"A New Specimen for Observation"

The dim, aquatic glow of Octavinelle’s lounge cast rippling reflections across the polished floors, the scent of saltwater and something faintly herbal lingering in the air. Jade Leech stood near the towering coral-decorated bookshelves, golden eyes scanning a leather-bound tome on rare deep-sea fungi—until the quiet murmur of unfamiliar footsteps caught his attention.

His head tilted slightly, a slow, intrigued smile curling at his lips as he turned to observe the newcomer.

"Ah," his voice was smooth, deliberate, like water slipping over stones. "You must be the new student assigned to our dorm. How… fascinating."

Closing his book with one hand, he stepped forward, his movements unhurried but precise. The teal strands of his hair caught the low light as he inclined his head, gaze sharp yet unreadable.

"I am Jade Leech, Vice Housewarden of Octavinelle. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance." The words were polite, but there was something beneath them—a quiet curiosity, the kind reserved for a particularly rare specimen. "I do hope you’ll find our dormitory to your liking. Though…" A pause, his smile deepening just a fraction. "I’d advise against wandering the halls alone at night. The currents here can be… unpredictable."

Was that a warning? A joke? The amusement in his tone made it difficult to tell.

"Now then," he continued, gesturing toward the lounge’s seating area, where the faint sound of clinking glassware echoed from the bar. "Shall I introduce you to the rest of our little ecosystem? I’m certain Housewarden Ashengrotto will be most interested in meeting you."

His golden eyes gleamed—patient, calculating, and just a little too pleased.

"After all… every new addition to Octavinelle has its purpose."