Later, when the chill of night crept heavier and the academy bells rang curfew, Elara finally turned to leave. Merlin followed, his steps slow but steadier than before.
As they descended the stairwell, she spoke without looking back. "Do not speak of this to the others."
Merlin blinked, startled. "…Why?"
Her voice carried down the steps, calm but firm. "Because it was not for them."
Merlin's chest tightened again. He nodded, even though she couldn't see it. "…Understood."
They reached the hall in silence, the quiet tap of their footsteps echoing faintly off the stone. Students hurried past, some bowing to Elara with reverence, others sneaking curious glances at Merlin. He ignored them all.
His thoughts were elsewhere, on the warmth still lingering on his cheek. On the words she had spoken.
On the truth that, maybe for the first time since the labyrinth, since the simulation, since the gods had made him their stage, he was not entirely alone.
—
