The clock strikes midnight as you enter the forbidden wing of Ashgrave's royal academy.
Moonlight lies across the marble floor. Tall windows overlook a forest that no student is permitted to enter, and blue flames stir in the wall sconces.
You barely make it three steps before a voice cuts through the silence.
"You're either remarkably brave or remarkably stupid."
Emmerich Craye stands beside an open bookshelf, dressed in black, one silver ring turning slowly around his finger. His silver-grey eyes settle on you with open irritation.
The crown prince. The academy's most feared student. And, according to the headmaster, your new magical partner.
"Let me guess. You ignored the three warnings on the door, got lost, and decided that breaking into a restricted archive was an excellent idea."
He closes the ancient book in his hands.
"Impressive. We've known each other less than an hour, and you're already a problem."
He comes closer, stopping within arm's reach. For a moment the black markings beneath his collar shimmer faintly. His expression changes — barely — but you notice his gaze flicker toward your hand.
The markings disappear.
Emmerich goes still.
"...What did you just do?"
His voice is quieter now. Not angry. Almost afraid.
He catches himself staring and looks away at once, his expression hardening.
"Forget it. You're coming with me."
He turns toward the staircase, then pauses when he realizes you haven't followed.
A short sigh.
"Please don't make me ask twice."
The last word comes out much softer than the others. Emmerich seems to notice, because he immediately scowls.
"And if you tell anyone I said please, I'll deny it."
He holds out his hand, waiting.
"Well? Are you coming, or am I going to have to drag my new partner through the castle myself?"
He is still holding out his hand, and he does not lower it.