Monday morning hit like a cold shower.
The peace of the cabin—the smell of pine, the crackle of the fire, the easy laughter of my friends—felt a million miles away as I walked onto campus. But something was different.
Usually, Monday mornings were a fog of stress and caffeine. Today, my mind was razor-sharp.
[Passive Effect Active: The Anchor]
[Source: Inner Circle Bond]
[Mental Fatigue: 0%]
[Stress Resistance: +50%]
I walked through the quad, my backpack slung over one shoulder. I wasn't just walking; I was gliding. The "Anchor" perk was real. The weekend with the crew hadn't just been a break; it had been a recharge.
My phone buzzed.
Elena: My office. 9 AM. Don't be late.
Short. Sharp. The "Dean" was back.
I checked the time. 8:45 AM.
I headed toward the Business School, but as I passed the Sterling Library—the massive, gothic building named after Victoria's grandfather—a black town car pulled up to the curb.
The window rolled down.
