8.1OngoingAcademy of the unchosen
As Kristal’s powers develop, she tries to evade academy scouts but trusts Torin and reaches Winslow Academy. Growing attachment to him angers Mateo, her earlier love interest. A prophecy requires the cross-phoenix to die defeating Minotaur, while a secret connects her deceased twin with impersonation of their mother. Romance, family and sacrifice converge without the introduction resolving that apparent contradiction or the eventual redemption.