"The Academy wasn't just about strength—it was about control."
The cafeteria was packed during lunch. Students crammed shoulder to shoulder, voices rising in a chaotic blend of gossip and laughter. But underneath it all, I heard the whispers.
They always started the same way. Quiet. Careful. Like the speakers knew they were treading dangerous ground.
"Did you see her this morning?"
"Five obstacle runs. Without breaking."
"Darius is pushing her hard. Too hard, maybe."
"Or maybe she needs it. Did you hear about Marcus Thornwell's warning?"
I sat with Celeste at our usual corner table. Caleb was late, probably caught up helping another student with their training form. My food sat untouched in front of me. Exhaustion from this morning's session made my muscles ache with every small movement.
"You should eat," Celeste said. Not nagging. Just concerned.
"I know. I will." But I didn't reach for my fork. Couldn't stop listening to the conversations swirling around us.
