The hidden studio was unlike any place within the Threshold.
Its walls were smooth limestone, untouched by paint or carving.
Sunlight entered through a ceiling that had no visible opening.
The room seemed to create its own dawn.
At its center stood a circular floor of pale wood surrounded by dozens of empty easels, sculpting tables, musical stands, and workbenches.
Every form of creation had a place.
None stood higher than another.
---
As the apprentices entered, they searched for instructions.
There were none.
No assignment.
No challenge.
Only silence.
Finn finally laughed.
"I think the room expects us to begin."
No one moved.
Beginning without permission felt strangely difficult.
---
Niko walked to the exact center of the studio.
Instead of choosing a tool, the child s
