Ethan walked through the academy's dimly lit corridors, his expression unreadable. The fight against Lucien and his lackeys had barely left a scratch on him, yet he knew that wasn't the end. Aldric's death had created ripples, and those ripples were starting to form a storm.
The academy's hierarchy was shifting. Factions that once ignored him were now watching closely, and the enemies who had hidden in the shadows were beginning to make their moves.
And Ethan welcomed it.
As he stepped into the main hall, a familiar voice called out.
"You're making quite the name for yourself, aren't you?"
Seraphina Nightshade stood by the massive stone pillars, her arms crossed, crimson eyes gleaming with interest.
Ethan smirked. "I didn't ask for attention."
She chuckled. "No, but you've certainly earned it."
She took a step closer, her piercing gaze locking onto his. "Do you have any idea what you've started?"
Ethan shrugged. "They started it. I'm just finishing things."
Seraphina tilted her head, studying him. "Aldric's faction isn't the only one watching. The academy's higher-ups have been paying attention too."
He raised an eyebrow. "Let them watch."
She smirked. "You really don't care, do you?"
"No," he said plainly. "I'll crush whoever stands in my way."
Seraphina's smirk widened. "I like that."
Before Ethan could respond, another voice interrupted.
"You should be more careful with your words."
Ethan turned to see Sylvia Frostheart approaching, her icy blue eyes locked onto Seraphina. The tension between the two was almost palpable.
Sylvia stood beside Ethan, her presence cold and commanding. "You think too highly of yourself, Nightshade. The academy is not a playground for your amusement."
Seraphina chuckled, unbothered by the hostility. "And you think protecting him will keep him safe?"
Sylvia's eyes narrowed. "I don't need to protect him."
Ethan sighed. "If you two are done, I have more important things to focus on."
The two women exchanged a glance before reluctantly stepping back.
Sylvia turned to Ethan. "Be careful. The academy isn't just watching you—they're testing you."
He smirked. "Let them."
Seraphina chuckled. "You're either fearless or insane."
Ethan turned, walking away. "Maybe both."
As he disappeared down the hallway, both women watched him go—one with amusement, the other with concern.
The storm was coming.
And Ethan was walking straight into it.
To be continued…