Academy Dorms - My Room

February 14th — 9:52 AM

Perspective: Elfie

The sun was too bright.

It cut straight through the gaps in the curtains, hitting my eyes like a physical tap. I blinked, squinting at the ceiling.

9:52 am.

I overslept.

I rolled over, my arms instantly reaching for the other side of the bed. My fingers wrapped around a soft, familiar shape.

Kai.

I pulled it close, burying my face in the warmth. I kissed it once, twice, and then bit down on the edge, hard enough to sink my teeth in.

It tasted like dry cotton.

I opened my eyes. It was my spare pillow. I let go of it, spitting out a stray thread, and sat up with a heavy sigh.

It doesn’t taste like him at all.

I stretched, my bones popping in the quiet room. February 14th. The air was cold, but the campus was already buzzing with a strange, high-frequency energy that I could feel even through the glass.

I reached for my Dwarvian phone on the nightstand.

The screen lit up.

52 notifications.

I stared at the blinking light, my mind going completely blank for 3 seconds.

52?

I scrolled down. Every single message was from a boy. Some were from Class C, but most were from Class A and Class B. Names I didn’t even recognize.

xX_DarkWolf_Alpha_Xx: Happy Valentine’s Day, my moon goddess! I have prepared a ritual of love...

Danial_Danger_2.0: Rep, if you are free today, I found a bakery that imports elven sugar...

Hareth_V: The stars aligned today. Meet me by the fountain...

I locked the phone and threw it back onto the bed.

They are all insane.

I got up, heading to the washroom to brush my teeth. I combed my hair, pulling the flyaway pink strands back into a high ponytail. It bounced against my neck as I moved.

I opened my wardrobe and pulled out the pink peasant dress. 𝒻𝑟ℯℯ𝑤𝑒𝑏𝑛𝘰𝓋𝑒𝓁.𝒸𝑜𝘮

It was soft, with delicate lace along the collar and a skirt that flared slightly at the knees. Kai had bought it for me 1 week ago.

We had been walking through the Commercial District after his tavern shift. I had stopped in front of the boutique window, staring at the dress for maybe a bit. I hadn’t said anything.

Kai had simply looked at the dress, looked at me, and then dragged me inside by the wrist.

"It matches your cuteness." he had told the clerk, dumping a pile of silver onto the counter before I could even argue.

He called it a minor expense.

But he bought it for me...

I pulled the dress over my head, smoothing the fabric down. I slid the Sea of the Heart ring onto my left ring finger. The blue gems caught the light, protecting the pink heart in the center.

I looked in the mirror. My face was flushed, my blue eyes bright and steady.

I look pretty today.

I want Kai to see.

I unlocked my door and sprinted down the hallway, stopping right in front of Room 306. I knocked on the wood, my knuckles tapping a quick, familiar rhythm.

No one answered.

I tried the handle. It was locked.

I pouted, my shoulders dropping.

He left already.

I wanted to be the first person he saw.

I pulled out my phone and checked his status. Offline. Phone switched off.

Of course it is.

He probably knew the dorms would be a warzone today.

I walked down the stairs and stepped out into the courtyard. The winter wind was crisp, rustling the bare branches of the trees. I walked slowly, waving politely at a few classmates who stared at me with wide eyes.

"Good morning, Representative." a boy from our class whispered, his face turning bright red as I passed.

I smiled normally.

I just want to find Kai.

"Elfina!"

A loud, dramatic voice echoed from behind. I froze, my smile straining at the edges.

I turned around.

It was Axel.

He was wearing a massive, double-breasted black trench coat with silver chains dangling from the lapels. In his hands, he held a bouquet of blood-red roses so large it covered his chest, alongside a heart-shaped box wrapped in black ribbon.

"Ah, my moon goddess!" Axel took a long, sweeping step forward, his black eyes wide and completely unfocused. "I have been waiting by the path since 7:00 am!"

"Axel." I said, keeping my voice polite. "Why are you wearing that?"

"This is the armor of the lone wolf. A representation of my dark soul." He thrust the flowers forward. "Accept these. They are red, like the blood of my enemies. And these chocolates are filled with the sweet essence of my eternal devotion."

He is so embarrassing.

I want to sink into the dirt.

"I’m sorry, Axel. I can’t accept this."

"Why?" Axel gasped, his eyes widening further. "Did the commoner get to you first? Did Kaiser dare to taint your purity before the sun rose?"

"Kai hasn’t given me anything."

"Aha!" Axel threw his head back, a triumphant grin breaking across his face. "The heavens favor the protagonist! Kaiser was too slow! My catch!"

"I’m only refusing because I don’t want to lead you on." I said, taking half a step back. "And Kai is... different."

I’m only being nice because he protected Kai in the dungeon.

But why is he so persistent?

"Step aside, dog."

A massive shadow fell over us. Daniel stepped onto the path, his huge frame bulging against a tight, sleeveless vest. He was holding a giant chocolate bar wrapped in gold foil.

"She needs a real man, Axel." Daniel grunted. "Not a boy who dresses like a coat hanger."

"You are wearing a vest in winter, Daniel." Roman said, walking up behind him. He had a rose clamped between his teeth and was tossing a pebble. "Your muscles are literally blue. You are shivering."

"It is suffocatingly hot!" Daniel yelled, his face turning red. "My passion and love are burning at 100 degrees!"

"It is 2 degrees outside." Roman deadpanned. "Elfina, don’t listen to them. I have imported elven mints. They are sophisticated. Just like your feet."

I blinked.

"My... what?"

"He means your presence!" Axel shouted, pointing a finger at Roman.

"Liar! You are the one who texted her about her feet! You are a pervert!"

"It was a mistype! You were the wingman!" Axel snapped.

"I have to go." I said, smiling politely as I took 3 steps backward. "Good luck with your... conversation."

I turned and ran.

"Wait! Elfina!"

All three of them started sprinting after me, their heavy boots slamming against the stone path.

Someone save me.

I sprinted toward the library, my pink skirt fluttering.

"Step back, Class C trash."

A sudden gust of wind erupted in front of me, swirling into a thick cloud of white smoke. I stopped, coughing slightly as the mist cleared.

2 older boys (14-15) stood in the path, blocking Axel, Daniel, and Roman.

One was an elf with silver hair, wearing an expensive suit. The other was a tall demon with dark horns and a relaxed, arrogant posture.

"She is far out of your league." the elf said.

"Go back to playing in the dirt, children." the demon added.

"Class B elites?" Axel growled, skidding to a halt. "You want to steal my mate?"

"I’ll break your horns!" Daniel roared, lifting his fists.

The elf clapped his hands. "Ventus!"

The smoke exploded again, completely wrapping around me. Before I could cast a shield, I felt a gentle pulling sensation. The courtyard vanished.

When the mist cleared, I was standing in a quiet, empty courtyard near the academic halls.

I dusted off my pink dress, catching my breath.

"Thank you," I said, looking at the 2 older boys. "You saved me."

The elf bowed elegantly, pulling a box of silver-wrapped chocolates from his sleeve. "I am Hareth Vaelen. And this is Stolas Malakor."

The demon, Stolas, smirked, producing a dark, glowing box. "Please accept our feelings instead."

Are you kidding me?

They didn’t save me to help.

They just wanted to clear the competition.

What the hell?

"Aren’t we in different classes?" I asked, my voice dropping its sweet tone. "We are supposed to be enemies."

"Love is a bridge over the chasm of class rivalries," Hareth said, his voice rising in a poetic cadence. "The silver of the moon does not care which valley it illuminates, Elfina."

That was the worst poem I have ever heard.

"I don’t care about the rules." Stolas said, leaning against the stone pillar. "You look younger, but you carry yourself with the grace of a queen. You’re the most beautiful girl in this academy."

"Why do you even like me?!" I asked, crossing my arms. "You don’t know me."

"You cleared the dungeon in 9 minutes." Hareth said, his eyes shining. "That is not Class C power. That is divinity. Class B would suit you much better than those fools."

"You threatened Milo Sterling with a double ritual circle." Stolas added. "I like girls who can kill me."

They are both completely crazy.

"I’m sorry." I said, backing away toward the edge of the courtyard. "I have to find someone."

I turned and bolted down the stairs before they could reach out.

"Elfina, wait!" Hareth called.

Someone save me.

Why does every boy in this school want to ask me out today?

I only want one person’s chocolate.

And he is offline.

I ran toward the back of the campus, avoiding the main paths. In the distance, I could see a crowd of boys gathering near the fountain, looking around expectantly.

They are looking for me.

I veered left, ducking into a narrow, quiet alleyway between the old dormitory and the storage shed. The ground was littered with dry leaves and discarded wooden crates.

I heard footsteps behind me. Hareth and Stolas were still following.

I looked around frantically.

Near a pile of trash, there was an abandoned wooden closet, its paint peeling and 1 door hanging slightly off its hinges.

I didn’t think. I grabbed the handle, slipped inside the dark space, and pulled the door shut.

It was pitch black. The smell of old wood and dust filled my nose. I held my breath, listening to the footsteps fading in the distance.

"Hello, Elfina."

A quiet, amused voice spoke from the darkness beside me.

I jumped, my heart slamming against my ribs.

I looked to my left. 2 blue eyes were glowing in the dark, reflecting a small, faint trace of light.

It was Rose Valentine.

"Kya!" I shrieked. "Rose?! What are you doing here?!"

*

Commercial District — Ironbark Way

February 14th — 11:32 AM

Perspective: Kaiser Everhart

Even raw blocks of birch wood cost more than my daily food budget.

Why was I born into poverty?

If I had a wealthy girlfriend, I could simply request a grant. But no. I am poor.

I sighed, adjusting the rough canvas sack slung over my shoulder.

Inside the bag was a fresh birch log. I had been forced to rent a rusty iron axe from the academy depot for 2 copper coins just to fell a dry tree in the Whispering Clearing myself. It was the only way to avoid the local lumber markup.

The streets of Ironbark Way were congested with pink banners, floating heart balloons, and couples holding hands at a snail’s pace.

I stopped in front of a small, cramped storefront with a faded wooden sign.

Gideon’s Carpentry.

The air inside was thick with the scent of pine oil, sawdust, and turpentine. An elderly man with thick spectacles and a leather apron was sitting behind a counter, scraping a chisel against a whetstone.

I walked up to the counter and dropped my birch log.

"Good morning. I need to use your lathe and carving chisels for 30 minutes."

The shopkeeper didn’t look up. "Rental is 5 copper coins. No exceptions."

"Your grinding wheel is misaligned by 5 degrees," I said, pointing to the stone wheel in the corner. "And your flat gouges are dull because you are sharpening them at an incorrect angle. I can correct your wheel’s grit ratio and recalibrate your tools in 10 minutes if you give me 30 minutes of bench time."

The man slowly lifted his head, squinting at me through his thick lenses. "A student thinks he can teach a craftsman?"

"If you prefer to split your timber along the grain due to poor tool maintenance, that is your business," I said, keeping my face completely flat. "Most traditionalists prefer slow, inefficient labor. It makes them feel authentic."

He scowled, his grip tightening on his chisel. "You have a big mouth, kid."

"I have observant eyes. The offer stands."

He stared at me for 3 seconds, then his gaze drifted down to my left wrist. He frowned at the bright pink ribbon tied in a neat bow.

"What is that?" the man asked. "Some kind of school uniform?"

"It is a ribbon," I explained. "It indicates to other females that my chocolate capacity is locked. It prevents unwanted social interactions."

"A curse?"

"A curse to some. To me, it is a necessity."

The shopkeeper grunted, leaning back. "You seem like a boy who values intellect. Let me ask you a riddle. A prisoner is locked in a cell. Outside, just out of his reach, lies a loaf of bread and the key to his cell. He has a stick long enough to reach either. He chooses the bread. Why?"

"Because bread tastes better than key."

The shopkeeper stared. "What?"

The shopkeeper’s jaw remained slightly open. He stared at me for another 5 seconds, then slowly gestured to the back of the shop.

"Bench number 3," he muttered. "Tools are on the rack. 1 copper."

I slid a single copper coin onto the wood and carried my log to the back.

Bullshit logic always prevails.

I set the birch log on the bench, picked up a carving knife, and closed my eyes to visualize the design.

It was a celestial star. A small, 5-pointed star surrounded by a slender, curving ring, which connected directly to a larger outer ring that held another, smaller star. A double-star ring.

I opened my eyes and made the 1st cut.

The knife slipped. A large chunk of wood sheared off the side.

My skills are supposed to be top-tier.

Yet I have just decapitated the star’s top point.

I threw the piece into the scrap bin, cut another block from the log, and tried again.

On the 2nd attempt, the outer ring snapped under the chisel’s pressure.

Birch wood is too brittle for this thickness. I must adjust the design.

On the 4th attempt, the carving looked like a deformed potato.

I am an academic fraud.

On the 7th attempt, the wood splintered right down the middle because I ignored the grain.

Perhaps I should just buy a plastic toy from the Commercial District.

No. Elfie would notice.

On the 8th attempt, I applied too much torque and snapped the connector piece.

Calm down. Treat it like a surgery. That’s easier... or is it?

I took a deep breath, adjusted my grip, and slowly shaved the wood line by line. On the 9th attempt, the shape finally emerged. The double-star ring sat in my palm, smooth and perfectly balanced, the rings interlocking without breaking.

I brushed the sawdust off my trousers and exited the shop.

It was 12:00 PM. The sun was directly overhead, heating the cold winter air.

Now I need a gemstone to set into the center.

I walked down the busy street of Ironbark Way, navigating through crowds of students holding colorful bags.

"Kaiser?"

A sweet, cheerful voice called out.

I turned around.

Scarlet Hearst was standing by the entrance of a boutique, a warm smile on her face.

She looked different today. She was wearing a navy blue Bardot dress that sat off her shoulders, exposing her collarbones, and her red hair was styled in a waterfall half-ponytail. She carried a small, cream-colored shoulder bag.

She looked exceptionally beautiful.

"What a coincidence," Scarlet said, taking a few steps toward me. "How are you doing today, Kaiser?"

I stared at her, noting the dress’s fabric quality and her posture.

"Why are you staring?" she asked, her cheeks turning slightly pink.

"I was just mesmerized," I said, my voice completely blunt. "Your stunning beauty. You look like an angel today, Scarlet."

Scarlet gasped, her hands flying to her face as her cheeks turned a deep crimson. "K-Kaiser! How can you say things like that so casually?"

"It’s the truth." I said. "The navy blue contrast is very attractive."

"You’re... you’re too honest," she whispered, looking down at her boots before smiling up at me again. "What are you doing here on Redwood Street? Are you shopping for someone?"

She tilted her head, her red eyes shifting down to my left wrist. She narrowed her eyes slightly, staring at the pink ribbon.

"And... what is that on your wrist?"

"This is a containment marker," I said, lifting my arm. "Elfie tied it to prevent other girls from giving me chocolates. Not that anyone would, but it saves me the effort of refusing."

"I see." Scarlet said, her smile returning, though her eyes remained cool. "So Elfina is keeping you all to herself today. She must be very possessive."

"It is her usual behavior." I said, lowering my arm. "I am actually busy. See you later."

I turned to walk away.

"I’m going the same way!" Scarlet said, quickly catching up and walking beside me. "Let’s walk together."

I do not recall asking for a companion.

But she is rich. If I need a loan, keeping her close is beneficial.

"The weather is quite nice today," Scarlet said, looking up at the sky. "Everyone is so busy. The boys in Class C have been running around since morning trying to buy gifts."

"They lack pride and decency." I said.

"You know, Elfina is very popular now," Scarlet continued, her tone conversational but careful. "She’s the top beauty of the class. Aren’t you worried that a lot of boys will give her chocolates today?"

I smirked, looking ahead. "That is amazing. They should all know her grace. It saves me the trouble of telling them."

Scarlet blinked, a flash of surprise crossing her face. "Wow. You’re very confident, Kaiser."

"It is not confidence. It is a calculation." I said.

She giggled, a sweet, clear sound. "And what about you? Do you think you’ll get any chocolate today?"

"Doubtful. I am considered below average."

"Maybe you just need to wait," Scarlet said, looking at me sideways. "The girls might just be too shy to approach you."

I looked at her. Her dress was perfectly tailored, the fabric looking expensive.

She is my ticket to financial stability.

If I married her, my research would be fully funded for 50 years.

My smirk widened.

"What is it?" Scarlet asked, tilting her head.

"My bank—I mean, Scarlet, I was just stunned again by your adorable outfit. Truly, it looks beautiful on you."

Scarlet’s face flushed red again, and she covered her face with her hands. "You already said that! Stop teasing me!"

I looked back forward, my expression returning to neutral.

I have a job to perform today.

And the gemstone shop is 2 blocks away.

*

Aethelgard Overlook — Capital Outskirts

February 14th — 12:20 PM

Perspective: Elfie

The wind here smelled like cold earth and pine needles.

The grass was vibrant green, defying the winter frost due to the geothermal heat rising from the deep valleys below. Near the edge of the cliff sat a single, weathered wooden bench, looking out over a vast, quiet valley surrounded by distant, snow-capped mountains.

It was completely silent. No screaming boys, no floating balloons, and no dramatic wolf declarations.

I took a deep breath, letting the clean air fill my lungs.

I am finally safe.

"It is beautiful, isn’t it?" Rose said, walking over to the wooden bench. "Please, sit."

I walked over and sat down on the edge of the wood, smoothing the skirt of my pink dress. "Thank you, Princess."

"You don’t need to call me that," she said, sitting beside me with her usual, effortless grace. "We are fellow students of the academy. ’Rose’ is sufficient."

"Alright. Rose."

I looked at her sideways. Even after running through dirty alleys and climbing into a dusty closet, her blonde hair was perfectly neat, and her blue eyes were bright and calm.

How does she look so clean?

I feel like I have dust in my hair.

"I did not expect the Class C Representative to jump into the same storage closet," Rose said, a small, amused smile playing on her lips. "I was merely hiding from my own class’s persistent suitors."

"I was being hunted by Axel, Daniel, and Roman," I said, sighing as I leaned back. "Then 2 Class B boys showed up and tried to carry me off using smoke magic. It was a disaster."

"A disaster indeed. I heard Axel shouting about his dark soul and eternal mates from the alley."

"I am so sorry. The boys in my class can be... very loud."

"You don’t need to apologize," Rose said, looking out over the valley. "Class A is no better. I was stopped by 12 different boys before 9:00 am. It was exhausting."

"Only 12? I had 52 notifications on my phone before I even got out of bed."

Rose giggled, a soft, pleasant sound. "A popular leader has many burdens. Did you give any chocolates in return today?"

"No. I didn’t want to lead anyone on. What about you?"

"I did," Rose said. "I gave a box to everyone in my class."

"Everyone?"

"Yes. Boys and girls alike. As their representative, it is my responsibility to ensure morale remains high. A small token of appreciation keeps the group unified and motivated."

She is so pretty and smart.

And she actually thinks about things like that.

I just wanted to lock my door and stay with Kai.

"I am surprised you didn’t do the same, Elfina," Rose continued, turning her head to look at me. "Though, with your Rank 0 status and dungeon accomplishments, you don’t need minor strategies to maintain your leadership. Your strength is enough."

"I was just low on money," I muttered, looking down at my shoes.

Rose smiled, her eyes crinkling slightly. "A very practical reason."

We sat in silence for a moment, watching a hawk glide over the green valley below.

"Where are we, exactly?" I asked, looking at the distant towns.

"This is the Aethelgard Overlook," Rose explained. "I read about it in a historical geography text, but I had never had the opportunity to visit. Your spatial magic is phenomenal. To open a portal of this distance without a physical catalyst... you are incredibly gifted."

"Its only use today was saving us from being chased," I said.

"A very noble use. With your looks and status, I imagine you have many admirers."

"Not as many as you. You’re the princess."

"Perhaps," Rose said, her voice dropping slightly. "Although, 1 boy actually returned my gift."

I blinked, turning to look at her. "Returned it? Who?"

"Lucas Reindhardt."

"I don’t think I know him."

"The lion does not turn around when the small dog barks," Rose said, her tone carrying a trace of dry amusement.

"Ah," I said, the memory clicking. "The boy who wears a hood and sunglasses indoors. Yes, I remember him now."

"Exactly him. He handed the box back to me and said: ’The lion does not accept offerings from those beneath him. It would be an insult to his pride.’"

I stared at her for a second, and then I burst out laughing.

"Ahahaha! Seriously? He actually said that?"

"Yes," Rose said, nodding deadpan. "I told him it was a simple classmate gift, and he replied: ’The lion does not concern himself with the opinions of those who bring him chocolate.’"

"He is completely insane!" I said, wiping a tear from my eye.

"Indeed. When I pointed out that it was high-quality dark chocolate, he said: ’The lion’s palate is refined. He prefers the taste of victory.’"

"Did he actually use ’the lion’ in every sentence?"

"Yes. He also claimed that sugar is a weakness of the flesh, and a true predator only feeds on the strength of his adversaries."

"I hope he never tries to talk to Kai," I said, still giggling. "Kai would probably tell him he is a house cat."

Rose smiled, her blue eyes reflecting the bright sky. "Probably. Kaiser is... unique."

She paused, her expression shifting from relaxed amusement to a more structured, professional calm.

"But as pleasant as this escape is, we cannot stay here forever. I also wanted to talk to you about the next exam."

"The 2nd Monthly test?" I asked, my giggles fading.

"Yes," Rose said. "As representatives of Class A and Class C, we should go over a few details. Specifically, regarding Class B."

"Class B?" I asked, looking at her. "What about them?"

"They are planning a coordinated assault," Rose said. "They want to eliminate the leaders first."

*

Commercial District — Redwood Street

February 14th — 12:44 PM

Perspective: Kaiser Everhart

An open-air gemstone stall sat near the corner of the market, its velvet display cases catching the midday sun.

Scarlet walked beside me, her hands clasped behind her back as I approached the counter. The merchant, a middle-aged man wearing an velvet vest, was polishing a ruby with a silk cloth.

I looked through the glass case, pointing at a small pink gem. "How much for the pink one?"

"45 silver," the merchant said, barely looking up. "It is a fire-heart crystal. Attuned to warmth."

"There is a hairline crack right through the cleavage plane," I said, leaning closer. "10 copper."

"10 copper?!" The merchant gasped, dropping his cloth. "That is insulting! It took weeks to mine that stone!"

"It took weeks because your tools are dull," I said. "12 copper, and I will ignore the fact that it is off-color."

"Off-color?! That is the natural hue!"

"It looks like strawberry juice that sat in the sun too long," I said, keeping my voice calm and steady. "15 copper."

"Get away from my stall!"

"What about the green one?" I asked, pointing to a cloudy emerald. "30 silver."

"70 silver!" the merchant yelled, his face turning red. "It is earth-attuned!"

"It’s cloudy," I said. "It looks like a dried pea. 20 copper."

"Are you here to buy or to mock my livelihood?!"

"I’m trying to make a fair deal," I said. "Look at this diamond. It’s beautiful. But 30 gold is crazy. 25 copper."

"30 gold is the market price for a pure spatial diamond!"

"It’s a glass bead," I said, tapping the display glass. "I can smell the furnace on it. 30 copper."

"Get out!" the merchant roared, pointing a trembling finger toward the street.

I sighed, turning away from the counter. "I am trying to buy a gemstone, not a bomb to destroy the Asura empire. Why the hell are they so expensive?!"

Scarlet giggled, walking beside me as we stepped back onto the main path. "What are you going to do now?"

"I’m going to rent a pickaxe and go mining for a few hours," I said.

"Isn’t that too difficult?" Scarlet asked, her eyes wide with concern. "You’re just a student!"

"I’m multitalented," I said.

"Kaiser!"

A sweet, familiar voice called out from behind.

I turned around.

Before I could say anything, a small, rich piece of chocolate was popped directly into my mouth.

Leena was standing in front of me, a bright, cheerful smile on her face. Her green hair was styled in a beautiful waterfall braid, and a neat ribbon was tied to the side. She wore a soft cream-colored sweater dress.

Rigel stood right behind her, his hands in his pockets, his eyebrow raised in utter confusion. Beside me, Scarlet froze, her expression turning completely blank.

I swallowed the chocolate.

"Why the chocolate jumpscare?" I asked.

"I messaged you, but you’ve been offline the entire day!" Leena said, her face flushing slightly. "I finally found you!"

"Aren’t you on a date with Rigel?" I asked, looking between them. "Why feed me chocolate?"

"It’s nothing like that!" Leena stammered, her face turning redder. "I was going to give chocolate to Rigel, you, and Elfie. But I can’t find Elfie anywhere."

"She is busy being swarmed by suitors," I said. "She probably teleported to the high mountains to escape."

"Yes," Leena said. "Say aah."

"Aah," I said.

Leena popped another piece of chocolate into my mouth.

Rigel stared at me, his eyes wide. Scarlet’s jaw tightened slightly, her eyes narrowing as she watched Leena brush a stray crumb from my chin.

This chocolate is actually delicious.

It has a hint of orange zest.

I swallowed and looked at Rigel. "My best friend!"

I stepped forward and wrapped my arms around him in a tight hug.

"My god, get off me," Rigel grunted, trying to push me away. "You smell like sawdust."

"I smell like hard labor and devotion," I said, releasing him but keeping a hand on his shoulder. "Rigel, my brother, I need a small favor."

"No."

"I haven’t even asked yet."

"You’re hugging me, which means you want money," Rigel said. "The answer is no."

"It’s a temporary loan," I said. "Just 30 gold coins."

"Thirty gold?!" Rigel shouted, attracting looks from passing students. "Are you trying to buy a house?!"

"I’m trying to buy a diamond. For science."

"Science doesn’t cost 30 gold coins," Rigel deadpanned. "What are you actually doing?"

"I’m inventing a device that will revolutionize how Class C handles exams," I said. "Trust me. I’ll pay you back in 2 weeks."

"You don’t even have 2 copper coins, Kaiser."

"A minor detail. Come on, Rigel. Where is your class spirit?"

Rigel crossed his arms, his temple twitching. "My class spirit doesn’t extend to funding your delusions."

"Why do you need such an expensive gem, Kaiser?" Leena asked.

"It’s a critical component," I explained. "Regular glass won’t hold the magic."

Leena then noticed Scarlet standing beside me, her eyes widening. "Are you... on a date with Scarlet?"

"No!" Scarlet said quickly, her face turning red as she waved her hands. "We just coincidentally met on Redwood Street. I was shopping, and Kaiser was... looking at wood."

Scarlet shifted her gaze to Leena, her smile returning but her voice carrying a subtle, sharp edge. "But why do you two seem so close?"

"We’re good friends," Leena said, looking up at me. "Kaiser helped me a lot."

"Yes, of course we are." I said.

I turned back to the gemstone stall, pointing at the diamond in the display case.

"2 copper coins for the diamond," I called out to the merchant.

The gem seller turned deep purple, his veins popping on his forehead as he glared at me.

Rigel rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Why the hell do you want such expensive gems? They don’t help in battle."

"It’s for science," I said. "For my next invention."

I looked at Rigel again. "So, the loan?"

"I have never had that much money in my life." Rigel said.

"You’re my opp," I said. "You never help me when it counts."

"I gave you 10 silvers just few days ago!" Rigel yelled, throwing his hands up.

"A true friend would have given me gold." I said.

I turned to Leena, putting on my most helpless expression. "Leena, you’re my only hope. Help me."

"What can I do?" Leena asked, looking confused. "I don’t have 30 gold coins either."

"You can do many things. Such as help me find a diamond." I said, leaning closer with a small smile.

"I don’t know how." Leena admitted.

"I do."

"Then I’ll help you!"

"Here is the plan," I whispered, leaning in so the merchant wouldn’t hear. "You use your ice magic to freeze the shopkeeper solid. I will grab the display cases. We run, sell the rest of the gems, and keep the diamond. We split the profit 50-50."

Leena’s eyes lit up, and she nodded enthusiastically. "Okie! Let’s do that!"

"Absolutely not," Rigel said, stepping between us and the counter. "Both of you, stop right now."

"Kaiser, that is an obvious crime!" Scarlet added, her voice high and flustered. "And Leena, why are you agreeing to robbery so easily?!"

"Rigel, you are a demotivator," I said, sighing. "We were just about to secure our financial future."

"I don’t want my class to be seen as a bunch of criminals," Rigel grunted, crossing his arms.

He then looked at my left wrist. "Wait. What is that pink ribbon?"

Leena leaned closer, her green eyes shining. "Oh! It is so cute!"

"I just love the color pink," I said. "That’s why I wore it."

"Source trust me." Rigel deadpanned.

I sighed, realizing the heist was compromised. I looked down at the stone path, spotted a small, smooth grey pebble near my shoe, and picked it up, slipping it into my pocket.

"Fine. I will just ask Elfie to make this rock into a diamond."

All 3 of them froze, staring at me.

"Elfina can do that?" Scarlet asked, her brow furrowing.

"Yes, of course," I said. "Elfie can do pretty much anything."

"That’s my friend for you!" Leena laughed.

She and I shared a quick laugh, while Rigel and Scarlet looked completely clueless.

"I don’t want to keep you busy, Leena," I said. "Enjoy the day."

"Thank you, Kaiser!" Leena smiled, popping another chocolate into my mouth. "Take care."

She turned to Rigel. "Let’s go, Rigel."

Rigel looked back at me.

"So, about that 30 gold?" I asked.

"No." Rigel turned and immediately ran down the street with Leena.

I turned and began walking down Redwood Street, Scarlet following close behind.

"Can she really make a rock into a diamond?" Scarlet asked, walking beside me.

"Elfie is the type of person who can make water from thin air," I explained. "While I am the type of person who will sell that same water to a drowning man for 2 times the price. We are the best pair."

Scarlet blinked. "Wow."

She didn’t argue, continuing to follow me through the busy market lanes.

*

Commercial District — Clock Tower Square

February 14th — 4:15 PM

Perspective: Kaiser Everhart

The afternoon sun was beginning to dip, casting long shadows across the crowded square.

I had spent the last few hours scouring the cheaper alleyway stalls for affordable gemstones, but failed to find anything within my budget. The smooth grey pebble remained in my pocket.

Scarlet had guided me through the busy streets, eventually leading us to the calmer avenues near the grand library.

"Kaiser, do you like reading?" Scarlet asked, breaking the silence.

"I do," I said.

"Would you be interested in reading books with me in the library?" she asked, looking up at me with a warm smile. "I go there quite often. It is very quiet."

"It won’t hurt," I said. "We can try."

Scarlet’s smile widened. "I would like that very much."

I also wanted to learn about love.

Maybe I can read some love stories.

I stopped walking, turning to face her. "Scarlet, why are you still following me?"

Scarlet stopped, her hands moving to her cream-colored shoulder bag. She pulled out a small, beautifully wrapped red box tied with a gold ribbon.

"I made this by hand," she said, holding the box out to me. "For you."

I looked at the box, then at her.

"I wanted to thank you for saving my life in the dungeon," Scarlet whispered, her red eyes steady. "I know it was you who saved me, not Axel."

"I can’t accept this, Scarlet," I said, keeping my voice polite but firm. "I am not accepting chocolate from other girls today. That is why I am wearing this pink ribbon. I promised Elfie."

Scarlet’s eyes welled up with tears, her shoulders trembling slightly as she looked down at the box.

"I see..." she whispered, her voice cracking just enough for the passing students to hear.

Several nearby couples stopped walking, their eyes darting toward us.

"I spent the entire night in the kitchen trying to get the recipe right." Scarlet said, a single tear rolling down her cheek.

"I didn’t make this because of some silly school crush, Kaiser. I made it because you saved my life in that dark place when I was terrified and alone."

The whispers among the crowd began to grow.

"Is he seriously rejecting her after she worked that hard?" a girl nearby whispered to her boyfriend.

"What a heartless guy," another student muttered, throwing a harsh glare my way.

I shifted my feet, realizing the social pressure was rapidly mounting.

"Scarlet, we can just do this tomorrow." I suggested, keeping my voice low. "I can accept it as a normal thank-you gift on a regular day."

"But tomorrow isn’t Valentine’s Day..." Scarlet sobbed, covering her face with her hands.

"If I take it back now, everyone will think I was rejected. I’ve never felt so humiliated."

The crowd’s glares grew increasingly hostile.

"Just eat the chocolate, you idiot!" an older boy called out from the path.

I looked at the pink ribbon on my wrist, feeling the trap closing around me.

Scarlet peeked through her fingers, her green eyes sparkling with a mix of sorrow and sharp calculation.

"What if we make a compromise?" she asked softly, wiping her cheek.

"You don’t have to accept the box. You don’t have to take it home."

"If I just feed you 1 piece as a taste check, you aren’t accepting a gift. You are just helping me test my cooking."

"That way, you don’t break your promise to Elfina, and I don’t have to walk back to the dorms crying."

The crowd muttered in agreement, waiting for my response.

She is using the entire street as leverage.

I have no choice.

"Fine," I said, sighing as I took a step forward. "Just a taste check."

Scarlet’s sad expression instantly vanished, replaced by a soft, victorious smile. She opened the box, took out a dark, gold-dusted truffle, and held it to my lips.

I leaned in and ate it.

This is actually incredible.

The texture is smooth, and the chocolate is rich and perfectly balanced.

Leena’s chocolate was clearly bought from a shop, but this... Scarlet spent hours tempering this cocoa.

"Thank you, Scarlet." I said, swallowing. "I love the taste. It’s amazing."

Scarlet’s smile widened, her cheeks turning a light pink. "I’m glad you liked it."

"Stop crying, Scarlet," I said, gently pulling her hands away from her face. "People are looking at me like I just stole a child’s toy."

"I’m sorry..." Scarlet whispered, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. "I didn’t mean to make a scene. I was just so worried you would throw it away."

"I wouldn’t throw away hours of hard work," I said, looking at the red box in her hands. "Next time, just tell me. You don’t need a crying audience to get me to eat."

"Okay... thank you, Kaiser. You really liked the taste?"

"It was perfect," I said, turning to walk down a quieter side path. "Best I’ve tasted."

Scarlet quickly caught up, walking close enough that her shoulder brushed against mine. The quiet avenue was lined with tall stone walls, keeping the cold wind out.

"Although, I have to admit, you look very beautiful today," I said, looking at her sideways.

Scarlet’s cheeks instantly flushed crimson. "You... you’re saying that again. You’re very bold, Kaiser."

"It is simply an observation," I said. "The navy blue Bardot dress and your hair... it is a good choice. You look stunning."

"Stop it..." she muttered, holding her face. "You’re making me red again."

"And your voice is quite mesmerizing when you aren’t sobbing," I added, my tone calm.

She tried to hide her face from my comments.

"Kaiser?"

A cold, flat voice called out from the shade of a stone archway ahead.

We both stopped.

Kayla Caroline stepped out from the shadows, her long black hair tied neatly with silver pins and her piercing blue eyes carrying a deeply serious expression. She was holding a leather-bound notebook.

"Are you two spending the day together?" Kayla asked, her voice carrying no emotion.

"No!" Scarlet said quickly, her posture stiffening as she took a step back. "No, we aren’t! We just coincidentally bumped into each other. We are just... walking."

"What do you need, Kayla?" I asked.

"We need to go over the strategy for the 2nd Monthly test," Kayla said, her eyes shifting to Scarlet. "If you two aren’t spending the day together, then it won’t be a problem, right, Scarlet?"

Scarlet’s smile faltered, her fingers tightening around her bag. "I... I was just heading back to the dorms anyway."

"Exam preparation takes precedence over casual walks," Kayla stated, taking a step forward. "I need you now."

"No, of course..." Scarlet stammered, looking down. "Kaiser, you should go with her if it’s important."

Scarlet turned to leave.

I reached out and grabbed her wrist, stopping her in her tracks.

"Kayla," I said, my voice dropping its light tone. "I am busy right now. I am spending time with Scarlet. You should be decent and wait."

Kayla’s eyes narrowed, her hand tightening on her notebook. "You are prioritizing a walk over my invitation?"

"Yes I am." I said, looking her in the eyes. "Scarlet spent her entire night making chocolate for me. She deserves that much of my time."

"You will wait your turn."

"You want me to wait?"

Scarlet gasped softly, her eyes wide as she looked at my hand on her wrist, a deep warmth flooding her expression.

"This is very important Kaiser." Kayla said, her tone turning slightly colder.

"Importance doesn’t make you my boss, Kayla." I said, keeping my grip steady on Scarlet. "And it certainly doesn’t give you the right to interrupt my day without asking."

"It is for the class."

"Then ask politely." I said. "Say, ’Kaiser, when you have a moment, could we discuss the exam?’ Don’t just demand my presence as if my time belongs to you."

"You aren’t entitled to my time just because you have importance. Mind your own business. We will talk tomorrow."

"You are acting on your desires..." Kayla said, her blue eyes icy.

"I am acting on my desires." I said. "Scarlet here is my friend. And I am treating her to a nice walk on a special day."

"You on the other hand are not my friend."

Kayla glared at me, then her gaze drifted to Scarlet. "Understood..."

She turned and walked away, her heels clicking against the stone path.

I let go of Scarlet’s wrist, exhaling a quiet sigh.

"Kaiser... are you sure you should have said that?" Scarlet asked, her voice filled with anxiety. "She looked really angry. I don’t want to ruin your friendship with her."

"We aren’t friends," I said, looking ahead. "We just have a shared objective."

"Still... you were so cold to her. Because of me?"

"Because she was being rude," I said. "And because you worked hard on the chocolate. You deserved my attention, not her demands."

"Kaiser..." Scarlet whispered, her eyes shining with a deep, quiet satisfaction as she looked at me.

"Everything is fine, Scarlet," I said, giving her a gentle pat on the head. "Don’t worry about it. Besides, I’d rather walk with a pretty girl than an annoying cold girl."

Scarlet’s face went completely red, and she quickly covered her cheeks, trying to hide her smile. "You... stop teasing me."

"You are so innocent and sweet," I said, pulling my hand back. "Thank you for the chocolates again."

She looked up at me, her green eyes bright and filled with a strange, satisfied warmth.

"I am returning to the dorms now," I said, pulling the carving knife and the birch wood from my bag. "I need to work on this wood a bit before the sun goes down."

"We can walk together," Scarlet said, a playful smile returning to her lips.

"You’re a clingy girl, aren’t you?" I teased.

"Only when I want to be." she shot back, stepping in line beside me.

I smiled, walking down the path while shaving a thin layer of wood from the birch pendant.

Today has been an exceptionally noisy day.

I wonder where Elfie is hiding right now.

Usually, she would have broken down my door or tracked my scent across the Commercial District by 2:00 PM.

I hope she likes what I have spent the day making.

If I had more coins, I would have cast this in solid silver and gold.

But the birch wood will have to suffice for now.

Just a few more smooth cuts, and then I will insert the gem.

I held the pendant up to the sunlight. The birch wood was carved into a small, elegant four-pointed star at the top, linked by a thin wooden loop to a larger four-pointed star below, which was encircled by interlocking rings orbiting around a central, diamond-shaped hollow.

It looked mesmerizing, the smooth grain of the wood catching the warm afternoon light.

"What is that?" Scarlet asked, leaning in to look at the carving. "It is beautiful, Kaiser. Who is it for?"

"Elfie." I said simply, focusing on the next cut.

Beside me, Scarlet froze.

Her warm expression instantly vanished, her green eyes narrowing into a cold, dark glare directed at the wooden pendant, a wave of intense jealousy flashing across her face before she quickly masked it behind a tight, forced smile.

I kept my eyes on the wood, brushing away a small shaving.

A few more touches and a gem, and then it will be perfect.