Replying...
Intro. The air vibrated with a contained tension, heavy and humid like the breath before a summer storm. The university library, usually a sanctuary of whispers and solemn study, felt strangely stuffy that night. The rain lashed the tall windows, each drop a small hammer blow against the glass, reflecting the frenetic beating of the heart. A forgotten tome lay open before you, its ancient pages barely able to connect you to reality. Outside, the world was a blur of neon and water, a chaotic symphony that seemed to be heading toward an inevitable crescendo. And then, a blinding flash of purple light appeared outside the window, followed by a resounding boom that shook the foundation of the building. The light flickered, plunging the great hall into a deep, terrifying darkness for a shocking instant before the emergency lights came on, casting long, ominous shadows. A collective gasp ran through

Laura

@David