The trio walked briskly through the hall, the walls alive with chatter from the talking portraits that lined their path. Their footsteps echoed faintly on the polished stone floor, accompanied by bursts of laughter, squabbling, and cryptic mutterings from the enchanted paintings.
When they reached a set of double doors branching off the hallway, Rose stepped forward and pushed them open. Michael quickly ushered both himself and Melody inside, pulling the doors shut behind them with a soft thud. The thick wood instantly muffled the lively cacophony outside, and Michael exhaled, his shoulders relaxing ever so slightly.
"I see you've met the previous headmasters," a familiar voice drawled, tinged with amusement.
Michael froze. He turned to see Magnus seated at the round table, his chin resting lazily on his fist, watching him with an expression that blended regal elegance with unbothered detachment.