Adrian's heart thundered in his chest as he sprinted across the academy grounds, the world blurring around him. His breath came in ragged bursts, but he didn't slow. Not when his lungs burned. Not when fear clawed at his spine. His mind played the same name over and over like a scream he couldn't silence, Lorraine.
The looming structure of the Lycans' dormitory rose ahead, dark and formidable, its black stone exterior casting a shadow long enough to chill the heart. Two massive guards in red-collared uniforms stood at the front entrance, their gazes sharp, postures rigid with predatory power.
Adrian didn't hesitate.
He charged straight toward them.
"I need to see the Lycan Prince, Kieran Valerius Hunter!" he shouted, breathless.
The guards stiffened. Then laughed.
"What the hell is a noble doing at a Lycan's door?" one of them sneered, stepping forward. "Lost your way, pup?"
