December 24, 1992, 6:30 PM, Halls of Hogwarts
Adam Clarke
Heading towards the Great Hall, the mix of nerves and excitement lingered within me. Su and Tony were already in the Entrance Hall, engaged in animated conversation.
As their attention moved towards me, the teasing anticipation emerged within Su’s eyes.
“Adam.” Su said, giving me an appreciative look. “You look great!”
“Oh!” I smiled a little, not having expected her to say that. “Thank you, Su; you look splendid, too.”
And so, she did. Clad in a shimmering dress of silver, Su beamed as I approached the two, with Tony patting me on the shoulder.
“What about me?” He said, showcasing his sleek, burgundy dress robes.
“Looking like a little lordling.” I said, and we both laughed.
“Thanks, I think.” Tony said, rolling his eyes a little before he pointed at the decorations. “They certainly went to work after we all left, didn’t they?”
I followed his gaze and saw all of the winter-themed decorations that filled the hall. I nodded in agreement, appreciating the transformation that had taken place in just a few short hours.
The walls leading to the Great Hall were draped with near-glowing silver and ice-blue banners. Elaborate ice sculptures of mythical creatures adorned the corners, their intricate details capturing the enchanting spirit of the season.
Torches lined the walls, burning blue and casting a soft, ethereal glow upon our surroundings. The air carried a hint of peppermint and evergreen, adding to the winter ambiance.
If this is the Entrance Hall’s decorations, I can’t wait to see what they’ve done with the Great Hall proper. I thought to myself as I waited for my date to come.
“So, where is this mysterious girl you’ve been keeping from us, anyway?” Tony said, looking among the faces in the small groups who were waiting.
“Keeping from you?” I said in mild amusement. “You make it sound like I’m engaged in something bad when you put it like that.”
“And yet you’ve not even deigned to share her name with us.” Su said.
“I suppose not.” I said, though I raised my hands to wave off their words.
“So, who is it?” Tony asked, very much curious. “Or will we be playing the guessing game until she shows up?”
“I guess you will.”
“Fine, have it your way, then.” Tony only rolled his eyes before trying his luck. “Is it Hermione?”
“You— what? No! I’d never!” I said before freezing at the amused looks on their faces. “…She’s right behind me, isn’t she…”
I turned to see the girl in question and stopped for a moment. Wearing a fairly simple, wine-red dress, Hermione tucked a lock of surprisingly straight hair behind her ear.
“You know, Adam.” Hermione said, affecting a look of sadness. “That hurts my feelings.”
“I— I mean to say— it’s not that you wouldn’t be— wait…” I swiveled back, an apology on the tip of my tongue before I saw her face break into a wide grin. I huffed. “You’re all just toying with me.”
“Oh, yes.” Hermione said as she sidled by Tony before turning her nose up at me. “It serves you right.”
“Yeah.” Tony said, and I couldn’t help but stare at the two for a moment.
Are they… I thought to myself, noticing how the two were wearing matching colors. Reading my look accurately, Tony nodded to me, though he didn’t say anything out loud. I see. Best keep it to myself, then.
“Could it be Daphne Greengrass?” Su said, oblivious to the silent exchange between me and Tony.
“The one he’d been tutoring?” Tony asked and Su nodded in confirmation. “That would make sense.”
I chuckled, shaking my head in response.
“Good try, but no.” I replied with a small grin.
The mention of Greengrass sparked a brief moment of contemplation.
Perhaps if I’d met her at the end of the series, but as it is, no. I thought, letting out an exhale before addressing my friends. “I understand why you’d think so, though. Care to try again?”
“I know it’s not Mira.” Su said, and I gave her a sharp look, though she didn’t seem to notice.
“Oh?” I said, curious despite myself. “Who’s she going with?”
“Guess.” Su said, and she looked so pleased with herself I decided I’d let her have this one.
“Touché.” I said as the others laughed. “…But I’m still not telling you who my date is.”
“Oh, come on!”
“I’m honestly just glad no one suggested Ophelia.” I remarked, a sense of relief evident in my voice.
The mere mention of her name cast a shadow over the lighthearted conversation, and I could see a hint of discomfort flicker across the faces of Tony and Hermione.
Their unease mirrored my own, and I couldn’t blame them. The inter-school rumor mill had been working overtime, churning out wild theories and unfounded speculation. Ophelia’s name had undoubtedly been dragged into the fray— and subsequently through the mud— with each passing rumor more outlandish than the last.
“Well, I don’t think anyone would be guessing that anymore.” Tony’s abrupt statement drew somewhat confused looks from myself and Hermione.
Before I could question him on the matter, he gestured behind me, prompting me to turn around. My eyes widened in surprise as I spotted Ophelia Scarlet walking down the hall, accompanied by Mira.
The unexpected sight left me momentarily speechless, and I exchanged a puzzled glance with Su.
“They’re… going together?” I said, feeling dumb as I saw them engage in conversation with another group.
“Seems that way, doesn’t it?” Su said, grinning like the cat that had gotten to the canary.
“…You knew.” Tony said, and Su only nodded, her grin shifting into a soft smile.
“It’s a long story.” She said, tilting her head to get a good look at the two again. “I’ll have to tell you about it at dinner.”
“Definitely.” I agreed, before glancing over my shoulder. The two ladies were still there, chatting with their shared friends and looking like they didn’t have a single care in the world. The tension that had surrounded me over Ophelia’s mere mention seemed to dissipate in that moment, replaced by a sense of relief and understanding.
“You know.” I said as the realization sunk in, turning back to my friends with a mixture of surprise and gratitude. “I guess that’s one less thing to worry about.”
Su giggled at that, while Hermione and Tony groaned.
“Harry and Ron— they’re still not coming, huh?” I said, keeping my tone light as I turned to Hermione with a questioning look. She confirmed my words with a nod.
“Why not?” Su asked, her curiosity evident.
Hermione hesitated for a moment before giving her answer. “They just weren’t really interested.”
I raised an eyebrow; that response was such a lie that it was almost funny. I knew the real reason, of course. It was clear to me, and I still couldn’t help but feel both a pang of sympathy and incredulousness concerning the situation.
One could imagine what it would be like for Ron. It was a stark reminder of the disparities that existed within the wizarding world, especially for those from less affluent backgrounds.
Understanding dawned upon me, bringing clarity to Ron’s occasional bouts of jealousy. How could he not feel overlooked when his own family struggled to provide for one of them, let alone seven? How could anyone, for that matter?
Someone once said that, before you judge a man, you must walk a mile in his shoes. And, if I had been in Ron’s shoes, I would have likely reacted to the situation with the same tinge of resentment he was likely feeling now. The constant feeling of being overlooked and overshadowed would have eventually taken its toll, nurturing the seeds of jealousy that occasionally surfaced in his demeanor in the original timeline.
Hopefully, Harry’s insistence on supporting his best friend would show Ron that he could get past this complex he’d built up over his younger years.
Maybe if we get him to work on his Transfiguration, he could fashion himself any robes or clothes he wants. I thought to myself, resolving to have this discussion with the boy in some form, in the future.
“Anyway…!” Hermione’s voice cut through my thoughts, bringing my attention back to reality.
“You can’t trick me so easily, Adam.” Hermione declared, a playful glint in her eye. “Who is she?”
I shook my head. My friend’s determination to unravel the mystery was evident, and I couldn’t help but chuckle at her persistence.
Guess it’s time. I opened my mouth to reveal the truth, but before I could utter a word, a familiar voice called out in greeting from behind us.
“Adam!”
Turning around, I spotted Mira approaching with a warm smile.
“Mira.” I said in greeting. The timing of her arrival couldn’t have been more perfect, and I welcomed her presence with a smirk sent in Hermione’s direction. Looking a strange mix of miffed and amused, Hermione conceded this one to me.
As Mira and Ophelia approached, their beauty captivated everyone’s attention.
Ophelia wore a stunning gown in shades of deep blue, the fabric cascading in gentle folds that accentuated her slender frame. The intricate beadwork shimmered in the soft light, adding a touch of enchantment to her ensemble. She moved with an effortless grace she did not display normally.
In contrast, Mira’s dress exuded a vibrant energy, the rich emerald green fabric draping elegantly around her figure. The delicate lace detailing adorned the bodice, while the flowing skirt trailed behind her with every step. The verdant hue of her gown complemented her radiant complexion, enhancing her natural beauty and commanding attention wherever she went.
Ophelia and Mira were a vision of two opposites coming together; stillness and life, poise and chaos.
I guess this is one way to stop the rumors. I thought to myself before greeting Ophelia as well. “Hey.”
“Adam.” Ophelia replied, before sending a smile to Su. “Su!”
The younger girl moved up to the two, exchanging hugs with each other and surprising me. They were on a hugging basis now? I shared a puzzled glance with Hermione and Tony.
“It’s going to be quite the story, huh?” I gave an idle comment, to which the other two nodded.
“Yeah.” Tony said as the three turned to us now.
“You’re not going in, just yet?” Mira asked.
“Adam’s still waiting for his date.” Su said, and Mira gave a smile.
“Oh? He didn’t ask you to go with him, Su?” Mira said, sending me a deadpan look. “The lout. Maybe I should teach him a lesson…”
“No!” Su squeaked at that, looking alarmed, but that only drew laughter from her upperclasswomen.
“Easy.” Mira said, patting Su’s shoulder. “I’m only joking.”
Su, in response, sent me a look I couldn’t quite decipher, but I didn’t have time to think about it when Mira pinned me with her gaze.
“…What?”
“So, if not Su, then who did you come with, Adam?” Mira said, making a show of her looking around the area.
“That’s what we’ve been trying to figure out!” Tony blurted, though he wrung his hands when he realized that everyone’s gaze was now trained on him. “Well, it is…”
“A mystery, is it?” Mira said, acknowledging the boy’s words before turning her attention back to me.
“Not one I cultivated in any way. She’s just not here, yet.” I said, shrugging. “Mystery’s a bit overrated, in my opinion.”
“Spoken like someone with no appreciation for the finer things in life.” Mira said, smirking. “But then again, you are a boy, so…”
The girls, once again, shared a laugh together, and once again, I shrugged. They were right. Though I did indeed keep many secrets from others, it was not out of some need to look mysterious, but instead the need to keep safe and secure from any bad actors.
“You’d be surprised.” Ophelia said, drawing a surprised look from her date as she gave me a knowing look. “Adam can be pretty mysterious when he wants to be.”
She knows it’s Helena. I thought, though I didn’t say anything in response. I suppose it makes sense, with the two of them being friends and all. I mean, Helena pretty much pointed her in my direction to begin with, so it’s pretty much obvious.
As Mira directed a curious gaze towards Ophelia, I felt a surge of anticipation coursing through me. My attention was momentarily diverted as I finally spotted my date floating gracefully down the corridor.
Helena Ravenclaw exuded an unsurpassed beauty as she glided towards me.
Her gown, though lacking in color and substance like the rest of her ghostly form, was a masterpiece of ethereal elegance. Intricate patterns adorned the fabric, shimmering softly in the ambient light as she moved with an otherworldly grace. Despite her translucency and lack of color, there was an undeniable allure to her presence, a captivating magnetism that drew me in.
As Helena approached, her form seemed to glow with an inner light, casting a radiant aura around her which only I could see with my changed sight. I couldn’t tear my eyes away from her, mesmerized by her haunting beauty.
In that moment, I felt a sense of awe and wonderment at the sight of my date. She was the epitome of elegance, beauty and grace; none could compare. I couldn’t wait to spend the evening with her.
Feeling a gentle poke on my shoulder, I turned to face Tony, momentarily pulled from my reverie by his interruption. His words registered slowly in my mind, and I blinked in confusion, struggling to process his question.
Before I could respond, however, Tony’s gaze shifted past me, and I followed his line of sight to where Helena Ravenclaw was approaching. A flash of realization crossed Tony’s features, and he turned back to me with a mixture of surprise and amusement.
“Of course you have the oddest choice on a date. A ghost?” Tony exclaimed, his voice tinged with disbelief. “The Grey Lady? Really, Adam?”
I couldn’t help but chuckle at his reaction, recognizing the absurdity of the situation.
“Yep.” I replied with a grin, my amusement outweighing any embarrassment I felt in the moment. “The Grey Lady, herself.”
Tony shook his head, his expression a mix of curiosity and amusement as he processed the revelation. As Helena drew nearer, her form glowing softly in the dim light, I couldn’t help but feel a little uneasy, despite everything.
I stepped away from the group and made my way towards Helena, my heart pounding with anticipation. As I approached her, I couldn’t help but fidget with my clothes, adjusting my robes in a futile attempt to quell the nervousness that threatened to consume me.
I’d never done anything so ridiculous in public before, and I supposed the stress of it was starting to get to me.
Helena, for her part, greeted me warmly as I drew near, her ethereal voice echoing softly— lovely music to my ears.
“Adam.” She said, her tone gentle and impressed. “You’ve cleaned up very nicely.”
Her words brought a flush of warmth to my cheeks, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for her kind compliment. Despite my nerves, Helena’s presence had a calming effect on me, and I found myself relaxing in her presence, as I always did.
“Thank you, Helena.” I replied, my voice tinged with genuine appreciation. “You, yourself, look absolutely stunning tonight.”
Her smile widened at my words, and for a moment, the world around us faded away, leaving only the two of us standing there, enveloped in the magic of the moment.
I took her hand in mine. Her touch was warm, and I found further comfort in the connection between us.
Leading her back to where my friends stood, I introduced Helena to Su, Tony, Mira, Ophelia and Hermione.
“Su, Tony, Mira, Ophelia, you’ve all met her before, and Hermione, I’m sure you have seen her at some point, but allow me to introduce you all to the Grey Lady of Ravenclaw.” I said, introducing her in the way she had insisted upon beforehand. “My Lady, these are my friends.”
I gestured towards them with a nervous smile. “Su, Tony, and Hermione.”
Helena offered a polite nod in greeting, though she did not say anything.
“It’s nice to meet you.” Hermione offered, to which Helena attempted to smile without much success.
“Likewise.” Though Helena’s answer was short, it seemed to satisfy Hermione enough that the young Gryffindor smiled.
“Come on.” She said, pulling Tony’s hand and giving the rest of the group a look. “Let’s go inside. Adam, you’ll catch up with us, right?”
“Yeah.” I said, nodding quickly in an attempt to defuse some of the tension. “Count on it.”
Thanks, Hermione.
And so it was that they all left to enter the Great Hall, leaving Helena and I alone for a few moments. It was then that Helena’s grip slackened, and I could tell she was feeling uneasy.
“They don’t like me.” Helena said, expressing her doubts. “Perhaps I should not have agreed to accompany you to the ball. It will make things awkward for everyone.”
Feeling a pang of guilt at her discomfort, I shook my head, determined to reassure her.
“They don’t like you? Helena, they don’t know you; not yet, anyway.” I replied earnestly, my voice tinged with sincerity. “Besides, I want you here with me.”
“But… What will everyone think?” She said, and I gave her hand a reassuring squeeze, silencing her doubts.
“I promised you a good time, and I intend to keep that promise.” I said as if that was the end of it. “Besides, what anyone else thinks doesn’t matter. It’s just you and I, tonight.”
Her eyes softened at my words, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips as she took comfort in my encouragement. With a newfound sense of resolve, we walked together into the Great Hall, leaving behind the awkwardness of the corridor and stepping into the warmth and light of the festivities beyond.
With Helena by my side, I felt a sense of calm and confidence wash over me, ready to embrace the evening’s festivities with her at my side. As we moved into the Great Hall, we were greeted by a sight that took my breath away. The entire room had been transformed into a winter wonderland, with decorations that evoked the beauty of ice and snow in all its splendor.
Much like the outside, the theme of light blues and icy hues dominated the scene, with every corner of the hall adorned with crystalline decorations that sparkled and shimmered in the soft light. Delicate ice sculptures sat upon crystal tables with chairs to match; the attention to detail was astounding.
Above us, the enchanted ceiling depicted a scene straight out of a winter’s dream, with gentle white snowfall cascading down like a soft blanket. Even the walls of the Great Hall seemed to have been transformed, their surfaces glistening with a crystalline sheen that reflected the light in a myriad of colors.
They really have gone above and beyond. I thought; for a moment, I’d almost thought we had been transported to a world of ice and snow, where every surface glimmered with an otherworldly beauty.
Hand in hand, Helena and I moved further into the Great Hall, marveling at the astounding decorations that surrounded us.
As we navigated through the bustling crowd of students from the various wizarding schools, it was impossible not to marvel at the diversity of cultures and traditions on display. Each group of students proudly wore their nation’s formal attire, reflecting the rich tapestry of magical heritage from around the world.
Those from Durmstrang stood tall and imposing in their rigid, square-like outfits, exuding an air of strength and discipline. Their attire was practical and utilitarian, designed for the harsh climates of their homeland, with thick fur-lined robes and sturdy boots.
In contrast, the students from Uagadou almost floated through the crowd in airy, flowing clothes. Their attire was vibrant and colorful, etched with symbols that spoke of ancient tradition.
Meanwhile, the students from Mahoutokoro cut a striking figure in their refined and elegant yukatas and kimonos, which were made with the finest of silk, reflecting the refined tastes of their homeland.
Ahead of us, there was a group proudly representing Ilvermorny. They stood out with their diverse array of formal attire, reflecting the cultural melting pot of their homeland. Some wore traditional robes, while others sported sleek, modern ensembles that showcased their individuality and creativity.
Nearby, students from Castelobruxo added a splash of tropical flair to the scene. Their clothes were as vibrant as those from Uagadou; some wore flowing robes in bold hues of green and gold, reminiscent of the lush rainforests of the Amazon, while others sported intricate patterns inspired by indigenous traditions and magical creatures native to the region.
The Longling representatives, for their part, exuded an aura of grace as they moved through the crowd, their attire a blend of traditional Chinese elements and modern sophistication. Some wore exquisite silk robes in shades of red and gold, embroidered with symbols of luck and prosperity, whilst wearing delicate hair ornaments and jewelry made with jade.
Meanwhile, the students from Beauxbatons Academy of Magic added a touch of enchanting charm to the festivities. Dressed in flowing robes of pale blue and silver, reminiscent of the airy elegance of French couture, they moved with effortless grace and poise. Their attire was adorned with delicate lace and satin ribbons, evoking the romantic allure of the French countryside. A few even carried small bouquets of flowers and blue roses, adding a touch of natural beauty to their ensemble.
As Helena and I made our way through the crowd, we were called over by Hermione, who waved to us from across the room. Still holding hands, we moved through the throng of people, drawing the occasional gasp of surprise as Helena quite literally floated through parts of some people, leaving a trail of cold people in her wake.
Despite the occasional mishap, we continued on our way, undeterred by the curious stares and murmurs that followed us.
I was not going to let anything ruin this for us.
As I took my seat next to Hermione, with Helena by my side, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nervous anticipation fluttering in my chest. Hermione’s eyes were alight with excitement as she commented about how thrilled she was for the ball.
“Yeah, it’s going to be quite the night. That’s for sure.” I replied, forcing a smile as I glanced around the crowded room.
Hermione gestured towards the center of the room, where a makeshift dance floor had been set up. “You see that, Adam? I believe, after our meal, we will be dancing. Isn’t it exciting?”
Before I could even dwell on the instinctive shiver racing up my spine at the thought of dancing, a reassuring touch from Helena brought me back to the present moment, grounding me in her calming presence.
I felt a surge of gratitude towards Helena. We had practiced our— see: my— dancing together extensively to help with my skill in wandless magic, and it was a relief to know that I wouldn’t be completely inept at the activity, this time around.
“I’m looking forward to it, as well.” Su said.
Tony, for his part, didn’t look too excited, but not particularly panicked, either.
“So, Adam…” As Hermione’s curiosity got the better of her, she turned to me with an inquisitive look in her eyes, finally asking the question she’d been holding in the entire time. “How did you and the Grey Lady meet?”
Helena and I shared a brief glance, silently communicating our shared history before I replied. “Well, she and I have actually been friends for nearly a year now.”
Helena nodded in agreement, a soft smile playing on her lips as she added. “Yes… We’ve had many conversations.”
I could sense Hermione’s surprise at our revelation, her curiosity piqued by our unexpected connection. As she processed the information, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude towards Helena; ours was an unlikely friendship, transcending the bounds of life and death, yet we’d somehow managed all this time.
And to think, she had viewed me as an enemy at the start. I thought in reminiscence.
As Hermione tried to engage Helena in more conversation, I couldn’t help but notice Helena’s quiet and reserved demeanor, her responses short and hesitant. I could understand her reluctance to open up, given the odd circumstance we found ourselves in.
It was such a strange and surreal situation, with Helena being a ghost and all. I barely knew what to think, let alone say. Despite my best efforts to keep the conversation flowing, there was a bit of an awkward tension in the air, as if we were all tiptoeing around the subject of Helena’s status.
The conversation faltered for a moment, and I racked my brain for something to say, anything to break the awkward silence that hung between us. But, in the end, all I could do was offer a small smile and a reassuring squeeze of Helena’s hand, silently conveying my support and understanding.
As three more people arrived at the table and stood to Su’s side, I immediately recognized one of them as Hien, one of my former opponents in the tournament. He greeted me with a nod of respect and a warm smile, and I returned the gesture in kind.
“Adam, it is good to see you again.” Hien said, his voice friendly and welcoming as he shifted his kimono slightly so he could sit down. “Have you been keeping up with your training?”
Of course, the first thing he mentions is training. I thought and nodded in response, a sense of mutual respect flowing between us. “Yes, I’ve been staying on top of it as much as I can.”
“Is that so…?” Hien said, a familiar look crossing his face. It was the same expression he’d shown when he was dueling against me. “Then, you wouldn’t be opposed to a spar in the near future, I take it. I, too, have been working hard, improving my skills.”
I felt a surge of excitement at the prospect. Before I could respond, however, he bowed his head. “My humblest apologies; I was carried away by my excitement and forgot to introduce myself to everyone. Sumimasen!“
“No, no. It’s quite alright.” I assured him with a smile. “There’s no need to apologize. Allow me.”
Turning to Su, Tony, Hermione, and Helena, I gestured towards Hien and said. “This is Hien, a fellow participant in the tournament. He was my first opponent. Hien, this is Su, Tony, Hermione, and the Grey Lady— my date.”
Su, Tony, Hermione, and Helena each offered a polite greeting in return, welcoming Hien to the table with genuine warmth. To his credit, Hien only stared at Helena for a second longer than necessary before accepting her presence with a respectful nod.
“It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance.”
The other two individuals seated next to him, however, seemed disinterested in engaging in conversation with anyone here, their attention elsewhere as they remained silent.
Shrugging, I ignored the two. Better with them being silent than nuisances, I suppose.
As Hien and I delved into a discussion about my future plans for the tournament, I couldn’t help but feel excitement about it all.
“I’ve been working on getting a handle on my existing spells.” I said. “Improving my skill with those is the only way forward at this point.”
Su nodded at that, and Hien followed suit before sharing his own thoughts on the matter. “Yes, of course. While increasing your repertoire is indeed important, learning anything new at this particular stage would likely prove ineffective against the more seasoned competitors.”
“Yes, that’s exactly it!” I said. “I’ll just focus everything I have onto my already existing skills.”
“There is something, which a very dear teacher has taught me: master your basics, and you need fear no masters.”
Helena chimed in, her voice soft but resolute. “I agree. It’s important to build a solid foundation— and to keep it strong, for it will weather the brunt of any assault.”
I nodded in agreement as well, grateful for their words of encouragement.
“With that said, however…” Hien said, and a grave look entered his features. “I fear that, at your current level, you may not reach the end of the League.”
A frown creased my brow as I absorbed his words. “What do you mean by that?”
Hien met my gaze with a steady look, his expression thoughtful.
“You shall see, when the next stage of the tournament begins.” He replied cryptically. “I entered the tournament not because I thought I would win, but to further my training in the dueling arts.”
His words intrigued me, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of curiosity overpower the sudden wariness within me.
“And what have you learned?” I said.
“I have learned that there yet remains a tall mountain before me.” Hien said, though his serious demeanor shifted into a smile. “I may face defeat again, as I have against you, but I will not give up.”
“A laudable view.” Helena praised the young man, giving him a genuine smile, which surprised me. I hadn’t expected her to take a shine to him.
“She’s right.” Su said, and she was looking at the boy beside her in a different light, now. “Maybe you didn’t win, but you should be proud of yourself. Lasting that long against Adam is not something just anyone can do.”
“You are very kind, Li-sa— Miss Li.” Hien said, giving her a short bow of respect before he turned to me.
As the appetizers appeared on the table, filling the air with tantalizing aromas, the conversation among our group continued. Hien turned to me with a curious expression, asking how well I knew the people in the tournament’s roster.
I shook my head. “Honestly, I admit to being ignorant on that account; I have absolutely no information about the other competitors beyond what each of our schools focus on. I’ve been so caught up with my own training and studies that I haven’t had much time to learn about my opponents. Do you know anything?”
Hien nodded both in understanding and confirmation. “I may. Though my knowledge is not extensive, there is indeed one of my upperclassmen you should watch out for.”
His words piqued my interest, and I leaned in closer, eager to hear more. “What do you mean? Who is it?”
As Hien turned slightly in his chair to scan the crowd, I followed his gaze, curious to see who he was referring to. After a few moments, he surreptitiously pointed towards a young man in a golden yukata, seated amidst a group of admirers who vied for his attention.
I observed the scene with interest, noting the young man’s soft features and the air of confidence that seemed to surround him. Despite the numerous attempts by the women around him to engage him in conversation, he remained aloof, his attention elsewhere.
“That’s him.” Hien said a little more quietly, his voice barely audible above the din of the hall. “Keep an eye on him. He may not seem like much, but that’s a mistake every one of his opponents have made. It does not end well for them.”
I nodded, taking Hien’s warning to heart as I watched the young man, his golden attire shimmering in the soft glow of the hall. There was something about him that set him apart from the others. I wasn’t sure whether it was how still his soul thread was among the sea of excitement the women around him displayed, or the light film of near-translucent magic which settled just over his skin.
“Who is he?”
Hien spoke, his expression grave.
“His name is Na— Akio Nakamura. Apologies.” he replied quietly. “He is a once-in-a-lifetime prodigy, much like yourself. But there’s another name he’s known by: Oni.”
The name sent a shiver down my spine, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of apprehension at the ominous moniker.
“Oni?” I repeated, giving the boy a sharp look. “Demon?”
Hien nodded solemnly. “Yes. I’ve witnessed his savagery personally. Do not be fooled by his outward appearance— there is a demon lurking under his skin.”
Is he being literal? I thought, turning my gaze towards the young man— Akio— again. Is that film of magic concealing something, or is Hien just being poetic?
Just then, his gray eyes instantly locked onto my own, and I saw his soul thread writhe in barely held anticipation for a few moments before the boy calmed himself and returned to his meal.
“…Demon indeed.” I said, tearing my eyes away from Akio and turning them to Hien, instead. I gave him a nod of gratitude. “Thank you for the information.”
“It is nothing.” Hien said. “Though, if you wish to repay the favor…”
I shook my head with a smirk. “Of course, Hien-san. Might you allow me the privilege to spar with you?”
Hien nodded and, beside me, Helena giggled, surprising me as she sidled up closer to me, her chair moving automatically with her form, despite her being a ghost.
“I’m glad I came.” She whispered to me, and I smiled.
Prophecies, tournaments, the prospect of war looming in the horizon— none of that mattered to me at that moment. I took her hand in mine, seeing her skin gain the smallest hints of color as I filled her ethereal form with warmth.
“Me, too.”
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