The shrill ringing of the academy bell echoed across campus before the sun had fully risen.
Evelyn groaned as she rolled out of bed.
“Why does six in the morning even exist?” Maya mumbled from beneath her blanket.
Celeste was already dressed, sitting at her desk with a book open.
“Because Professor Ashford believes exhaustion builds character.”
Maya peeked over her pillow.
“No.”
“It builds bad moods.”
A laugh escaped Evelyn as she pulled on her training uniform.
“I’ll let you know which one it is.”
⸻
The morning air was cool as Evelyn crossed the quiet campus toward the Combat Arena.
Most students were still asleep.
Only a few upperclassmen were already training.
She reached the arena just as the large clock struck six.
“You’re on time.”
Kael stood in the center of the aren
