The morning after our first training sessions, the palace was quieter than usual. Alina walked beside me, braid swaying, sunlight flickering faintly as she shifted nervously. Her face was still flushed from yesterday, partly from exertion, partly… from me. I noticed, of course.
"Do you think I'm doing enough?" she asked softly.
"You're stronger than you think," I replied, voice calm, steady. "Focus on controlling your light. I'll make sure nothing else overwhelms you." Shadows remained dormant, coiled inside me. Timing would matter—they weren't ready yet.
We entered the main training hall. Zoya and Genya were already practicing. Zoya's lightning arced sharply across the room, precise and commanding, while Genya moved gracefully among illusions that seemed harmless but could confuse even the most attentive eye. Both glanced at me as we entered. I returned a calm nod, reading them carefully. Both were observant, competent, and clearly intrigued by my presence.
Alina stiffened slightly when I greeted them. Her golden light pulsed faintly, cheeks flushing. Already jealous, I thought internally, allowing myself a quiet smirk. I didn't comment—humor had no place during lessons. Protection and training first.
The day passed in exercises: controlling light, sparring with other trainees, tactical movement drills. I stayed close to Alina, guiding her, blocking minor hazards, and giving instructions only when necessary. Genya occasionally asked me about technique, and I answered politely, keeping tone neutral. Alina's fluster was obvious, sunlight flickering faster with each word.
Later, Zoya came over during a break, lightning sparking faintly from her fingertips. She tilted her head, curious. "You're the one helping the Summoner?" she asked.
"Yes," I replied seriously. "I'm here to make sure she learns to control her power—and survives while doing it."
Alina's cheeks flared again, golden light pulsing. She muttered, "You… don't need to talk to them so much."
I nodded. "Just being polite," I said. No teasing, no joke—serious. For now.
By evening, the training halls were emptying. Alina leaned against the railing, tired but glowing faintly, and I stayed nearby, scanning the palace for any lingering threats. "Day three complete," I said quietly. "We survived, we improved, and we're ready for tomorrow."
She glanced at me, small smile tugging at her lips. "Thanks… Zac."
I allowed a faint grin. "And I'd say we're getting stronger together," I added lightly. Humor entering carefully, just enough to ease tension.
Genya and Zoya passed nearby, casting small, curious glances at me. I noted them mentally—friends now, potential closer connections later. For now, my focus remained on Alina, keeping her safe, and observing the subtle dynamics forming around us. The palace was full of intrigue, training, and hidden threats—but I was ready. Shadows would awaken when the time was right, light was under control, and the people around me—Alina, Genya, Zoya—were already noticing my presence in ways I would explore… eventually.