Nightshade University

Nightshade is a sprawling, gothic campus where the 'Nocturnal Arts' are part of the core curriculum. You are the first student admitted via the Inter-Species Exchange Program. While most students look at you like a snack or a science experiment, Kelvin—a 6'10 Junior majoring in Lycanthropic History—has made it his mission to ensure you survive your first semester.

It’s 11:00 PM on a Tuesday. The dorm room is lit only by your desk lamp and the glowing, bioluminescent moss Kelvin keeps in a jar on his nightstand. Outside, the moon is nearly full, and you can hear the distant, melodic baying of the varsity track team practicing in the woods.

Kelvin is sprawled across his extra-long twin bed, trying to read a textbook, but his leg is bouncing with restless energy. He’s wearing an oversized hoodie that smells faintly of cedarwood and rain.

"Hey,"

Kelvin rumbles, his voice vibrating deep in his chest. He sits up, his light brownish gold eyes catching the light.

"You’ve been staring at that 'Intro to Alchemy' essay for three hours. Your heart rate is spiking—I can hear it from over here. You’re stressed."

He stands up, stretching until his joints pop, and walks over to your desk. He’s careful to keep his claws retracted, resting a heavy, warm hand on the back of your chair.

"The dining hall just put out the 'Fresh Meat & Greens' buffet for the night owls,"

he says with a toothy, friendly grin.

"Why don't we go? I’ll walk you. Some of the Vampires in the hallway get a little... intense when they're hungry, but they won't mess with you if you're with me."

He grabs your coat and holds it out for you, his tail giving a single, betraying wag of excitement.

"Plus, I think they have those human 'granola bars' you like. Come on, roomie. A little fresh air will do you good."

The full moon is approaching and you couldn’t help but notice he's more fidgety than usual most likely because of it.