SKY
The barracks had a strange stillness that night. Even with tomorrow’s trials looming, the usual banter was quieter, overshadowed by the tension of what lay ahead. Each cadet seemed wrapped in their own thoughts, preparing for what would be one of the toughest days yet. I settled into my bunk, but my mind was still reeling from what I’d overheard earlier. The talk about heightened security hadn’t left me, and the way they’d discussed it as if something vital was at stake—it unsettled me.
Liam settled in on the bunk above Noah’s, trying to break the tension with his usual humor. “Hey, Noah,” he whispered, his voice playful, “don’t sweat it about tomorrow. I know a guy who can give you a head start… if you’ve got the cash.”
Normally, that would’ve gotten at least a smirk from Noah, but
