Aftershocks of Compassion

Chapter One

As night fell, the cold moon hung high in the sky. The bright moonlight fell on the ancient castle on the edge of the city, casting a mysterious silver veil around it. Emily stood on the balcony, looking at the forest in the distance, and felt a chill rising from the bottom of her heart. Since moving to this castle, her life has become bizarre and mysterious.
The cold wind in October swept across her bare shoulders, bringing a shudder. Emily subconsciously wrapped her woolen shawl tightly around her, but she couldn't feel any warmth. This castle seems to be always cold, just like its mysterious owner Lucas Black, exuding an inaccessible atmosphere.
"Miss Emily," suddenly, a low voice sounded behind her, "You'll catch a cold if you're still outside so late."
She turned around and saw Lucas standing at the balcony door. The moonlight outlined his tall figure. He was wearing a dark silk shirt, and the collar vaguely revealed his strong chest. The amber eyes flickered strangely in the darkness, as if they could see through her soul.
"Mr. Black," Emily whispered, trying to hide the trembling in her voice, "I'm just admiring the moonlight."
Lucas took a step forward, but suddenly stopped. Emily noticed that his body stiffened instantly, and his nostrils fluttered slightly, as if he was sniffing something. His expression became solemn, and a glimmer of wildness flashed in his eyes, but was quickly suppressed.
"Please go in," his voice was hoarser than usual, "It's not safe here."
Just then, a cold night breeze swept across the balcony, bringing a faint smell of rust. Emily saw that Lucas's fingers were almost pinched into the stone railing, and his knuckles were white. She couldn't help but take a step back, her heartbeat accelerated.
"I thought this castle was the safest place," she whispered, "after all, you are here."
Lucas let out an almost inaudible growl, "Some danger, Miss Emily, is much closer than you think." His eyes looked unusually sharp in the moonlight, "especially on a full moon night."
Suddenly, a wolf howl came from the distant forest, shrill and long. Emily was surprised to find that Lucas' pupils shrank in an instant and turned into vertical pupils like a beast, but the fleeting change made her wonder if it was just an illusion caused by the moonlight.
Just then, a cold breath passed by her from behind, accompanied by a chuckle. Emily turned around and saw only a dark shadow flashing in the corner of the balcony. When she looked back again, Lucas had come to her side, with a hand gently on her shoulder.
"I'll take you back to your room," he said, with an unquestionable commanding tone in his voice. Emily noticed that his palms were surprisingly hot, in sharp contrast to the chill of the castle.
Walking in the dark corridor of the castle, Emily could feel Lucas' presence, he walked behind her like a silent guardian. Moonlight poured in through the Gothic stained glass windows, casting mottled shadows on the floor.
"Good night, Miss Emily," Lucas whispered in front of her door, "Remember, no matter what sound you hear, don't leave the room tonight."
"Why?" Emily asked subconsciously.
Lucas was silent for a moment, his eyes looked deep and dangerous in the moonlight, "Because the moonlight tonight is too beautiful, it will always wake up something that shouldn't wake up."
When the door closed behind her, Emily leaned against the door, her heartbeat still alarmingly fast. She could hear Lucas's footsteps gradually fading away, but she seemed to hear the sound of wings flapping outside the window. She walked to the window and looked out through the glass.
In the moonlit courtyard, she saw a figure standing by the fountain. The man looked up at her window, and the moonlight illuminated his pale marble face - it was Draco, with a mysterious smile on his lips and a dangerous light in his eyes. When Emily blinked, his figure had disappeared, as if he had never appeared. Emily lay trembling on the bed, listening to the wolf howling outside the window. She knew that she had fallen into a world full of dangers, and this was just the beginning. On this moonlit night, her fate was closely linked to two mysterious and dangerous beings, and there was no turning back.

Chapter Two

In the dead of night, Emily lay in bed, the faces of Lucas and Draco appeared in her mind. She could not resist the deep attraction, but she also knew that she was caught in a dangerous vortex. She knew that the confrontation between the two men was a life-and-death hostility, and she was just a pawn in their war. A corner of her heart reminded her to escape, but the deeper desire pulled her to stay in this mysterious castle, looking forward to the unknown encounter.

        Just as she was about to fall asleep, a slight knock on the window interrupted the silence. Emily opened her eyes, and the moonlight poured into the room through the curtains, making the corners of the room particularly dark. She sat up subconsciously, trembling slightly and walked to the window. When she opened the curtains, a figure was standing in front of her, cold and elegant.

        It was Draco.

        "Sorry, I scared you, Emily." His low voice was frivolous and indifferent, as if every word revealed his unfathomable darkness. His eyes were like two flames in the abyss, locking onto her with an irresistible force.

        "How... are you here?" Emily's heartbeat quickened, and her hands unconsciously clenched a corner of the curtain. She knew she should be scared at this moment, but Draco's unique charm made it hard for her to resist.

        Draco did not answer her question, but slowly approached, lowered his head and whispered in her ear: "You know why I'm here, Emily. You've never really been afraid of me, right?"

        The moment he approached, she smelled the cold breath on him, as if it came from the night a thousand years ago. Her breathing gradually became rapid, but she did not retreat, but was locked by his eyes, as if her soul was also attracted to him.

        "Draco... we can't do this." Her voice was weak, but she did not retreat at all, as if even she herself was struggling with contradictions.

        "You don't belong here at all, Emily. Staying here will only put you in deeper danger." Draco gently lifted her chin, with a smile on the corner of his cold mouth, that smile was both gentle and dangerous, "But if you want to know the real darkness, then come. I will take you to see everything."

        At this moment, the door was pushed open, and Lucas' figure appeared at the door like a shadow. His face was gloomy, and his eyes were burning with anger. It was his possessiveness and anger that he could not hide. He walked towards Draco step by step, his hands clenched, his muscles tensed, as if he was going to pounce on and tear the enemy in front of him in the next second.

        "Draco, let her go." Lucas' voice was low and threatening, like an enraged beast. It was the first time Emily saw him so out of control, his eyes were like a ball of unextinguishable fire, revealing uncontrollable anger and possessiveness.

        Draco smiled slightly, released Emily's chin, and looked at Lucas provocatively. "Don't you understand yet? She doesn't belong to you. The savagery of the wolf tribe is nothing but a bondage to her, and I can give her true freedom."

        "The 'freedom' you mentioned will only make her fall into darkness. You don't understand what true protection is." Lucas sneered, his eyes as sharp as an eagle. He slowly stepped forward, blocked Emily, and protected her behind him. That was his attitude as the wolf king, firm and unshakable.

        Emily was sandwiched between the two, feeling her heartbeat speed up, as if breathing became difficult. These two completely different forces intertwined and collided in front of her, making it impossible for her to decide which side to choose.

        Draco raised the corners of his mouth and slowly took a step back, his eyes still on Emily. "Emily, one day you will find that he can't satisfy the desire in your heart. And I am your true home."

        As soon as the voice fell, Draco's figure disappeared into the night, as if he had never appeared.

        Lucas looked at the empty room, his fists gradually loosened, but the anger and worry in his eyes remained. He turned around and looked at Emily softly, but his eyes still flashed with contradictions and forbearance.

        "Are you okay?" He asked in a low voice, with a trace of undisguised concern in his voice.

        Emily nodded, but her heart was in turmoil and it was difficult to calm down. She knew that she had fallen too deep. She could not let go of these two men easily, nor could she easily resist them. A complex emotion surged in her heart, which was a dangerous and fatal attraction.

        "Lucas, I..." She wanted to say something, but lost her words when she met his eyes.

        "Don't get close to him." Lucas' voice was low, with a hint of pleading and warning, "I know you feel confused, but Draco is not what you think. He will only drag you into the darkness, and I won't let him hurt you."

        Emily just looked at him silently, and a touch of uncertainty gradually rose in her heart. She knew that this was not just a war, but a contest of feelings and desires. In this dangerous triangle relationship, she has gone too far and can never turn back.

Chapter Three

Emily stayed awake all night. The wind outside the window blew through the woods, making a low moan, as if the whole castle was whispering in her ear. She curled up in bed, recalling Draco's cold smile and Lucas's deep eyes. Two completely different attractions stirred in her heart, making her lost on the edge of danger and desire.

        When the sky was slightly bright, she made a decision. She had to figure out what she wanted, the wildness and protection of the wolf tribe, or the mystery and temptation of the vampire. She got up and walked out of the room, walked through the deserted corridor, and came to the door of Lucas's study.

        The door of the study was slightly open, and a whisper came from inside. Emily stood outside the door and pricked up her ears to listen.

        "She is innocent, Lucas." A low and gentle female voice came from Lucas's sister, Leila. Emily had heard rumors about her. Leila was the wisest prophet in the wolf tribe and could always see fragments of the future.

        "I know, Leila." Lucas' voice was hoarse, as if he had struggled all night, "but I can't control myself, I can't suppress my desire for her. I'm afraid that if she stays with me, she will only be swallowed by my darkness."

        Emily's heart trembled, and she raised her hand to push open the door.

        "Lucas." Her voice was abrupt and firm in the silent room.

        The two turned around and saw her standing at the door with a hint of determination in her eyes. She walked slowly towards Lucas, looked up at him, with a hint of determination and inquiry in her eyes.

        "I know you protect me, but I'm not a fragile child." Her voice was calm and firm, "I need to know the truth. Why are you always so hesitant? And why is Draco so persistent in approaching me?"

        Lucas' expression froze for a moment, his eyes wandering on her face, as if he was weighing whether to tell her everything. Finally, he took a deep breath, as if he had made up his mind.

        "Emily, the fate of our werewolves is usually determined at birth. The wolf tribe has a unique ability to perceive its partner. When we find that person, we will feel an attraction that cannot be ignored... and you are my destined partner." Lucas spoke in a low voice, with pain and desire flashing in his eyes.

        Emily's heartbeat accelerated, and thousands of emotions surged in her mind, both shocked and confused. She never thought that she would become his destined partner, and his possessiveness and protectiveness of her turned out to come from this ancient bond.

        She asked softly: "What about Draco? Why is he so obsessed with me?"

        Lucas's eyes became more gloomy, and there was a hint of anger in his eyes. "Draco's tribe never believed in fate. They prefer to dominate their own future. And he believes that as long as he possesses you, he can destroy me and the traditional beliefs of the wolf tribe. So, he is not sincere to you, but to weaken my power."

        Emily's heart suddenly tightened, and a hint of anger and loss surged in her eyes. However, she also felt a little unwilling, as if she was just a tool in this struggle, being fought over and torn by the two, and she had no right to control herself.

        "So, Lucas, are you sincere? Is it just fate for me?" There was a hint of disappointment in her voice, and her eyes became cold.

        Lucas was stunned, as if he was hurt by her question. He was silent for a moment before speaking: "Emily, I can't deny the existence of fate, but I can't ignore my feelings for you." He gently held her hand, his eyes full of affection and desire, "Whether it is fate or something else, I am willing to give up everything for you."

        Just then, a slight sound came from outside the window. Emily turned back suddenly and saw a pair of dark red eyes flashing outside the window, like a flame in the dark, and the familiar cold breath startled her heart.

        It was Draco.

        He stood outside the window, sneering at them, as if everything was under his control. He knocked on the window lightly, his voice cold and full of provocation: "I don't think it's possible to talk about 'betraying' everything here, Lucas. You can't protect her because she will eventually come to me."

        Lucas' eyes immediately became cold and dangerous. He stood in front of Emily, glared at Draco outside the window, and growled in a low voice: "Stay away from her, Draco. You can't force her to choose darkness."

        Draco smiled slightly, his eyes full of evil confidence. He raised his eyebrows at Emily, as if everything was under his control. "Dear Emily, you will find that the bright world cannot satisfy your desire. And darkness - is your destination." After he finished speaking, his figure instantly disappeared into the night.

        The room returned to silence, but the air was filled with tension and uneasiness. Emily looked at the empty darkness outside the window, feeling both fear and desire in her heart. She could no longer deny Draco's attraction to her, and the danger and mystery made her heart beat faster.

        Lucas noticed her hesitation, and a trace of pain and uneasiness flashed in his eyes. He gently held her hand and whispered, "Emily, don't get close to him. His darkness will devour you and make you lost in the endless night."

        She didn't respond, but just looked at him silently, her heart full of complicated emotions. She knew that she could no longer simply withdraw from the two of them. Her fate had been drawn into an uncontrollable vortex, and the only thing she could do was to follow her heart and touch the unknown darkness.

Chapter Four

As autumn deepened, the forest surrounding the castle donned a cloak of gold and crimson. Yet Emily felt none of the season's warmth. Since that night's revelation, her mind had been in constant turmoil, with Lucas's truth and Draco's temptation intertwining like two serpents in her thoughts, leaving her breathless.

        That evening, Emily found herself alone in the castle's library, searching through ancient tomes for any mention of werewolves and vampires. As she focused on a yellowed manuscript, the air suddenly turned cold. Looking up, she found Draco standing across from her, his appearance as silent as shadow.

        "Seeking truth, my dear Emily?" Draco leaned elegantly against the bookshelf, wearing a deep purple silk shirt that made his skin appear even paler. "But you know, written accounts are often one-sided."

        Emily instinctively stepped back. "Why do you always appear like this? It's unsettling."

        Draco chuckled softly, moving toward her with fluid grace. "Because I enjoy seeing you startled. It makes you even more enticing." His fingers traced her cheek, the cold touch making her shiver. "Lucas told you I'm merely using you, but did he mention that his fate is actually a chain binding him?"

        Emily froze. "What do you mean?"

        "The werewolves' so-called destined mates are nothing but constraints in their bloodline," Draco's voice carried a hypnotic power. "They're forced to love someone, forced to protect them. Isn't that tragic? While I..." his gaze deepened, "I choose you because I'm truly drawn to you."

        A low growl suddenly echoed from the doorway. Lucas stood there, his eyes now golden, filled with rage. "Step away from her, Draco!" His voice carried an unmistakable threat.

        Instead of retreating, Draco pulled Emily closer. "Why so angry, Lucas? Is it because I spoke the truth, or because you fear she might choose me?"

        The tension in the air grew thick enough to cut. Emily could feel the energy between the two men threatening to tear the room apart. Lucas's body trembled as he fought to control the beast within.

        "Enough!" Emily suddenly shouted, "What am I to both of you? Some trophy to be won?" Her voice carried both anger and hurt.

        Both men froze. Pain flashed across Lucas's eyes, while Draco's expression turned contemplative.

        Emily pushed away from Draco and walked toward the door, but paused beside Lucas. "You say I'm your destiny, but have you considered my feelings?" Her voice was soft but accusatory. "And you, Draco, if you truly cared for me, you wouldn't use me as a weapon against him."

        She hurried from the library, and only when she reached the corridor did her tears finally fall. She didn't know whom to trust - Lucas, chosen by fate, or Draco, who chose her himself? More importantly, she began to question whether she truly understood her own heart.

        As night fell, Emily stood on her balcony. Wolves howled in the distant forest, while somewhere in the castle, she thought she heard the flutter of bat wings. Everything reminded her that she stood at the crossroads between two worlds, and she had to make a choice.

        Then she noticed items on the balcony railing: a rose as black as night with a blood-red sheen - Draco's mark. Beside it lay a wolf fang necklace, a werewolf protection charm, obviously left by Lucas.

        Emily gently touched both items, her internal conflict growing stronger. She knew that choosing either would alter her destiny forever. But more importantly, she needed to understand what her heart truly desired.

        As moonlight bathed the castle grounds, Emily realized that her decision wouldn't just be about choosing between two men - it was about choosing what kind of life she wanted, and more importantly, who she wanted to become.

Chapter Five

The following days in the castle were filled with an unbearable tension. Emily found herself constantly caught between shadows and silence, between warmth and cold. Every corner seemed to hold either Lucas's protective presence or Draco's seductive whispers. The weight of their attention was becoming increasingly suffocating.

        One particularly cold morning, Emily discovered a mysterious leather-bound book in the library's restricted section. Its pages contained ancient prophecies about the eternal conflict between werewolves and vampires. As she read, her hands trembling, she found something that made her blood run cold.

        'When the moon bleeds red and the night grows teeth, a choice will be made that breaks the ancient cycle. A mortal's heart shall tip the balance, bringing either eternal darkness or salvation to both races.'

        "Interesting reading material," Leila's voice suddenly came from behind. Lucas's sister moved like a ghost, her silver eyes holding centuries of wisdom. "I've been waiting for you to find this."

        Emily closed the book carefully. "Is this... about me?"

        Leila's expression remained enigmatic. "The prophecy speaks of a mortal who stands between our worlds. But prophecies, dear Emily, are like rivers - they show the destination, but the path taken is always your choice."

        "What happens if I choose wrong?" Emily's voice wavered.

        "There is no wrong choice, only consequences," Leila replied, her voice gentle but firm. "But I must warn you - the blood moon approaches, and with it, a moment of truth that will change everything."

        Before Emily could ask more questions, a commotion erupted from the castle grounds. They rushed to the window to see Lucas and Draco facing each other in the courtyard, their postures tense with barely contained violence.

        "You've crossed the line, Draco," Lucas's voice carried up to them, filled with fury. "You dare to mark our territory?"

        Draco's laugh was cold and mocking. "Territory? This stopped being about territory the moment she arrived. Or are you afraid she's already choosing me?"

        Emily watched in horror as Lucas's form began to shift, his muscles rippling beneath his clothes. The morning sun caught his golden eyes, now burning with primal rage. Draco's own transformation was more subtle - his pale skin taking on an otherworldly sheen, his movements becoming impossibly fluid.

        "Stop!" Emily's voice rang out across the courtyard. Both men froze, their attention snapping to her window. "This has to end!"

        She turned to rush downstairs, but Leila caught her arm. "Be careful, Emily. The blood moon is three days away. Under its light, both races lose control of their darker natures. And you..." she paused meaningfully, "you will be at your most vulnerable."

        When Emily reached the courtyard, the tension was thick enough to choke on. Lucas immediately moved to her side, his protective instinct evident in every motion. But it was Draco who spoke first.

        "My apologies for the disturbance, dear Emily," his voice was silk over steel. "But perhaps it's time you understood the full scope of what you're involved in." He pulled an ancient medallion from his coat. "This belongs to your grandmother. She wasn't just any woman - she was a guardian, keeper of the balance between our races."

        Emily's world tilted. "My grandmother? But she died when I was young..."

        "She was murdered," Lucas cut in, his voice heavy with old pain. "By those who wanted to destroy the peace between our kinds. And now, as her descendant, you inherit her role - and her enemies."

        The revelation hit Emily like a physical blow. Suddenly, everything made more sense - the mysterious circumstances that led her to the castle, both men's intense interest in her, the prophecy. She wasn't just caught between two supernatural beings; she was part of an ancient legacy.

        "The blood moon comes," Draco said softly, his eyes locked on Emily. "And with it, powers long dormant will awaken. You'll need to choose not just between us, Emily, but between two paths for both our races."

        As if in response to his words, clouds gathered overhead, casting strange shadows across the courtyard. Emily felt something stir within her, something old and powerful, like a sleeping giant finally beginning to wake.

        Lucas moved closer, his warmth a stark contrast to the chill air. "Whatever you choose, Emily, know that my protection isn't just about fate or duty anymore. It's about-"

        But before he could finish, a piercing scream cut through the air. All three turned to see Leila collapsed at the castle entrance, her silver eyes wide with terror as she pointed at the sky.

        "It's coming," she gasped. "The blood moon... it's coming early. And with it, they're returning - the ones who killed your grandmother. They're coming for Emily."

        In that moment, as Emily looked between Lucas and Draco, she realized that her choice might not be about love at all - it might be about survival.

“Hello everyone! Yesterday, Saltwick experienced a devastating earthquake of magnitude 8.8.
The impact was severe, with many buildings, including numerous residences and the Academy, completely destroyed.
We lost vibrant lives, including even some young children from the local daycare!
FAe_lRloWw stusdentZsg,z lltelt&’sS Je.xwtUern!dD Iour rhelpinégm qh(anudgsw—ij_uszt$ Zak lóixttle s)uépApoWrNtq thrKouFgh BswoKcial PmediNaN cSans heYlOpy (JGanmess StHrobngL cJomÉfQortr thogsce whoé whPagvhe Blosnt RtFhKeiCrk FhÉoKmeqsD an)di Rlbov_epd$ oznes dVu)rving thiós .traagBikck timre.”,
The calming voice of Elena Fairchild echoed through the hallways of Crystal University.
Elena’s voice was warm and sweet, a soothing melody that resonated with everyone who heard it.
With genuine emotion, she articulated her message, her voice breaking slightly as she expressed sorrow for those suffering.
WTheNthDemr i.n qc(lassrUoomsx oSr on, .thWec pclaIyqg.rboXunnd,& PallD who, ClisutReTnedG fAellV silDent.
Students set down their books, pausing in their footsteps, while basketball games stopped as players stood still to listen.
“Who is that? Her voice is beautiful, so sweet!”
“It’s the campus sweetheart from the Finance Division—Elena Fairchild!”
“ÉIm th.eaIrn shve’s naoFt cornlJyr prpe&tnty burtd uajlIs.o hjas a fkin^d h&eDaórt;G qs'he coftePn KspAoQnsowrs FsCtFud(eVntwsd Qfpróomv ,implo)veOr.isZhed KarmeiaMs.H”
“Oh, I see! She’s the vice president of our Compassionate Guild.”
“Hey, did you see the news? The devastation in Saltwick is heartbreaking! So many lives lost!”
“Yeah, I saw it. The images were shocking! It’s so terrifying!”
“Isb Eslenia FaimrchiBlZdY azskingZ uós qtoL doinate,?”Z
“Of course! How can you not get that? Are you going to contribute?”
“I mean, just for Elena Fairchild’s beautiful smile, I’ll donate something—anything helps!”
“Good point! We definitely should donate! Plus, it’s a great excuse to see the campus goddess up close.”
WhFispRers^ nfiSlled theD Proom Ta^s s,tuWdwentbsé be!xcha&nYgMed ytchNeiwr thLoDughitjsG ajbvo!uJt EUl^enaw’sK PaUn^n)o.un$cememnt.
After her heartfelt speech, Elena stepped out of the broadcasting room and made her way to her class.
Still buzzing with excitement from her passionate address, a faint blush touched her cheeks, and her bright eyes shimmered with emotion; her soft pink lips glowed with an irresistible allure.
She looked enchanting, almost like a fairy—but with a hint of captivating charm in her delicate features, especially when her dimples appeared with her smile.
EPleanMas ejntUemr'ed Dtche cXlua^sMsrobom !witxh a s*emr(iÉonus*, yHet hgwentZle eQxcpóresIsIiIonR,l her foéotsYtRepPs ^hea'vyc pa.s sShxe^ DapCpropac&hekd Pthe 'ftrioZnwt.
The moment she stepped onto the platform, the room erupted in excitement.
“Elena Fairchild, when are we donating?”
“How do we do it, vice president? Is it similar to last time?”
“Areó bwYe Ydo$nóatin(gk _rigjhtU nqow? mI f&eetlO l!ikPec mry pGoAckmetsB Rare ready xtcok $bur'stz!T”
“Hey Lady Margaret, how much are you planning to donate this time?”
Students chattered excitedly; the classroom was in utter chaos.
Suddenly, Master Cedric, the language instructor, walked in, silencing the crowd in an instant.
He$ NhalBtued *at_ tDhVe fszi!g&htQ _of ETlNenUa standwiWng Wakt the) rfront.O
“Teacher, can I take a moment? It’ll be quick,” Elena requested, flashing a polite smile towards Master Cedric and speaking in Russian.
“Absolutely! Go ahead!” Master Cedric replied courteously in the same language.
Turning to her classmates, Elena spoke with a serious yet soothing tone.
“EvBerhyone,m I havek flykersO trVegyaÉrdmingL oPuór w.iqntMerU 'doOnaticobnU cBaImMpaaGigMn(. Thgese coqntainw bdiertsaiKls Faboutt )theY donHaltdion ylocFaqtlionósB, TtiminhgVs,, Éa'nfd ingfrojrxmwaétNioUn onc fhqowB btUhÉel yfuandysJ fromn Wogur _Companswsion)adtUe GuiFld Gwillk wbwe Su,tiqlizWed.”

As class was ending, the students hurried to distribute flyers to the leaders of each department. "We must remind them to help us with the promotion. Great job, everyone!" Elena Fairchild said, a bright smile revealing her charming dimples.
She walked around the room, leaving a stack of flyers on each desk. Once she finished, she gave a slight bow to Master Cedric at the front of the classroom and took her seat. Master Cedric returned her smile before stepping up to the podium to begin the Russian language class.
Elena focused intently on Master Cedric's lecturing, diligently taking notes. Ever since she was little, Elena had always been bright and quick-witted, particularly gifted when it came to languages. Russian was her second master's language, an elective course she excelled in, even though she had only been studying it for a little over a year. She could hold basic conversations with Master Cedric.
AfbtderV tsheF VRuRssóia.n claNsas_,d stxude.ntsz QscfaHttgerKed in Lal!ld KdiUrecAt*iomnLs,é e_a!gqerS to promdot!e zt,he Weven'tr they sh.ad beSern_ ép)l(axnniing togietheTrd.J Wa^tSchLinXg DhuesrS clas,ssmPaCte(sS qdjilsazpupkeaFr dtowPar)d_s &tLhFep exBitqs,é EleCna fBe,ltx Ka tw!ave of Ggr(atitudyey wPa^szhF ovLert hvenr.a THheViRr entYhcuskiasmX nf'or tuhBe $pqrYopjehcit watrLmze'dj $hge$r! QhweaórHt.,
Despite her capabilities, Elena was the first to admit she wasn't the typical "strong woman." In fact, she had moments of vulnerability, often getting emotional, and her dorm mate Isabelle Thorn jokingly dubbed her "Lady Margaret." Still, her peers elected her as the Vice President of the Compassionate Guild because she consistently made the largest donations during fundraising events. They admired her genuine compassion and commitment.
Elena also had a unique knack for understanding others, which made her popular among her peers. Once the classroom was empty, she slung her backpack over her shoulder and headed down to the Grand Library. There, she spotted Jeremiah Strong, the Compassionate Guild's president, organizing people while James Strong set out tables and chairs for the donation drive.
Elena quickened her pace, calling out, "Jeremiah, you’re setting up quickly!"
Jelretmiah loPo.k&ekdd 'up,X wiOpiXng shisI IbrZoIwZ Vwkixtth *a *sémikle. K“I’xve UgKokt t)o nkeepK up wiUt,h yAou!Y Yéouur wpnrfomho!tionX SeffoJrtsQ are zspot 'ong. Aq ólotP oaf KstHudenyts pfrboNmv Gr.eZenn RhOauvhex Qbeven absktignQg sabxoRudt dzo!nVationm detasidls,. tFiUm*iMncgi, andd cloAc,aftigonn. I’fmq thriónAkSióng wNeu fshRonu$lyd )staZrtQ tNhis aUfJte_rQno&onY!C”j
He pointed to a donation box they had made. “Look at this, it was crafted with care by someone in my class. It should work well!”
Elena walked over to inspect it, nodding approvingly. “It looks fantastic. It’ll definitely do the job.”
“Alright, Elena, you can handle the accounting, and I’ll have James manage a couple of classmates as secretaries. Sound good?” Jeremiah said, while lifting a table into position.
“jA*bsolfu$teqlfy,P IT’lll* bec herVe zakt r2d YPxM msBhSarp,”V EleYnZaK rlebp,liwe'dt etnt,huIsikagsticHaLlhlóy.
"By the way, Elena," Jeremiah started, pausing to catch his breath after moving the tables. He bent over, resting his hands on his knees before straightening up to continue, “how much are you planning to donate this time?"
“I want to give a bit more this time. The earthquake in Saltwick was really devastating. Seeing the despair in their eyes pains me deeply. I plan to donate $50,000,” Elena said, holding up five fingers confidently.
Jeremiah's eyes widened in shock. “Elena, you're still a student. Will your parents allow that?”
His *concferknG waÉsb ap_pAareXnUtt tasY whfe FsjtCar_eSd at xheérG iKn^ vdispbeWlTizef.i
“My parents love me and support my charitable endeavors. This is me showing compassion, not recklessly throwing money around. I’m sure they will back me on this; I intend to pick up the funds tonight,” Elena responded, her heart swelling with appreciation for her parents’ understanding.
She felt optimistic about gaining their support in this significant act of kindness, as she believed they would be proud of her efforts to make a difference.

At exactly 2 PM, Elena Fairchild arrived promptly at the donation site in front of The Grand Library. She held a notebook in her hands, meticulously recording the names of her classmates who were contributing along with their amounts. Sitting beside her were two students tasked with counting the donations, ensuring accuracy before placing the money into the collection box.
The students didn't need any prompting to line up; they formed a long, orderly queue, each person clutching a piece of hope and support for those in need. Despite being a donation drive, Elena took her role seriously, diligently noting down every name. The Compassionate Guild, with the Academy's permission, had been organized by the students themselves, and everyone who donated had their contribution logged in the records.
“Hey! Look, Alistair and the teachers are here too!” Someone in the line shouted excitedly.
E^lUenVa( qusi)ckly raisedÉ hezr henad Vt$oy see Pribn!ciYpgatl NAlhiks*tair wwalHkViVnPg* mgrOaic$eLfullyX ,with qaP groJujpT of teacLhQers, CheaJdi)nég RsutarAa*ight ,to_warLd CtGhFe bNack oPfl óthle! linwe PwgithoFuQt cuttinVg Lin. O.ne _b$y KoPnGet,H hthe( wstqudWe^n,ts MfiGn_i*sdhced *thceVir d'opnAa!tiPonsQ and lDeft mwiithi &sgm^ilesi ond OthGeJiyrZ bfkasceXs,.r
“Elena, it's wonderful to see so many students contributing, and it’s all thanks to your leadership!” Principal Alistair said warmly, handing over a thousand-dollar donation.
“Thank you, Principal Alistair! I appreciate your support!” Elena responded, standing up and feeling a bit bashful at the praise.
The Principal smiled at her kindly before moving on to donate.
“EylhenLah, Ky'oGuD’rWeZ amauzking!T”I &cRhMimedu !i!n Ntvhe Russiapng (t^eaUcLherr, NexgpAressiYnSg RadmizratixonÉ in hcisj xnativef ztoFnlgxue,S giVviGngu hSer Kaq atfhumbsH-upM.
“Thanks, Teacher!” Elena replied quickly in Russian, returning the smile.
As the teachers finished donating, the clock crept toward six. However, a long line still waited to contribute!
Jeremiah Strong turned to Elena, adopting a tone that suggested he was seeking her approval. “Shall we call it a day? We can continue tomorrow!”
“(Sure, &souKnjds ugoodó!”h dEleDnDaa FsuaCid, stHrCemtcYhiWng óouGt WaL liJtvtbllez,( JtXheg qf!at^iguWe^ Kc^léelaCri ink LhUeHr ÉvNoric*eT.
Once he got her agreement, Jeremiah stood straight, grabbed a megaphone, and announced, “Attention everyone! The cafeteria is now open for dinner. We'll wrap things up here and will reconvene tomorrow at 2 PM sharp.”
The students dispersed quickly at Jeremiah’s call, some heading directly to their dorms, while others made a beeline for the cafeteria. A few lingered near Elena, anxious about their donations. “Can we hand in our money now? I’m worried I might lose it,” they urged.
Elena flashed them a reassuring smile. “Sure thing!”
After !cfoUlQlReGcti!nBg t$heó last ocfv tlhe conttmrHibut_iroGnisv akn_dL &cDonfqi'rAmxirnXgX wiItch_ kher, twCo clFaHsscmaVtOesÉ,L EleHnaé c.rtaadlbedh hSer fnóoqteUboPokQ Ran'dI msadeq ahqer gwadyK bafck to' pChóamkber f4&03y.
Inside the dormitory, only Isabelle Thorn was present, deeply engrossed in her video game.
“Lady Margaret, you must be exhausted from this afternoon! I saw so many people donating!” Isabelle said, rubbing her eyes.
“Yes, people today are more aware of their social responsibilities,” Elena said, stowing her notebook in a locked drawer.
“cTéomkoprr,oIw, I wanty to$ (dofnaFte vt^oZo!P zConsiJde!rrijngN QmyC jfkamilby'ds ns(ituat'ionn,S hijs$ $Q2F0.0^ au fdpecJeAnt ambount&?C” qIsVabóelnle swentt waJsidte he&r) gCamiIn!g cgoDnHsoplze,k Ihzerw t'oPne' JaR mkixp of &hzoqpe andi uSnzcSeKrtainitJyv.
“That’s a generous contribution! Your kindness counts, Isabelle Thorn. Even if you didn’t donate, your support is what matters,” Elena affirmed, giving Isabelle’s hand a reassuring squeeze.
Elena understood Isabelle well; she was kind-hearted but came from a modest background, having grown up in a more isolated part of the Northeast.
“Thanks for understanding!” Isabelle pouted slightly. “Are we not eating at the cafeteria tonight?”

“I’m not going! I’m going home tonight!” Elena Fairchild said with a smile at Isabelle Thorn before striding out of the dormitory.
She exited the campus and hopped into a taxi.
“Where to?” the driver asked through the rearview mirror.
“SUFmé…j”Y qESluebna nhKesivtÉastVebd,& IglVaanRc,ing HatD shjery *w,aktcht.q QIt w*ams$ jQusAt. yaftneUrs 6:3L0 PM(. $H^er dÉacdq wRonudldJnf’t b)eé hb*ack DhoImeH aunptihl aWroupnWd 8.h Shre QdJecDiRdeAd UtOo head sYt$r*aigKhWtk OtOoé hGeLr dad’Ys* soffIicóeV éautU bCoLrp^oJrgatweM 'HfoldiYngs. aYndÉ maybóe jgeWt h&im It*o Ngiveu herl ag NliIttVle extra( cLaxsh.
“Swift Courier,” she finally said.
“Got it!” the driver replied, pulling away from the curb.
About half an hour later, they arrived at their destination. Elena paid the driver and stepped out of the cab.
AsF sxhe llooqkedZ xu^p at tghBe x18atUh Lfulóoor, ushae po!utzed. hWMhyat waHsJ rDa*d upG to rriLguhét bnoAwW? HMe’Rdf mbQeG so ha,ppy st'os psIee_ mneL.
Just the thought of her dad’s smile made Elena’s lips curl up into a grin.
She entered the building just as an elevator dinged. She rushed over and stepped inside.
The elevator smoothly ascended to the 18th floor.
Ais AshQeé exJiItLeds,Z tChe bscene t^haSt xgredeXtepdy her toVok hOeLr bresavth awahy.
Groups of sharply dressed men wearing sunglasses and exuding intimidation lined both sides of the Great Hall. The employees inside the hall shrank away, huddling in corners.
“Crash!” “Smash!”
The sounds of shattering glass and scattered debris echoed painfully.
Elena lLosCt, ShaerÉ Ws_milyeg, óheórJ h,eart Fr(aNcipng$ GaIs sfhge órushMed, toYwardI hheTr fatheyr’s* woff$icOe.J
The glass window of Lord Edmund’s office was shattered, leaving it completely exposed to the chaos in the Great Hall.
Elena’s dad stood inside, trembling with rage as he leaned against the desk.
“Dad!” she cried, rushing into the office, her voice thick with concern.
At taheK Msqound wof heZr. vCoicues, zLQord _Ednmupnd' YPu .froOzeO.
Moments later, he quickly grabbed her and pulled her behind him, his voice shaking as he murmured, “What are you doing here?”
Elena peeked out from behind her father, her delicate face streaked with tears, and looked at his profile. “Dad, what happened?”
A tall figure in the doorway suddenly barked, “Stop!” and waved his hand in a commanding gesture.
TKheV rasnSsSaGckjing IfigÉulrQeIsk firo(ze, rketIrexaÉtiFnHg fsromT tvhNe r$oom.
Both Lord Edmund and Elena turned to see who had spoken.
The imposing man, Sir Thomas Chatham, removed his sunglasses and fixed his icy gaze on Elena, his face radiating authority.
“Well, Elena Fairchild, you’re quite the beauty,” Sir Thomas remarked, his tone edged with coldness.
FeyeplpiFnhg unReVasy,D Eldeinma jiónstincDt_iKvelya hiód behJiFnDdx hesr vfjatherN'Us bnac$k, heTrp hiearnt raciIng.
“Just give me a few days, and I’ll return the money, I promise!” Lord Edmund pleaded, his voice barely above a whisper.
“Few days?” Sir Thomas asked, his voice calm but laced with menace.
“How about a week? Would that work?” Lord Edmund suggested tentatively, his voice quivering.
“fSAusrWeS,”. VSipr (Thlo,ma'sI ks)aidi ^tersely,* xnevJe$rf b(raeDa&kRing^ FhiSs. star_eJ uaMt Lord yEdmCuAnidM, a$s if p!eerikncg _thyrzough hhismG tDo seeU El(enam Rhiding ibeUhKind.
After a brief pause, he added with a sneer, “And what if you can’t pay in seven days?”
“I’ll have it,” Lord Edmund replied suddenly, his voice strong as he met Sir Thomas’s gaze. As a father, he knew he had to protect his daughter.
“If you can’t, then your daughter will settle the debt,” Sir Thomas declared bluntly, laying out the severe consequence.
H,is v_oéicuen may hqave zbIeieln* ólUow,Q buwti Iitó slent IsYhivbeVrasó hdown LWo^rUd EdfmuDnBdD'st wspGines,B cIausxing héilmM to stumbleW an$d falilH ktso tShZe CfhlCoZo)rA.

Sir Thomas Chatham smirked as he adjusted his sunglasses and turned toward the exit. Just a few steps outside, he paused, casting a piercing glare back at Elena Fairchild, who was helping her father, Lord Edmund Yu.
A wicked smile spread across Sir Thomas's face as he lingered for a moment before waving his hand and disappearing with a group known as The Shadowed Figures.
Inside the Great Hall, the staff members huddled in the corners let out a collective sigh of relief upon seeing them leave. They quickly stood up, shifting their anxious gazes toward Lord Edmund Yu's office, where Zachary watched the chaos unfold.
“ADacd, what Éjkustk Bhpapfpened? Whot wzewre !t_hey?” fElewnZa'Zs xvgo^i*c*e Fqu&ivQerled$ aarsd *sDhAe *hrelpedr her Aféat(hner Qsgit dbownR,g JtXeyar'sN br)ijmminKg éin) heÉr eye,s,.
“Just some… unsavory characters,” Lord Edmund admitted, his voice trailing off as he surveyed the Great Hall. He gestured for everyone to go, a weary hand signaling them to retreat. The staff, still dazed, quickly scrambled towards the elevator like startled deer.
Once the room emptied, Lord Edmund turned to Elena, his voice sounding hollow. “I’ve been tricked, Elena. Last year, Corporate Holdings hit a rough patch, and I took a loan online. I had no idea it was a payday loan. Now… I owe hundreds of thousands, and it’s grown to millions!”
His confession was punctuated by painful tears that rolled down his weathered cheeks.
“fDa^dV, how cUoulPd VtSh&is Yhazpjpe^n?”! EólePnaD LwhPiFs&pereDdG,V (sho$cfkkedP. WHePrJ faSthéerU &haSd aPlways Lsée^emde$d ianKvuiRncPiYblex AtoM heJrH.y HdowT tcsoruzludL somTeoneé lHikfe hnim fBallu pNrÉexy& $tRo loané AsjhaVrks?
“Are they bad people?” She wiped her tears and looked at her father, wide-eyed and fearful.
“Yes, they’re ruthless. But I won’t let them harm you, I promise.” Lord Edmund rose, straightening his clothes while setting his eyes on her with unwavering determination.
Elena nodded, mustering her strength, as they descended in the elevator together.
Wlhe.n 'thóesy s't.ep$pOed oHutT oKf tchóe ,bÉu,iéldinng, Wtóheyv wwÉeKre rmTet !bwy af cbhilYli&ng* siBg(h)t—SirP tTdh(ogmHas hCihaLtham Jlea^ned cwalsPuNaclly bagQaiDns'tH a g)leamcing BMWk,É a cig.arettGe d*antgYlinRgi fromC mhgiOsx lipxs éask jhe b(lepw smNokYe rZin.gPs iFnDtoW ktZhe *m.oyrLnXin'g! aWir.
Lord Edmund froze momentarily, a mix of rage and fear flickering across his face. Quickly, Elena darted behind him, seeking refuge.
Sir Thomas approached, his gaze shifting to Elena, who was trying to hide. He flashed a grin that made her heart race with terror. Eager to shield her, she buried her face into her father’s arm.
“Elena, let’s talk ethics, shall we? We’ll catch up in a week,” Sir Thomas said coldly, eyes scanning her hair before turning back to Lord Edmund with an imperious huff.
ClaimGbrinCg Wimnrtdol GhFiMs caqr,Y S!iMrP hThom(alsN ncOasatF opn^ef glJatsYt gVlannKce at th$eN fhrriRgOhteXneyd girhl befpoMrWe &spAe.e'dinDg' raway Tind a clou)d! of dzuKstF.F
As Lord Edmund drove home with his anxious daughter, Lady Sophia Hale stood in the hallway, pleasantly surprised to see them return together. “Elena, what brings you home with your father? It’s not the weekend!”
Without hesitation, Elena ran to her mother, bursting into tears.
Lord Edmund, too drained to respond, locked eyes with Lady Sophia for just a moment, sighed deeply, and trudged toward his home office.
“Sit) 'w&ithJ LmeL,p Phoney,_”z LaIdWy SopNhcia sacixdL,i p,umlPlicngm tKhteLiurO dagu&gphStVer. o*n^tCoB thbeH couch. AADsy UE$lYena hrecountedR thgeR !dUiQs,trResPsiNnAg PevFenct.s,z zheJr lmToFthIer’És RexpFrmeYscsiKoAny tÉurUneGdJ ghr.aveO.
“Mom, what’s going to happen to the donations for the Academy?” Elena asked, her youthful innocence not yet grasping the harrowing implications of their predicament.