Chapter 3: Life at the Academy
01. Cassandra
On her first day at the prestigious Lysorian Academy, Aria Bennett felt a bit out of place. The grand halls and luxurious surroundings were a stark contrast to her modest upbringing. Unlike the noble children who were already acquainted with each other, Aria, being a commoner and a girl, found herself somewhat intimidated.
As she wandered through the academy, trying to familiarize herself with the new environment, she spotted another girl around her age. With a sense of relief, Aria approached her, hoping to make a friend.
"Hi, I'm Aria," she said with a warm smile. "It's my first day here. What's your name?"
The girl turned to her with a haughty expression. "Cassandra," she replied curtly, her eyes scanning Aria from head to toe. "And I don't have time for idle chatter, especially not with someone like you."
Aria's smile faltered, but she quickly regained her composure. "I just thought it would be nice to get to know each other. We might be in the same classes."
Cassandra scoffed. "Don't bother speaking to me again." With that, she turned and walked away, leaving Aria standing alone in the bustling hallway.
Despite this cold reception, Aria tried not to let it affect her. She took a deep breath and reminded herself that she was here to learn and grow, not to make friends with everyone. However, as the days passed, she noticed that Cassandra seemed to go out of her way to undermine and exclude her. Whether it was making snide comments in class or conspiring with other students to leave Aria out of group activities, Cassandra's hostility was apparent.
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Aria decided to focus on her studies and not get distracted by Cassandra’s hostility. She spent long hours in the library, poring over her textbooks and perfecting her engineering designs. Despite the social challenges, Aria was determined to succeed and prove herself at the academy.
#### 2. The Approaching Fault
After a rather disheartening first class, Aria sought refuge under a tree in the school’s backyard. Lying on the cool grass, she replayed the encounter with Cassandra in her mind, wondering if she had done something wrong. Just as she was lost in thought, sunlight glared into her eyes, making her squint. Suddenly, the light was blocked, and she heard the rustling of footsteps on the grass. Opening her eyes, she saw Ethan standing over her.
"First class didn't go well?" Ethan asked gently.
Aria sighed and sat up. "It was harder than I thought. There's this girl, Cassandra. She’s been nothing but hostile since we met."
Ethan nodded, a hint of coldness in his eyes. "Most nobles think they’re above everyone else, especially commoners like us."
Aria blinked in surprise. "You're not a noble?"
Ethan shook his head. "No, do I look like one?"
Aria hesitated. "By the looks of you, I mean, the way you're dressed and..."
Ethan chuckled bitterly. "I get what you mean. I don't look like a commoner."
His eyes had a sad glint, and Aria looked away, feeling a bit guilty. "I just thought... commoners wouldn't usually work as professors here."
Ethan's voice grew softer. "I was adopted. I lost my parents when I was ten, and a village lord who was friends with my father took me in."
Aria's eyes widened. "Then..."
"Yes, I'm not Lysorian. I came here thinking there would be more opportunities, but reality is harsh. The nobles here are cruel, treating us like we’re a different species. So, Aria, don't pay too much attention to their words."
Ethan’s green eyes met Aria’s blue ones, and she felt her heart pounding. His blond hair shimmered in the sunlight, making him look almost ethereal.
"They'll realize eventually," Ethan continued, "just how powerful you are."
Aria's heart raced even faster.
"So, will you show them?" Ethan asked, his voice firm but kind. "Show them who you truly are?"
Aria found herself nodding slowly, almost unconsciously. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves above, mirroring the turmoil in her heart.