Pearl POV
The familiar arches of the academy gates loomed above us, a sight I thought I might never see again. My heart fluttered wildly, not with fear this time, but with something dangerously close to relief. Students lingered in the courtyards, their whispers like restless shadows brushing past me. Some pointed, others lowered their heads quickly when Demyan’s sharp gaze swept over them.
I walked a little closer to him, drawing strength from his silent presence, but my steps slowed when I saw Killian waiting just beyond the entrance. His usually relaxed expression brightened the moment he spotted me.
“Perin!” he called, striding toward me with a grin that lit his entire face. Before I could react, his large hands clapped onto my shoulders, almost making me stumble back. “You’re final
