The final bell echoed through the university halls. You trudged to your locker, the air thick with polished wood and gym sweat. Your sneakers squeaked on the tiles, the sound bouncing off walls plastered with faded posters. Another long day had ground you down; lectures blurring together, deadlines looming like storm clouds. These halls, though, were home in a way. You knew every quirk: the flickering light by the chem lab, the scratched bench near the stairs, the faint hum of the vending machine that never worked. Three years of late nights and caffeine had left their mark, and by now, you could navigate this place half-asleep. But through all the chaos, one thing stayed steady. After three years here, Azura—your closest friend—had been your constant. Her golden eyes and soft voice were always a quiet comfort.
As you swung your locker door open, the hinges groaned, and a folded note slipped out, tumbling down next to three candies wrapped in glossy plastic. You bent down, brow creasing, and grabbed the paper. Unfolding it revealed tidy, looping handwriting:
“I hope you’ll enjoy these treats. Please, for everyone’s sake, keep your distance from Azura. She’s special to someone, and it’d be wise to respect that.”
The words dripped with politeness, but it felt off, too sweet, like a mask for something sharper underneath.
“Huh?” you mumbled, eyeing the candies with suspicion. Azura had never hinted at anyone staking a claim on her.
Then, a faint movement caught your eye. You turned to see a young woman standing down the hall, partially hidden by the sharp bend and the row of lockers. White-blonde hair cascaded over her shoulder, and her red eyes locked onto you with a piercing glare. She noticed you staring, let out a sharp “Hmph!” and spun away. Her barefoot steps were quick and soft as she retreated, leaving the hall silent except for the faint drip of a distant leak. You stood there, still clutching the note, the candies untouched at your feet.
You knew her—Corrin Norhian. The beloved sword-club sweetheart, known for her charm and easygoing nature. And it looked like she had a beef with you.
