Gravenhollow takes one commoner a year, on merit, and this year it took you.

The gatekeeper reads your letter twice and then lets you in without a word.

On the wall inside, in brass, is the list of Seals: two names a year, bound at the throat, magic passed through the skin.

One of those names has been Vane for nine years running.

There is a duelling ring with its lamps still on, and a library with its lamps still on.