Bab 47: Encroaching Shadows

Valen swept into the academy's dining hall, his stride calm yet deliberate, his presence, though silent, commanded subtle attention.

The hall buzzed with conversations as students gathered for a post-ceremony meal, their voices mingling in a low hum that was as much curiosity as it was excitement.

It didn't take long for glances to flicker his way—some speculative, some wary, but all acknowledging the shift he had brought with his presence.

Kael, catching sight of Valen, approached with a tentative look.

The boy's posture carried a blend of eagerness and unease, like a sparrow drawn to a hawk without quite understanding why.

Valen inclined his head, allowing him to join as they moved toward an empty table.

"Quite the ceremony," Kael commented, casting a sidelong glance at the clusters of students around them. "Feels like everyone's watching. Trying to see who's worth their time."