The Edge of Reality

Avery's head was still whirling from Calder's warning, his enigmatic words reverberating through her thoughts. However, as morning broke over Blackthorn, a unique, darker energy appeared to settle on the school. A shudder ran through her as she watched college students moving in agitated, fast steps, whispers filling the air. The presence of something ominous was almost palpable, like an invisible whirlwind accumulating electricity.

Lucas and Damien had rarely looked away from her, each waiting for signs of what might happen next. The Architect's shadow had been looming for far too long, but with everything they'd discovered, it felt as if that darkness was now reaching its full extent.

The three of them made their way to Russo's job, where she greeted them with a grim countenance, her usual calm replaced with a look of deep concern.