Hexel

As the third ominous sign ends, Lorcan falls into a coma. Natalie desperately tries to awaken him. When she succeeds, it triggers the transformation of the gnome into his third form.

Amidst the routine chaos, Natalie seeks solace in the secret tunnels that transport her and her fellow teenage mages to the Crossroads Barracks. She needs this time, as Hexel, the cold and deadly guardian, awaits on the other side of the door. Shrouded in black rags, Hexel guards the entrance. Only those she deems worthy can enter.

While Natalie and her companions train in their elemental skills, distractions abound, including the annual Feast of Service for their familiars. Within the celebration, an unexpected darkness enters the Barracks, forcing Natalie’s powers to merge with Hexel’s abilities.

Finally, the teenage mages believe the Barracks’ danger is behind them. They focus on broom flying. The day of competition arrives, only to erupt into chaos as a storm of lightning rages. They flee for safety; Natalie is missing. The hidden truth of Hexel unfolds.