As Kenneth inserted the keycard to her room and entered her dorm, she was greeted with laughter coming from the kitchen.
Fae and Fletcher were busy preparing lunch as they chatted away, completely unaware of Kenneth's presence. It wasn't until she cleared her throat that the two girls took notice of her.
"Oh my god, Kenneth you're back!" Fletcher yelled in surprise.
"Of course I am, you're acting like you would never see me again." She chuckled.
Fae and Fletcher looked at each other before letting out a sheepish laugh.
"We seriously thought you were a goner. The fact that you made it back in one piece is amazing." Fae said, letting out a sigh of relief.
Kenneth shot her a confused look, not understanding what she was saying.
"Kenneth isn't a Fera so she doesn't know Fae."
A look of realization took over Fae's face. Which confused Kenneth even more.
"Doesn't know what?"
"Well there are rumours that Lucien comes from a powerful family and often doesn't bother associating himself with students below him unless its to kick them out of the Division."
Kenneth raised her brows in surprise. "He's allowed to kick people out?"
"Captain's have a lot of sway in the Academy Kenneth. If they deem a student to be unqualified to become a member of any Division then the school takes their opinion seriously." Fae said.
She knew this from experience since her brother had been a Captain at another academy.
"I see. So not only is he a Captain with a lot of power in the school, but he's also rich huh." Her tone a little solemn.
Though she had only interacted with him once, she didn't get the impression that he was a rich snob who liked to abuse his power.
"Well unlike the rumours, he doesn't seem too bad. A bit strict but definitely not a rich and entitled young master." Fletcher said, trying to lighten the mood.
"Right. I'm glad nothing happened to you." Fae agreed.
"...Speaking of which, what did he want to talk to you about?" Fletcher asked, the curiosity evident in her eyes.
"Oh. He asked me if I would be interested in participating in a tournament that would be taking place in 6 months."
Fletcher looks at her wide eyed while gasping. "Gasp."
The two looked at her than each other. "Did she just gasp while also saying the word gasp out loud?" Fae asked incredulously.
Kenneth let out a low chuckle. "Yeah I believe she did."
Looking at the amused expression on her friend's face made Fletcher's face flush in embarrassment.
"Whatever," She said in a huff. "But that's amazing. Participating in the Isosceles Trials is a surefire way of getting noticed by the Ventures and potentially becoming a member."
"Yeah, I would be surprised if they didn't try to recruit you after seeing you fight like that today. You are a rare talent." Fae complimented.
Kenneth started to feel a little weird by their words of praise especially since this was the first time she could feel that their compliments were genuine.
"T-Thanks." She said suddenly feeling bashful.
Fae and Fletcher looked at each other and they could tell Kenneth was a little embarrassed which instantly changed their perception of her.
She wasn't just a cold and battle hungry girl, she could be a little cute at times too.
"Anyway, do you guys have any more information on the tournament?" She asked them.
"Honestly, I don't know much besides what I just told you. Not a lot of first years know that this tournament is even taking place since they are almost never considered." Fletcher said honestly.
Fae observed their dejected expressions and weighed the decision of whether to reveal this information, knowing it would also expose her family situation. She had only just met these two and felt it might be premature to divulge her life story. However, a part of her yearned to trust them, sensing the potential for a strong friendship to blossom.
So taking a deep breath, she cleared her throat getting the two's attention.
"What's up Fae?" Fletcher asked her.
"Ugh...I have some information about the tournament..."
The two looked at her in surprise. "You do?"
Fae nodded, her expression a complex mix of emotions that didn't escape Kenneth's keen observation. As Kenneth tapped into her empathic abilities, she detected a whirlwind of dread, anxiety, uncertainty, and trust emanating from Fae.
Curiosity piqued, Kenneth wondered what aspect of the tournament could elicit such intense emotions from Fae. A part of her considered dropping the subject altogether, sensing Fae's discomfort. Yet, another, darker and more selfish part of Kenneth yearned for the information Fae possessed about the Isosceles Trials, even if it meant disregarding her feelings.
Caught in an ethical dilemma, Kenneth debated whether to prioritize empathy and respect for Fae's emotions or her own selfish desire for information. While the knowledge Fae held could sway her decision to participate in the trials, Kenneth found herself hesitating, a stark contrast from her usual assertiveness.
"...Fae, you don't need to push yourself into telling us whatever it is you need to say, at least not if its going to cause you so much distress." Kenneth found herself saying which surprised her.
Surprise flickered across Fae's features as she gazed at Kenneth, likely pondering how she had discerned her emotions. A sudden recollection surfaced in Fae's mind— instructor Alexi's mention of Kenneth being an Empath. Though she lacked extensive knowledge about Empaths, she understood their ability to perceive emotions to some degree. This realization shed light on why Kenneth seemed attuned to her hesitation.
As understanding washed over her, Fae felt a sense of gratitude towards Kenneth's consideration, softening her initial surprise. Emboldened by this newfound courage, Fae became more determined to share the information she held.
"It's nothing serious," Fae reassured them. "I happen to have two older brothers who attended Avondale Academy and participated in The Isosceles Trials during their time there. Essentially, it's an assessment where students must qualify to represent their school. Those who qualify then compete in a tournament against other prestigious academies across the continent. While the tournament aims to foster unity among schools, it's no secret that the true competition lies in determining the best school. Avondale held the top spot for the past decade, but in recent years, Toleran has claimed the title for three consecutive years."
"I see. So your brothers are alumni's of Avondale and I guess it didn't sit right with them that you decided to attend Toleran." Fletcher concluded.
"Yeah…they weren't too pleased. I've always lived under the shadow of my brothers for my whole life. I guess a part of me wanted to choose a different path. It was for selfish reasons but I don't think I regret it." She admitted.
"Who exactly participates in this tournament?" Kenneth asked.
"There are three schools entering in each country. We have three academies in Caüs; Toleran, Avondale, and Bessarion. Our neighbouring country, Perilaus has Ourobos, Vaughn and Ambracia." Fae explained.
"And I think Archinus has Cardia, Lawrence and Eretria Academy." Fletcher added.
Fae had a pensive look on her face as if she was checking mentality if Fletcher was correct. After awhile she nodded her head. "You're right."
"I always hated geography growing up but I guess I still remember my studies." Fletcher laughed.
"It would be great if I could participate in the tournament and prove to them that I made the right decisions."
"Well you said that students can apply right? All you need to do is work hard and qualify to enter."
Kenneth said.
The two looked at her with wide eyes.
"You say that as if it's an easy thing to do." Fletcher retorted.
"There haven't been any first years that participated in the tournament for the last three years Kenneth. We may be skilled, but I don't think we have what it takes to enter." Fae added.
"What do you guys have to worry about? You have me. I'll train you all to become so strong, no one will be able to touch you." Kenneth said confidently.
"What?!"