Chapter 5: Room Assignments

The heavy knock at the doors of Alpha House silenced the murmurs at the long table. The students, mid-meal, turned toward the entrance as the grand doors swung open. A tall figure, clad in dark robes, stepped inside. The candlelight flickered against his stern face, and the air seemed to grow heavier with his presence.

Professor Cedric Vaughn—the head of student affairs at Elitia Academy. His sharp, calculating eyes scanned the room, lingering on each student as if he could read their very thoughts. He held a rolled parchment in one hand, tapping it lightly against his palm before speaking.

"Enjoying yourselves?" His voice was deep, steady, carrying authority that left no room for disrespect. No one dared to answer.

He smirked. "Good. Now that you've had your fun, it's time for more serious matters." He unrolled the parchment and began reading.

"The following are your assigned living arrangements. Your belongings have already been transferred to your rooms. I suggest you make yourselves comfortable—your training begins soon, and rest will become a luxury."

He cleared his throat and started.

"Chrisha Van Dele and Aella Reeze Wilson."

Chrisha immediately groaned. "You're kidding me."

Aella smirked, resting her chin on her palm. "What? Afraid I'll catch you sneaking out?"

Chrisha rolled her eyes. "No. I just don't want to wake up to your gloating every morning."

Aella leaned in with a smug grin. "Oh, but I love mornings, Chrisha. We're going to have so much fun."

Professor Vaughn continued, unfazed.

"Celsy Rielle De Obelia and Keisha Mayie Van Hanss."

Celsy shot Keisha a look. "Well, at least I won't be bored."

Keisha nudged her. "I'll take that as a compliment."

"Kim Lovie and Rheem Rosie Clain."

Kim Lovie folded her arms. "You snore, don't you?" she asked Rheem.

Rheem raised an eyebrow. "And you talk in your sleep, don't you?"

Kim smirked. "Guess we'll find out."

"Winter Briaella Cross and Ella Kim."

Ella glanced at Winter, who merely nodded in approval. "I suppose I can live with that," Winter said.

Ella smiled. "Same. Let's just keep the room cold."

Winter chuckled. "I wouldn't have it any other way."

Professor Vaughn continued through the list.

Avrille Lentz and Mary Julieth Taylor.

Rachelle Hampton and Jhenny Sailish.

Leslie Tamayo and Cora Millie Clifton.

Each pair reacted in their own way—some with nods of acceptance, others with quiet sighs of frustration.

Then, he read the next pairing.

"Khierra Sky Smith and Velia Lair Luther."

Khierra exchanged a glance with Velia. Neither spoke, but an understanding passed between them.

"Ynah Blair and Rayah Denise Van Goh."

Rayah crossed her arms, nodding slowly. "Could be worse."

Ynah smirked. "Oh, it will be."

The list went on.

Rosette Miyumi and Felia Owen Herrera.

Rey Vien Windsor and Riyami Yuuki.

Chezka Slovack and Charline Oneida.

Chezka leaned back in her chair, exhaling sharply. "Great. Someone who actually follows the rules."

Charline narrowed her eyes. "Try not to get us expelled, okay?"

The students waited for the last few names.

"Axel Devuncheek and Micko Lee."

Micko smirked, stretching his arms behind his head. "Looks like you're stuck with me, Axel."

Axel sighed. "As long as you don't steal my stuff."

"No promises."

"Harvie Deogracia and Ruscell Montenegro."

Ruscell nodded. "That's fine with me."

Harvie shrugged. "Let's see how this goes."

"Justin Pritz and Carl Perez."

Carl clapped Justin on the back. "Guess we're stuck together."

Justin chuckled. "Could be worse. At least you're not a snorer, right?"

Professor Vaughn rolled up the parchment, looking around the room. "Your rooms are located in the dormitory wing of Alpha House. I expect no complaints and no trouble. You'll need your rest." His gaze darkened. "Tomorrow, your real lessons begin."

With that, he turned sharply, his robes swishing behind him as he exited. The moment the doors closed, the room erupted into conversation.

Some were pleased with their roommates, others were already planning how to avoid conflict. But one thing was certain—this was only the beginning of their time at Elitia Academy. And the real challenges had yet to come.