(The Vision – The Professor's Midnight Visit)
Princess Thistle could endure no more.
The lingering touches, the heated whispers, and the growing hunger in Mrs. Elfi's eyes had become unbearable. With a trembling voice, she excused herself from the ritual lesson far earlier than usual.
"I… I am not feeling well today, Professor," she murmured, avoiding those piercing blue eyes. "Please forgive me."
Before Mrs. Elfi could respond, Thistle gathered her skirts and fled the chamber, her white gown flowing behind her like a ghost through the darkening palace halls. The storm outside continued its relentless assault, rain lashing the windows and thunder growling like a beast stalking the corridors.
That night, long after the palace had fallen into uneasy silence, a soft but firm knock echoed through Thistle's private chambers.
