By the time Kaelric stepped out of the Academy gates, a black limousine already waited, sleek and predatory under the city's pale light.
The driver sprang to attention, bowing slightly as Kaelric slid inside without a word. Four of his guards moved in formation behind him, silent, sharp-eyed, their presence alone enough to send students scattering from their path.
"Town center," Kaelric said. His voice was low, absolute, carrying the weight of command that made the driver nod without hesitation.
The engine purred to life, and the city blurred by in streaks of neon and noise. Kaelric sat rigid in the leather seat, his mind caught somewhere between fury and relief. She was here. Blazar.
The name burned in his chest like a secret flame, one he couldn't smother even if he tried. He clenched his fists once, knuckles going white, forcing his features back into ice.
