The training yard was packed that afternoon—Oakridge Warriors mixed with Black River members, all eager to learn Moonbane techniques. I stood at the front with Erica, Liana, and three other trained instructors. "Moonbane isn't just a weapon," I explained. "It's a defensive system. A way of thinking about magic that prioritizes protection over power." I drew a basic rune in the air with silver light. "This is a suppression rune. It doesn't destroy dark magic—it nullifies it. Think of it like noise-canceling headphones for corruption." A few people laughed. "I want everyone to try drawing this rune," I continued. "Don't worry if it doesn't work at first. It takes practice." The next hour was organized chaos as warriors attempted to channel their energy into rune-work. Most failed

