We made our way to the academy, and the moment we arrived, something immediately felt off.
It wasn't anything you could point out right away with your eyes. It was more of a feeling that settled in your chest the second you stepped through the gates. The silence was the first thing that hit. This place was never like this. Most days, it would be filled to the brim with noise. Cadets talking over each other, instructors calling out instructions, footsteps echoing through the halls, and the occasional argument here and there. It had always been lively.
Right now, though, it felt like someone had taken all of that and just… muted it.
There were still people around, sure, but only a handful. You could probably count them without much effort if you really tried. The difference was so obvious that it didn't even need to be pointed out.
Anyone could tell something wasn't right.
