Chapter 37: A Crimson Mayhem
The Ravenclaw common room was still quiet when Nero stepped out that morning, adjusting his robes with a sigh.
The castle was unusually peaceful, most students were still asleep, enjoying the lull of winter break.
But as soon as he took a step forward, Ember appeared out of nowhere, grinning like she had just discovered the meaning of life.
Before he could even raise an eyebrow, Lilith and Alaric materialized beside her, looking far too composed for whatever chaos was about to unfold.
"Nero." Ember clapped a hand on his shoulder. "We need you."
"...For what?" he asked warily.
Lilith replied, "A project. One that may or may not be considered an act of rebellion."
Alaric, always the voice of reason, sighed but didn't object. "It's not too late to say no. But..." He trailed off, rubbing the back of his head.
"It's going to be legendary," Ember finished for him.
Nero pinched the bridge of his nose. "What did you do?"
Ember's grin widened. "What we did, dear Nero, is establish a First-Year Underground Dueling Tournament."