Chapter 13: Whispers in the Void

Kael stood on the edge of the academy's inner courtyard, moonlight washing the training grounds in silver. The shadows felt different tonight—as if they recognized him.

He flexed his fingers, and they twitched with residual energy. He hadn't summoned his powers since the battle with the Fracture Beast. Not even in training. Not even to himself. Tetsu had kept his secret, but the silence between them had grown.

"Still hiding it?" Tetsu appeared beside him, arms folded.

Kael sighed. "It doesn't feel like it's mine yet. Like if I use it wrong, it'll take over."

Tetsu didn't push. He just nodded, his eyes flicking to the shadows stretching at Kael's feet. "They want to move."

Kael swallowed hard. "I know."

From the shadows of the courtyard, a whisper slithered through Kael's thoughts: Awakened... but caged.

He turned sharply, but no one was there.