We head back to the Academy without Oliver.
He stayed at the factory to oversee the rune mage installing the containment barrier around the Safe Harbor chest. According to him, it wouldn't take more than thirty minutes, as long as the mage was competent.
On the way to the southwest plaza, I notice eyes lingering on me too long. Not many. Not enough to become a crowd, nor direct enough to justify a confrontation. But they're there. Students cutting their conversations short when I pass. Freya's scouts, most likely, which means I can afford not to even summon her.
Veric walks beside me, far too pleased with the attention. Rhayne trails a little behind, quiet, still processing everything she heard at the factory.
When we reach the plaza, the dry fountain still sits at the center, ringed by low trees and stone benches. The spot is remote enough to be ignored by anyone who likes an audience.
It doesn't take long for Freya to show up.
