Kael walked alongside the princess through the still partially destroyed corridors of the Academy.
The walls, once gleaming with arcane inscriptions, now displayed cracks covered with patches of light—improvised containment runes that pulsed with a gentle rhythm, supporting the structure.
The sound of footsteps echoed between the cracked columns. Wherever they passed, students and mages bowed or offered brief greetings. There was respect, but also curiosity—few understood exactly who this woman of stately bearing walking beside Kael was.
The princess walked with grace, even under the weight of the circumstances. Her simple white robe, embroidered in silver, contrasted with the surrounding scenery. Her posture was impeccable, every step measured, but her eyes—a cold and distant blue—revealed the exhaustion of the past few days.
Umbra, invisible, accompanied them in silence. For the first time, she made no sarcastic comments. She simply observed.
