King Morey spoke up again, his voice resonating through the square. "Ondur's future is bright," he declared, his eyes shining with hope. "But it is our responsibility to ensure that our children's futures are even brighter. The Earth realm holds vast resources that can enhance our world, and by welcoming its survivors, we gain not only allies but friends who can enrich our lives with their knowledge and innovation."

The crowd was silent for a moment, processing his words. Then, a ripple of nods began, spreading through the throng like a wave. Ha-Yoon felt a swell of hope in her chest. Perhaps there was a chance for unity and growth.

The king's voice grew softer, but no less powerful. "I understand your concerns," he said, his eyes sweeping over the crowd. "But I assure you, we have taken every precaution to ensure that this union will be a harmonious one. Our seers have seen the potential for prosperity, for a world where our children can grow and thrive, free from the shackles of fear and want."

The crowd's murmurs grew louder, a cacophony of hope and skepticism. Ha-Yoon leaned in to whisper to Si-Woo, "Do you think they'll accept us?"

Si-Woo squeezed her hand reassuringly. "We have to believe in ourselves," he said, his voice firm with determination. "We've been chosen for a reason."

"Our unique technological advancements promise enhanced security for our progeny and our people," the king announced, raising his hand to show a crystal-studded dagger that gleamed in the sun. "We have forged a blood pact with the Sprits, granting them a sanctum within our lands as long as they uphold peace and do not bring harm or chaos to Ondur."

The crowd's reaction was a mix of awe and anger, but the siblings could not help but feel a sense of wonder in the situation. The Sprits, once feared and revered, were now Ondur's allies.

"It's incredible, isn't it?" Ha-Yoon whispered to Si-Woo as the assembly began to disperse. "I can't believe we're part of something so... monumental for the Fae folk."

Si-Woo nodded. The king, acknowledging the crowd's curiosity says," I invited the family heads to address your inquiries." The king and queen's departure was met with respectful applause. Si-Woos eyes never leaving the retreating backs of the king and queen. "I know," he said, his voice filled with awe. "But we have to be ready for anything. Not everyone will be happy about this."

The siblings made their way through the dispersing crowd, the weight of their conversation hanging in the air. As they approached a food stand, the tantalizing smells of sugared fruits and baked goods filled their nostrils. Ha-Yoon's eyes grew wide as she took in the array of delicacies displayed before them.

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"You must be hungry," Si-Woo said, noticing her gaze. He handed her a few coins. "Why don't you grab something to eat while I go to the library?"

"The library?" Ha-Yoon's eyes widened. "Are you going to go study for the pre-mid-term placement test?"

"Yeah," Si-Woo nodded. "I need to get ahead. We don't have much time."

With that, Si-Woo disappeared into the throng, leaving Ha-Yoon to contemplate her situation. She took a deep breath, the sweet scent of Ondur's exotic flowers mingling with the smoky aroma of roasting meats. The food stand's vendor, a cheerful fae with a pointed nose and emerald eyes, offered her a sample of a sugared berry. The flavor burst on her tongue, a symphony of sweetness and tanginess that was unlike anything she had ever tasted. "Mmmm, yep, I'll study too...after one more." Despite the somber mood that hung over the assembly, she couldn't help but smile at the delightful treat.

...

As Si-Woo made his way to the library, the cobblestone path grew crowded with students of varying ages, their laughter and chatter filling the air with infectious energy. His thoughts were consumed by the upcoming pre-mid-term placement test and the vast amount of knowledge he had to absorb before it. His eyes remained focused on the path ahead, his steps swift and determined.

Suddenly, he collided with a wall of bodies. Three older fae children, their shirts adorned with emblems of Level Four, loomed over him, their expressions a blend of arrogance and hostility. "Watch where you're going, greenie," one of them sneered, his brown hair styled in an elaborate spike that gleamed with gel.

Si-Woo's eyes narrowed, but he held his tongue, reminding himself of Minho's warning about pride. He took a step back, his fists clenched at his sides. "I'm sorry," he murmured, bracing himself for their next move.

"You're lucky you bumped into us level 4 seniors." said the one in the middle. We'll let you off if you beg on your knees, filthy otherworlder," they sneered, laughing hysterically. Si-woo retorted, "There are three of you, yet even with six eyes, you're blind to the obvious."

Their laughter ceased, and one snarled, "Do you want me to break your leg?" The one in the middle stepped closer, towering over Si-woo, "Say another word without my permission, I dare you. Now beg!"

The situation was volatile, and Si-Woo could feel the anger building up in his chest. But before he could respond, the air was split by the sound of something heavy crashing down onto the central fae. The fae yelped in pain, and when Si-Woo looked up, he saw a blur of silver and white. It was Mai, landing gracefully on the stone pavement, her eyes flashing with fury. She had come from nowhere, like a bolt of lightning from the clear sky.

Mai glared at the stunned bullies, her eyes narrowing into slits. "Leave him alone," she said, her voice as cold as the ice that coated the distant peaks. The other two fae took a step back, their expressions a mix of shock and confusion. "What th-th" The one with the spiky hair stumbled over his words, trying to find his footing.

Without another word, Mai took Si-Woo's hand and dragged him away from the scene. Her grip was firm, almost painful, and she didn't slow down until they reached a nondescript building at the edge of the main street. The structure was old fashioned, its stones worn smooth by time and covered in a layer of moss that made it appear as if it had been forgotten by everyone but the whispers of the wind.