Chapter 190: The Evening Encounter

The night air in Valon was unusually crisp, the cobblestone streets bathed in the soft orange glow of floating lanterns. Noel walked steadily, a small bag in each hand—one with his own item, the other with a pair of pink earrings meant for someone else.

He was halfway to the academy when something caught his attention.

Raised voices.

Two men stood in a shadowed alleyway, leaning close to a woman. They reeked of alcohol, their postures aggressive, words slurred but laced with intent.

Noel narrowed his eyes.

He stepped closer, his voice low but clear.

"Is there a problem here?"

The men turned, annoyed at first—until they saw him.

Noel might've only been seventeen, but his expression could silence a room. He was tall for his age, sharp-eyed, and his presence carried the quiet weight of someone who had survived too much to be taken lightly.

The woman stepped forward.

Red hair. Hazel eyes.

Noel blinked.