The next morning, the academy corridors buzzed with a restless energy. Sunlight filtered through the tall windows, catching on polished floors and half-awake students dragging their satchels.
Khael walked beside Kaen, hands tucked in his pockets.
"Well…" Kaen stretched, his voice casual, "there's still no mission. Sensei said it might take a while."
He gave a toothy grin that didn't quite match the frustration flickering in his eyes.
Khael smiled kindly. "Well, good luck with your mission — if you get one before me."
They shared a brief laugh, the sound light against the heavy, humming atmosphere of the academy.
Then a shout cracked the hallway air.
Khael and Kaen turned. At the far end of the corridor, Matthew Lomwel had a younger student pinned against the wall, his fists slamming into the boy's stomach with merciless rhythm. Yet Matthew was smiling wide, bright, almost euphoric.
Gasps scattered among the watching students. No one stepped in.
