The sun outside had turned golden, casting long beams of afternoon light through the tall infirmary windows. The gentle glow did little to ease the heaviness that hung in the air as the door creaked open and in stepped Headmaster Kairos, followed closely by Mr. and Mrs. Caleena.
Aiden looked up from his bed, his body stiff and aching, but alert enough to recognize the tense energy that entered with them.
Mrs. Caleena was the first to break the silence, her heels clicking with purpose and agitation across the smooth stone floor.
"This is what happens," she said coldly, her voice sharp and unwavering, "when children are left to fend for themselves in matters that should have been handled by adults."
Kairos remained quiet, his hands clasped behind his back as he stopped near the foot of Aiden's bed. His expression was calm, but there was an unmistakable tightness to his eyes.
