Michael took a few moments to steady himself, letting his eyes roam over the transformed great hall. The space was now alive with noise and movement, long tables stretching from one end to the other, each draped in a different colored banner—yet all bearing the proud Arcadia crest.
Above, the aurora still shimmered, its ethereal ribbons gliding through the air between the banners. Each graceful twist shifted its colors, reflecting the hues of the Arcana.
Michael glanced up at the banner above his own table. It was a deep violet, perfectly matching the emblem etched on the back of his hand.
"Ugh… I really hate that feeling," Rudy muttered beside him, his voice strained.
Michael finally turned his attention to the people sharing his table. Melody sat to his left, Rudy on his right, and six others occupied the remaining seats around the round violet table. Their gazes were fixed on the newcomers, curiosity mingled with mild surprise.
