March 1st, 2012 — 9:20 PM
Lower East Quarter — The Rustlantern
Perspective: Rose Valentine
I stared at the boy across the table, my throat tight. The cold breeze from the open view blew a strand of black hair across his forehead, but his blue eyes remained fixed on mine. He was waiting.
He was waiting for me to speak, to share the mess inside my chest.
But how could I? I didn't even know who he really was beneath this casual facade. At the academy, he was just Kaiser Everhart, the magicless pariah of Class C. The boy who slept through exams and ran away from fights. Yet here he was, offering to be my brother.
I couldn't just open up. Not to him. Not to anyone.
"I... I don't know what to say." I muttered, looking down at his hand on the table.
"For starters my name is Kaiser."
Kaiser leaned back, his hand retreating to adjust a small brass cog among the mess of magitek parts on the worn wood. "You don't have to say anything about the crying. But if you want to save a life, you could tell me if this equation looks right to you. I've been staring at it for 2 hours and I think the numbers are hostile."
I blinked, my tears momentarily halting as I looked at the crumpled sheet of paper he pushed toward me. It was covered in messy, scratched-out coordinates.
"Hostile? That is a simple calculus formula. You forgot to carry the 2nd-order derivative."
"Ah. So the math wasn't hostile, I'm just stupid. Good to know. Elfie usually tells me that with a pillow, so this is a step up." Kaiser sighed, picking up a stubby pencil to scribble a correction.
"Elfie?"
"My friend. Well, my representative, boss, and occasional dictator. She likes strawberry cake and yelling at me for trying to blow things up. You'd probably like her." Kaiser spun the brass gear between his fingers, his eyes focused on the metal.
"She sounds... lively." I said, a faint, small trace of amusement touching my lips before I could stop it.
"Exceedingly. But she keeps me from sleeping through my classes, so I keep her around. Mostly because she'd track me down anyway."
"You speak of her as if she is a chore, yet you smile when you say her name." I observed, my shoulders relaxing just a fraction.
Kaiser let out a dramatic sigh, shaking his head. "She's a very expensive chore. Do you know how much a slice of cake costs at the central bakery? I had to work 3 shifts just to cover last week's tax."
"Three shifts? For cake?" I stared at the mechanical parts scattered on the table. "You are ridiculous."
"I am practical. A happy representative means I get to sit in the back row and do absolutely nothing. It's a delicate ecosystem." Kaiser set a small copper wire onto the circuit board.
"You are a very strange boy, Kaiser." I said, the heavy tightness in my chest beginning to loosen.
"And you're a very sad girl who is currently hiding under a hood in a very sticky tavern. I think that makes us even." Kaiser looked up, his blue eyes locking onto mine with a steady, quiet intensity.
I pulled my hood back slightly, showing my disguised black eyes and dark hair. "I am not hiding."
"Of course not. You're just testing the primordial cementing qualities of this establishment. So, since we are officially siblings for the night, what is your name?" Kaiser extended his hand across the table, palm up.
I hesitated for a brief second before answering. "Priscilla."
"Wow, I didn't know my sister had such an adorable name." Kaiser smiled, his fingers tapping the wood. "Nice to meet you, Cilla."
Kaiser's expression softened, the playful banter fading into something serious. "So, Cilla. What happened tonight that made you cry like the world was ending?"
The noise of the Rustlantern swelled around us. Down in the main hall, a group of mercenaries was cheering over a card game, their heavy laughter vibrating through the floorboards. The smell of roasted lamb and dark ale hung thick in the air, warm and alive. But up here at our corner table, tucked away by the stone archway, the space felt small and private.
The stars shone brightly through the open view, casting a pale light over the brass gears and copper wires scattered between us. We were sitting close, our knees almost touching under the narrow wooden table.
I stared at the circuits, my fingers tracing a scratch in the wood. I couldn't tell him the truth. I couldn't tell him about Noctis Valentine, the Emperor of Asura, or the Golden Dawn chamber. I couldn't tell him that I was the Crown Princess who had just been discarded like trash.
"It was... just a family dinner." I began, my voice barely carrying over the tavern's hum. "My father, Nolan, is a merchant, and he hosted a gathering at our estate. I thought... I thought maybe tonight would be different."
Kaiser leaned forward, resting his forearms on the table. "Different how?"
"I wanted him to look at me. Even 1 time, without disappointment. I even asked him if we could dance at the upcoming merchant gala. I spent 4 weeks practicing." I admitted, tears falling past my lashes to drop onto the table.
"And what did he say?" Kaiser watched the tears pool on the dark wood, his blue eyes darkening slightly.
"His other partners were there—Anna and Irene. Irene immediately told me I shouldn't bother, that I'd just embarrass the family. And my father... he just looked at me and asked if I would trip and fall on his suit." I squeezed my eyes shut, the cold memory of his gaze making me shiver.
"That's harsh." Kaiser's fingers stilled on a copper wire. "Did anyone stand up for you?"
"Anna tried to say it was harmless. But it didn't matter. The hope was already gone. And then... the main dish was served. It was a traditional broth I had helped prepare to show him I could contribute."
"Did something happen to the broth?"
"1 dead spider fell into my bowl. It was floating right there. I froze, unable to move or breathe. And my father... he didn't ask if I was okay. He just looked at me with pure disgust and told me to get out because I was ruining their appetite." I gripped my knees tightly, the nausea rising in my chest again.
"He kicked you out because of a pest in your food?" Kaiser's voice dropped, a freezing, quiet edge slipping into his tone.
"Yes. He didn't care that I was choking. I ran to the washroom. And then... my half-sister, Ivy, came in. She was wearing a beautiful new dress my father bought her. He had hugged her so warmly earlier." I let out a dry, bitter laugh that felt like glass in my throat.
"What did Ivy do?" Kaiser asked, his shoulders tensing as he stared at me.
"She mocked me. She said I was a mediocrity, a disgrace, and that our father would never love me. She told me she was going to take everything I ever wanted."
"And you just took it?"
"I didn't. I lost my temper. I tried to push her away, but her bodyguard, Ashton... he caught my wrist. He twisted it until I couldn't move. He told me he'd neutralize me if I ever threatened her safety again." I rubbed my right wrist, where Asylym's grip had left a dull, throbbing ache.
"A bodyguard laid hands on a daughter of the house, and your father allowed it?" Kaiser's blue eyes were cold as ice, reflecting the pale starlight.
"My father doesn't care. To him, Ivy is the golden child. I am just... the burden who is expected to carry the family's responsibilities, yet forgotten the moment I need a single hand to hold." I looked up, meeting his gaze with empty, tired eyes.
"So you ran away." Kaiser murmured, the coldness in his voice softening back into a quiet, gentle tone.
"I ran. Because I realized that no matter what I do, no matter how perfect I try to be... I am completely, utterly alone." I rested my chin on my knees, staring out at the vast, black sky.
Kaiser looked at me for a long, silent moment, his fingers gently tapping the table. "If you strip away the family name, the responsibilities, and the burdens you carry... who are you under that hood, Cilla?"
"I don't know..." I whispered, my voice thick with unshed tears. "Without all of that, I think... I'm also just a girl."
I looked out the window, watching a shooting star trace a faint line across the sky before disappearing into the black.
"I'm just a girl who doesn't always feel pretty, but still knows she's beautiful in her own way. A girl who overthinks the tiniest things. A girl who gives her best even when she's tired. I'm a girl who gets happy over small things like sunsets, music, and kind words... but I'm also a girl who gets hurt by small things, too."
I looked back at him, my black disguised eyes meeting his steady blue gaze.
"I'm a girl who gives her whole heart to people she cares about, even when she's the girl who needs love the most. I smile to hide my pain because I don't want to bother anyone. I feel deeply, love deeply, and I dream a lot. I'm just a girl who breaks, heals, and keeps trying again. A girl who still believes good things can happen, even after getting hurt so many times."
My throat felt dry, my fingers tightening around the edge of the bench.
"I'm just a girl who wants to be seen, understood, and loved for who she is."
Kaiser remained quiet, his eyes softening as he looked at my trembling hands.
"Priscilla... yes, you under that hood." Kaiser spoke, his voice carrying a soft, warm resonance that seemed to shut out the noise of the tavern. "Stop being unhappy with yourself. You are perfect just as you are."
I blinked, looking up at him in surprise.
"Stop wishing you looked like someone else, or wishing that people liked you as much as they like someone else. Stop trying to get attention from those who hurt you." Kaiser reached across the table, his hand resting beside mine.
"Don't hate your quirks, or your personality, or the things that make you who you are. Love them. Without those things, you wouldn't be you. And why would you ever want to be anyone else?"
His blue eyes were incredibly steady.
"Be confident in who you are, Cilla. Smile. It will draw people in. Your happiness shouldn't depend on others anymore."
"I'm happy because I love who I am, flaws and all. Love your imperfections. They make you who you are, and that person is pretty amazing."
I stared at him, my heart aching. His words were so kind, so beautiful... but they felt like a dream. A dream I couldn't afford to believe in.
"I can't just be happy with myself, Kaiser. I... I lost my spark." I shook my head, pulling my hand back. "I don't feel the same anymore. The things that once made me happy don't excite me like they used to."
"I used to love reading fantasy stories in the library, or practicing my magic under the night sky just to see the starlight. But now... it all feels different. Even when I succeed, even when I give it my all, it feels like I'm only pretending. Like I'm just moving through life without the same joy."
"I miss the old me, the girl who laughed easier, who found happiness in little things. Sometimes I wonder if that version of me is gone forever, or if 1 day I'll find my spark again."
"Why do you think the magic and the books don't excite you anymore, Cilla?" Kaiser asked, tapping 1 brass gear on the table.
"Is it because you were doing them for yourself, or because you were trying to use them as a way to earn someone else's love?"
I flinched. The question cut straight through my defenses, exposing the raw wound beneath.
"It doesn't matter why." I muttered, looking away.
"The point is, we can't rely on anyone else. Friends, family... they always disappoint you. The moment you show one single vulnerability, they use it against you. You are the only person you can trust. If you rely on others to find your spark, you'll just end up burning yourself."
"Life does not always go as planned, Cilla." Kaiser sighed, leaning back against the wooden bench. "Sometimes we make mistakes, or we face disappointments. But holding on to these only makes us unhappy. Letting go means accepting what happened and focusing on what comes next."
"If a friend hurts us, we should forgive instead of staying angry. If we fail, we should learn and try again. Carrying past burdens only slows us down."
"When you let go, you feel lighter and more at peace. It helps you live in the present instead of the past. Moving forward is the best choice. Letting go is not weakness; it is strength."
I kept quiet, my throat tight. His words felt heavy, settling deep in my chest.
He saw my wound completely. He knows exactly what I am carrying, even without knowing my real name. I want to push him away, to argue, but I can't find the words.
"You know, you remind me of the Sun." Kaiser turned back to me, a small, playful glint returning to his blue eyes.
"The Sun?" I blinked, caught off guard.
"The Sun is the brightest star in our solar system." Kaiser leaned forward. "Think about it. It doesn't ask the other stars for permission to shine. It doesn't beg the night sky to make room for its light."
"It just burns, warming the entire world because that is its nature. It is the center of everything. That is who you are, Cilla. You don't need to beg Nolan, or Irene, or Ivy for one single sliver of light. You are the source itself."
I stared at him, my breath catching.
The Sun...
"And besides..." Kaiser smiled, his blue eyes warm and gentle.
"You are really pretty, Cilla. Even under that hood, even with your eyes red and puffy from crying. You are amazing and beautiful just as you are. A girl who overthinks, who feels deeply, who breaks and heals—that makes you who you are, and that person is wonderful."
Kaiser reached out, gently tapping my forehead with one finger.
"Good things can happen to you, Priscilla. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow. But I know my dear sister is someone so wonderful that it'll come eventually."
I pulled my hood back down, trying to hide the flush on my cheeks, but I couldn't stop the small smile that tugged at the corner of my lips.
Maybe, just for tonight... I don't have to be the Crown Princess.
Maybe, I can just be Cilla.
"Are your ears burning, Cilla? Or did your big brother's compliments actually make you flush?" Kaiser teased, a smug smirk spreading across his face.
"I am not flushed." I protested, pulling the hood even lower to cover my cheeks. "It is very dusty in here."
"Sure, and Cliff's soup is actually edible." Kaiser chuckled, leaning his chin on his palm. "You know, you're not very good at lying. Your cheeks are so red they're practically glowing through that hood. It's a good thing I'm a patient brother. I won't tell anyone you have a soft spot for compliments."
"Shut up." I muttered, though the warmth in my face only intensified.
Cliff came stomping over to our table, holding a clean rag in his hand. "Here's the... wait, what are you 2 gossiping about? You look like you're plotting a robbery, lil bro."
"Actually, Big Bro Cliff, we were discussing the chemical properties of your kitchen. Specifically, how your helpers manage to cool the ale by leaving it in the warm air, a true paradox." Kaiser explained with a straight face.
"I told you not to call me Big Bro! And those helpers are idiots, not scientists!" Cliff barked, his face turning red.
"Of course. But did you know that if you serve us dinner faster, the atmospheric pressure in the courtyard will stabilize, preventing further shouting?"
"What in the world are you talking about?!" Cliff stared at him, completely lost.
"Yes, the shouting-to-ale ratio is currently 3 to 1. If we eat, the ratio drops to 0. It's simple logic." Kaiser deadpan.
"My bad headache... My bad life... I'll get you food, just stop talking." Cliff muttered to the ceiling, stomping back toward the kitchen.
I burst out laughing, holding my stomach as the tears of laughter replaced the ones of sorrow. It had been so long since I laughed like that.
The sheer absurdity of Kaiser's straight-faced logic had completely shattered Cliff's anger.
Kaiser watched me laugh, a soft smile appearing on his face before he spun a spatial gear on the table. "So, Cilla. What do you actually do when you're not crying in taverns? Any hobbies?"
"I... I read books in the library." I said, thinking of my real habits. "And I play the harp sometimes. I also collect and dry rare flowers, and solve puzzle cubes."
I paused, a small smile appearing on my face.
"And I dance."
Kaiser caught the smile instantly. "Dancing? Really?"
"Yes, though I was terrible at it when I started." I giggled, the memory warming me. "When I was 6, I had my 1st formal lesson. I was so clumsy. I kept stepping on my instructor's feet. I think I broke his big toe 2 times. Every time the music started, he looked like he was walking into a war zone."
"So how does a clumsy toe-breaker turn into a wonderful dancer?" Kaiser asked, his blue eyes showing genuine curiosity.
I sat up a bit straighter, feeling a rare spark of pride. "Because I practiced. Dancing is just math and rhythm, really. You have to focus your weight, maintain the 3-step pivot, and synchronize your breath with your partner's heartbeat. It is all about balance and flow."
I went on, explaining the techniques, and he listened intently.
I smiled, acting a bit smug. "Actually, I'm the best dancer in my class now. Nobody can match my footwork."
"Is that so? Maybe I'll have to learn how to dance just so I can dance with you. You'll have to promise not to break my toes, though." Kaiser smirked.
I laughed it off. "You? Learning the high-society waltz? You'd trip over your own boots."
"I'm serious, Cilla." Kaiser said, his blue eyes suddenly locking onto mine, completely devoid of teasing.
"I'd like to dance with you."
My breath hitched. My heart did a strange, fluttery jump in my chest.
He was serious. The thought of dancing with him—not as the Crown Princess performing a royal duty, but just as Cilla, sharing a simple dance with her brother—felt incredibly warm and terrifyingly real.
Before I could reply, Cliff returned, carrying a large wooden tray. "Here. Roasted venison in sweet berry glaze, with garlic rosemary potato wedges. And 2 warm apple ciders. Eat and get out lil bro."
The food smelled delicious, the rich scent of rosemary and sweet glaze filling the air.
But as I looked at the plate, my hands tensed. The memory of the soup flashed in my mind, making my stomach twist with sudden hesitation.
Kaiser noticed. Without a word, he took his fork, scooped a piece of the venison from my plate, and popped it into his mouth.
"Delicious. Not poisoned, and definitely no spiders." Kaiser said, chewing happily.
I stared at him, my throat tightening.
Did he do that on purpose? Did he eat from my plate first so I wouldn't be afraid?
A small smile spread across my face. The fear melted away, and I picked up my fork, eating the meal with him. It was the best food I had ever tasted.
We spoke for a long time after that, sharing stories and laughing until the candles on the table burned low.
"It is getting late." Kaiser said, looking up at the starry sky.
"Thank you, Kaiser." I said, pulling my hood back over my hair. "I... I don't know how I can ever repay you for tonight."
"Actually, you can repay me right now." Kaiser smirked.
"How?"
"I need a small loan. Say, 3 silvers? It is absolutely necessary for my next invention. As a scientist, my research requires immediate funding." Kaiser proudly asked.
Before I could reply, Cliff walked past our table and muttered, "Scammers back at it again..."
I laughed and giggled, reaching into my pocket. I pulled out 3 gold coins and placed them in his palm.
Cliff, who was clearing the neighboring table, froze, his jaw dropping to the floor.
"3 gold? 3 actual gold pieces?" Kaiser gasped, staring at the coins in his hand.
"Is... is that enough?" I asked, amused by his sudden high energy.
"Enough? Cilla, you are literally the greatest sister in the history of the universe! I love you so much! You are the absolute best!" Kaiser cheered, his face lighting up.
"You... you don't have to yell." I blushed, laughing.
"I have to tell the whole world! I can buy the high-capacity capacitors, the copper conduits, and maybe 10 whole strawberry cakes now!" Kaiser grinned.
"I'm glad it helps. But... can we talk again? Like this?" I asked, my voice softening as I looked at him.
"Of course! I come here daily at night. If you ever need your brother's presence, just come by." Kaiser smiled warmly, tucking the gold into his pocket.
We bid our goodbyes, and I watched him walk out of the tavern courtyard, his steps light and energetic.
I sat there at the table alone for a few minutes, staring at the empty plates.
This boy... he is Kaiser Everhart.
He is the pariah of Class C, the magicless human whom everyone looks down upon at the academy. Yet this is the hidden side of him, the warm, brilliant, and protective person that Elfina wants all to herself. For the past 1 hour, he made me forget who I was. He made me forget the Crown Princess, the responsibilities, and even the traumatic memories of the palace.
I don't understand what this feeling in my chest is. I don't know why my heart is beating so fast, or why the word 'brother' feels so heavy yet so comforting. He gave me a family when my own blood discarded me. He wiped my tears when my father turned away in disgust.
If this is what it feels like to have someone stand by you, then I never want to let it go. I will keep coming back to this tavern, back to my brother.
March 2nd, 2012 — 5:50 PM
Lower East Quarter — Lakefront Walkway
Perspective: Kayla Caroline
The paved stone walkway along the Lower East waterfront was painted in shades of deep gold and burning orange. Overhead, the hanging lantern on the stone wall glowed with a warm, steady light, framed by spilling vines of magenta bougainvillea. A simple wooden chalkboard stood near the stone steps, its handwritten chalk reading: Take a seat and Enjoy the view ♡. Beyond the railing, the calm waters of the lake rippled under the setting sun, which was slowly sinking behind the distant violet mountains.
I sat at 1 of the small iron tables, my fingers tapping rhythmically against the cold metal.
He is late. Typical.
For someone who claims to be a pragmatist, Kaiser has a shocking disregard for punctuality. Or maybe he just likes making me wait.
Either way, the calculations on my notepad are far more interesting than the sunset. The recent incident with the elves was a success, though I hadn't expected to resolve it so cleanly.
A shadow fell over my notepad.
"You know, you shouldn't sit so close to the railing, Kayla. The wind is hostile today."
"It is 5:50, Kaiser. You are exactly 20 minutes late."
Kaiser pulled out the metal chair across from me, his uniform jacket slightly crumpled as he slouched into the seat.
"I had my tavern shift today so yeah... Plus I too don't wanna keep the demon queen waiting." He shrugged as he stared at me with wide, innocent eyes.
"I'm just a normal, quiet classmate waiting for my partner. I don't know why you're looking at me with such suspicion."
"For starters, Elyndra Starveil."
I froze. The pencil in my fingers stilled against the paper.
He knows?
I slowly leaned back, resting my elbows on the stone railing, my blue eyes narrowing.
"So. You figured it out. I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. You are the only person in Class C who actually uses their brain."
"Why did you do it, Kayla? Why spread those rumors to target the elves?"
"It was a logical plan. Class C has the least elves. Even if they refuse to cooperate, it does not affect our overall class average. But Class B has around 7 elves, and Class A has 8. By creating the Pure Star Covenant and spreading those rumors under the Starveil name, I created a massive rift in their ranks. It is basic sabotage."
"And you didn't care that Leena and Scarlet were collaterals?"
"Collaterals are inevitable in any plan. If they cannot handle a few words, they do not belong in the academy."
"But Rigel stopped your plan anyway."
"That brute? He might be genius by himself but... He cannot have done it by himself. He must have had help..."
I lunged forward, grabbing his uniform collar with both hands. Shifting my weight, I shoved him backward.
Before he could react, his upper body was dangled completely over the stone railing, his feet barely touching the paved ground. Directly below him was the dark, cold expanse of the lake, the water rippling against the stone foundations.
"1 small push and you are in the water, Kaiser. I know you had a hand in translating those documents for Rigel. He doesn't have the intellect to profile a Savior."
"The wind here is very dangerous, Kayla."
"Why were you so deadset on targeting the elves? Even if it was beneficial, the plan had obvious flaws. The backlash from the pure-bloods will only isolate Class C's other races."
"I don't care about their feelings. I have a mission. What does it matter to you now, anyway?"
"Is this about Valentine's Day? Because I shut you down when you tried to pull me away during my walk with Scarlet?"
"Do not flatter yourself, Kaiser. Why would I care who you spend your time with? We are in an equal alliance, yet you prioritized a silly elf's companionship over preparing for the next exam. You're a simp, Kaiser. Do you even have any real friends? All you do is hang around girls."
"Well, you are also a girl, Kayla. Does that make you a hypocrite?"
A sharp spike of annoyance flared in my chest.
"«†∨∨, Ⰴ⊙ 𐰉⊙Ⱑ 𐰄∋∋Ⰴ 𐰉⊙Ⱑ𐰂 ⊂|Ψ Ψ|𐰂Ⱄ ₸⊙ 𐰗†∨∋ 𐰉⊙Ⱑ? ⊂∋ † Ψ⊙⊙Ⰴ Ⱄ|₸₸Ⱄ∋ ⊂⊙𐰉~»"
("Aww, do you need your big girl to save you? Be a good little boy~")
I purred, my voice dropping into the low, teasing growl of Varkha. With a deliberate smirk, I let go of his collar.
"Hey! Kayla! H-Help! I don't know how to swim, pleaseee!"
Kaiser flailed, his hands desperately gripping the edge of the stone railing as his body dangled over the water.
I crossed my arms, turning my back to him as I pouted.
"Figure it out yourself, genius."
"K-Kayla! I'm slipping! My grip strength... it's failing! 3, 2, 1—"
I rolled my eyes, turning back and grabbing his wrists. With a sharp pull, I dragged him back over the railing. He collapsed onto the stone walkway, panting dramatically as he clutched his chest.
"You are a monster, Kayla. A cold, lab-grown monster."
"And you are a dramatic idiot. Get up. We are going inside."
A short cut later, we were sitting inside a small, warm cafe adjacent to the walkway. The smell of roasted coffee beans and sweet cinnamon rolls filled the air, a stark contrast to the cold wind outside.
I pushed a cup of hot tea toward him, the bad blood from our argument seemingly evaporating with the steam.
"So," I said, crossing my legs. "Now that you've finished your dramatic display, are we ready to discuss the next exam?"
"Just promise me you won't do anything that reckless again," Kaiser muttered, wrapping his hands around his teacup. "And next time, please ask me before you start a class-wide race war."
"It was not a race war, Kaiser. It was a targeted psychological operation."
"Call it whatever you want, but Leena was crying, and Elfie nearly had a heart attack. If you're going to sabotage our classmates, at least give me a warning so I can buy popcorn."
"So you could watch? You really are a terrible ally."
"I am a supportive ally. I support your right to cause chaos, I just want to be prepared for the fallout."
"Fine. Next time I decide to ruin someone's life, you will be the 1st to know."
"Thank you. That is all I ask."
"And in return, you will buy my tea."
"Deal. Though I'm using the gold my 'sister' gave me, so technically she's buying."
Kaiser took a slow sip, the color returning to his face. "Now, let's talk details. The next exam is a class against class war. Expulsion is on the line for the losers. It's time to share your intel, Kayla."
"I've been mapping the leads." I leaned forward, resting my chin on my palm. "Xeno Feynman, a Class B student, is working directly with Sylvia Somerset's faction. He is going to be a major threat."
"Xeno? What kind of magic does he use?"
"He doesn't use magic, Kaiser. He uses dwarven science and information warfare. And Sylvia has been far too quiet lately. She has a scheme and a plan to win. If they team up with Class B, we won't be able to defeat 2 classes."
"Don't worry. Class A will be by our side."
"How? They are the elite—" I cut myself off, shaking my head. "Actually, don't tell me. You never reveal anything anyway."
"I'm going to do some magic on their leader." Kaiser smirked, tapping his cup.
"So what is our strategy? We need a way to divide their focus."
"Do you have a plan?"
"Yes. Scheme 3: The Ghost Enemy. We make the Class B expend 90% of their energy defending against a brilliant attack that doesn't actually exist. We dictate their strategy by controlling what they think we are doing. We deliberately leak a detailed, complex master plan targeting their vulnerability."
"And who is the false threat?"
"Axel."
Kaiser choked on his tea, almost slipping off his chair. "Axel? The guy who spends 4 hours a day arguing with himself? Oh yes, the secret weapon of Class C. The legendary slayer."
"Exactly. The rival classes know Elfina is our Rank 0, so they will expect us to build our strategy around her. If we leak a notebook detailing Axel's secret, devastating trump card, they will panic. They will abandon their offensive strategy and reallocate all their best resources to build defenses against Axel."
"And how does Xeno fit into this?"
"Victor and Sylvia may not work together, but Xeno can construct a gadget or gear that counters magic. Some sort of artifact to neutralize our high-tier casters. If they are busy using it on Axel, the rest of our class can walk right through them."
"Like a magic-dampening coordinate field. I can see the math behind that." Kaiser nodded.
"Precisely. So you will follow my orders and make Axel the biggest threat to Class B. I will handle the orchestration of the leak."
"And I'll play the victim to make it look realistic. Perfect." Kaiser grinned, leaning back.
We were both happy with the conclusion, the blueprint for the next exam taking shape. But as the tension faded, a familiar urge to tease him returned.
"«𐰉⊙Ⱑ𐰂∋ 𐰗Ⱑ𐰁||| † Ⱄ⊙𐰉†Ⱄ Ⱄ|₸₸Ⱄ∋ 𐰅∋₸.»"
("You're such a loyal little pet.")
"Are you summoning a demon, Kayla? Because that sounded like a sneeze."
"«Ⰾ†𐰉⊂∋ |∨ 𐰉⊙Ⱑ ∨∋𐰂∋ Ⰾ𐰉 𐰅∋₸, |Ⰴ ∨∋∋Ⰴ 𐰉⊙Ⱑ ⊂∋₸₸∋𐰂.»"
("Maybe if you were my pet, I'd feed you better.")
"Uhh stop with the unknown language."
"«𐰉⊙Ⱑ𐰂 ⊂ⰔⰡ∋ ∋𐰉∋𐰗 †𐰂∋ 𐰗⊙ 𐰅𐰂∋₸₸𐰉.»"
("Your blue eyes are so pretty.")
"Is that Varkha for 'you are an idiot'? Because I feel insulted."
"«𐰉⊙Ⱑ †𐰂∋ Ⰾ𐰉 𐰅Ⱄ†𐰉₸||||𐰄Ψ, 𐰁†|𐰗∋𐰂.»"
("You are my plaything, Kaiser.")
"Okay, now you're definitely insulting me. I can hear the clicky sounds."
"It is a compliment, Kaiser. In my language, it means you are very useful. Like a tool."
"A tool? That's not much of an upgrade from an insect, Kayla."
"«| Ⱄ|𐰁∋ ₸⊙ 𐰁∋∋𐰅 𐰉⊙Ⱑ 𐰗†∨∋ ⊂𐰉 Ⰾ𐰉 𐰗|Ⰴ∋.»"
("I like to keep you safe by my side.")
"Are you telling me I need to clean the table? Because I'm not doing it."
"No, I am telling you that you to follow my orders."
"Pretty sure alliances are for exams, not ownership. But sure, whatever helps you sleep at night."
"«𐰗₸Ⱑ𐰅|Ⰴ ⊂⊙𐰉~»"
("Stupid boy~")
"Seriously, Kayla, you need to speak English. Or at least provide a dictionary."
"No dictionary for tools, Kaiser." I smirked, watching him sigh in defeat.
We both laughed, the lighthearted banter filling the quiet corner of the cafe as the evening deepened outside.
I still haven't forgotten his attitude from Valentine's Day.
He prioritized Scarlet and told me I wasn't his friend, as if he could discard me whenever it pleased him.
But now, he has no choice but to follow my lead.
By orchestrating this strategy, I will make him do my bidding, and he won't even realize he has become my most valuable tool.
March 3rd, 2012 — 7:45 AM
Asura Academy — Courtyard Path
Perspective: Elfina Lunaris
I adjusted the collar of my Class C uniform, the gold trim catching the early morning sunlight. The morning air was crisp and cool, but I felt absolutely bubbly, my feet practically bouncing as I walked down the paved stone path next to Kai.
I love mornings like this.
Just walking to class without any chaos, the sun warm on my face, and Kai right beside me. Nothing could ruin my mood today.
A loud call echoed from behind us.
"Elfie! Kaiser! Wait up!"
Leena ran toward us, her green hair swaying in the breeze, with Rigel walking at a slightly slower but steady pace behind her. They caught up, falling into step beside us as we continued our trek toward the main building.
"Rigel, we are definitely doing that 2-hour sparring session after class today."
"Only if you promise not to launch me into the sky again, Elfie. My head still hurts from Tuesday."
"That was 1 tiny miscalculation! And you landed on soft grass anyway."
"Can I join? I promise I won't launch anyone, I just want to practice my elven magic."
"Yes! We can do a 2-on-1 match. You and me against Rigel."
"Wait, that is completely unbalanced. You are a Rank 0, and Leena has her gravity magic."
"That makes it a fair challenge for a genius sword fighter, doesn't it?"
"See? Even Leena thinks you need to suffer a little."
We laughed together, the easy banter flowing between us. Having friends to walk with made the path feel half as long.
"By the way, Kaiser," Rigel said, glancing over. "It is surprising. Is this character development? You haven't asked me for a loan today."
"I don't need a loan. I am filthy wealthy now. Look at this."
Kai pulled 2 gold coins from his pocket, letting them catch the morning sun.
"Who did you steal those from?!"
"Why is the first thought of me being rich that I stole? It could be a loan."
"So it is a loan."
"It is an interest-free, non-repayable donation from a generous sponsor."
"So you stole it."
"I prefer the term 'scientific funding'."
Rigel shook his head, while Leena giggled behind her hand.
As we drew closer to the main plaza, the path became crowded with students. A lot of classmates and students from other classes were out walking, enjoying the cool morning. As soon as they spotted me, a chorus of greetings broke out.
"Good morning, Representative!"
"Morning, Elfie!"
I waved back, flashing my best bubbly smile.
"Good morning, Lady Elfina. I trust your morning studies are progressing wonderfully?"
Xylar Vesperis stepped onto the path, bowing with elegant, noble precision.
Before I could answer, Axel materialized from the crowd, stepping directly between us with his wooden practice sword held high.
"Good morning, Elfina! Fear not, I shall guard you from this shadowy intruder!"
"Who is this cartoon character?" Xyler said with a little smile.
"I am your worst nightmare, glasses! Don't even come toward my class leader!"
My head hurts.
Why does every path to class turn into a standoff? I just want to walk in peace!
"It must be tough being the star of the academy," Leena whispered, nudging my shoulder as we managed to slip past the arguing duo.
"At least she has a personal bodyguards. Even if they argue with each other."
"You two are not helping!"
We stepped off the main path onto a quieter stone lane. Just ahead, Kai stopped, kneeling down near the base of a stone lantern.
A tiny calico kitten, no bigger than a cup, with fluffy orange and black patches and wide, emerald-green eyes, was sitting under the leaves.
"Who's a good kitty? You are."
The kitten let out a soft, tiny meow.
"Meow~"
Kai reached out his hand, and the kitten began licking his palm, leaning its small head eagerly into his touch.
"It's so cute!"
Leena and Rigel stepped closer, their eyes shining as they watched the tiny ball of fur snuggle against Kai's hand.
She is really cute.
But... Kai is giving her all his attention!
He hasn't patted my head once this morning, or even looked at me like that. I've been walking right next to him the whole time!
"Meow~" The kitten purred, nudging Kai's wrist for more pats.
"Do you like cats, Kaiser?"
"I do. They are really adorable. I like to pet stray cats."
"That's wonderful. Would you pet any kitten that meows for your attention?"
"Of course. I am a simple man. If it meows, I pat."
If it meows, he pats.
Any kitten.
...Any kitten at all?
A sudden, reckless idea flared in my mind, my cheeks instantly burning.
"Meow~"
Kai froze, his hand stopping mid-pat. He slowly looked back at me.
Rigel and Leena stared, their mouths dropping open in absolute shock.
Oh my god.
Did I really just do that? In public?
Is this even going to work?!
My face felt hot enough to melt, but I took a step closer, closing my eyes.
"Meow~"
The calico kitten let out a sharp hiss, glaring at me as if recognizing a threat to her territory. Kai slowly stood up, turning fully to face me as he walked over.
I kept my eyes squeezed shut, letting out 1 final, soft meow.
"Meow~"
A warm hand settled on my head, gently stroking my hair.
"Good girl."
A collective gasp echoed from the surrounding students. Rigel looked like he had just witnessed the sky fall, and Leena's jaw was practically touching the stone path.
I peeked my eyes open, my face completely flustered, but I meowed again, leaning into his touch.
Kai smiled, leaning down to plant a soft, quick kiss on my cheek before patting my head again.
"My good little kitten."
A wave of pure, murderous intent erupted from the crowd of boys watching us, the air growing heavy with their dark, silent promises.
What the boys were most likely planning:
I will tear the flesh from his bones and bury him in the abyss before the sun sets.
My blade will taste his blood if he dares to touch my crush with his magicless hands again.
A commoner touching my love interest... I will destroy his life until he begs for death.
I'll feed his worthless body to the dogs during the next practical combat exam.
I will freeze the blood in his heart and shatter his chest for laying a hand on my Elfina.
I will melt his hands off with acid and ensure his death is slow and agonizing. - Xyler probably.
KAISER! HOW DARE YOU STEAL MY FUTURE WIFE! - Axel probably.
I didn't care about the glares or the murderous threats radiating from every corner.
I just smiled, holding my warm cheek as I meowed for more attention.
Leena and Rigel stood completely frozen, unable to process what was happening as we began walking again. I interlocked my fingers with Kai's hand, while his other hand remained on my head, giving me gentle pats as I smiled widely, letting out happy meows all the way to class.
This was definitely going to be the latest story of the academy—the Representative kitten walking with her magicless void.