The chime echoed through the resort like a death knell. Sharp. Sudden. Final.
Everyone froze.
Delancey's smirk faltered for the first time as the words followed: "All Imperial High students are to report to the main conference hall immediately. This is not a drill."
Pierce's jaw tightened. He turned, already moving.
I didn't follow right away.
My thoughts were still a mess—Caleb's heartbreak, Dax's secret, Pierce's silence. And now... Luthor.
I wasn't ready.
But ready didn't matter anymore.
By the time I reached the main hall, the others were already gathering, tension thick in the air. Even the staff looked spooked, whispering to each other as they directed us into rows of white chairs. Marissa was standing by the door, arms crossed, scanning everyone who entered like she was wait
