Some time passed.
The waves rolled in slow, steady rhythms, breaking white against the sand before retreating back into the sea. Noel sat alone on the beach, his elbows on his knees as he stared out at the horizon.
The peace didn't last.
A sharp flicker cut across his vision.
[New Mission: Begins in 5 seconds.]
[New Mission: Prevent the Fall of House Thorne. Time Limit: 60 Days. Reward: The Truth.]
Noel's jaw tightened. He leaned back on his hands, eyes locked on the words hanging in front of him. The letters burned like an insult more than an order.
'Sixty days. That's… longer than usual.' His thoughts were tangled, sour. 'And it's the second time the system tells me the reward before I start. The truth…'
His gaze drifted back to the ocean, the water glowing orange in the dying light. He dragged a hand down his face, muttering under his breath. "Avoid the fall of House Thorne… Why? Why the hell should I care about that family?"
