Arcane (Academy)

Flicker of Fire

Despite the looming threat of Van Helsing, the four girls made a collective decision to continue with their lives and studies, refusing to let fear dictate their actions. With each passing day, they grew stronger, their bond forged in the face of adversity.

As the annual festival in Eugene approached, the girls found themselves longing for a moment of respite amidst the chaos. Determined to reclaim a sense of normalcy, they made plans to travel to the city and immerse themselves in the festivities.

On the day of the festival, excitement buzzed in the air as Maya, Kaede, Azaleah, and Ehra set out for Eugene, their spirits lifted by the prospect of a day filled with laughter and joy. Amidst the bustling crowds and colorful decorations, they lost themselves in the magic of the moment, reveling in the sights and sounds of the festival.

From street performers to food stalls, each corner of the city offered new adventures and delights. Together, they laughed and danced, their worries momentarily forgotten in the joy of the moment.

As Maya focused on capturing the vibrant energy of the carnival with her camera, Nile joined Kaede, Azaleah, and Ehra in their quest for adventure. The group laughed and cheered as they hopped from one ride to another, their spirits soaring with each exhilarating twist and turn.

With Kaede's infectious laughter ringing through the air and Azalea's joyful exclamations echoing around them, the carnival became a playground of endless possibilities. From the dizzying heights of the Ferris wheel to the adrenaline-pumping loops of the roller coaster, they embraced every moment with a sense of childlike wonder and excitement.

As the day wore on and the sun dipped lower in the sky, Maya finally joined her friends, her camera filled with snapshots of their unforgettable day. Together, they shared stories and memories, their laughter mingling with the sounds of the carnival around them.

As Maya's gaze fell upon Darius in the distance, her heart skipped a beat. She watched as he stood alongside Elmo, a faint smile playing on his lips. As Elmo approached their group, Maya felt a flutter of nervousness in her stomach.

"Hey Maya, I'd like you to meet my friend Darius," Elmo said, gesturing towards Darius. "Darius, this is Maya, Kaede, Azaleah, and Ehra."

Darius's smile widened slightly as he greeted Maya, his eyes meeting hers briefly before flickering away. "Nice to meet you all," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of awkwardness.

Maya's cheeks flushed as she returned Darius's greeting, her heart racing with uncertainty. She couldn't help but feel the teasing glances from her friends, their playful smiles betraying their amusement at the situation.

Ehra and Azaleah exchanged knowing looks, their smiles widening as they teased Maya with playful nudges and winks. Sensing Maya's discomfort, Kaede shot her a reassuring smile, silently offering her support.

As Kaede and Nile approached the hot air balloon, excitement bubbled within them. Kaede's eyes sparkled with anticipation as she eagerly prepared to board the balloon, her heart set on experiencing the breathtaking views from above.

With a warm smile, Nile joined Kaede, his enthusiasm matching hers as they waited in line. As they stepped closer to the balloon, Kaede couldn't contain her excitement, her eyes scanning the crowd around her in anticipation.

But as they neared the entrance to the balloon's basket, Kaede's heart skipped a beat as she caught sight of a familiar face she never expected to see – Catherine. Her stomach churned with unease as she watched Catherine approach, her demeanor cold and unfriendly.

Before Kaede could react, Catherine pushed her roughly, her tone sharp and mean-spirited. "Step aside," she commanded, her voice dripping with disdain.

Stunned by Catherine's sudden aggression, Kaede stumbled backward, her heart pounding with shock and confusion. Nile's expression darkened with concern as he moved to stand beside Kaede, his protective instinct kicking in.