The crown prince's scowl deepened, his lips pressed thin. For a heartbeat, it seemed he might respond, might press the weight of his authority further, but he didn't. Instead, he stepped back into the crowd, retreating with a stiff motion that was not quite defeat, but not victory either.
It was rare to see Sun silenced, and the sight alone sparked murmurs that ran like electricity through the gathered students.
Mrs. Lira allowed the moment to settle, let the silence hammer home the lesson without needing further words. When she did speak, her voice carried clear and commanding, pulling every wandering gaze back to her.
"Listen well," she said. "Today was no simple test. What you faced was dangerous, and it will not be the last time. There are powers beyond these walls that would use you, or destroy you. Remember that."
