The night after Aether's return to Skygate Academy carried an unusual stillness.
Moonlight poured through the window of his room, casting pale silver across the floor. The academy, which was usually alive even at late hours with distant training and murmurs, seemed quieter than ever—as if something unseen had pressed down upon it.
Aether sat cross-legged near the center of the room, his eyes closed.
The Flame Sovereign Pup rested nearby, its small body curled up as faint crimson flames flickered gently around it. The rhythm of its breathing was steady, calm, almost peaceful.
Inside Aether, the golden energy flowed like a quiet stream.
Stable.
Controlled.
Hidden.
Everything was as it should be.
And yet—
Aether's eyes snapped open.
A chill had passed through the air.
Not physical.
Not something others could feel.
But real.
Behind that calm surface, something had stirred.
"Someone is watching."
The voice echoed inside his mind.
