Three weeks had passed
Students rushed between classes, some still groggy from late-night study sessions, others buzzing with the energy of youth.
The ever-present hum of ventilation systems blended seamlessly with the chatter of students, the distant clang of weapons from the dueling halls, and the low murmurs of hushed conversations in the corners of the grand corridors.
Life had moved on.
And yet, for Silas, it hadn't.
Standing near the central courtyard, he leaned against a stone pillar, arms crossed, watching as the world continued its performance. It was a stage play, a perfectly scripted act where everyone followed their roles without question.
Except him.
He wasn't sure what was real anymore.
Is this how it always was?
The sky stretched above him, bright as ever, the dome's simulated sun casting warmth over the academy grounds.
