Soul Shock

Luke opened his eyes, expecting to see the white ceiling of the school clinic, but he saw a fan and a yellow ceiling instead.

He wasn't in the clinic but back in Principal Claris's fortress.

"It seems like I was passed out for about a day," Luke thought as he noticed the light coming through the windows. "Am I alone?"

Soon, something returned to the room. It was as tall as a human. It was Principal Claris's summon, the Lotus Owl. Her name was Grace, and she was in her bigger form.

Grace had an intimidating presence, yet she somehow made you feel at ease. It was impossible not to respect her, even while she gave you an earful.

"Greetings, Luke. You're awake," the owl said as she bent down and tapped Luke on the forehead with her beak. "You have endured much, young one, but take heart. The suffering is over."

"Suffering?" Luke thought as he struggled to sit up.