The aftermath of the convergence's near-collapse left the Academy shaken. Though the barrier had been temporarily stabilized, the strain of the battle lingered in every corner of the grounds. The whispers of the Eternal Shadow had retreated, but they were not gone; their absence was a sinister calm before the inevitable storm.
Kael stood on the balcony of the central tower, his gaze fixed on the horizon. The first rays of dawn painted the sky in hues of gold and crimson, but the beauty was lost on him. His thoughts were heavy with the implications of Aeris's actions and the growing rift within their ranks.
"Couldn't sleep?" Morgana's voice broke the silence as she approached, her presence as steady as ever.
Kael didn't turn. "Sleep feels like a luxury we can't afford right now."
