The rain had ceased hours ago, leaving the evening sky clear and bright. Sunlight broke through where storm clouds that had lingered all day, casting long golden rays across the academy grounds.
Reinhard pushed open the classroom door before making his way toward the exit. The floors reflected the warm light from gas lamps that had just been lit along the walls. He stepped outside onto the cobblestone path, breathing in the fresh air that still carried the scent of rain.
The plan was to return to his dorm room and continue absorbing the souls he'd collected. But before he'd taken more than a dozen steps, he heard rapid steps approaching from behind.
"Reinhard!"
He turned just as Marie reached him, her platinum hair streaming behind her like a banner. She didn't slow down, didn't give him time to prepare, and simply threw her arms around him, pulling him into a tight embrace.
