The academy had settled into its usual rhythm, but today felt different. Training had been particularly brutal, leaving everyone exhausted, yet Rai knew this was just another day in a place where only the strongest survived.
He moved through the mess hall, blending into the crowd of trainees, yet feeling the weight of Khael’s gaze on him. It had been happening more frequently. The way Khael’s piercing eyes lingered, like he was studying every move Rai made.
It wasn’t just him. Khael’s friends had started to take notice as well.
Soren, a tall and cocky warrior with dark, shoulder-length hair, leaned back in his chair, throwing a glance between Khael and Rai. “Man, you watch Rai like he’s gonna disappear.”
Rai tensed. He forced a smirk, grabbing an apple from the table and taking a bite,
