Warning: Side Effects of Villainy May Include Unwanted Crushes

Adolfo strode through the academy corridor, his dark coat flowing behind him, his expression as unreadable as ever. Beside him walked Roiselin, his ever-loyal yet insufferably perceptive attendant.

"You seem livelier these days, my lord," Roiselin mused, a knowing smirk on his face. "Could it be because a certain lady has arrived in Athens?"

Adolfo shot him a sharp look. "Keep talking, and I'll send you to Albania to assist Devrien. I hear he could use an extra pair of hands in the magic tower."

Roiselin feigned a gasp. "So cruel, my lord. But I'd rather stay and witness the great Count Adolfo, the terror of the academy's alchemical circles, act out of character over a mere lady."

Adolfo sighed but said nothing, though Roiselin, ever bold, continued whispering his teases under his breath.