The walk back was quieter than usual.
Ryven kept his gaze forward as they moved through the outer paths, past the stone corridors, and into the inner sections of the castle. The shift from open air to enclosed space felt immediate. The sounds of the training grounds faded behind them, replaced by the muted stillness of the halls.
Something about it felt off.
It was not the silence itself, but the way it held.
Guards stood straighter as they passed. Servants moved aside quicker than usual, their steps more careful, their presence fading as soon as it was noticed. No one lingered.
Ryven noticed.
His expression did not change, but his pace slowed slightly, just enough to take it in.
They approached the main hall.
The doors were already open.
That alone was enough.
Ryven's eyes lifted, his focus sharpening as he stepped inside.
