A heavy silence blanketed the hall, the air still charged from the duel. All eyes turned to the Crown Prince as he stepped forward, each stride deliberate, his voice sharp and commanding:
"That's enough for today," he said, his gaze fixed not on the Duke, but on Seraphina still held in his arms. "You can test your strength in the upcoming academy exam, Lady Vale."
The Duke raised a brow, offering Seraphina a knowing look before slowly releasing her. "As Your Highness commands," he said, voice laced with mischief. "Though I must admit, I look forward to our rematch."
Seraphina stepped back, brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear, trying to steady her racing heart. She could feel the heat of the Prince's stare, as if it alone demanded an explanation. But she didn't offer one.
"Come with me," he said softly, but firmly, turning away without waiting for her agreement.
She followed, aware of the whispers rising in their wake.
—-----------
The corridor was quiet, away from the lingering eyes and curious stares. The Prince stopped near the royal garden, where sunlight filtered through the high windows, casting golden glows on the stone floor.
He turned to face her.
"You were careless," he said, his voice low. "You let your guard down."
"It was just a misstep," Seraphina replied calmly, though her pulse was still uneven. "Not all battles are won with flawless footing."
He stepped closer. "And not all opponents are harmless, even in practice."
She tilted her chin. "You doubt the Duke?"
"I don't doubt him. I just don't trust anyone around you," he said, eyes narrowing. "Especially when you don't realize how dangerous it is to tempt attention."
Seraphina blinked. "Are you worried about my safety... or your jealousy?"
Silence.
Then, unexpectedly, the tension cracked—he looked away for a brief second, jaw tight, then turned back, his voice softer now. "Both."
Her breath caught in her throat.
"But if you want to prove yourself," he continued, brushing past her, "then win at the academy exam. Show them all who you are—but stay by my side."
As he walked away, Seraphina stood alone in the sunlit corridor, her thoughts tumbling like leaves in the wind.
By his side, huh?
Was she ready to stand there… not as a pawn, but as an equal?
(Introduction to academy exam )
- its an entrance exam mandatory for all noble to participate in at the age of 20.
- it decides if the candidate will enter into Knight academy or not
- it is held in two parts:-
1. Written exam
2. Physical exam( candidates have dual with eachother)
- students are selected on the basis of sum of marks obtain in both exam.