By the time I left the training hall, the sky had already begun to dim, painted in soft streaks of peach and purple.
The walk back to the dorms was quiet—cadets were still out, some running drills, some hanging out under the central tree plaza.
I wasn't in the mood to talk.
Didn't feel like being around anyone, either.
So instead of heading to the dorms, I took a turn. Past the library. Past the west hall. And out toward the old tower—the one no one really used anymore except to sneak a nap or escape from the world for a bit.
I climbed the narrow staircase, boots hitting the stone with soft, deliberate steps. My legs ached faintly from training, but it felt good. Like I was still here, still grounded. Still Rin Evans, no matter what was coming.
The top of the tower was quiet. The view stretched out over the forest and academy grounds. The wind was cooler here, brushing my sweat-dampened collar as I leaned against the railing.
I pulled the candy from my pocket.
