As I huddled awake on my pile of blankets, I worried. About Mari, about home... about my friends on Earth, and– who the hell is taking care of my pets?
And... What happens to me if I can't learn my branch or if I don't even have one..? Can I even do arcane?!?
I heard rustling next to me. Opening my eyes and twisting to the side, I could see purple hair.
"Lyn... you really need sleep, you haven't for at least 37 hours," I reminded. She shrugged before sitting up and looking at the ceiling. Following her gaze, I saw a galaxy on the ceiling.
Lyn rested her head on my shoulder before saying, "I rarely sleep much, especially when my stomach twists so much from all the worries people have throughout the day."
My worry is hurting her.
"I'm sor-" I started.
"What are you worried about R?" Lyn asked with eyes so earnest I began spilling out my thoughts.
She sat in silence for a small bit before saying, "there are people who don't have branches here. Luana personally has a sister that can't... My cousin also isn't able to. It's rare, but it happens. Besides, even if you can't do arcane, that's okay too. The Academy is also there for regular learning. Really it's Mr. Hecate's word that matters the most in regards to branches."
She shifted a bit before laying down, "no one really has an incredible grasp on their branch, despite how some people act. It'll take Isbel roughly seven more years to get a true grasp of hers, even with the sword she'll get. Some takes ten years, maybe even up to thirty. Everyone worries."
"Hmm. Who do you think worries the most?" I asked, hugging my knees. She thought for a little bit.
"Maybe the new students who just started working with their branch. They're constantly surrounded by people who appear to have a great grasp, so they don't think they're good enough and that makes them frustrated," she replied.
"Or maybe us royals too. I don't have it so bad, but Eris cannot afford to mess up. He has to constantly think about his every action and those watching him. He's got the pressure of representing Forrest on top of having a very powerful branch."
I can't even believe these people are royals. They seem so much more tangible than royals on Earth.
"Don't sympathize with us too much, you definitely have it worse. But everyone in this room is here to help you. And if I was in your shoes, I couldn't think of anyone else I'd want supporting me. You're safe," she assured me.
"Thank you..." I yawned. She nodded before getting up and going back to her sleeping spot.
