The morning sun filtered through the treetops, casting golden rays across the secluded glade behind the academy. Dew still clung to the grass, untouched by footsteps—until Astarotte stepped into the clearing, her breath misting in the crisp air.
She was nervous. Not because of the training, but because of who was waiting.
Serenil.
Her future husband. Her strongest rival. Her silent protector.
He stood near the center of the glade, his long silver hair tied back, his expression serene as ever. Sword sheathed at his side, arms folded. His eyes lit up faintly when he saw her.
"You came," he said softly.
"I said I would," she replied, her tone attempting confidence—but her fluttering heart betrayed her.
Serenil walked toward her, placing a hand gently on her shoulder. "You're serious about becoming stronger?"
"I am," she said, meeting his eyes. "I don't want to hide behind others anymore… I want to stand beside you. As your equal."
His expression softened, just slightly. "Then I'll teach you. Not as your protector—but as your partner."
She nodded, cheeks flushed.
And thus began the most important training of her life.
They started with her basics—movement, stamina, aerial control. Serenil was demanding but never harsh. When she stumbled, he caught her. When her flame spells flared too wild, he gently guided her hands.
"Feel the mana, but don't force it," he said, standing close behind her. "Let it listen to your will, not your fear."
Astarotte could barely concentrate with him so near, his voice low, his presence calming yet overwhelming.
Still, she pushed through. Again and again.
By midday, she collapsed to her knees, panting, wings twitching. "I'm not… cut out for this…"
Serenil crouched beside her. "You are. But strength doesn't bloom in a day, Lotte."
He touched her cheek, brushing away sweat. "I've watched you try to act stronger than you are. But real strength comes from the heart—the part that wants to protect, not prove."
Astarotte blinked, eyes wide.
"I want to protect you," she whispered. "And everyone else. That's why I want to grow."
Serenil smiled—a rare, soft smile that made her heart skip.
"Then you already have."