Chapter 131: Official Statement
The academy felt different that morning. The sun rose over the east courtyard in the same familiar light, yet everything about the day carried a faint tension—one that hovered quietly in the air. After weeks of rumors, hearings, and quiet confrontations, the student council's announcement was finally scheduled.
Arios was already awake by the time the bell rang through the dorm wing. He stood by the open window, adjusting the cuff of his uniform jacket. The courtyard below was full of movement—students walking in groups, whispering, pointing toward the central notice board that had been locked shut the night before.
Lucy sat on the couch behind him, brushing her hair while watching him through the reflection of the glass. "You're not eating?" she asked.
"I will later," Arios said, glancing outside again. "They're posting it soon."
Liza came out from the kitchen holding a mug. "You mean the council's statement?"
"Yeah."
