung to them now was unmistakable.
The first of the three, a tall, imposing man with a stern face and piercing eyes, stepped forward. Amberine recognized him immediately—Professor Ardan, known for his mastery of light magic. His signature spell, the Light Spears, was infamous among students and professors alike. The spears moved at the speed of lightning and were nearly impossible to defend against. He raised one hand, and a dozen spears of pure light materialized around him, crackling with energy.