Chapter 6: The Late Arrival

The Alpha House was buzzing with energy as students settled into their assigned rooms. Luggage was unpacked, conversations flowed, and tensions from the earlier announcements still lingered.

Just as the atmosphere began to calm, the heavy front doors swung open with force. A sharp gust of wind swept through the entryway, drawing everyone's attention to the figure standing there.

A girl stood in the doorway, her posture unwavering, her presence demanding attention. She was tall, with piercing eyes that seemed to cut through the room. There was something about her—an undeniable power that made the air feel heavier.

Professor Vaughn, who had been overseeing the room assignments, turned sharply, his expression immediately hardening. "You're late," he said, his tone leaving no room for excuses.

The girl stepped forward, her boots clicking against the polished floor. "I'm here now," she replied, her voice calm but firm. "That's what matters."

A tense silence filled the room. Some students exchanged glances, intrigued by the sudden confrontation.

Professor Voughn crossed her arms. "Tardiness is unacceptable at Elitia Academy. You've already put yourself at a disadvantage."

The girl tilted her head slightly, unfazed. "Or maybe I've just made an entrance."

A few students let out hushed chuckles. Even Voughn seemed momentarily taken aback by her boldness before regaining her composure. "You're already starting on the wrong foot," he warned. "Since you arrived late, there is no available roommate for you. You'll take the unassigned room—alone."

The girl smirked, unfazed. "Perfect. I work better alone."

Without waiting for permission, she walked past the professor, ignoring the weight of the gazes on her.

As she disappeared down the hall, whispers erupted among the students.

"Who is she?"

"She doesn't seem intimidated at all."

"She must be strong to stand up to Valcroft like that."

One thing was clear—whoever she was, she wouldn't be easily ignored.

The tension from the late arrival's entrance still lingered in the Alpha House. Conversations buzzed through the halls, but no one dared to approach the girl who had so boldly challenged Professor Valcroft.

No one—except Charline Oneida.

As the new student walked through the dimly lit corridor toward her assigned room, Charline followed, her steps light but deliberate. She was curious—this girl had walked in like she owned the place, and Charline wanted to know why.

Just as the girl reached her door, Charline leaned casually against the wall beside her. "That was quite the entrance," she remarked, her tone amused.

The girl turned, her sharp gaze meeting Charline's without hesitation. "Was it?" she said, unlocking her door with an air of nonchalance.

Charline smirked. "You don't seem like someone who likes being told what to do."

The girl shrugged. "That's because I'm not."

Silence stretched between them. Most people would have been put off by the girl's cold demeanor, but Charline wasn't most people. She tilted her head. "You didn't tell Valcroft your name."

The girl's lips curled into a faint smirk. "Didn't see the point."

Charline chuckled. "You do realize everyone's talking about you now, right? Mystery girl, late arrival, the one who stood up to Valcroft. You've already got a reputation, and you haven't even unpacked."

The girl studied Charline for a moment, as if deciding whether to respond. Finally, she exhaled. "I don't care what they say."

Charline pushed off the wall. "Fair enough." She took a step toward her own room but glanced back. "Still, I'd rather know your name than keep calling you 'mystery girl.'"

For a brief second, there was hesitation. Then, finally—

"Kaesy Dane Seneca."

Charline nodded, as if satisfied. "See? That wasn't so hard." With a teasing grin, she turned away. "See you around, Kaesy."

Kaesy watched her go, her smirk lingering. Maybe this place wouldn't be as dull as she thought.