Forgotten Blade

Chapter 10

As the carriage made its way towards the Academy, Victoria gazed out at the lively scene unfolding before her. Students and subjects of the Kingdom bustled about, their animated chatter echoing as they streamed through the grand gates to witness the Ascension of Trials.

"Mind your manners, and do nothing that might draw attention. Remain behind me, and maintain silence at all times, regardless of what transpires," she instructed, her tone firm yet calm.

The three companions—Li, Abigail, and Gareth—nodded in understanding as the carriage approached its destination, coming to a halt before the imposing entrance.

"Hyaaah!" Victoria exclaimed as she stepped down from the carriage, ascending the grand staircase towards the massive doors. Today, the Academy was alive with energy, and tomorrow would be no different. This illustrious event takes place once a year and would last no more than two days.

With her usual poker face firmly in place, Victoria passed through throngs of onlookers, unfazed by the hostile glares and whispered disdain that trailed her. Her companions, obediently following her lead, kept their gazes cast downward, grappling with the weight of the scrutiny that accompanied their lady. They often pondered how Victoria bore the relentless pressure of such piercing stares, as if she were an insect on the verge of being crushed.

Upon reaching the Academy's grand arena, the focal point of the event, Bealle called out to her, gesturing for Victoria to sit beside her just below the stage. "Remain here," Victoria instructed, and her companions obediently halted their advance.

As Victoria moved closer to Bealle, she suddenly felt a sharp shove from behind, causing her to stumble forward and risk damaging her elegant gown. Yet, Victoria had anticipated this very moment.

"Bwahhahhahaahhaha!" Alice's laughter rang out, drawing the attention of those nearby. Her followers joined in the mockery, reveling in the spectacle. "Oh dear, I didn’t see you there, sister!" Alice feigned innocence, extending a hand to assist Victoria.

In response, Victoria remained impassive, her expression devoid of tears or embarrassment. This reaction stifled Alice and her cohort’s laughter, leaving them momentarily bewildered. Rising to her feet, Victoria brushed off her dress and composed herself. In a fleeting glance, her eyes met Alice's—filled with cold disdain—before she turned her back on them, continuing towards Bealle with unwavering resolve.

This composed demeanor only served to deepen Alice's irritation. She was accustomed to Victoria's subservience, relishing in the sight of her sister's tears and humiliation. But today, Victoria's calmness infuriated her further, igniting a fire within.

How dare she! The audacity of this insufferable wench!

"Are you well?" Bealle rushed to Victoria's side, scanning her for any signs of distress, her gaze then turning sharply towards Alice. "You have quite the sister, indeed."

"Pay her no mind; she is unworthy of your concern," Victoria replied, gently urging Bealle to return to her seat. A subtle smirk played at the corners of her lips as she caught a glimpse of Alice’s growing frustration. This was merely the beginning of her plans.

Let’s see... perhaps I shall crush her today... she will be my first target, Victoria mused inwardly as the announcer made his grand appearance atop the stage.

“Noble students, esteemed subjects of our illustrious Kingdom, and honored members of the Royal Family! I bid you all to gather and lend your ears, for today we shall partake in a most illustrious occasion—the esteemed Ascension of Trials!