The Black Sea and the lone island gradually vanished into the mist.
Like an onion being peeled away layer by layer.
At first, Ian's consciousness was still immersed in the lingering aftertaste of his dream. But as his senses gradually cleared, a chill covering his face slowly seeped into his skin.
Beneath the thin quilt, the night's chill passed through the cotton stuffing, carrying the distinctive feeling of late autumn and early winter. As Ian slowly opened his eyes, he heard a crackling commotion outside the window.
Rain lashed against the windowpanes in the howling wind, yet it did not disturb those adventuring through sweet dreams.
The snores of his two roommates, William and Michael, rose and fell one after another, filling the entire room as each took turns performing. Snoring had never been noise to Ian. Life in the Orphanage had made him far more adaptable to communal living than ordinary people. He rubbed his eyes and looked at the time on the wall.
12:07.
The clock in the dormitory pointed to the familiar number as always. Even though Ian had spent much longer in the Misty Illusion this time than he ever had before.
On ordinary days.
He would probably only stay in the Misty Illusion for a short while. Today, however, he had remained there for nearly half a day. Ian guessed this was what Teacher Mara had meant when she said, "The next time will be different."
"Perhaps it has something to do with my Magic Power Level." The only change Ian could find in himself was that he had eaten the Golden Apple Pandora had found in the Misty Illusion.
``` Name: Ian Prince
Class: Bloodline Sorcerer
Magic Power: Level 8 (Explosive Leap in progress)
Skill: Enlightenment of Wisdom [This skill cannot be upgraded]