As the last sliver of sunlight slipped beneath the horizon, dusk surrendered fully to night, and the sky above the City of Grandeur deepened into a vast canvas of indigo and silver. One by one, the stars emerged, timid at first, then bolder, scattering their quiet brilliance across the heavens. The moon rose with unhurried grace, pale and watchful, casting a gentle glow over the academy grounds and bathing stone pathways and marble structures in soft light.
Under that quiet sky, Percy and Sheila walked through the academy courtyard toward the inner gardens.
Percy moved ahead at a steady pace, posture straight, hands resting loosely at his sides. He did not glance back. He did not slow down. His steps were measured, controlled, almost detached from the world around him.
Sheila followed several paces behind.
