Chapter 73: The Return of Helios
The others didn’t say anything when I walked into the War Room — they didn’t have to. The silence spoke plenty.
Santina leaned against the edge of the map table, arms crossed, eyes narrowed.
Ruby sat on the windowsill sharpening her blades, each scrape louder than necessary.
Thaddeus stood with his arms behind his back, posture rigid, like a man bracing for a blow.
Gaia at least managed to muster a small, hopeful smile — but even that was strained.
In the center of the room stood Headmistress Aragona.
And beside her…
Helios.
No shackles now.
But a silver rune burned faintly at the base of his throat — a magical brand preventing him from channeling destructive acnologia without permission.
His posture was straight, disciplined.
Yet the exhaustion
