A Z R I E L (A Freenbecky Fanfiction)

CHAPTER 4

It had been hours since Aelia started exploring the Academy grounds. Thanks to the student map provided upon arrival, navigating Ravenwood's sprawling campus became much easier.

Now, she found herself sitting on a bench near the field. Students filled the area-laughing, chatting, some sparring playfully or lounging in groups. Aelia, however, chose a quieter spot, farther from the others and closer to the edge of the forest. She wasn't shy, exactly-just introverted. She didn't initiate conversations unless necessary or with someone she genuinely felt comfortable around.

While she was minding her own business reading a book, she felt the same feeling she felt yesterday, That unsettling sensation, like someone was watching her.

She feels like she's being watched from behind her so she decided to turn around

Nothing.

Just the quiet, looming treeline of the forest. Still, she kept watching, waiting for someone-or something-to appear from the shadows. Minutes passed. Nothing.

Then-
A hand landed on her shoulder.

She jolted

"Fuck!" Aelia exclaimed a little loudly, standing up and facing the culprit for her almost having a heart attack.

Standing there, looking completely unfazed, was Kali.

"Damn, Chill!" Kali said, raising a brow. Giving Bella a strange look like she's judging her whole being. "You look like you saw a ghost."

"You almost gave me a heart attack." She stated an octave higher, still calming her heartbeat down.

"Sorry. I was calling your name but you weren't responding."

"So you decided to sneak up on me?"

"I wasn't sneaking up, kid." Bella rolled her eyes then sat back down on the bench.
"Why are you here alone?"

"Because I want to, and it's not like I have friends here to be with." Bella answered with a little attitude.

"I was just asking," Kali said, pouting playfully. "Why are you being so sassy?"

Bella exhaled, "I'm sorry. You just really scared me." She answered.

"I'm sorry about that. Did you have lunch yet?"

With that Bella looked at her watch to check the time
"It's only nine forty-two, Still too early for lunch, Kali."

"So? I'm hungry. Let's go."

"Then go by yourself."

"Oh come on, Kid. It's my treat." Kali persuades.

"I have my own money," Bella easily dismissed. "And speaking of money, How much do I owe you?"

Kali in response just stare at her confused. Bella rolled her eyes, again.

"For the dinner last night and then the Breakfast this morning."

"You don't owe me anything." Kali said, casually slumping down on the bench beside Aelia.

"But you bought me dinner and then breakfast, so I'll pay you back." The younger insisted.

"I don't want you to pay for it though. Consider it as my way of welcoming you to the academy and our room." Kali said with finality in her voice.

"Fine." Bella exhaled defeated.
"Can I ask you something Kali?"

"I think I know what your question will be, but ask away."

"Why are you being so nice to me? We barely even know each other besides each others name."