Whispers followed Lyra wherever she went.
"F-rank girl… survived the forest."
"Did you see her powers?"
Her stomach churned. Some students looked impressed, others wary, and a few openly hostile.
Dorian, the arrogant silver-haired boy from her class, smirked as he approached.
"Lucky, aren't you?" he drawled. "Even the weakest can stumble into power."
Lyra's eyes narrowed. "Luck doesn't define me."
He laughed. "We'll see. Everyone here fights for survival. Don't think your little tricks will keep you alive."
Mira appeared beside Lyra, concern in her eyes. "Ignore him. Most of them are jealous. You're different — stronger than anyone suspects."
Lyra nodded, but deep down, she felt the weight of every stare. Every student knew something about her power — or at least suspected it.
During lunch, Kael observed her quietly from across the hall. His dark eyes followed her every movement. He didn't approach, but his presence sent a shiver down her spine.
He's dangerous… and intrigued.