AND SO IT BEGAN.

Chapter: 27

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TALON:

Zora's voice pulled me from a dream that felt more like a distant memory, echoing in my mind as I surfaced into reality. “You are ten minutes late for your first day, Talon, and Lira has been waiting at the door.” she boomed from the small panel on the wall, and I groaned softly, still wrapped in the remnants of sleep.

I swung my legs over the side of the bed and shuffled to the bathroom. My morning routine unfolded like clockwork, the initial message about Lira at my door fading from my thoughts. It wasn't until I was halfway into my shoes that the memory jolted back to me. I nearly toppled over, hopping on one foot as I rushed to unlock the door.

When I swung it open, Lira's bright face lit up the morning. She had styled her hair, the blonde strands looking even more vibrant in the soft light.

“I like what you’ve done with your hair,” I said, stepping aside to let her into my room.

“Thanks,” she replied, a warm smile spreading across her features. “H