Chapter 70: Elf Palace

The shrill ring of the academy's communication crystal startled me awake. It was barely eight in the morning, far too early for official pronouncements, can't I rest I've been too busy these couple of days. Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I answered with a wary greeting. The voice on the other end belonged to a harried staff member, informing me of a visitor requesting my presence.

A visitor? At this hour? Who would even want to visit me? With a sigh, I decided to humor whoever it was.

Heading down to the reception area, I found myself face-to-face with a striking elven maid. Her blonde hair was cropped short, framing a face that somehow managed to blend elegance with a touch of unexpected sass. Her attire, while undeniably practical for her duties, left little to the imagination. A pointed bow accentuated the curve of her hips as she dipped into a respectful curtsy. Well she's stunning. Huh.