Leaving the Academy

Later, as the students dispersed, Freya caught up to him in the corridor. She walked beside him in silence for a few moments before speaking, her tone casual but with a hint of curiosity.

"You seemed surprised earlier," she said, glancing at him.

Asher smirked. "Shouldn't I be? You've been hiding quite the secret."

She shrugged lightly, though her grip on the strap of her bag tightened. "Not everything needs to be shared. You, of all people, should understand that."

"Fair point," he replied, his tone neutral. After a brief pause, he added, "But you know this changes things, right? People are going to start asking questions, and not all of them will be friendly."

"I can handle it," Freya said firmly. "I've been handling it all this time."

Asher's smirk softened into a faint smile. "I don't doubt that. Just… don't hesitate to let me know if you need backup."