The sun glistened over the marble towers of the Grandovale Royal Palace as Zen and Lyra found themselves seated at the King's dining table alongside Princess Arisella Vaelith. Despite the grandeur and lavish spread of delicacies, Lyra's usual bright energy filled the air.
She cracked jokes between bites, laughing loudly, while Zen remained calm and polite, quietly enjoying the food. Arisella giggled along with Lyra, clearly fond of her presence. The moment was oddly warm for Zen, a moment he hadn't expected to live.
After lunch, they said goodbye to the princess, who gave them both a quick hug, Arisella whispering, "I'll be cheering for both of you."
Zen and Lyra made their way back to the streets of Velaria, walking under the amber light of afternoon. Their destination: Eboncrest Arcanist's Academy.
At the academy gates, a tall royal knight awaited them, bearing the King's letter of recommendation. He handed it to the gatekeeper, who, upon reading it, bowed his head deeply.
"My deepest apologies for my behavior last time," the gatekeeper said to Zen.
Zen, ever calm, simply nodded. "It's fine."
As they entered the gates of Eboncrest, Zen and Lyra both paused.
The academy grounds stretched endlessly glistening spires of crystal arcane focus towers, magic fountains bubbling with glowing runes, and wide courtyards where students sparred with magical prowess.
"It's like a whole different world," Lyra said, eyes sparkling.
Zen remained quiet but the awe in his eyes spoke volumes.
They followed signs toward the Registration Hall, where a long line of new candidates waited eagerly. Students of all types - some dressed in noble robes, others in battle-worn gear-buzzed with anticipation. Lyra nudged Zen playfully.
"Looks like we're not the only dreamers."
After some waiting, both Zen and Lyra completed their registrations for the Eboncrest Entrance Examination, now officially scheduled for the end of the week—just seven days away.
Evening shadows fell as they returned to the streets, exhausted and hopeful.
Now came the challenge of finding a place to stay.
Every tavern and inn they visited had no available rooms-all booked with examinees from across the nation.
At last, at the Hearthpine Tavern, the elderly keeper looked apologetic. "Sorry, children. Only one room left."
Lyra and Zen looked at each other, instantly flustered.
"O-One room?" Lyra blinked, her voice suddenly tiny.
Zen looked away, scratching the back of his neck. "We don't really have a choice, do we?"
The room cost 12 silver coins per night, a fair rate given the rush.
They took the key and headed upstairs in silence.
The room was simple but cozy-one large bed, a small table, and soft lantern light flickering on the wooden walls. Lyra didn't tease this time. Her cheeks were pink as she placed her bag down and sat on the edge of the bed.
"I'll sleep on the floor," Zen said, taking a pillow.
"You… you don't have to. I can sleep on the floor," Lyra offered.
Zen shook his head. "It's okay. I'm fine."
A knock interrupted the tension. The tavern girl brought them hot stew, bread, and tea.
They ate quietly, occasionally glancing at one another, hearts fluttering.
Later, as the lantern dimmed and Lyra lay in bed watching Zen on the floor, she smiled to herself.
For some reason, this simple silence felt… warm.