Later that night, the five boys gathered again—this time on the academy rooftop, a usual spot for quiet reflection. The moonlight bathed the garden in silver as the wind carried the scent of jasmine.
"Politics aside…" Robert said, reclining on the tiles, "...you're basically married now. That's terrifying."
"Not yet," Serenil replied. "It's an engagement. Formal ceremonies are years away."
Jon looked over. "Still, things will change."
"Yes," Serenil admitted. "But not between us."
Ned, standing near the edge with hands clasped behind his back, gave a short nod. "Good. Because you'll need people you trust. The Beastkin Confederacy is watching you now. So are your enemies."
Peter grinned darkly. "If any of them make a move, I'll make sure they regret it."
Robert yawned. "Yeah, yeah. I'll help too. But only after breakfast."
"You've already eaten four times today," Jon said.
"Growing wolf, remember?"
Peter rolled his eyes. "In every direction, apparently."
The group chuckled.
Serenil stood quietly, eyes scanning the horizon. "Thank you… all of you. For trusting me."
Ned turned, his tone soft. "We don't follow you because of your title, Serenil. We follow you because we believe in you."
Robert added, "And because I need someone to get me out of trouble when I flirt with a dragon girl."
Peter smirked. "Or incite one."
Jon nodded. "We're with you. No matter what."
Serenil gave a rare, faint smile. "Then I'll carry this burden—not alone, but with you at my side."
The wind carried their silent oath into the night. No sigils, no magic, no contracts—just five boys, bound by loyalty, sharpening themselves for the future to come.
Together.