Emerald didn't expect the place to feel like this.
As soon as she set foot on Adrien's land, everything felt different. The air was lighter and softer, wildflowers lined the stone paths, and laughter floated in from afar.
The guards greeted her with true respect instead of stiff formality, and the household staff seemed lively, which is a contrast to the tired, hollow-eyed figures she was used to seeing.
The estate felt warm and inviting. It had ivory walls covered in climbing ivy, sunlight streaming into the garden courtyard, and you could hear actual laughter echoing through the halls.
It was the polar opposite of Lucian's home, which was all shadows, cool tones, and strategic silence. This… this place welcomed her.
"Feels different, doesn't it?" Adrien said from beside her.
Emerald blinked and glanced up at him. "It does."
"Good different?"
She smiled faintly. "Very."
"Welcome to the Crimson Howl Pack."
