The Gray Tower was unusually quiet, its stone walls carrying only the faint hum of mana conduits. As Eike, Ren, and Tessa reached Ayo’s door, the silence felt almost unnatural, like the calm before a storm.

“I still think we should’ve checked on him sooner,” Tessa muttered, adjusting her gloves. “It’s been ten days. Ten days!”

Eike, as usual, waved her concern off with a grin. “Relax, Tess. Solara’s tougher than you think. Besides, better late than never, right?”

Ren trailed behind, his expression unreadable as he adjusted one of his many rings. “If anyone deserves time to recover, it’s Ayo. That duel wasn’t exactly a walk in the park.”

Stopping in front of the door, Tessa raised her hand to knock. She hesitated, her brows knitting together in worry. The door was as unassuming as the rest of the Gray Tower, but the faint scent of lavender wafting from inside confirmed they were in the right place. She knocked softly at first, then more firmly when no answer came.

“Nothing,” she said, frowning.

“Maybe he’s still out cold,” Eike said, leaning against the doorframe with a mischievous grin. “Or maybe...” A faint glimmer of light magic danced across his fingertips. “Guess we’ll just have to check.”

“Eike, don’t—” Tessa started, but Eike had already flicked his wrist, unlocking the door with ease.

He stepped back, bowing theatrically. “Ladies first.”

Tessa sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose before stepping inside. “You’re impossible.”

Ayo’s small living space was surprisingly tidy. The kitchenette against the wall was spotless, with the exception of a teapot and a stack of mismatched mugs. A narrow couch sat in the corner, its cushions neatly arranged, and the faint scent of lavender and tea hung in the air.

Eike and Ren followed Tessa inside, the former immediately flopping onto the couch while the latter leaned casually against the kitchenette counter. “It’s almost too clean,” Ren remarked, his sharp blue eyes scanning the room. “Since when does Ayo care about tidying up?”

Eike snorted, draping one arm over the back of the couch. “Maybe someone’s been taking care of him. Lirien, perhaps?”

Tessa shot him a glare. “Stay here. I’m checking the bedroom.”

Eike held up his hands, his grin widening. “Sure thing, boss.”

Tessa pushed open the door to the bedroom, immediately struck by how different it felt from the rest of the room. The curtains were partially drawn, letting in just enough light to cast a soft glow across the small space. The bed dominated the room, its rumpled blanket and scattered pillows a sharp contrast to the meticulous order outside.

And then she saw them.

Ayo lay on his back, his face turned slightly toward the window, his chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. His twists, which had been a disheveled mess after his transformation during the duel, were now perfectly styled, neat and gleaming as if freshly done.

Beside him, Lirien was curled against his side, her fiery red hair spilling over the pillow like a cascade of molten copper. She wore nothing but a sleek black bra and matching underwear, her arm draped casually across Ayo’s chest as though she belonged there.

Tessa froze, her heart skipping a beat as her face flushed deep red. “What... in the world?”

Her gaze flicked between Ayo and Lirien, disbelief flooding her thoughts. Did she wash and style his hair? While he was unconscious? And sleep next to him like... this?

Her stomach fluttered with a mix of embarrassment and something she couldn’t quite name. Is she... in love with him?

“Tess?” Eike’s voice broke the silence, carrying from the living space. “Everything okay in there?”

She spun around, nearly tripping over her own feet. “Stay there!” she hissed, her voice barely above a whisper.

Eike, undeterred, leaned toward the doorway. “Why? What’s going on?”

“Nothing!” Tessa yelled, her tone sharp and unconvincing.

Her eyes darted back to the bed, where Lirien stirred slightly, burrowing closer into Ayo’s shoulder with a contented sigh. Tessa’s frustration spiked as she noticed the blanket crumpled on the floor. With an exasperated sigh, she bent down to pick it up, muttering under her breath, “Why me? Of all people, why me?”

She draped the blanket carefully over the two of them, her hands trembling slightly. The warmth of her mana flared involuntarily, casting a faint glow around her. “This is ridiculous,” she whispered, straightening up. “Absolutely ridiculous.”

Bursting back into the living space, Tessa slammed the bedroom door shut behind her, her mana still flaring slightly. Eike and Ren both turned toward her, startled by the faint light aura surrounding her.

Eike raised an eyebrow, his grin widening. “Uh, Tess? You’re glowing.”

“Don’t. Start.” She pointed a finger at him, her face a deep crimson. “We’re leaving. Now.”

Ren smirked, adjusting one of his rings. “What’s got you so worked up?”

Tessa glared at him. “Don’t ask. Just... don’t.”

Eike, of course, couldn’t resist. “Come on, Tess. What’d you see? Ayo in matching pajamas? Or—wait—Lirien brushing his hair?”

Her glare intensified, and the light around her flared brighter. “I said out. Courtyard. Now.”

Ren raised his hands in mock surrender, though his smirk didn’t fade. “All right, all right. Lead the way.”

As they descended the stairs, Eike leaned toward Ren, his grin unrepentant. “Whatever she saw, it’s got her really rattled.”

Ren chuckled softly, his calm demeanor unshaken. “Think it was bad?”

“Nah,” Eike said, his voice full of amusement. “Scandalous? Definitely.”

The courtyard of Ardencrest Academy had shifted into a quieter rhythm after Ascension Week. The frenetic energy of the festivities was gone, replaced by a more subdued focus. Students moved in small clusters, catching up on missed lessons or practicing quietly. The enchanted fountain in the center glowed faintly, its waters rippling in mesmerizing patterns under the soft sunlight.

Eike, Ren, and Tessa entered the courtyard, their footsteps echoing faintly on the cobblestone path. Tessa’s irritation was palpable, her lips pressed into a thin line as her mana flickered faintly around her like an unspoken warning. Ren, as always, moved with a calm, measured pace, adjusting one of his silver rings as he glanced between his companions. Eike, on the other hand, strode with his usual carefree confidence, his golden scarf catching the light as it draped casually over his shoulders.

“Ah, the post-Ascension Week calm,” Eike said, stretching his arms behind his head. “You know, I could get used to this.”

Tessa shot him a glare. “You’re insufferable.”

Ren smirked, crossing his arms. “That’s not news.”

Eike chuckled, unfazed. “Come on, Tess, lighten up. The week’s over. Relax a little.”

“I’ll relax when you stop being so smug,” Tessa snapped, her tone sharp.

Eike grinned, tossing his scarf onto a nearby bench as they reached the training grounds. “Fair enough. You want me to stop? Make me.”

The training grounds were quieter than usual, the usual sounds of sparring muffled in the open space. Tessa stepped into the sparring area without hesitation, her mana swirling around her in a vibrant display of determination.

“All right, Eike,” she said, her voice steady. “If you think you’re so untouchable, let’s see you prove it.”

Ren leaned against a nearby lamppost, his blue eyes gleaming with curiosity. “This should be good.”

Eike stepped into the ring with a casual stride, his golden eyes glinting with amusement. “You sure about this, Tess? I’d hate to ruin your morning.”

“Just fight me,” Tessa snapped.

Eike sighed, raising his hands. “All right, all right. But don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

Tessa launched into action, her movements sharp and precise as she sent a barrage of fire-imbued strikes toward Eike. He dodged effortlessly, his light magic creating shimmering shields that absorbed her attacks without so much as a flicker of strain.

Ren watched intently, his usual calm demeanor replaced by a hint of awe. “He’s not even trying,” he muttered. “This is what a Gold rank looks like.”

Eike moved with a fluid grace, countering Tessa’s attacks with an ease that bordered on arrogance. “Come on, Tess,” he said, his tone almost pitying. “You can do better than this.”

Tessa growled, her frustration mounting as she summoned sharp gusts of wind to disrupt his footing. Eike countered with his own wind magic, creating a buffer that nullified her attacks before they could reach him.

“You’re predictable,” Eike said, weaving between her strikes. “You rely too much on raw power. What happens when someone doesn’t give you the chance to use it?”

Tessa’s frustration boiled over, her mana flaring brighter as she summoned a massive wave of water. The ground beneath her cracked slightly as she channeled her energy, the wave looming over the sparring area like a tidal surge.

Ren straightened, alarm flashing in his eyes. “Isn’t that a bit much?”

Eike sighed, shaking his head. “Tessa, Tessa, Tessa...”

With a flick of his wrist, Eike summoned a powerful vortex of wind. The wave of water was sucked into the vacuum, swirling into a concentrated sphere before Eike launched it back at Tessa. The impact sent her flying, landing on the grass with a loud splash.

Soaked and sputtering, Tessa sat up, her hair plastered to her face. “You... you did that on purpose!”

Eike approached her with a grin, offering her a hand. “I warned you. Maybe next time you’ll listen.”

Tessa slapped his hand away, rising to her feet with as much dignity as she could muster. “You’re impossible.”

Eike chuckled, retrieving his scarf. “I’m also right.”

As Tessa stormed off toward the dormitories, muttering under her breath, Ren approached Eike, his expression thoughtful. “You really didn’t have to humiliate her like that.”

Eike shrugged, his grin softening. “It wasn’t about humiliating her. It was about teaching her something.”

Ren raised an eyebrow. “And what exactly were you trying to teach?”

“That power alone isn’t enough,” Eike said, his tone unusually serious. “Tessa’s strong—really strong. But she relies too much on brute force. She needs to learn how to think, how to adapt. Otherwise, someone who knows how to counter her will take her down.”

Ren frowned, his fingers absently spinning one of his rings. “Still... was that really the best way to handle it?”

Eike smiled, clapping a hand on Ren’s shoulder. “Sometimes, the best lessons are the ones you don’t want to hear.”

Ren sighed, his gaze shifting to the distant horizon. “Easy for you to say. You’re the image of what a Gold rank should be. Strong, confident, untouchable. The rest of us? We’re just trying to keep up.”

Eike’s expression softened, and he gave Ren a reassuring pat on the shoulder. “Don’t sell yourself short, Ren. You’ve got potential. You just have to trust yourself.”

The sparring ground grew quiet as Eike and Ren lingered, the tension from the duel finally fading. Eike leaned back against the bench, his golden scarf draped loosely around his neck.

“So,” he said, his grin returning. “Think she’ll come back for round two?”

Ren smirked, shaking his head. “Knowing Tessa? Definitely.”

Eike chuckled, adjusting his scarf. “Good. I’m always up for a challenge.”

Back in her dorm, Tessa sat on the edge of her bed, her long blue hair still damp from the earlier duel with Eike. She hadn’t bothered drying it properly, too distracted by the whirlwind of emotions storming inside her. Her mind kept replaying the scene she’d stumbled upon earlier—Ayo and Lirien, curled up together in a way that felt… intimate. It wasn’t the sight itself that unsettled her; it was everything it represented.

Her gaze fell on the damp towel crumpled beside her. She picked it up absently, wringing it between her hands as she tried to untangle her thoughts.

“Why am I so worked up over this?” she muttered aloud. It wasn’t like she hadn’t known Lirien was looking after Ayo—everyone knew. But seeing it so up close, the way Lirien had cared for him, styled his hair back into his usual twists, and stayed by his side every night… It made Tessa question everything she thought she knew about the fiery princess.

“She’s not just helping him recover,” Tessa whispered, her brows furrowing. “She’s… invested.”

The thought was both surprising and unsettling. Lirien wasn’t the kind of person to let her guard down easily. If she was this close to Ayo, there had to be more to it. Tessa sighed, running a hand through her still-damp hair. “I need to talk to her.”

Sunlight streamed softly through the curtains of Ayo’s room in the Gray Tower, casting a warm glow over the small, organized space. The quiet hum of the academy outside was a gentle reminder of the bustling world beyond these walls. For Ayo, it was the most peace he’d felt in days.

His eyes fluttered open, and for a moment, he lay still, soaking in the quiet. The soreness that had plagued his body after the duel had finally subsided into a dull ache, manageable but still present. He shifted slightly, careful not to disturb the warmth beside him.

Lirien was still asleep, her crimson hair spilling over the pillow like a cascade of flames. Her breathing was slow and even, her face relaxed in a way he rarely saw when she was awake. She wore a black bra and matching underwear—practically nothing—making Ayo’s cheeks flush. He glanced down at himself, relieved to find he was at least wearing shorts. Even so, the closeness felt… intimate.

He shook his head, trying to push the thought away. They’d been like this for days now—Lirien caring for him as he recovered. But why? The question lingered, unanswered.

A soft groan broke the silence, and Lirien stirred, her green eyes fluttering open. For a moment, she seemed disoriented, but when her gaze landed on Ayo, she smirked.

“Good morning, Solara,” she murmured, her voice husky with sleep. She stretched lazily, the blanket slipping down slightly, exposing more of her pale skin. Ayo quickly looked away, his face burning.

“M-Morning,” he stammered, sitting up. “Uh… we should probably get ready for the day.”

Lirien pouted, sitting up and letting the blanket pool around her. “Do we have to? Just one more day, Solara. One day to relax, no chaos, no academy politics.”

Ayo glanced at her, his resolve firm. “I’ve been out for ten days, Lirien. It’s time to face the world again.”

She sighed dramatically, rolling her eyes. “Fine, fine. But don’t think you’re rid of me. I’m coming back tonight.”

He chuckled softly, shaking his head. “I wouldn’t expect anything less.”

The room filled with quiet movement as they both got ready. Lirien disappeared into the small bathroom, the sound of running water filling the space. Ayo took the time to tidy up, his thoughts racing. The rumors were already rampant—he’d overheard enough during the rare moments he’d stepped onto the balcony. Walking out of the tower with Lirien would only add fuel to the fire.

When Lirien emerged, her hair damp and her skin glowing, Ayo’s heart skipped a beat. She wore a simple outfit—a fitted tunic and breeches—that somehow still managed to look regal on her.

“Ready?” she asked, her voice casual, as if they weren’t about to step into the lion’s den.

“Not really,” he admitted, but he grabbed his jacket anyway.

The morning sun filtered through the academy grounds, casting warm light across cobblestone paths lined with towering mana-fueled lanterns. Ayo walked beside Lirien, their pace casual but purposeful. She had taken his arm again, linking hers with his like it was the most natural thing in the world.

“People are still staring,” Ayo muttered under his breath, his eyes darting to the side where a group of students whispered and pointed as they passed. His cheeks warmed under their scrutiny.

Lirien, as usual, looked completely unfazed. “Let them,” she replied breezily. “I’m giving them something to talk about.”

Ayo groaned, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “Great. Next, they’ll be saying we’re running the academy together.”

Lirien’s lips curved into a sly smile. “You’d make a terrible king. Stick to being my arm candy.”

Despite himself, Ayo chuckled softly, shaking his head. “I’m pretty sure arm candy is supposed to be quiet and good-looking.”

“Oh, you’re half-qualified, then.” She grinned, clearly enjoying herself.

As they continued walking, the whispers grew louder. Ayo tried to focus on the path ahead, but his heart pounded when he overheard a snippet of conversation: “Word is, they’re not just dating—they’re engaged.”

Ayo stumbled slightly, his mind scrambling. “Engaged?!” he hissed, leaning closer to Lirien. “What are they even talking about?”

Lirien’s green eyes sparkled with mischief as she turned to him. “Relax. Let them talk. Besides…” Her voice dropped to a whisper, her tone entirely too smug. “They’re not wrong.”

His face turned scarlet, and his words came out in a stammer. “We’re not— They can’t just—” He groaned in frustration, burying his face in his free hand.

Lirien smirked, clearly enjoying his reaction. “You’re easy to tease, Solara.”

The path widened as they approached the main courtyard, bustling with students preparing for the day. Ayo noticed several heads turning in their direction, whispers flaring up as they passed.

Ren’s voice cut through the chatter as he walked up to meet them, his silver jewelry catching the morning light. “There you are. I was beginning to think you’d locked yourselves in again.”

Lirien raised an eyebrow, her tone playful. “You missed me already?”

Ren snorted, his grin wide. “Not as much as the rest of the academy, apparently. The rumor mill is working overtime.”

Ayo groaned, rubbing the back of his neck. “What now?”

Ren smirked. “Let’s just say you’ve been promoted from ‘the Gray who survived Kaelen’ to ‘Lirien’s future husband.’ Quite the leap.”

Ayo’s face burned, and Lirien patted his arm soothingly. “Don’t worry, Solara. I’ll protect your honor.”

He rolled his eyes. “That’s not funny.”

“No,” she replied, her voice lilting with laughter. “It’s hilarious.”

Later, as the group gathered in the courtyard walking past the Training grounds, Tessa kept her eyes on Lirien. The princess was her usual confident self, but Tessa couldn’t shake the questions gnawing at her. Taking a deep breath, she grabbed Lirien’s arm and pulled her aside.

“Hey, what’s—” Lirien started, but Tessa cut her off.

“We need to talk,” she said firmly, glancing over her shoulder to make sure the others were out of earshot.

Lirien raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at her lips. “This sounds serious.”

Tessa’s face turned red, and she crossed her arms tightly. “What I saw earlier… You and Ayo… What’s going on between you two?”

Lirien’s smirk widened. “Oh, that? Are you jealous, Tessa?”

“This isn’t a joke!” Tessa hissed. “You were practically naked, sleeping next to him. And his hair—did you seriously wash and style it while he was unconscious? What are you even doing?”

Lirien’s expression softened, though the teasing edge didn’t completely disappear. “Yes, I did his hair. It was a mess after everything he went through, and I thought it’d help him feel normal again. As for what I’m doing…” She tilted her head, her green eyes glinting. “Isn’t it obvious?”

Tessa blinked, caught off guard. “So, you’re saying you two are—”

“I care about him,” Lirien said simply, cutting her off. “More than I probably should.”

The confession hung in the air, and for a moment, Tessa didn’t know what to say. She studied Lirien’s face, searching for any hint of insincerity, but found none.

“You’re serious,” she said finally.

“Deadly,” Lirien replied, her smirk returning. “Now, if you’re done interrogating me, we should probably get back before the others start speculating.”

Tessa hesitated, then sighed. “Fine. But if you hurt him—”

“I won’t,” Lirien said softly, her voice carrying a rare note of vulnerability. “I promise.”

The academy courtyard buzzed with its usual midday energy, but for Ayo and his friends, the world felt quieter, as if the air itself braced for what was to come. The aftermath of Ascension Week still lingered, whispers of duels and victories mingling with more personal rumors that refused to die.

Eike leaned casually against a lamppost, the golden scarf of his rank draped over his shoulders, badges from every other rank stitched into the fabric—a loud and clear statement of his journey. His sharp golden eyes scanned the courtyard, glinting like sunlight off polished metal. Beside him, Ren twirled one of his many rings absentmindedly, the rhythmic clink of silver filling the air.

“Still no sign of Tessa or Lirien?” Ayo asked, his tone a mix of curiosity and unease.

Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

Eike shrugged, offering a faint smirk. “Relax, kid. They’re probably on their way. It’s not like either of them would leave us hanging.”

Ren glanced at Ayo, his blue eyes narrowing thoughtfully. “Lirien? Maybe. Tessa? She’s still fuming. Don’t count on her being in a good mood.”

Before Ayo could respond, the murmurs around them shifted. Heads turned as a figure strode into the courtyard, her steps sharp and deliberate.

Selnar Avaris.

The Silver badge on her uniform gleamed under the midday sun, stark against the pristine white-and-silver fabric. Her auburn hair framed a face set with a fiery determination, her sharp eyes locking onto Lirien, who had just returned with Tessa.

“Well, well,” Selnar began, her voice cutting through the courtyard like a blade. “If it isn’t Lirien Veyra, the infamous Ice Princess. Took you long enough to show your face.”

Lirien’s emerald eyes narrowed, her long crimson hair catching the light as she stepped forward. No weapon was needed—her presence alone was sharp enough to make the air seem colder.

“What do you want, Avaris?” Lirien asked evenly, her tone calm but edged with warning.

“What I’ve always wanted,” Selnar snapped, her voice dripping with venom. “To finally put you in your place. Do you have any idea how sickening it is to watch you parade around as if you’re untouchable? You’re nothing more than a spoiled noble pretending to be a real mage.”

Ayo’s hands clenched into fists, but before he could speak, Lirien raised a hand, her icy gaze never leaving Selnar’s.

“And you,” Selnar continued, her eyes darting to Ayo. “The Gray. Do you really think you belong here? Lirien might like keeping you around as her pet project, but let’s not pretend you’re anything more than an embarrassment to this academy.”

“Watch your mouth,” Eike growled, stepping forward. The air around him shimmered faintly as his mana flared, but Lirien’s voice stopped him in his tracks.

“Eike,” she said sharply. “Stand down.”

Ren leaned toward Eike, speaking quietly, “She’s baiting her. You can see it.”

“She’s not just baiting her,” Eike muttered back. “She’s poking a dragon.”

Selnar’s lips curled into a smirk. “What’s worse, Lirien Veyra? Stooping low enough to stand by a Gray—or convincing yourself he’s worthy of you? It’s absolutely pathetic.”

Lirien’s expression remained unreadable, but Ayo caught the faintest flicker of emotion in her eyes. Hurt, maybe. Or anger. It vanished as quickly as it came.

“Name your terms,” Lirien said coldly.

Ayo’s eyes widened. “Lirien, you don’t have to—”

“Name. Your. Terms,” she repeated, cutting him off with a sharp glance.

Selnar’s smirk widened, her tone triumphant. “Shadowspire Woods. Tonight. No rules, no oversight. Just you and me.”

The courtyard fell silent. Even those who didn’t know the full extent of the Forest's reputation seemed to understand the weight of her challenge. A few students exchanged nervous glances, whispers breaking out among the onlookers.

Lirien nodded once, her voice like ice. “Fine. But don’t expect me to hold back.”

Selnar turned on her heel, her silver badge catching the light one last time as she walked away. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

As her footsteps faded, the tension lingered. Eike let out a low curse, shaking his head.

“She’s picking the Forest?” Ren muttered, his usual calm slipping. “She knows what that place does to people.”

“She knows,” Eike said grimly. “And she’s banking on it.”

“What ? Shadowspire Woods?” Ayo asked, his unease growing.

Eike sighed, his golden eyes narrowing. “It’s not just a dueling ground. The place messes with you—your head, your emotions. It’s like the Forrest knows your worst fears and feeds on them. You don’t go there unless you’re damn sure you can keep it together.”

Ren’s voice was low. “It’s said the whispers there aren’t just in your head. Sometimes, they’re real.”

Tessa crossed her arms, her face a mixture of worry and frustration. “We need to stop this.”

Eike shook his head. “You won’t. Lirien’s made up her mind.”

“She always does,” Ren murmured.

Ayo turned his gaze to Lirien, who had already started walking away, her long crimson hair trailing behind her like a banner of defiance. Her steps were steady, unyielding, and cold.

“Stay close,” Eike said, his tone unusually serious. “This isn’t going to be just another duel.”

The group stood in stunned silence as Lirien turned and strode away, her crimson hair trailing behind her like fire against the cooling evening light. The faint echo of Selnar’s mocking laughter lingered in the air, grating against their nerves.

Eike crossed his arms, a rare flicker of concern darkening his usually carefree demeanor. “Shadowspire Woods?” He exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair. “This is bad news. That place isn’t just dangerous—it’s cursed.”

Ren adjusted one of his many rings, his fingers fidgeting against the cool metal as he mulled over Eike’s words. “Cursed or not, Lirien agreed to meet Selnar there. You know she’ll follow through.” He paused, his eyes narrowing as he glanced at Ayo. “But what I don’t get is why you’re so calm about this. Don’t tell me you’re planning to let her go in there alone.”

Ayo, leaning against a nearby tree, said nothing at first. His expression was unreadable, but his shadow—always faintly alive—stirred against the fading sunlight. “She can handle herself,” he said finally, his tone low. “She’s stronger than any of us.”

“Maybe,” Tessa snapped, her voice sharper than intended. Her long blue hair, still damp from her earlier fight, clung to her back as her mana flared briefly, casting a faint light around her. “But this isn’t just about her strength. You saw how angry she was. Selnar got under her skin, and that’s dangerous.”

Eike sighed, his usual levity absent. “She’s not wrong. Lirien’s temper is legendary and well. That Forest? That’s the last place you want to lose your cool. Do you know what happens to people who go too deep into that place?”

Ren chimed in, his voice quieter but no less tense. “They don’t come out. Or if they do, they’re… not the same. The Forest messes with your head. Amplifies your fears, your doubts. If Selnar knows that, she’s counting on it to throw Lirien off her game.”

Ayo clenched his fists, his jaw tightening. The thought of Lirien stepping into such a place, especially in her current state, sent a chill down his spine. Yet, his pride—and something deeper he couldn’t quite name—held him back from speaking up. “She doesn’t need us hovering over her. Lirien’s made her decision.”

Tessa spun on him, her frustration boiling over. “Are you serious? You’re just going to let her walk into a death trap because of some stupid challenge? What if—”

Eike stepped between them, raising his hands in a calming gesture. “Enough. This isn’t helping. We all know Lirien won’t back down, and honestly? If we’re going to do anything about it, we need to stick together.” He glanced at Ren, who nodded in agreement. “Besides, we’re not just going to stand around, right?”

“Of course not,” Tessa muttered, crossing her arms. “But we shouldn’t have to clean up her messes all the time. She always does this—acts like she can take on the world alone, and we’re left to deal with the fallout.”

Eike’s expression softened, and he placed a hand on her shoulder. “She’s our friend, Tess. Sometimes, that means standing by her even when she’s being... well, Lirien.”

Ren let out a low chuckle, his tension easing slightly. “The Ice Princess. The Queen of Destruction. The Mistress of Malice. She sure knows how to live up to her nicknames.”

Eike smirked. “And yet, she still manages to surprise us every time.”

Ayo finally spoke, his voice steady but with an undercurrent of determination. “We’re going. She might not ask for help, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t need it.”

Eike nodded, clapping him on the back. “That’s the spirit, Solara. Besides, you know she’d never let you live it down if you sat this one out.”

As they began their walk toward the Shadowspire Woods, the atmosphere shifted. The playful banter between Ren and Eike gave way to a tense silence as they drew closer. The cool evening air grew heavier, and the distant trees seemed to sway unnaturally, as if moved by an unseen force.

Tessa glanced around uneasily, her damp hair clinging to her face. “I hate this place already.”

Ren adjusted his rings, his usual calm slipping. “You’re not alone.”

Eike cracked his knuckles, his usual grin returning briefly. “Relax. We’ve got each other’s backs. And if anything tries to mess with us, well… it’ll regret it.”

Despite his words, even Eike couldn’t shake the growing sense of dread. As they approached the edge of the Forest, the whispers began—soft, almost imperceptible, but undeniably there.

Ayo glanced at the faint, shifting shadows around his feet and clenched his fists. “Lirien’s strong. She’ll be fine.”

He only hoped he was right.

The path to the was hauntingly quiet, save for the rhythmic crunch of boots on the gravel path and the occasional murmurs of whispers that seemed to rise and fall from nowhere. The trees grew denser as the group approached the forest’s edge, their gnarled branches twisting above like skeletal hands clutching at the darkening sky. A strange, oppressive weight hung in the air, pressing down with every step.

The air shifted, sharp and metallic, carrying a faint tang of blood and iron. The sudden change made Tessa wrinkle her nose in disgust. “What is that smell?” she muttered, brushing a low-hanging branch aside. “It’s like… rust and decay.”

“It’s the Forest,” Eike replied, his voice subdued but edged with tension. “This place reeks of residual energy—Nyvra, if you believe the old tales.”

Ren adjusted his silver rings, the soft metallic clink cutting through the silence as he turned the largest one absentmindedly. “Residual energy strong enough to distort perception. They say if you go too deep, it can mess with your senses—whispers that get into your head, shadows that aren’t really there. It’s no wonder people avoid this place.”

“Great,” Tessa grumbled, her fingers crackling faintly with her mana as she summoned a small flicker of flame for comfort. “And we’re willingly walking into it?”

“We’re not going deep,” Eike assured her, his usual grin replaced by an uncharacteristic seriousness. “The clearing Selnar mentioned is near the outskirts. Creepy or not, it’s probably just her trying to psych us out.”

Ayo lingered behind the group, his shadows curling around his feet as if reacting to the charged air. The oppressive atmosphere gnawed at the edges of his nerves, but his focus stayed fixed on Lirien. She led the way, her long crimson hair flowing behind her in the faint breeze, the only hint of movement in the stillness around them. Despite her usual poise, Ayo couldn’t help but notice the tension in her shoulders, the slight rigidity in her steps.

“Are you sure about this?” Ayo asked, his voice low but carrying enough weight to reach her ears.

Lirien turned slightly, her green eyes gleaming in the faint light filtering through the trees. “No,” she admitted, her tone laced with her usual playful deflection. “But I’ll manage.”

Eike snorted softly, though his voice carried an undercurrent of worry. “This is insane. You don’t have to go through with this, Lirien. No one would think less of you.”

Lirien stopped, turning to face him fully. Her posture straightened, and her voice dropped, cold and commanding. “Yes, I do.”

The group lapsed into silence at her declaration. Ren cleared his throat, breaking the tension. “At least let’s be smart about this. Selnar clearly chose this location for a reason. If you’re going to walk into her trap, don’t go unprepared.”

Lirien tilted her head, a small, wry smile curving her lips. “Thanks for the advice, Professor Ren.”

“I mean it,” Ren pressed. “This place isn’t just eerie. It’s tactical. The distortions here could give her an edge.”

“She can have whatever edge she wants,” Lirien replied coolly. “It won’t change the outcome.”

Ayo opened his mouth to argue, to tell her it wasn’t worth it, but the fierce determination in her eyes stopped him cold. He clenched his fists at his sides, the shadows coiling tighter around his legs in response to his frustration. “This is a bad idea.”

Lirien’s expression softened slightly, and for a fleeting moment, the teasing mask dropped. “I know you don’t like it, Solara,” she said quietly. “But trust me. I need to do this.”

They crossed the final threshold into the Forest, and the world seemed to shift. The whispers that had been distant grew louder, fragmented sounds that brushed against their ears like ghostly breaths. The trees stood eerily still, yet the air around them felt alive, carrying a shifting cold that crept along their skin.

Eike glanced at Ayo, his usually bright eyes shadowed by unease. “You feel it too, don’t you?”

Ayo nodded, his throat dry. “Yeah.”

The clearing came into view like a mirage, a space unnaturally empty amidst the dense forest. The whispers surged briefly before falling into an oppressive silence, the absence of sound more unnerving than the noise. The group stopped at the edge, hesitant to step further.

Lirien broke the stillness, her steps confident as she strode into the clearing. Her voice cut through the silence, steady and cold. “She’s here.”

From the shadows, Selnar Avaris emerged, her silver badge catching the faint light like a sharp blade. Her dark eyes glinted with malicious glee as she approached, her smirk a mockery of confidence.

“Right on time,” Selnar said, her voice dripping with derision. “I was starting to think the Ice Princess might actually be afraid.”

Ren’s fingers brushed over one of his rings, his jaw tightening as he muttered under his breath, “Here we go.”

Eike took a step forward, his fists clenched. “That’s enough—”

Lirien raised a hand, cutting him off. “No,” she said firmly, her voice an icy command. “This is my fight.”

Eike hesitated, his gaze flicking to Ayo, who stood motionless, his eyes locked on Lirien. “She knows what she’s doing,” Ren murmured, though his tone carried a note of doubt.

As Lirien stepped forward, her expression hardened, a mix of determination and quiet fury. Ayo’s chest tightened as he watched her. He wanted to stop her, to tell her she didn’t need to prove anything, but the resolve in her eyes silenced him. This wasn’t just about Selnar’s insults. It was personal—deeper than he could fully grasp.

In the depths of the Shadowspire Woods, personal battles carried a weight heavier than mere pride. And as the whispers rose again, faint and taunting, the group could only watch as Lirien and Selnar squared off, their conflict about to ignite.

The air around the Shadowspire Woods grew heavier, laden with an ominous energy that seemed to seep into the skin of anyone brave enough to linger at its edge. The ancient trees creaked and groaned, their gnarled branches twisting unnaturally in the faint breeze. The faint, eerie whispers that gave the place its name danced just out of earshot, like a long-forgotten melody trying to claw its way back into existence.

Lirien Veyra stood tall and unwavering at the center of the clearing. Her crimson hair caught the light of the pale, fractured moon above, cascading down her back like liquid fire. Her emerald eyes glinted with sharp focus, the intensity in them a warning to anyone foolish enough to underestimate her. She radiated a quiet authority, the kind that made the world itself seem to pause and take note.

Opposite her, Selnar Avaris stood with equal resolve, her posture rigid, her aura pulsing faintly with silver light. The smirk she wore was venomous, her auburn hair framing a face twisted in mockery. She twirled the hilt of her mana blade in her fingers, the weapon thrumming with an otherworldly hum. It was a dance of malice and pride, and the blade was her partner.

“You ready to be exposed, your highness?” Selnar sneered, stepping forward, her voice dripping with contempt. “Or are you going to run back to your Gray like the coward you are?”

The words hung in the air, poisonous and calculated. Yet, Lirien didn’t flinch. She stood with the stillness of a blade just before the strike, her hand slowly rising to summon swirling orbs of elemental mana. The orbs danced around her, crackling with energy that cast fleeting shadows against the trees.

Her voice, cold and measured, cut through the tension like a knife. “Last chance to walk away, Selnar.”

A bark of laughter escaped Selnar’s lips, jagged and cruel. “Oh, I’m not walking away. But when I’m done, you might need to be carried.”

Without warning, the first clash erupted. Lirien struck with precision, unleashing a barrage of fireballs that streaked through the clearing like meteors. Their heat rippled through the air, and the light from their flames painted Selnar’s sneer in harsh, flickering shadows. Selnar countered swiftly, conjuring a shimmering wall of water that extinguished the flames with a sharp hiss, sending a burst of steam cascading outward.

“Predictable,” Selnar hissed, her mana blade flashing as she darted through the mist, aiming straight for Lirien’s core.

But Lirien was already moving, her body spinning with a dancer’s grace as she evaded the strike. In the same motion, she thrust her palm forward, summoning a jagged arc of lightning that tore through the steam with a deafening crack. The bolt struck true, hitting Selnar and sending her skidding backward across the clearing. Her silver aura flared, absorbing the brunt of the attack but not without leaving her staggered.

Selnar growled, her fury evident as she retaliated with a wave of compressed air that roared toward Lirien. The blast sent leaves and debris flying, but Lirien stood firm, raising her hand to summon an intricate wall of ice. The ice gleamed in the moonlight as it absorbed the impact, only to shatter moments later under Selnar’s relentless strike.

“Is this all you’ve got?” Selnar taunted, her voice rising with triumph. “You’re supposed to be royalty, right? Show me something worthy of your title!”

From the sidelines, Eike, Ren, and Tessa watched the spectacle with rapt attention. Each attack felt like a symphony of destruction, the clearing transforming into a battlefield of elemental fury.

“She’s holding back,” Tessa whispered, her fists clenched tightly.

Ren shook his head, his expression grim. “No, she’s testing her. Lirien’s reading her movements. She’s waiting.”

Eike’s golden eyes remained fixed on the duel, his voice quiet but sharp. “Selnar doesn’t just want to win. She wants to humiliate her. This isn’t a fight—it’s an execution.”

Lirien’s movements shifted, her attacks growing faster, sharper, as she summoned a torrent of water to knock Selnar off balance. But Selnar responded with ruthless efficiency, the ground beneath her surging upward in jagged spikes of earth that shattered Lirien’s assault. The two women danced around each other, their powers colliding in a crescendo of mana and fury.

Then, Selnar’s voice cut through the chaos like a blade.

“You know what I’ll do when I’m done with you, Lirien?” she hissed, her tone laced with venom. “I’ll deal with your little Gray next. Ardencrest would be better off without Ayo. He’s dangerous—better dead than a liability.”

The words landed like a thunderclap. Lirien froze mid-step, her aura flickering as her composure faltered. The clearing seemed to hold its breath, the world itself going still.

Selnar’s smirk widened as she stepped closer, mistaking Lirien’s stillness for surrender. “What’s wrong, your highness? Don’t like hearing the truth? You’re protecting someone who—”

“You are not allowed to say his name,” Lirien interrupted, her voice trembling with rage, her emerald eyes blazing like wildfire.

Lirien’s spear of mana shattered in her hands, the fragments dissolving into the air like scattered embers. The world around her seemed to darken as her aura surged outward, a searing, crimson wave of raw power that made the very air tremble. The ground beneath her feet cracked, and a low, ominous hum began to resonate from deep within the Shadowspire Woods.

The crimson light that surrounded her deepened into a blood-red hue, flickering like fire yet pulsating with the ferocity of a storm. Her emerald eyes burned with an otherworldly glow, their brilliance eclipsed only by the sheer intensity of the power she unleashed. The whispers of the Forest ceased entirely, as though even the ancient forces of the forest dared not interrupt her fury.

Ren’s voice was barely audible over the roar of Lirien’s mana. “What… what is she?”

“This is why they call her the Queen of Calamity,” Eike said, his usual levity gone. His expression was grim, his golden eyes reflecting the destructive beauty before him. “And I don’t think even that name does her justice.”

The hydra she summoned rose like a god of destruction from the earth, each of its five elemental heads snarling and snapping with untamed power. Fire, ice, lightning, water, and wind coalesced into a creature of pure devastation. Its movements were graceful yet monstrous, its mere presence a challenge to the laws of nature.

Selnar’s silver aura trembled, her composure cracking as she stared at the hydra in disbelief. “No... this isn’t possible,” she stammered, her voice unsteady. “You shouldn’t have this kind of power.”

“You wanted a duel,” Lirien said, her voice cold and detached, each word echoing with finality. “This is what you get.”

The hydra attacked without hesitation, each head moving with precision and intent. The fire head roared first, releasing a torrent of flames that engulfed Selnar, tearing through her defenses and scorching the ground around her. Her silver aura flared in desperation, but the force of the flames was unrelenting.

Before she could recover, the ice head struck, freezing the flames and encasing Selnar’s legs in jagged, unyielding ice. She struggled to free herself, her mana blade flickering as she hacked at the frost, but the lightning head was faster. Its strike was blinding, the crackling energy searing through her body and sending shockwaves that fractured the ice and the ground alike.

Selnar collapsed, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she clung to the remnants of her aura. Her trembling hand reached for her mana blade, but the hydra’s water and wind heads descended together, their combined assault a vortex of destruction that hurled her broken body across the clearing. She collided with a massive tree, the impact splintering the trunk before she crumpled to the ground, motionless.

The forest fell silent.

The hydra dissolved into streams of mana, the elemental heads dissipating into the air as if the destruction had never occurred. Lirien stood amidst the devastation, her crimson aura flickering like dying embers. Her glowing red eyes dimmed slightly as she turned to face the others, her expression cold and unyielding.

“She’s dead,” Ren said, his voice low and disbelieving.

Eike stepped forward cautiously, his golden eyes narrowing as he studied Selnar’s motionless form. “No one survives that,” he said grimly. “Not even her.”

Lirien’s shoulders sagged, and she took a deep, shaky breath. “She brought this on herself,” she murmured, her voice carrying no trace of remorse. The fire within her seemed to cool, leaving behind an icy stillness that made the clearing feel colder.

Eike’s gaze shifted to Lirien, concern flashing across his face. “This is going to spread like wildfire. Do you know what this means?”

Lirien’s eyes met his, her emerald gaze sharp but weary. “It means she won’t hurt anyone else.”

The group began their retreat from the Forest , the oppressive silence pressing down on them with every step. The devastation of the clearing faded behind them, but the whispers of the Forest returned, faint and insidious, like a ghostly choir mocking their departure.

As they walked, Ayo’s steps faltered. His shadows flickered erratically around him, responding to the sudden tightness in his chest. Then, a voice pierced through the cacophony of the whispers—a voice that stopped him in his tracks.

“Ayo…”

It was faint, trembling, but unmistakable. His breath caught, his heart pounding in his ears. Tears welled in his eyes as he turned toward the dark depths of the Shadowspire Woods.

“Mom?” he whispered, his voice breaking as the tears spilled over. His feet moved instinctively, carrying him closer to the forest’s edge.

The others stopped, exchanging uneasy glances. Lirien stepped forward, her hand reaching out to grab his arm. “Ayo, it’s not real,” she said firmly, her tone edged with concern. “The Forest plays tricks on your mind. It’s trying to lure you in.”

But Ayo shook his head, his voice rising with desperation. “No, it’s her! I know it’s her! She’s calling me—I can feel it.”

The whispers grew louder, more insistent, like a thousand voices pleading in unison. Ayo took another step toward the darkness, his shadows writhing like living things around his feet. Lirien’s grip tightened, but he barely noticed.

Eike moved to his other side, his golden eyes sharp with worry. “Ayo, listen to me. It’s not her. The Forest messes with your head—it makes you see and hear things that aren’t there. If you go in, we might not be able to get you back.”

Ayo’s entire world had narrowed to the voice calling his name, each syllable cutting deeper into his resolve. His tears fell freely as he struggled against the hands holding him back.

Then Lirien stepped in front of him, cupping his face with both hands. Her emerald eyes, filled with both strength and vulnerability, locked onto his. “Ayo,” she said softly, her voice trembling with emotion. “You’re not alone. You’ll never be alone—not as long as I’m here.”

The words hit him like a tidal wave, breaking through the haze of despair. Ayo’s breathing slowed, his sobs quieting as her presence grounded him. Slowly, his shoulders sagged, and he nodded, his tears continuing to fall but his resolve weakening.

Eike and Lirien exchanged a relieved glance as they gently guided him away from the forest’s edge. The whispers faded into an eerie silence, the Gale seemingly content to let them go—for now.

The academy courtyard lay under the serene light of a crescent moon, casting silver beams over the cobblestones and the bubbling fountain at its center. The water’s rhythm provided a soft backdrop, a quiet constant amidst the tension still lingering from their ordeal in the Shadowspire Woods.

Ayo arrived first, his footsteps heavy as he moved toward the fountain. He lowered himself onto the edge, his elbows resting on his knees, and stared into the rippling water. The faint glow of mana-infused lanterns reflected in his brown eyes, now dulled by exhaustion and the weight of the night. His shadows twisted at his feet, flickering faintly like restless specters of his emotions.

Eike was the next to appear, his golden scarf catching the light as he leaned against a nearby tree. His arms crossed over his chest, and though his usual grin was present, his golden eyes betrayed his concern. He observed Ayo silently, his sharp gaze studying the younger boy’s posture.

Ren followed, his stride casual but measured. He stopped near Eike, his fingers idly spinning a silver ring, a habit that seemed to ground him when his thoughts ran too deep. His silver eyes flicked between Ayo and Eike, but he said nothing, content to let the silence linger.

Tessa’s arrival was marked by her restless pacing. She moved in short, sharp bursts, her boots scuffing the cobblestones as she muttered under her breath. Her long blue hair shimmered like liquid sapphire under the moonlight, but the tightness in her shoulders and the furrow of her brows spoke volumes about her inner turmoil.

Lirien was last, her presence commanding as she strolled into the clearing. Her crimson hair seemed to glow under the moon’s light, cascading down her back in waves that framed her sharp, confident features. She carried herself with an ease that belied the chaos of the night, her smirk firmly in place as she took in the group.

“Well,” she said, her voice cutting through the stillness, “aren’t we a cheerful bunch?”

Eike chuckled, his grin widening. “What can I say? You really know how to light up a room, Lirien.”

Lirien’s smirk deepened as she dropped onto a nearby bench with a flourish, crossing one leg over the other. “Glad to know I’m keeping things interesting.”

Tessa abruptly stopped pacing, her sharp movements coming to an abrupt halt as she turned to face Lirien. “Interesting?” she snapped, her voice rising with frustration. “That’s what you’re going with? Selnar is dead, Lirien. Don’t you care at all?”

Lirien’s smirk faltered slightly, though her emerald eyes remained steady. “I care that she won’t be threatening anyone anymore. Isn’t that enough?”

“Enough?” Tessa threw her hands up in exasperation. “You annihilated her! There’s nothing left! That wasn’t self-defense, Lirien. It was pure—”

“Tessa.” Ayo’s voice cut through the growing tension, quiet but firm. He stood slowly, his movements deliberate as he turned to face Lirien. His gaze was steady, though a flicker of gold began to glow faintly in his brown eyes.

The group’s attention shifted to Ayo as he stepped forward, the faint ripple of his shadows trailing his movements.

“She’s right,” he said, his voice calm but weighted. His eyes locked onto Lirien’s, his golden hue brightening as he spoke. “You didn’t have to kill her.”

For a moment, the air grew thick with silence. Even the soft gurgle of the fountain seemed muted under the weight of his words.

“You didn’t have to kill her,” Ayo repeated, his voice steady but low, the gold in his eyes pulsing faintly. “What you did—it wasn’t about survival. It was about sending a message. And maybe you’re okay with that, but I’m not.”

Lirien tilted her head, her smirk fading entirely as she stood to meet his gaze. Her emerald eyes held a flicker of something unspoken—defiance, perhaps, or vulnerability. “And what would you have done, Solara?” she asked, her voice quieter now, though no less sharp. “Let her come for you next? Let her try to destroy everything you’ve worked for?”

“I would’ve fought her myself,” Ayo snapped, his voice firm. “I don’t need you—or anyone else—fighting my battles for me.”

Lirien’s expression softened, her posture relaxing slightly as she took a small step forward. “You don’t understand, Ayo. People like Selnar—they don’t stop. She would’ve kept coming for you, for me, for everyone you care about. I ended it because it had to be done.”

“That wasn’t your decision to make,” Ayo said, his voice rising slightly, the gold in his eyes glowing brighter. “You don’t get to decide who lives and who dies. That’s not how this works.”

The tension between them was palpable, their words charged with raw emotion. The golden glow in Ayo’s eyes seemed to intensify with every beat of his heart, casting faint, shimmering light across the courtyard.

From the side, Tessa’s voice broke the silence, soft but insistent. “Ayo… your eyes.”

Ayo blinked, startled by Tessa’s words. “What?” he asked, his voice unsteady as the golden glow in his eyes flickered.

“They’re glowing,” Ren said, his tone calm but laced with curiosity. He tilted his head slightly, his silver eyes narrowing. “Gold. Is that… normal for you?”

Lirien’s smirk returned, though it was softer now. “Well, this is interesting,” she said, stepping closer to Ayo. “Is this some secret party trick you’ve been hiding, Solara? Or are you just trying to look impressive?”

Eike’s laughter rang out, breaking through the tension. “Oh, that? Yeah, it’s been a thing since he was a kid.”

Ayo’s brow furrowed, confusion replacing the frustration in his expression. “What are you talking about?”

Eike shrugged, his grin widening as he strolled over. “My mom noticed it the first year she took you in. She thought it was tied to your mana—or Nyvra, maybe. Something about emotions triggering it. Rare, but hey, you’ve always been one-of-a-kind. She always joked around calling it the Abyssal Gaze cuz your eyes would turn purple whenever you were scared”

Tessa stopped pacing entirely, her earlier frustration fading as curiosity took over. “So, wait… his eyes change based on his emotions? What other colors do they turn?”

Eike rubbed his chin thoughtfully, drawing out the moment with exaggerated drama. “Let’s see… brown is neutral, which is his default. Gold seems to be for confidence or resolve. And then there’s Purple for Fear and i think …”

Ayo’s golden glow faltered as his eyes shifted abruptly to a bright cyan. His cheeks flushed to match, and he took a step back. “I—I’m not blushing!” he sputtered, his voice rising in pitch.

“Oh-ho!” Eike doubled over with laughter, slapping his knee. “Cyan—embarrassment! This is priceless!”

Lirien’s emerald eyes sparkled with mischief as she stepped even closer to Ayo. “Cyan, huh? Interesting. I wonder what color they turn when you’re in love. Pink, maybe?”

Even Ren cracked a small smile, his lips twitching as he leaned back against the bench. “Interesting,” he remarked dryly, though his amusement was evident.

Tessa giggled, the tension in her shoulders visibly easing. “Adorable,” she teased. “You’re absolutely blushing.”

“I am not!” Ayo groaned, burying his face in his hands. The cyan glow in his eyes pulsed brighter, betraying his words.

Lirien, clearly enjoying herself, placed a hand on Ayo’s arm, her tone dropping to something softer but still teasing. “Relax, Solara. I told you this morning I’d be back tonight. It’s bedtime, and we still have time for tea.”

Ayo’s reaction was immediate. His cyan glow flickered wildly as he turned a deeper shade of red. “Absolutely not!” he blurted, his voice cracking as he stepped back again. “I’m going to bed! Alone!”

Lirien laughed, her voice carrying a mix of amusement and warmth. “Suit yourself,” she said, stepping closer once more. Before Ayo could escape, she pulled him into a quick hug, resting her chin on his shoulder as her finger traced lazy circles on his chest.

“Don’t forget,” she murmured, her tone turning playful. “I told you I’d be back tonight.”

Ayo froze, his entire body stiffening before he abruptly pulled away, his face burning. Without another word, he spun on his heel and stormed off toward the Gray Tower, his shadows flickering with his agitation. “Goodnight!” he called over his shoulder, his cyan glow pulsing furiously. “I’m going to bed!” "ALONE!"

Lirien’s laughter rang out, bright and unrestrained, as she turned back to the group. “Goodnight, everyone,” she said breezily, waving before jogging after Ayo. Her crimson hair caught the moonlight as she disappeared into the shadows of the tower.

The courtyard fell quiet for a moment before Eike broke the silence, his grin wide and teasing. “How long do you think it’s going to take for him to admit how he feels about her?”

Tessa crossed her arms, shaking her head with an exasperated but amused smile. “Knowing Ayo? Probably forever. He’ll fight it every step of the way.”

Ren, ever the pragmatist, leaned casually against the bench and raised an eyebrow. “Better question—how long until our little power couple becomes official?”

Eike laughed, tilting his head toward where Ayo and Lirien had gone. “Not long, if she keeps teasing him like that. I’ll give it a week.”

Tessa smirked. “A week? You’re being generous.”

Ren shook his head, his tone dry. “Either way, we’ll have front-row seats.”

The group shared a quiet laugh, the weight of the night easing slightly as they began to disperse. One by one, they headed toward their respective towers, their footsteps echoing softly in the stillness.

Eike lingered for a moment longer, glancing toward the Gray Tower with a thoughtful expression. “They’re a good match,” he murmured, mostly to himself. Then, with a shrug, he turned and followed the others, leaving the courtyard empty save for the soft bubbling of the fountain and the faint echo of Lirien’s laughter.

Far off in the distance, Ayo’s embarrassed protests could still be heard faintly, chased by the sound of Lirien’s teasing chuckles.

The moonlight bathed the courtyard in its glow, and the academy settled into silence once more, the events of the day marking another step in their journey together—chaotic, unpredictable, and undeniably theirs.