The Grand Hall somehow felt even larger the second time I stepped into it. Yesterday it had been overwhelming in a bright, almost magical way. Today it felt heavier. Like the hall had grown teeth now, and we were all waiting to see who it would swallow first.
Krystal and I stood among the other first-years near the center of the room after we had been called in for a briefing, our boots echoing softly against the polished marble floor. The enormous windows lining the walls poured pale winter light across the hall, turning the stone almost silver. Frost crept along the edges of the glass, forming delicate patterns that shimmered whenever the wind outside shifted. It was beautiful. And terrifying. It was also the only room inside the Fighting house that had actual windows.
Krystal leaned c
