The storm still rumbled outside, a low hum that seemed to seep through the very walls. Noel sat at the edge of his bed, a broad and finely carved frame draped in dark velvet. The chamber was larger than any other student's—an Estermont vessel didn't cut corners, especially when Elyra's word carried weight. Still, even surrounded by polished wood, golden trims, and soft lanternlight, the tension of the mana storm pressed into his chest.
The walls shuddered with another surge. The lantern above flickered.
Then—tock, tock.
Noel lifted his head, his hand instinctively brushing against Revenant Fang at his side. 'Who would be out in the hall right now? They were ordered to stay in their rooms.'
He stood, crossing the rug-padded floor with quiet steps, and unlatched the door.
Standing there was a girl with hair the color of burnished red and soft hazel eyes. For a split second Noel froze, his expression narrowing.
"Charlotte?" he muttered.
