The music drifted through the hall. Laughter rose above the clinking of crystal glasses, purple uniforms from Luceria Grand Academy mingling with the familiar blue of Valor. The air shimmered faintly with magic, chandeliers glowing brighter as the night deepened.
Noel sat back in his chair, a cup of wine untouched before him. Elyra and Elena flanked him, their gazes sweeping over the lively scene with calm detachment. It almost felt like a festival—if not for the sudden, unmistakable swagger of Roberto sliding away from their table.
"Where's he going?" Elena asked softly, though the hint of amusement in her tone betrayed her.
Elyra tilted her head, already smiling. "To his doom, I imagine."
Noel sighed. He didn't even need to follow Roberto's path to know. "Actually, straight to the Luceria girls."
