Dinner had ended, and the usual chatter filled the dining hall. But tonight, there was an undercurrent of excitement that buzzed just beneath the surface, no doubt due to the announcement made by the sisters earlier. The Winter Trials were on the horizon, and everyone seemed to have an opinion on them, from the newest student to the most seasoned veteran.
Sean sat at the table, listening to the laughter of his friends, but his thoughts were elsewhere. The sound of cutlery clinking against plates seemed distant, muffled by the excitement that now gripped the school. He knew little about the trials themselves, but he had heard enough rumors to get the gist tough, dangerous, but also a prestigious opportunity for those brave enough to test their skills.
“I’m heading back to the tower,” he s
