Later that evening—
Arjun stood near the academy courtyard.
Quiet. Observing.
Footsteps approached.
He didn't turn.
"I've been watching you."
The voice was calm. Clear.
He turned slowly.
The blue-robed girl stood there.
Up close—
Her presence was even stronger.
Controlled.
Refined.
Dangerous.
"Name?" she asked.
"…Arjun."
"Aarya."
She crossed her arms slightly.
"You're not like the others."
Arjun replied calmly:
"Neither are you."
For a moment—
Silence.
Then she smiled.
Very faintly.