Ravven was not oblivious as some nobles might have perceived him to be regarding the matters of the Academy students younger than him.

At least he didn’t believe himself to be until he heard other knights-in-training gossiping about his 'sweetheart' who was gaining the ire of the noble girls.

He honestly didn’t even know who they were talking about until one of them spoke of the ‘Elem girl’, flashes of a joyous face on skin that reminded him of his mother’s but with such a different array of emotions that he felt drawn to her smile. Wings that sparkled under the suns’ rays and a smile even brighter. She was Vienna’s friend. Zia that was her name.

He eavesdropped on his colleagues and friends who spoke about the girl being snubbed by teachers and students alike in the noble faction. His fists curled up at his sides.

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The idea that such a vibrant and bright soul could be ignored, chastised, and…

Ravven let out a small growl.

He hadn’t seen her many times after the Harvest Day, just on occasion when he’d have dinner with her, Vienna, and her other dorm mates. And yes he did have conversations with her, but he did with all of them, but perhaps he had talked to her more.

It was at dinner one night when both Vienna and him were late after coming from lessons that Vienna noticed his down spirits.

“What’s wrong, Ravven? You look very preoccupied.”

He hummed beneath his breath staring down at his food, “How is your friend…Zia?”

Vienna’s eyes widened but then she let out a sigh, “It was hard at first but I think she’s stronger for it.”

“I’ll come later at dinner, then.”

“Don’t.” Vienna poked him in the shoulder, “Don’t let Nesrin win.”

Ravven looked at his friend to see her giving him a look.

“I’ve seen how happy you are whenever you are interacting with Zia. You reflect her brightness, and you look better for it.”

Ravven felt his cheeks heat up. He cleared his throat, “Does she…?”

Vienna smiled, “Zia is the sort of person who won’t allow anything to keep her down for long. If she likes someone, she won’t hide it.”

Ravven felt his heart warm from hearing his friend’s accolades for someone he’d already admired.

“I have told a couple of professors regarding the situation and they will help so things don’t get out of hand.”