====Corey's POV ====
The dark stone room teemed with stoves. The flames moved sinuously through the air like serpents, creating an illusion of coiled energy. Flames cast flickering shadows on the walls. They danced in unpredictable patterns, with movements both enchanting and menacing.
The room echoed with the soothing hiss of burning wood and the occasional pop of a stubborn ember bursting to life.
Seated cross-legged in the middle of the room, I was bare-chested, enduring the scorching heat that permeated from the floor beneath.
Beads of sweat dripped down my back. It scratched my skin. An itchiness surfaced that begged to be scratched.
The wizard noticed my distraction and sternly reminded, "Control your breathing, Alpha Corey, focus on the present. Otherwise, you won't be able to
