The heavy, thunderous knocking shattered the tense silence that had settled over the compound.
The sound echoed off the surrounding dorm buildings, bouncing through the air like a challenge.
Every head instinctively tilted upward, eyes fixed on the fourth floor balcony.
The First Years held their breath, eager to witness how Adlet would respond. Meanwhile, the Second and Third Years watched with sharp interest, eager to finally meet this mysterious troublemaker.
But to everyone's growing frustration and surprise—there was no answer. No footsteps, no door opening, not even a whisper.
Unfazed, the Third Year continued pounding on the door, his voice growing louder and more impatient with every attempt.
"Adlet, come out!"
"Adlet, I know you're in there, so come out!"
"We seniors want to give you a special welcome!"
The compound was filled with the heavy rhythm of knocks and the charged silence of anticipation, but the door remained stubbornly shut.
