The crisp mountain air still carried the weight of the hunt. Carriages lined the clearing, guards called orders, and the last remnants of the camp were being dismantled. Soon, each house would return to their own territory.
Noel adjusted Revenant Fang at his side, gaze steady as the moments of departure came one after another.
Elena approached quietly, her steps deliberate. She didn't hesitate this time—just closed the distance and leaned in, brushing her lips softly against his. It was brief, but enough to make his chest tighten.
"See you in the academy," she whispered, her voice low, meant only for him.
Noel gave her a faint smile. "Yes."
Clara came next, her usual brightness intact despite the exhaustion of the past days. "Take care, Noel. Don't disappear on us."
"I won't," he said simply.
Marcus followed, his tone steadier, less competitive than usual. "Don't overdo it. Even you have limits."
Noel let out a quiet breath. "I'll keep that in mind."
