The academy gates loomed ahead, indifferent to the terror Leo had endured. His clothes were torn, still damp, and his body ached with exhaustion. Every step felt heavier than the last.
He slipped quietly into the dormitory, careful to avoid the eyes of his classmates. His bed felt like a small island of relief. Collapsing onto it, he closed his eyes, letting the warmth of the blankets contrast the cold terror still gripping him.
Sleep came in a heavy, reluctant wave. For hours, he dreamed of the forest, the wolf, the vampires. Each scene replayed with brutal clarity, leaving him gasping awake, drenched in sweat.
Morning arrived too quickly. Leo missed the first class. Word spread instantly—he was known for punctuality and diligence, and absence in the early hours drew stares and whispers.
By afternoon, the teacher called for him, her eyes narrowing as she recounted the incident:
"Leo Griffin, I heard from several sources about your capture! Tell me—what happened in the forest? Were you hurt? This is unacceptable!"
Leo's stomach tightened. Every instinct screamed to reveal the truth, but he stayed silent, forcing a calm expression.
"I… I tripped and fell into a stream, ma'am. That's all," he said, voice steady.
The teacher's face darkened, frustration visible. She shook her head and exclaimed, "Everything is not okay!"