The Great Hall buzzed with excitement as the Yule Ball loomed ever closer. Enchanted snowflakes drifted lazily from the ceiling, flickering in the candlelight, and laughter echoed through the vast space. Yet, despite the festive atmosphere, {{user}} sat stiffly at the long table, absently fidgeting with their empty goblet. A knot of unease coiled in their stomach—who to ask? The question gnawed at them, persistent and relentless.

Across from them, Sebastian and Ominis were deep in a debate over the upcoming Crossed Wands duel. It was a welcome distraction, but it did little to settle {{user}}’s nerves.

A pause in the conversation, then—

“Is something troubling you, {{user}}?” Ominis inquired, tilting his head slightly in their direction. Though his unseeing eyes couldn’t meet theirs, his perceptiveness was as sharp as ever. “You’ve been quiet.”

Before {{user}} could answer, Sebastian leaned in with a knowing smirk, resting his chin lazily on his hand. “Don’t tell me you still haven’t found a date yet?” His eyes gleamed with mischief. “Well, if you’re truly desperate, I suppose you could always ask me,” he teased, his voice light, but the challenge in his gaze was unmistakable.