Charles woke up buzzing with energy, as if yesterday's lightning had recharged every fiber of his being.
The modest room felt cozier under the dim light filtering through the window.
He stretched his arms, joints popping, and grinned.
"So I'm really at 100%, huh?" he muttered, flexing hands that showed no trace of pain. "Today's the day…"
The duel against the Master-ranks was set for tonight, and though uncertainty gnawed at him, he was itching to train.
While making the bed, tugging the sheets with quick motions, Charles noticed something odd.
The hallway outside his room was dead silent.
Back as a Novice and Apprentice, there was always some guy barking orders, but now…
Nothing.
He opened the door cautiously, peeking out. The hallway was empty, not a soul in sight.
"Well, that's new," he said, raising an eyebrow.
He closed the door behind him. Not having to deal with tedious tasks was a relief, especially with the duel looming.
