The summon

The clacking of the woman's heels echoed sharply against the cold stone walls of the corridor, each step pulling Elara closer to whatever judgment awaited her.

Her stomach churned as she followed the Headmistress's aide, the weight of whispered speculation from the other students pressing down on her ears. The hall felt endless, the torches along the walls flickering as though even they were uncertain of her fate.

"Why do you think she's being summoned?" a voice murmured behind her.

"Probably failed another combat test," another snickered.

"Or maybe she isn't what she seems." Someone glared daggers in her back.

Elara tightened her grip on the side of her skirt, her silver eyes fixed on the ornate door ahead. It loomed like a portal to her undoing, guarded by the weight of unspoken authority. The aide paused before the door and turned to face Elara, her expression unreadable.

"You may enter."