The academy's announcement board was once again surrounded by murmurs. No ceremony. No prior warning. Just a new parchment nailed cleanly in place, no crest, no signature—only the weight of the words written in firm, decisive strokes:
ATTENTION TO ALL STUDENTS
Effective immediately, curfew regulations have changed.
All students must remain within their dormitories after sundown.
Campus movement at night is strictly prohibited.
Classes will continue as scheduled.
— By direct order of Headmaster Nicolas Von Aldros
Noel stood at the edge of the crowd, silent. Some students read it a third time, searching for hidden meaning, some reason behind the sudden rule. There was none.
'No announcement from the student council either… This came straight from the Headmaster. That's not normal.'
is gaze shifted slightly lower—just beneath the parchment. And there it was.
Noel Thorne – Class S
The same line that had been removed weeks ago. Quietly reinstated.
