A World Between Realms

A prince with a shining armour?

As Sophie and Ealdred walked toward the dormitory, the conversation naturally drifted to Sophie's upcoming match with Argus. The corridors of the academy, usually echoing with the chatter of students, felt unusually quiet around them, amplifying the seriousness of their discussion.

Ealdred glanced at Sophie, noting the mixture of determination and apprehension in her eyes. "Sophie, about your match..." he began, pausing to choose his words carefully. "It's going to be a significant challenge, more so than anything else you've faced here. If you'd like, I can help train you. I have some experience that might be useful."

Sophie looked at him, surprised and relieved by the offer. The thought of facing Argus was daunting, and having Ealdred's support in preparation would not only boost her skills but also her confidence. "Really? You'd do that?" she asked, a hopeful tone in her voice.

"Yes, of course," Ealdred replied with a reassuring smile. "I wouldn't offer if I didn't think I could help. We'll need to start soon and train rigorously. Argus is no ordinary opponent, and this won't be an ordinary match."

Sophie nodded, a resolve firming within her. "Thank you, Ealdred. I can't tell you how much I appreciate this. I know it won't be easy, but I'm ready to put in the work."

Their path back to the dormitory suddenly didn't seem as long or daunting with a plan in place. As they continued their walk, they discussed potential training schedules and strategies, with Ealdred outlining a rigorous regimen that would sharpen both Sophie's physical and strategic capabilities. This prince in shining armor, as she now thought of him, was exactly what she needed at this critical point in her academy journey.

In the dormitory, Sophie shared her conversation with Ealdred with Pita, who listened quietly, her usual aloofness giving way to a hint of concern and curiosity. As they were talking, there was a knock at the door, and Mia burst in, her energetic presence filling the room instantly.

"Hey, what's the secret meeting about?" Mia joked as she plopped down beside Sophie, eager to be included in their discussion. Sophie explained that Ealdred had offered to train her for the upcoming match against Argus, which elicited a mix of shock and relief from both Pita and Mia.

"Wow, Ealdred himself? That's... actually amazing," Mia exclaimed, her usual upbeat tone tinged with seriousness. "He's one of the few who could really go toe-to-toe with Argus. You're in good hands, Sophie."

Pita, who seldom showed much emotion, nodded in agreement. "Yes, Ealdred's skills are well-respected. It's good he'll be helping you."

The conversation then lightened, and they began to compare Ealdred and Argus, drawing parallels to iconic figures: Ealdred as the "prince charming" of the academy with his noble demeanor and Argus as the "bad boy knight" with his fierce reputation and brooding presence.

The laughter and chatter continued, and Sophie felt a surge of gratitude for these newfound friendships with Pita and Mia, who were as different as night and day. Pita's quiet strength and Mia's vibrant support created a balance that Sophie found both comforting and empowering as she faced the challenges ahead.

Their planning session extended into the evening, with Mia suggesting ways she could help alongside Ealdred, and Pita offering to research additional tactics that could give Sophie an edge. Together, they formed a team, each bringing their unique strengths to the table to ensure Sophie was as prepared as she could be for the daunting confrontation with Argus.