"Listen very attentively, for I will not repeat what I am about to say, not even once," Jane's voice sliced through the air, cutting short the tour as though a blade had severed the calm.
The gentle murmur of awe that had filled the lobby moments earlier faded instantly. Every student halted mid-step, eyes darting towards her, their ears sharpening to catch every syllable. Even the sound of their breathing seemed to soften in the sudden stillness.
"This," Jane continued, gesturing lightly to their surroundings, "is where you will be sleeping for tonight. Each of you will proceed upstairs and claim a room for the day. Food will be delivered to your rooms at exactly eight o'clock this evening. Anyone who is not in their room at that precise time will forfeit their supper." She paused, giving the words time to settle and sink deep into their thoughts, before resuming.
