The night at the Royal Magic Academy had a different weight after the incident in the arena. The wind blew cold, carrying the scent of ozone and turned earth, silent reminders of the destructive power I had unleashed.
Sitting on the stone bench, flanked by Rebeca and Olivia, I felt the air around me vibrating. I was no longer that invisible young man from weeks ago. The system in my mind pulsed, a constant presence that transformed my perception of the world into numbers, points, and opportunities.
Rebeca broke the silence, her voice laden with a mix of irritation and a curiosity she could barely mask.
"Shade? What are you doing here at this hour?"
I didn't answer immediately. I tilted my head back, observing the neighboring floating islands that dotted the starry sky like distant jewels.
When I finally spoke, my voice came out low, but with an authority that made Rebeca's shoulders tense.
