The second morning arrived with a quiet chill in the air, a stillness that felt heavier than usual. I had already made up my mind to take Kai to Fairisles Mansion to begin his punishment period. Unsurprisingly, he didn't appear eager about the journey. His usual spark was dulled, replaced with subdued silence as we prepared ourselves for the day.
We sat in the grand dining hall, the morning sun casting golden lines across the polished floors. Breakfast had been served, though none of us had touched it yet. My seat was at the head of the long table—customary and expected. Kai sat to my immediate right, quiet and tense, while the seat on my left remained empty, reserved for Davian, who had promised to join us but was, as usual, late.
