Chapter 10: The Star’s Protector

 

 

 

Chapter 10: The Star’s Protector

 

“OH my, so you and Mister Tanzine are partners now? How wonderful! Congratulations.”

“Ehehe, thanks!”

The two girls were back at their room in the dormitory, where Oriana now recounted the day’s happenings. Behind the curtain-drawn windows, night had already fallen. Sounds from the downstairs lounge echoed up through the halls.

Yana was on the floor practicing her yoga, listening nonchalantly to Oriana’s story.

“So he confessed his affections?”

“No…he didn’t.”

Yana pulled a face.

Oriana similarly scowled at her friend as she protested, “B-But still, like you said, people can be partners without being in love.”

“Yes, though the two of you seem more like lovers. Surely you must think he chose you for romantic reasons, no?”

Well, to be honest, yeah. I kinda do.

She glanced over at the bouquet he’d given her and pursed her lips in a pout. “But he didn’t say a word about liking me,” she muttered bitterly, unable to mask her dissatisfaction.

After the two had recovered from their blushing fits, they’d shared an awkward farewell and parted ways. Oriana had thought that was the best option at the time. Neither of them were in the right headspace to discuss their relationship and what this meant for their future.

“Can I let myself believe this means something? I feel like I can…”

She did when Vince invited her and that’d turned out to be the right choice. Still, she wasn’t clear on why exactly Vincent had invited her.

Judging by the way he talked, the most obvious motivation is the competitiveness he seems to feel toward Vince.

Oriana closed her eyes, humming under her breath in thought.

Yana sighed. “And what of the whispers that he’s going with Sharon Beezel?”

“Those rumors made it all the way to your class, too? Hm. Well, I guess they must’ve been no more than idle gossip.”

Vincent acted as if he’d no intention whatsoever of going with Sharon. Besides, he hadn’t actually decided on a partner. If he had, then he wouldn’t have threatened to go with Sharon when he and Oriana had started bickering earlier.

Marina had mentioned that Sharon had made a promise to go with Vincent to the ball prior to their long break, but perhaps that wasn’t a school ball she was referring to, but rather one of the nobility’s many social events or something. Were that the case, it made sense why Vincent stated her dress had nothing to do with him. The two things were entirely unrelated.

But if so, then why did Miss Beezel come to speak with him? Maybe she was bringing it up in hopes that he would invite her to this ball too…

Oriana and Sharon weren’t on bad terms per se, but they weren’t close either. Certainly not close enough to have a conversation about this topic, so all Oriana could do was infer.

“Men don’t like women who ask incessant questions. That said, Oriana, wouldn’t you like to have confirmation?” Yana stopped her yoga momentarily, directing a meaningful look at her friend.

“Maybe I don’t, actually.”

Of course she wanted to know, but the opposite words fell from her lips. As long as she didn’t proclaim her own adoration, Vincent was kind to her. He let his guard down, helped her out when she needed it, and had even chosen her as his one and only partner. Plus, he called her adorable!

The strings of hope had been cut so many times, but a part of her dared to hope again, thinking that maybe this time would be different—that maybe he would profess his love for her in this life too.

But what if he shoots me down again?

The very thought made her legs freeze, rendering her motionless.

Vincent still hadn’t taken back his demands for her to stop sharing her feelings for him, so she didn’t want to expect anything else. Keeping things vague guaranteed she could continue their current close proximity.

“What about you, Yana?”

“What about me?”

“Do you want confirmation?”

After a pause, she said, “I see your point. No…I don’t want it either.” Then she mumbled, “And that’s why I’m here.”

If they voiced the unspoken, the tenuous relationship they enjoyed now would crumble. Oriana and Yana were alike in that way; both were walking a tightrope.

❦❦❦

PREPARATIONS for the ball were progressing smoothly.

It took no time at all for word of Vincent and Oriana’s partnership to spread throughout the school, but it created no great stir. Most students did little more than shrug and say, “Yep, that figures.”

Their after-school dance lessons were also proceeding apace. A few days ago, Professor Wilton selected the student who would receive the prized dance with Vincent. She was a fifth-year in Class 2. Her father held a knight title, but she was only a commoner. Considering Professor Wilton had secured the assembly hall for them and provided so much support, no one dared protest her decision. Instead, they cheered on the victor.

Vincent would escort her to the middle of the dance floor and share the first number with her. She was tall and beautiful, and Oriana could imagine the two twirling together. No doubt it would be a sight to behold. In Oriana’s previous timeline, she and this girl had been close friends, so she was genuinely happy for her.

Although Oriana had already moved along preparations for her dress during their break, she added some revisions to her wardrobe to account for her partnership with Vincent. She switched her shoes to ones that would better match his attire. They were made of a dark-gray material with a fine polish that made light glimmer off them. They would glow silver under the chandeliers, which was the same color as the buttons on Vincent’s vest.

For her dress, Oriana had merely requested that it be pink. She hesitated over whether it was the right decision, but it was a shade that veered closer to violet. Even though they had no plans of partnering up at the time, she still selected the fabric for her dress with Vincent’s eye color in mind. She convinced herself it was all right because it wasn’t completely purple, but if anyone who knew her gazed upon it, they would know instantly who she had in mind.

Her hair piece was fashioned after an iris. In Amanecer, the iris was the most traditional purple flower. Since it was a silverwork broach, the implied color wasn’t readily apparent, but anyone knowledgeable about flowers would recognize it immediately.

I know it’s a little late for this now, but even I’m embarrassed at how lovestruck I am!

If people were going to laugh at her anyway, best she save that for the day of the actual ball. She stowed away both the dress and the hair adornment in her closet.

❦❦❦

“…AND so, at the tender age of ten, Azraq mastered Ete Karima’s four martial arts and became our country’s strongest warrior.” Yana wore the graceful smile of a princess, and behind her, Azraq kept his poker face, despite the small smirk on his lips that suggested how proud he was to hear her brag about him.

It was their lunch break, and after polishing off her meal, Oriana was enjoying some tea with Yana and Azraq. Her eyes sparkled as she glanced sidelong at Yana’s bodyguard.

“Isn’t he a little too amazing?”

“Renown is required of a princess’s bodyguard, but my relatives exaggerated my achievements,” Azraq said with a bitter smile.

“Not at all.” Yana shook her head. “Azraq really has been incredible ever since he was little. If only there were a potion to turn back time, I’d have him drink it and show you.”

“If you discovered a new potion like that, Professor Heinz would have you locked up until you coughed up exactly how you created it,” said Oriana.

“Oh, you’re no fun! Don’t you want to see what he was like when he was younger?”

Oriana set her teacup back down on its saucer and solemnly replied, “I do.”

Yana must have recognized how earnest Oriana was being because she grinned and nodded. “I would love to see him as a boy again too. He’s fully grown now, but back then, he was so slender and beautiful as a hawk.”

Oriana stared at Azraq, finding it difficult to conjure the image that Yana painted of him. Strangely, she could imagine a younger Vincent, and she had to shake her head to drive the image out of her mind. To distract herself from the awkwardness, she turned her attention back to Azraq and tried once more to picture him as a boy. Azraq was indifferent to her attempts, coolly sipping on his tea.

“So the two of you have been acquainted since you were children?” Oriana asked.

“That’s right. We’ve been together for as long as I can remember. When I was younger, I’d always chase him around.”

Instead of sitting back in her chair, Yana leaned her weight against Azraq’s shoulder as he sat beside her. The two were in shockingly close proximity, but Azraq acted accustomed to it, silently supporting her with his body.

“Then it would be wonderful if you could continue being together forever,” said Oriana.

“Yes, it would.” Yana smiled warmly, and Azraq glanced down at her for a brief moment. He looked away just as quickly, before Oriana could pick up on it.

Oriana had avoided thinking about her future, but in less than a year, they’d be graduating from Lagen Magic Academy. When the time came, she would have to part with Yana and Azraq. Unfortunate though it was, Yana was Ete Karima royalty, and she’d no doubt have to return there. At least when that happened, the princess would still have Azraq by her side.

I envy her for being able to stay with him forever.

“Oh, Miss Elsha! There you are!”

A familiar voice was accompanied by a flurry of footsteps as the prefect, Derek Turkey, weaved through the tables to make his way to her.

“Sorry for interrupting your break, but have you forgotten to submit your report for Magic Circle Research?”

Oriana gasped. “Yes, I…have forgotten. Sorry, I’ll run back to my dorm to grab it. I’d feel guilty asking you to wait for me, so I will deliver it to the teacher personally.”

“Professor Quicee already demanded I turn them all in together, so for my own sake, I’d rather you handed it to me.”

Oriana paled as she shot out of her chair, banging her knee against the table in the process. It rattled her cup enough to send it toppling over, but Azraq managed to catch it before it shattered on the ground.

“Oh gosh, sorry, Azraq! And thank you!”

“Elsha, you’ve really been on edge lately.”

“Yes, you’re right… I’ll try to be more careful.” She pressed her hands together and bowed her head toward him before whipping around to face Derek. “Mister Turkey, I am truly sorry. I’ll hurry back with it!”

“Nah, it’s totally fine. I’ll tag along partway.”

“I really do feel awful about this! Yana, Azraq, excuse me for a bit!”

“See you later!”

“Take care.”

Oriana gathered up her empty dishes and quickly returned them before making her way back to Derek.

Since the equipment room for Magic Circle Research was in the eastern building, that put it midway between here and the girls’ dormitory. It made the most sense for Derek to wait for her there.

“I really had forgotten until you told me. Thanks for giving me the heads up,” said Oriana as they made their way toward the dorm.

“It’s totally fine. You’ve done a lot for me, and I’m sure this is the first time you’ve ever forgotten a report.”

“I’m so ashamed…”

Oriana had been strict with her studies so she could remain close to Vincent, but now that they were in their final term, perhaps she had grown a bit lax.

No. In truth, she knew the real reason.

I got carried away like a lovesick puppy.

Oriana had been walking on cloud nine in the days following Vincent asking her to be his partner. No matter what she did or who she talked to, her mind would always wander back to him.

Although she would often squee and fuss over Vincent, she’d maintained some level of professionalism, which was why everyone was surprised at her sudden transformation. The person most taken aback by these changes, however, was Oriana herself.

I could die of embarrassment! I want to crawl into a hole and never come out.

If Vincent were to call her name at the mouth of such a hole, she’d gladly climb out to meet him. But while she couldn’t win against him even in her imagination, she didn’t resent herself for it.

“You know, I sure am glad,” said Derek with a great big grin on his face as the two walked side-by-side. They’d split the load, so Oriana was carrying one half of the reports, while he hauled the rest.

“Glad about what?” Oriana tilted her head in confusion. They were on their way to pick up the report she’d forgotten—what was there to be glad about with that?

“That things worked out.”

“Sorry?”

“That you have a partner now.”

Oriana tripped, sending the reports scattering through the air. She was so dumbstruck by her faux pas that she remained on her knees, staring absently. Derek, on the other hand, rushed to retrieve all the papers. When she finally regained her senses, Oriana blushed and scrambled up, helping him chase them all down.

“S-S-Sorry about that!”

After gathering the reports into a messy pile, the two pulled off to the side of the hallway to check through them.

Since Oriana had attempted to invite Derek to the ball, she’d let him know that she and Vincent were going together instead. He was genuinely happy for her and uttered not a single complaint about her abandoning him, despite being the one to invite him.

“Seeing how flustered you’ve been lately, the whole class has been talking about how happy they are that things worked out.”

“What?! The whole class?! Why?! Oh, God, please make it stop…”

If one could die from embarrassment, Oriana would’ve keeled over then and there. To divert her attention, she focused instead upon meticulously aligning the corners of each report.

“Ahaha! They were all overjoyed, saying, ‘Well, it’s about time.’”

“‘Overjoyed?’” Oriana gaped at him. “A-Are you telling me they’ve all been rooting for me?”

“What? You didn’t know?”

No, of course she didn’t know. She’d only ever had eyes for Vincent. She didn’t think she’d built up enough of a rapport with her peers for them to cheer her on. Perhaps they considered her more of a comrade than she’d realized. She was happy, but the ill timing left her flustered.

“Hold on,” she said. “Just so we’re clear, Vincent and I aren’t in that kind of a relationship. There’s nothing to celebrate.”

“If you say so.”

“I do say so!”

“All right.”

Derek appeared to be taking her words to heart on the surface, but she got the feeling he didn’t really believe her.

Besides, even assuming she and Vincent did somehow manage to become lovers, she wouldn’t be able to be with him for the rest of her life—not like Azraq and Yana. They would both have to marry for their respective houses after graduation. Forever didn’t exist for her and Vincent.

“Well, even though we’ve been in the same class for the past five years, I never dreamed a day would come when I’d see you like…well, this. You always struck me as mature for your age, like you were three or four years older than the rest of us.”

“What?! Me? Why?” Her eyes went wide.

“Mm… Something about the way you think about things is different from the rest of us. Like no matter what comes your way, you’re already ten steps ahead and waiting for it.”

“Huh…” Oriana bobbed her head, impressed by what she was hearing. She never meant to seem more mature than her peers, but perhaps it was a consequence of this being her second time through the same things.

“That’s why it’s so…moving,” said Derek. “Seeing you in love like this, I mean.”

“Please don’t be moved. And don’t say the obvious out loud.” Oriana held up the stack of reports in front of her face, muttering in a voice barely above a whisper.

“Can’t believe you’re blushing now after how unabashedly you proclaimed your affection for Mister Tanzine.”

She couldn’t argue that point, but his words only made it worse. The heat traveled all the way from her cheeks to her ears as she continued holding up the stack of papers to block her face.

“Hey, don’t do that! You’ll crumple the reports if you squeeze them that tightly.”

“Ack, sorry! Ugh, I keep screwing up.”

Seriously! Nothing is going right!

Face pinched with dismay, Oriana quickly smoothed out the wrinkles on the reports.

❦❦❦

“HEYA, Oriana.”

After slipping out of the school building, Oriana and Derek cut through the courtyard on their way to the eastern building, where they were flagged down by Miguel.

“Miguel! Nice to see you. What are you carrying?”

At first, Miguel eyed the stack of reports in her hands curiously, but soon enough, he grinned, making the lollipop stick protruding from his mouth bounce. “Holy swords. I yanked them out of a rock.”

“No kidding? They look strong.”

“Pretty incredible, right?” He was carrying two wooden swords in one hand, which he brandished in the air for show.

“Are you planning on dueling to win Miss Mahathin’s hand?” Derek asked, his eyes lighting up.

“’Tis my duty as the prodigal son of an earl to ensnare the desert princess with my charms. Apparently, anyway.” Miguel spoke with such disinterest, like the matter didn’t even pertain to him.

Oriana laughed. “Well, there’ve been plenty of rumors about the two of you. There was one about how you’d already given her a wedding band and another about you dodging Azraq’s watchful eye to sneak out on frequent dates.”

“That is impressive. If I’m sneaky enough to dodge Zalena’s watch, I’d make a fine spy.”

“I heard you’ve already been summoned by her father to Ete Karima,” Derek remarked.

Miguel’s expression clouded over. “Not much worse than being summoned by someone’s father. Or your own, for that matter.”

“What’s wrong?” Oriana asked.

“Well,” Miguel explained, “speaking of fathers and summoning, mine sent for me. I had to go to the city.”

As long as students had permission, they were allowed to venture out to the city. This was generally limited to the weekends, but professors would allow it during the week if someone had a proper reason. When school was in session, most nobles took up residence in the city. Earl Ferveira was no exception and was likely living in the capital.

“Did you do something bad enough for him to drag you out like that?”

“You truly think he’d rake his prodigal son over the coals?”

The realization hit her and she gaped before asking, “Don’t tell me he’s heard the rumors too? And he believes them?”

The corner of Miguel’s mouth twisted. “It’s enough for my old man just for there to be rumors at all.”

In other words, since there was already smoke, his father had figured they may as well start a fire.

“Wait, so you really are about to challenge Azraq?!”

“Yep. I figure one match ought to be enough to convince my father to give up.” Miguel spoke as though his defeat was a foregone conclusion, not that Oriana could blame him; Azraq remained undefeated.

“Aww, I wanna watch!”

“You want to watch him wipe the floor with me? Oriana, please. You could at least cheer me on.”

“Oh, I’ll cheer you on! I promise! So, when are you going to do it?”

“Right now. Figure I’d better get it over with quickly, so I’m going to do it while we’re on lunch break. It was good timing that I found you, in fact. Do you know where the two of them are right now?”

So that was why he’d called out to her.

Oriana’s shoulders slumped. She had to return to the girls’ dormitory to retrieve her report and take it to the eastern building. That meant she likely wouldn’t make it in time to see the duel.

“What a bummer. I won’t be able to make it… Anyway, a few minutes ago, they were still in the cafeteria—on the right side by the windows.”

“Thanks. See ya ’round!” Miguel leaned the two wooden swords on his shoulders and hurried toward the cafeteria.

“Too bad we can’t watch,” said Derek.

“Seriously.”

After sharing their complaints, they continued onward.

❦❦❦

AFTER turning in the reports—hers included—with Derek, Oriana returned to the cafeteria by herself. She wanted to see how Miguel’s duel had gone.

As she was on her way back to the spot where she’d parted ways with Yana and Azraq earlier, she heard commotion coming from the space beside the cafeteria. Oriana edged closer and found a crowd of students gathered in a single area. It immediately dawned upon her—this was where they were carrying out their duel.

Awesome! I actually made it in time!

She crept closer. Part of the reason she hoped it wasn’t over was simply because she’d never seen Miguel in combat before, and curiosity had her itching for a glimpse.

Alas, since the initial stir from the crowd, everyone had gone still. It was so silent, one could almost hear a pin drop. Even if the duel was already over, it was strange for them to freeze up like that.

As she tried to peek through the gaps between the rows of people, some of the bystanders turned to look at her. They all wore bitter, conflicted expressions on their faces. She thought it was because they resented Miguel for sneaking in a duel before them, but that didn’t seem to be the case. The crowd stared at her in confusion before splitting to make a path for her.

Dread filled her chest.

Oriana’s feet carried her forward through the ocean of students. She could see nothing yet, but the ill premonition had her heart hammering. When she saw the two in the middle, she gulped.

“Miguel?”

It seemed the match was over. Miguel was holding a wooden sword in hand, though his arm hung limply at his side. He didn’t even glance her way; he was too busy gaping at the man kneeling in front of him. And that man was Azraq.

Oriana couldn’t believe her eyes. Azraq was meekly bowing his head to his opponent.

“I underestimated you. Victory is yours.”

For a moment, Oriana couldn’t digest the words that tumbled from Azraq’s lips. The shock hit her square in the chest, giving her no time to process it. She scanned the faces around her, looking for Yana. It took only a few seconds to locate her. People had vacated the area around her, as if she was volatile and they feared being caught in the explosion. Yet, at the same time, they looked at her with curiosity, wondering what she might do next.

Oriana rushed over to her best friend’s side. She moved to throw her arms around Yana but froze. There was something so aloof and unapproachable about the foreign princess as she stood there.

Azraq turned toward them—or toward Yana, rather. Oriana was sure no one else even registered in his mind.

“I expended all of my power to best him, but it failed me. If you would order me, I would fight with my life on the line—”

“Enough,” Yana replied curtly.

Azraq kept his head bowed, making it impossible to read his expression. Meanwhile, Yana’s eyes looked as frigid as the desert night, belying no emotion.

---

---

“You’ve done enough,” said Yana. “Will you return to Ete Karima?”

“Only by your leave.” Azraq bowed his head even lower, enough that his forehead was nearly touching the ground where his knees were.

Despite the vast number of people gathered, no one dared speak. That wasn’t due to shock, but rather, because they were all awed by the sanctity of what they were witnessing.

“Azraq.” Yana kept her gaze glued to him, her voice deep and low.

“My lady?”

“You have fulfilled your duty.”

Those almost sounded like parting words.

Yana didn’t want to hear his reply; she spun around on her heel. Those who’d crowded behind her nearly tripped over themselves to make way for her. She kept her back straight, her chin high, and her expression dignified as she strode away.

Oriana glanced between her friend’s retreating figure and Azraq. Her gaze then wandered to Miguel, who was gaping in disbelief. It was only then that the latter recognized her presence.

“I’m going,” she said to him.

“Got it.”

It was a brief exchange but more than enough for the two of them.

Oriana chased after Yana.

❦❦❦

THE man who defeated the princess’s bodyguard would take her for a wife. Such a tradition, in an age where even nobility now married for love, seemed heavily outdated to most people.

Nonetheless, Yana had endured this trial for the past five years, with Azraq—a man she trusted more than anyone else—at her side. But today, he’d lost. Oriana hadn’t witnessed the match. But Azraq really had lost to Miguel.

Despite five years of grappling with their trials, neither Azraq nor Yana made a fuss when they came to an end.

It was unnatural. Heartrending.

 

“Yana!”

Midway, Oriana quickened her pace, but she only caught up once Yana reached the Dragon’s Tree. Yana probably didn’t even realize she was being followed. She was hugging her arms around herself, trembling. When Oriana called her name, she jumped. Slowly, she looked over her shoulder. Her eyes were round, and in them, Oriana could see her own reflection.

“Yana…”

Yana tried to plaster a smile on her face, but the shape broke as her lips trembled. Maybe she was loath to admit her true feelings. She was pursing her lips so tight they turned white. After two deep breaths, she managed to regain enough composure to speak.

“I am ashamed to have you see me like this.”

“There’s absolutely nothing for you to be ashamed about.”

Yana was trying her utmost to conduct herself like a princess. She didn’t let herself fall to pieces in front of anyone. She didn’t rebuke Azraq for losing, nor did she curse Miguel for winning. There was no one she could direct her pent-up feelings toward. And so, she’d retreated deep into the forest, where she held her arms around herself.

Oriana tentatively wrapped her arms around Yana’s shoulders. The latter went rigid, as if she didn’t know what to make of Oriana’s sudden warmth.

“I knew this day would eventually come,” Yana choked out, her breath hitting Oriana’s shoulder. “There wasn’t a day it left my mind. I thought about it every night, worried every morning—that today might be the day Azraq finally loses…”

A tremor ran through her voice as her breathing became more and more erratic.

“I was the one who asked for this trial. For five years, I monopolized him. This is my punishment. But please, Oriana…” Yana rested her forehead against Oriana’s shoulder. Her body was still tense. She focused all of her power on forcing out the words, “Please…I need to hear you say…that Azraq really fought with all his might…”

Oriana squeezed her friend. Stiff as she was, Yana trembled at the touch.

When Oriana first saw Azraq and Miguel standing opposite each other, she’d had a sense that something was off. Now she knew why.

Miguel did have a stunning physique. He was also tall like Azraq, which was admittedly rare at the school. The muscles in Miguel’s thighs far exceeded those of their peers, but even with all of that, Oriana still didn’t think he’d stood a chance at beating Azraq.

It went without saying that Yana knew even better than her just how strong Azraq was. The Desert Flower’s protector was without peer, and his power was so renowned that Ete Karima heralded him as their most powerful warrior.

It seemed impossible that Azraq would lose to Miguel if he truly battled with all his might. That could only mean that he’d gone easy on Miguel. He must’ve decided that Miguel was someone worthy of entrusting Yana to. Thus, by that judgment, he’d conceded defeat.

This was a devastating blow for Yana, given how much she loved Azraq.

Oriana couldn’t find the words to assure Yana as she desired.

“He gave our battle his all,” said a voice behind them.

Oriana flinched. Miguel was standing there. She squeezed Yana tighter. It wasn’t that she was trying to protect her friend from Miguel, but she didn’t think the victor of the duel should see Yana in her current state—regardless of whether Azraq fought earnestly or not. For both their sakes, she kept Yana hidden in her embrace.

“Zalena held nothing back. As the one who battled him, I can assure you of this.” Miguel’s voice held none of the playfulness it usually did; he was being entirely sincere.

Yana trembled in Oriana’s arms.

“Miguel, why…?” Oriana asked.

“Surprised, right? I figured I’d give it a shot, doomed as my chances were, so I could shut my father up…”

No one would’ve expected that to lead to this. No one except Azraq, that is.

“…But much to my own surprise, I seem to be ridiculously powerful.” Miguel grinned. He didn’t have a lollipop stick between his lips as usual.

Miguel insisted Azraq had given him no handicap and that he won fairly. Everyone who watched the match would know otherwise, but still, he held fast to his version of events. That was most likely because he knew it to be the best way to shield Yana’s heart.

“So…” Oriana asked, “Were things…okay on your end?”

“Yeah. Azraq exited the stage promptly. The other students were kicking up a fuss, though. I’m sure the commotion will be impossible to escape for a while. I told them to get to class for the time being. Thanks, Oriana, for going after Yana for me.”

Those words surprised Oriana. Miguel already spoke as if she was his to protect—as if she were counted among the other responsibilities he was to inherit as heir to the Hydrangea Earldom. Thus, he had to thank Oriana since he’d entrust his own duty to her. She certainly hadn’t expected to hear him express gratitude. In fact, she thought he’d come to refuse the honor of taking Yana as his bride—for her sake.

Miguel turned his gaze to Yana. “I’m sorry, Yana. I won’t decline your hand. This is part of my responsibility as the eldest son of Ferveira.” He wore a smile on his face, but he couldn’t hide the guilt in his expression.

“Of course,” Yana said, peeking her head out from Oriana’s chest. Although not the face of a princess, she maintained at least some measure of dignity. “I apologize for leaving abruptly and not praising you more for your victory, Miguel. You fought valiantly. Congratulations. I am glad my champion is you.”

Yana had likely practiced this same speech for the past five years so that she could smile and laud the winner—whoever they were—without revealing her grief at losing Azraq. This conversation was one steeped in duty, where both parties were shouldering a heavy burden. Oriana could only look on with tears in her eyes.

Yana glanced back at her friend. “Oriana, thank you. You can go back now. Class will be starting.”

Oriana opened her mouth to protest but then closed it again. Finally, she nodded. Right now, she believed leaving them be the best choice—for Yana’s sake.

“Miguel, I congratulate you as well,” she said.

“Thank you.” He ruffled her hair.

As she headed back to the main school building, Oriana prayed that the same kindness she felt in Miguel’s touch would also help Yana heal.

❦❦❦

MIGUEL didn’t come to their afternoon classes.

When the chime sounded, signaling that school was over for the day, Oriana bid her professor a brief farewell before dragging Vincent out of the classroom. She brought him with her to the small lounge in the eastern building. Despite her actions being sudden and forceful, Vincent made no objection and was instead shockingly compliant.

Once they were safely inside the lounge with the door closed behind them, Vincent blurted, “What is this all about? Why have you brought me here?”

“I wanted us to be alone.”

“You wanted—”

Vincent’s words cut off abruptly as she grabbed his hand. Oriana knew he disliked excessive touch like this, but she hoped he might permit it right now. He gulped as she squeezed his hand in hers. Oriana had no idea how to cope with the rampaging impulses inside her.

Vincent went stiff with surprise. His other hand, which was free from her grasp, hovered awkwardly in the air before hesitantly clapping down where their hands were connected. After a pause, he explained, “I think we should wait a bit longer before doing this.” His normally low and comforting voice raised an octave at the end, coming out a squeak.

Oriana shook her head. “I can’t wait.”

“Oriana…” Vincent murmured, stroking her arm affectionately.

She peered up at him, her cheeks rosy. “Vincent…”

“Yes?”

His voice tickled at her heart like a feather, prompting her eyes to grow misty. As her face contorted, he ran a hand through her hair, trying to comfort her.

“Um, you see, it’s about Miguel…”

“Come again?” His voice went rigid, as if he’d been rudely ripped out of a dream.

Oriana flinched in surprise, blinking up at him. “Wh-What’s wrong?”

“How does Miguel have anything to do with this?”

“Anything to do with what? Miguel is the whole reason I dragged you here.”

“You… So that’s what you wanted to talk about? Just the two of us?”

“Uh…yeah?”

He stared at her, looking as disgusted as if he’d swallowed a bug—or maybe hundreds of bugs, given the level of abhorrence on his face. Perhaps it was more accurate to say he was glowering at her.

“So what about Miguel?” Vincent’s voice was cold now, all of his warmth and gentleness forgotten. He plopped down in an armchair, and Oriana dragged a cushioned ottoman over so she could sit beside him.

“Okay, so you see, Miguel…”

“Yes?”

“Beat Azraq in a duel!”

Vincent gawked at her. “Miguel? Our Miguel?” Even he couldn’t have anticipated this shocking revelation. “Why would he even…”

“His father was on his case, apparently. And when he went through with the duel, he won!”

“Did you watch it play out?”

“I didn’t. I arrived as he won. Azraq was…” Unable to continue, Oriana shook her head. It made her chest seize, remembering Azraq on his knees in front of Miguel. “But no one wanted this,” she protested.

“It matters not whether anyone wished for it. It was fate. That trial was the very reason Miss Mahathin was here. Had she not undergone it, Miguel would’ve had no cause to challenge her bodyguard for her hand.”

Vincent likely realized Oriana was upset on Yana’s behalf, but his cool and detached commentary left her frowning.

“Have the two refused to accept this outcome?”

Oriana hesitated before admitting, “No, they’re accepting it. On the surface, anyway.”

“Then we have only to wait for it to sink in and become a reality for them. There’s nothing else the two of us can do.”

The tears she’d been holding back all afternoon came pouring down her cheeks. Her mind recognized the truth of what Vincent was saying, but her heart was struggling to accept it.

“Why is this happening…?”

“You needn’t be so sad. I’m sure the two of you will remain as close of friends as you always have, and Miguel will make a good husband for her. She’s been searching for a partner and she couldn’t do much better than Miguel.”

“That might be true, but…” Oriana’s voice trailed off as she struggled to come to grips with reality.

Vincent’s face hardened. “Then what? Are you personally dissatisfied with their engagement?” His voice was sharp and unforgiving.

Perhaps he was right. Since she couldn’t get over what was happening, she was taking it out on Vincent even though he had nothing to do with it.

“Who is your partner? I am—not Miguel.”

“We’re not talking about that right now,” Oriana argued.

“Yes, you are.”

“I am not! I’m talking about Yana! Azraq’s going back to Ete Karima now!”

Vincent pursed his lips, perhaps because the conversation had taken a turn he hadn’t anticipated. “Zalena is? Why? Is he not the princess’s bodyguard? I cannot imagine him leaving her side.”

“That’s how their conversation went after the duel. It’s like they were saying goodbye… Yana asked if he was going home and told him that he’d fulfilled his duty.”

Oriana lifted her legs onto the ottoman, hugging them to her chest as the tears poured out faster. “Yana will be so hurt, but she won’t show that to me.”

“Oh…”

“And if she doesn’t show me, I can’t comfort her.”

“True. I’m afraid I still lack awareness of Ete Karima’s customs, so I am not quite sure how that plays into this. But she’ll surely be lonely without him.”

“Yeah…”

“All the more reason for you to stick beside her closer than ever.”

“Yeah…” Oriana sniffled and nodded.

Yana had once told her, “I’m not trying to tell you to choose what path you want to walk right this moment. Simply, I want you to know that when you feel lost, you have me here beside you.”

So this is how Yana felt back then. There’s still so much the two of us don’t know about each other. We’ve come this far without sharing. That’s why we can’t touch the deepest parts of each other’s hearts.

Yana had promised to stay at her side. That was probably the best Yana could do, given Oriana was hiding the truth about this being her second life. The same was true for Oriana; since Yana had hidden the truth of her love, all Oriana could do was stick beside her.

“Wait, do you mean to say that Zalena and Miss Mahathin are…”

Oriana jumped. She timidly turned toward Vincent. He smiled wryly and spoke no more as he stroked her head. Tears welled up in her eyes again. She realized that Yana would never enjoy a warm caress like this on her head again.

❦❦❦

ORIANA had dinner with Vincent and Miguel, namely because Yana and Azraq were absent from the cafeteria.

Despite all the attention Miguel was drawing from winning the duel against Azraq, he acted no different than normal, much to Oriana’s surprise. He even brought the topic up without trying to purposefully avoid it. Oriana didn’t get the sense that he was forcing himself, and he did genuinely seem to be thinking about his future with Yana. She was grateful for that but melancholic all the same.

I feel awful for Yana, but I also wonder if this is really the best for Miguel.

Miguel had always listened to her problems, but Oriana realized she knew almost nothing about him.

Does he not have feelings for anyone else? Can he truly be satisfied, following his father’s wishes like this?

Asking as much would be an insult to the determination he was showing to see this through. Thus, Oriana swallowed down her cod roe spaghetti along with any words she might’ve otherwise spoken.

Even when Oriana finally left the cafeteria, Yana still refused to show her face. Worried that she might not have eaten anything, Oriana put in a request with the kitchen and received a sandwich, which she carried out with her in a small basket. Vincent and Miguel accompanied her until the girls’ dormitory came into view.

Once she was alone, she pulled her robe tighter around her body, chilled by the cold air. Right as she started regretting her choice not to wear a muffler, a shadow sprang out of the bushes around the building.

Oriana wanted to praise herself for managing to swallow back her shriek. Her basket, sadly, was not so lucky; she’d flung it and probably made a mess of the sandwich inside.

“Oh gosh… Azraq!”

The man standing there, with his sun-kissed skin and black hair, was none other than Yana’s bodyguard.

“I assume you want to see Yana, right?” Oriana excitedly sprang toward the front door of the dormitory. “Wait here a sec. I’ll go get—”

“That’s not necessary. I don’t plan to meet with her.”

She spun around to face him. “Azraq…” Seeing how earnest he looked, she stooped to grab her basket before turning her attention toward him again.

“I’ve already finished processing my withdrawal from the Academy. I will be leaving in a few moments.”

So, he really did mean it when he said he was going back.

Oriana stared in mute amazement. His expression was so calm, like the still surface of a lake. She stepped closer, as if trying to cling to him. “What about guarding Yana?”

“No need to worry. I was never here alone. The Hidden—that is, other bodyguards—were lying in wait.”

“Oh, I never realized…”

“Lady Yana is fully aware. But I have done you an injustice. While you were with Lady Yana, they were keeping an eye on you, too.”

Oriana laughed it off. “They were guarding us, right? I should be glad for the protection then. Thank you.” She smiled at him, and he drew his brows together, looking guilty.

“Elsha. I came to extend my gratitude.”

His voice was so sincere that it made her jump.

“For these past five years, you’ve brought Lady Yana great comfort. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.” His voice swelled with love for the princess.

Oriana bit down on her trembling lips and bravely lifted her face. “You’re making it sound like an eternal goodbye.” She said it jokingly, but his face contorted.

“I will be leaving the country, and I doubt I will ever come here again.”

“The country? You mean Amanecer, right?”

“No, Ete Karima.”

Her jaw dropped. Not only was Azraq vacating the school, but he also never planned to return to this country or his own?

“B-But…isn’t it an honor? Just because you lost, they’re not going to get angry with you, are they?!”

“There is no way I could stay there.” Azraq spoke with finality, self-deprecation seeping into his voice.

Oriana swallowed hard.

Azraq smiled bitterly as he said, “Sorry. Forget what I said.”

Oriana grabbed a fistful of her hair. She thought she knew how Azraq felt, but his emotions likely ran far, far deeper than she could have ever fathomed—deep enough that he could not wait in Ete Karima, knowing Yana might eventually return with Miguel at her side.

“Elsha, I hope this won’t anger you, but…”

“Yes?” Her voice hitched as she fought back tears.

Azraq pretended not to hear it as he continued, “For these past five years, I thought of us as kindred spirits.”

“Then I hope you won’t be angry either because I felt the same, Azraq.”

Azraq had protected Yana physically, while Oriana had done so emotionally. No, she’d tried to. But she hadn’t succeeded.

“I’m sorry, Azraq. I’m not worthy of being her personal attendant. I can’t even get her to cry in front of me.”

“There’s no need for her to cry,” he said. “The hurt she feels at my absence will soon disappear.”

No, there’s no way it will.

It would be so much easier for Oriana to blurt that out, but Yana had kept her feelings to herself up until the very end. Oriana had no right to speak of them on her behalf.

“Elsha, I hope you’ll be friends with her forever. I hope you’ll support her for years and years to come. This is a selfish request, I realize, but think of it as returning the favor you once promised me.”

His words triggered memories of an earlier exchange they’d shared:

“You were the only person I could think to rely on.”

“I told you already, it’s fine.”

“Seriously, thank you! Now I am indebted to you. I swear on my life, I will return the favor someday!”

“You exaggerate.”

Back when she made that promise, she never dreamed that this future would await her.

Why are so many things happening this time that didn’t happen in my original timeline?

Last time, Azraq remained undefeated up until Oriana’s death. He and Yana went to the ball together, and as Yana predicted, they didn’t bother dancing the waltz, instead opting to enjoy their food at the edge of the room. In the back of her mind, Oriana always thought their trial wouldn’t conclude until much later.

This is my second life… Why wasn’t I able to coordinate things better?

Regret bore down on her chest like a heavy weight. Even as she inwardly berated herself, she tried to smile, but it was strained and unnatural.

“I will be Yana’s friend for as long as she allows me. But I would hate to break my word, knowing you might tell everyone the color of my underwear. So, even if she refuses to let me, I’ll still cling to her ’til the very end.”

Azraq grinned. Despite how serious and humorless he looked on the outside, he’d often smiled at her and Yana. He was two years older and had always watched out for them, boisterous as they were. He’d always helped them when they needed it.

Azraq bowed, intending to part. “Please…” His voice trailed off, but whatever he wanted to say, Oriana was sure it had to do with Yana. That much was clear.

Oriana nodded to show she understood what he meant. The tears overflowed.

It shouldn’t be like this. This is wrong! All wrong!

His figure began to recede, growing fainter and fainter.

“Azraq, we’ll…we’ll see each other again! I swear it!” she bellowed after him.

He glanced back at her once and waved his hand before disappearing into the darkness.

❦❦❦

WHEN Oriana returned to her room after parting with Azraq, she found Yana standing by the window, still as a statue.

“Oriana, I…can’t look at your face right now.”

Oriana froze.

Yana’s eyes, black as onyx, were overflowing with tears. This was the first time Oriana had ever seen her cry.

“Azraq left, didn’t he?” she asked. “He never even said goodbye to me…”

The window she was leaning on probably gave her full view of the event that had transpired moments prior.

Oriana blanched.

“I can’t take it… The last person he came to see wasn’t even me! Please, I swear I’ll be back to normal tomorrow, but for now… I want to be alone…!” Yana trembled as she sobbed. She had a blanket wrapped around her and was pressed against the window, as if it was the closest she could get to Azraq.

I want to stay with her, but…maybe that’s just me being selfish.

As much as Oriana worried for her best friend, she also understood how Yana felt. She set the basket with the sandwich on a side table and said, “All right. I’ll leave for today.”

Oriana snatched her muffler from the wall and wrapped it around her neck. With her back facing the room and the doorknob in hand, she paused. “I know…this is me putting my nose where it doesn’t belong, but allow me to say what I’m sure you already know.”

Yana said nothing.

Oriana swallowed hard before continuing, “…Azraq spoke of nothing but you.”

Silence.

“He went on about nothing but you. You were the only thing—no, I’m sorry.” Oriana apologized as soon as she realized her mistake.

It doesn’t matter how much he cares for her now. Whatever feelings were there, he made his decision—and it was to leave her side.

The result was all that mattered. Azraq was no longer with her, no matter how much he might care. Trying to comfort Yana by saying as much would only drive her to the desperate question of why he decided to leave in the first place.

Oriana banged her forehead against the door. “I’m so sorry. I’ll leave now.”

She’s my best friend, and yet there’s absolutely nothing I can do for her.

As she turned the knob, a voice called from behind, staying her.

“Oriana…”

She kept her hand on the handle as she glanced over her shoulder. The movement made the door crack open.

“Oriana.”

“…Yeah?”

“Oriana.”

“Yeah…”

Oriana closed the door. She made her way over to the window and threw her arms around Yana and the blanket wrapped around her. She squeezed tight enough to suffocate her friend, and Yana did the same in return. Her wailing felt like tiny knives that dug into Oriana’s skin. Together, the two crumpled onto the carpet.

Oriana yanked her blanket off her bed. The two wrestled with it before curling up together on the floor, where they soon fell asleep.

❦❦❦

THE next day, Yana was back to her normal self. She smiled at everyone, ate her meals properly, conversed, and attended classes. It was shocking how ordinary things seemed to be.

The only difference was that Azraq no longer followed a step behind her.