ELLA POV*
I sighed heavily . i guess i should ask elsa where is the infirmary . this pain is weakening me more.
ella had lot in her mind still she had to pass in enrollment test today. she was mediating on the brink of the river determining in her mind " i just need to pass to access the library . the central library inside the academy contain all the history about empire. she got the information from carriage men. when she was on her way to conference hall where all the juries of school were presented . .the path was empty like academy session has ended kinda feeling relieved cause crowd make her tense there were no students except gatekeepers. she clenched her fist before entering the door .
sighing " let just get it "
Among the teachers, Professor Emerson, known for his approachable demeanor and love for history, showed a keen interest in Ella's intelligence. His eyes twinkled as he recognized her potential and encouraged her during the assessment.
However, not everyone was as receptive. Professor Larkin, a stern figure known for his exacting standards, cast a critical eye upon Ella. His rigorous expectations seemed daunting, but Ella was determined to prove herself.
The test, crafted with a mix of logic puzzles, problem-solving tasks, and creative challenges, aimed to gauge the students' potential. As the day unfolded, she found herself not only facing the test but encountering the academy's teaching staff.
after the test ended ella who was crossing her hand out of tension jumped out of happiness when she saw she got good marks.
professor emerson - congratulation not only you got good grades but you are also in high rank.
ella- rank? what's that. Professor Larkin further explained"The academy's classes were divided into different ranks, reflecting students' aptitude and progress". twelve classes -first rank has five classes , 2nd has 3 class , 3rd rank has 2 . .while 4th rank has two classes . and between that two class you are on final class last year of academy. you will evaluate by teachers in class if they want you to change rank we will do so.
ella understood that professor was still wary of her.
Days turned into weeks, and Ella's journey of learning began. The classes were challenging, yet exhilarating. Professor Emerson's teachings resonated with her, igniting a thirst for knowledge and understanding. On the other hand, Professor Larkin's critical eye pushed her to excel, transforming her initial apprehension into a driving force.
In the midst of her studies, One afternoon, as Sage and Professor Emerson led her on a tour of the academy's facilities, they encountered Arkin. This time, both Ella and Arkin skillfully avoided direct eye contact, opting for a polite exchange of greeting.
Arkin's guards, however, were taken aback by Ella's presence in a higher-ranking class. Their curiosity led them to question her, valor" blue uniform with twelve stars. how you get that ??? got arkin attention.
finely (new promoted as guard)" what is that?"
valor" your get star according to class and you get promoted to class according to your intelligence. 12 stars means she have have enough knowledge to get into last year . you will understand after you go through evaluation.
prompting Arkin to intervene with a simple order to cease their inquiries.
Sage, ever observant, detected an underlying connection between Ella and Arkin. With a twinkle in his eyes, he devised a plan. "Arkin, would you mind taking Ella on a tour? Show her the various fields of study she might be interested in."
Arkin's surprise was masked by a nod of agreement" she hasn't slected her field yet?". As they embarked on the tour, arkin was seeing her from top thinking she is so small. ella can realise he was staring at her . out of embarrassment she asked " which type of field are here?"
arkin " battling, fighting, horticulture , medical whatever you want?"
As the sun began to set, casting a warm orange hue across the sky, they found themselves standing side by side in the field of flower beside academy, the unspoken bond between them growing stronger. ella" well maybe i will choose herbal medicine"
arkin smiled at her" it is great choice"
With a smile that carried both warmth and sadness, Ella finally broke the silence. "Thank you for the tour, Lord Arkin. It's been enlightening."
Arkin's gaze cannot met hers, his hazel eyes reflecting a depth of emotions. "You're welcome, Ella. I hope your time at the academy brings you fulfillment."
As they exchanged a final farewell, neither dared to meet the other's gaze. Their unspoken connection lingered in the air, a bridge between their worlds. And as the sun dipped below the horizon, Ella walked away, her heart a whirlwind of emotions, while Arkin remained, his thoughts entwined with a past yet to be revealed.