The streets of Tharvaldur glowed with soft, magical light. Runes embedded in the stone walls pulsed gently, casting a faint blue hue over the city's wide paths. Noel walked calmly, hands in his coat pockets, with Selene at his side. Her short blue hair and sharp eyes reflected the city's glow, making her stand out even in silence.
Ahead of them, Noir moved with quiet purpose. Her sleek black fur shimmered under the light, the purple accents along her legs and tail giving her an otherworldly look. She was leading them, though Noel had no idea where.
Noel glanced at Selene from the corner of his eye, then spoke softly.
"How are you?"
Selene didn't look at him. Her eyes stayed fixed on the path ahead.
"Fine."
He exhaled through his nose and nodded once. Her tone was flat, distant.
"You know you can talk to me, right?" He kept his voice calm, careful. "I won't say anything to anyone just like last time. How's things with your mother?"
