The atmosphere within the auditorium remained strangely quiet even after the assembly officially ended.
Students gradually began rising from their seats and making their way toward the exits, yet unlike the usual lively chatter that followed academy announcements, today's departure carried a shared silence amongst nearly everyone present. Groups still formed naturally as they walked through the enormous hallways of Crownspire Academy, but the conversations remained subdued, many students visibly lost in thought after Valerian's speech.
Some discussed the breach.
Some discussed the cost.
And many simply remained silent.
Meanwhile, Damon walked amongst the flow of students while keeping his hands casually inside his pockets, his expression as calm as ever despite the countless thoughts moving through his mind.
Beside him, Eric looked unusually quiet.
Which in itself was alarming.
