The Breeze of Friendship
Atta fell silent for a few moments after Isha's announcement. Finally, his voice broke through, low and worried.
"You're really sure about this? I mean… I get that you want to test yourself, but Ethan will be there—and others just as dangerous. You could get hurt."
Isha pouted playfully, her lips curling into a teasing smile. "Don't underestimate me. I am a princess, you know."
Atta sighed, then leaned forward, his tone soft but firm. "Alright. But understand one thing—I'm participating too. And if we end up facing each other… I won't go easy on you."
Her smirk widened, a spark of mischief dancing in her eyes. "Oh really? Without Azeon's power, are you sure you can even defeat me?"
Atta chuckled under his breath. "Don't worry about that. I'm a master swordsman… and this time, I'll be carrying a very powerful blade."
Isha leaned in closer, her voice turning sly. "Master swordsman? Hm. Are you trying to impress me, Prince Atta?"
His face flushed instantly, ears burning red. "W-what? Of course not! Don't twist my words!"
Isha burst out laughing, her gentle voice filling the canteen. "You really are cute, you know that? But… our classes are done for the day. We should head back to our dorms." She gave him a playful grin. "Oh, wait—I forgot. You're sharing a dorm as a commoner, right? You probably don't even know how to share a room."
Atta groaned, glaring at her with mock annoyance. "Oi! Don't tease me about that. Just because I entered as a 'commoner' doesn't change the fact that I'm still a prince. You're too cruel, Princess of Elves. I'll see you at the palace later."
Isha smirked as she stood, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Ah, don't worry, my prince. I'll try to be gentler with you next time." With that, she walked out, her laughter echoing behind her.
Atta watched her go, a small smile tugging at his lips despite himself. His thoughts whispered quietly: I… hope she wasn't flirting.
---
Later, Atta arrived at his assigned dorm. The room was modest, far smaller than his quarters at the palace. He let out a sigh. So this is where I'll sleep now… it's so small. I already miss my old chambers.
He was still looking around when a sudden tap landed on his shoulder. Instinctively, his body stiffened, but he forced himself to calm before turning.
A cheerful angel stood there with a grin. "Hey there, roomie! You must be my new roommate. Name's Reyan."
Atta blinked, then offered his hand, his tone polite but cautious. "I'm Atta. Nice to meet you. I'll do my best not to be… too much trouble."
Reyan laughed, shaking his hand firmly. "Don't worry, roomie. You don't look like trouble at all. But me? I can be a little too much sometimes—so forgive me in advance."
For the first time in a long while, Atta found himself chuckling softly.
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To Be Continued....