Inside, the atmosphere changed. The Headmaster sat behind a grand desk, his gaze steady and knowing. A few professors flanked him, their faces a mix of curiosity and silent judgment.
As we stood before the headmaster, the air felt stifling, the weight of unspoken judgment pressing upon us. Abel, standing a step behind me as if to shield himself from my gaze, stammered through his explanation. "It—it was my fault, Headmaster," he confessed, his voice trembling. "I... I spoke out of turn during the duel."
The headmaster's eyes narrowed as he considered Abel's words, a flicker of doubt passing over his stern features. The other instructors exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued by this unexpected turn of events. I could feel the tension thickening in the room, every breath drawn in anticipation of the headmaster's response.
This might actually be a decent opportunity for me.
Abel was about to face the consequences—suspension, most likely—but I took a step forward, my tone measured and calm. "If I may, Headmaster," I interjected, a faint smile touching my lips. "There is no need for punishment. It would be unfair for Lord Abel to bear all the blame."
Meeting the headmaster's gaze, I allowed a faint smile to touch my lips. "It would not benefit the academy to foster discord over such a trifling matter," I replied, my voice calm and unwavering. "We are here to uphold the honour of our houses and pursue our studies diligently. Let us not be sidetracked by an unfortunate misunderstanding. I was not harmed, and it was merely a spirited exchange."
The Headmaster's expression shifted into a knowing smirk. "Very well," he said, nodding. "If that is your desire, Lady Verena, then Lord Abel's suspension will be lifted."
A murmur of surprise rippled through the other instructors. Abel glanced at me, bewildered by my intervention. I met his gaze, my own steady and unwavering. "You wouldn't want anyone to think that I'm evil, would you?" I remarked, my voice laced with a faint amusement that masked the deeper satisfaction of manipulating the situation to my advantage.
As we were dismissed, Abel trailed a step behind me, careful not to get too close, as if he feared that even my shadow might carry some unseen threat. The whispers began almost immediately as we stepped back into the hall, students exchanging curious glances and murmured speculations about my supposed "kindness."
__________
The sprawling grounds of the academy buzzed with life, sunlight spilling over the manicured lawns and the elegant stone pathways. I watched as students strolled by, laughter and chatter weaving a vibrant tapestry of youthful energy. Yet amidst the revelry, my attention was drawn solely to her—Verena.
As she moved gracefully through the courtyard, I couldn't help but admire how effortlessly she captured the attention of those around her. Suddenly, a group of young ladies approached her, their faces bright with enthusiasm. I leaned closer, straining to hear their chatter.
"Lady Verena, your performance in class yesterday was simply remarkable! And how kind of you to spare Lord Abel from punishment!" one of them gushed, her voice practically bubbling with admiration.
Verena smiled graciously, the kind of smile that masked her true thoughts. I knew better than to believe her modesty; there was a fierce spirit beneath that charming façade. As the ladies continued to fawn over her, praising her kindness and her bravery in defending Abel, I noticed a few young men lingering nearby, their gazes sharp and filled with intent. One in particular took a step toward her, and a sense of protectiveness flared in my chest.
Before he could reach her, I stepped in between them, my tone firm yet courteous. "Forgive me, gentlemen, but I believe Lady Verena has other engagements," I announced, positioning myself as her shield against unwelcome attention.
"Lucian!" Verena exclaimed, surprise flickering across her features, quickly replaced by amusement.
I turned to her, a teasing glint in my eye. "What did you do to earn such attention?" I asked, genuinely curious.
"Oh my, young Lord Lucian, are you doubting this sweet, innocent, and kind lady?" she replied, her tone dripping with mock innocence.
Her laughter rang out, light and carefree, easing the tension I had felt moments earlier. But before we could continue our banter, Master Eryx approached, his expression serious, cutting through our moment of levity.
I exchanged a knowing look with Verena, curiosity bubbling within me. The playfulness of our earlier exchange faded as I wondered what awaited her. This academy had a way of throwing unexpected challenges her way, and I would be right by her side to face them, no matter the cost.
"Lady Verena, a moment, if you please," he called, his voice authoritative.