Two days passed before the next announcement came. Most of the recruits spent the downtime in basic drills or silent meals. The Academy grounds remained quiet except for the distant clatter of sparring from the combat yards. No one had been told what came next.Kael kept mostly to himself. He didn’t visit the simulation hall again. He didn’t ask where Kyna had gone during breaks. The others noticed, but no one asked. Even Reyna gave him space.On the morning of the third day, a bell rang through the northern tower. It wasn’t loud, but it was enough to get attention. Shortly after, a short message was delivered to every room.> Report to the central hall. Squad assignments in effect.Kael folded the parchment and slipped it into his pocket. He grabbed his gear and made his way out, boots tapping against the narrow stone floor. The other recruits moved in loose lines toward the central chamber.Inside, instructors stood around the perimeter. Archon was already at the front platform. Dra