---
Fowad stood near the eastern gate, staring at the devastation before him.
Foxy, Zoom, and Fattey huddled close to him, their once-vibrant energy dulled by exhaustion.
Helena approached, her falcon perched silently on her shoulder, its wings drooping with fatigue.
"Helena," Fowad said quietly, his voice barely audible over the distant crackling of fires. "How many…?"
Her gaze dropped to the ground. "Too many," she replied, her voice heavy with sorrow. "Students, teachers, beasts. The infirmary is overflowing."
Fowad's Chaos Eye flickered faintly as he scanned the academy. Survivors gathered in the central courtyard, their faces pale and hollow. Some sat silently, clutching their wounds, while others wept openly for their fallen friends and beasts.
In the center of the courtyard, Headmaster Grevan stood tall despite the weariness etched into his features.
