Cursed By Fate

Palace ball

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As the days passed, an air of anticipation enveloped the academy. The headmaster gathered the students in the grand hall, the atmosphere buzzing with excitement and apprehension. The long-awaited announcement was finally upon them.

"Attention, everyone!" the headmaster called, his voice resonating through the hall. "I have an important announcement regarding the upcoming coronation ceremony!"

Whispers spread through the crowd as students exchanged curious glances. Aria stood at the back, her expression unreadable, while her classmates leaned forward, eager for news about the event that would determine their futures.

"The coronation will take place in two weeks," the headmaster continued, raising his hand for silence. "Those who have successfully completed their training will be chosen as the new royal guards. This is a tremendous honor, and we expect each of you to give your best in the remaining days of preparation."

Excitement rippled through the room, students cheering and exchanging enthusiastic remarks about the upcoming ceremony. A few girls, their eyes sparkling with delight, whispered excitedly to one another.

"Can you imagine getting a chance to impress the eldest prince at the coronation?" one girl gushed, her voice a blend of admiration and eagerness. "He's so handsome and powerful!"

"I heard he's looking for someone to stand by his side," another chimed in, a hint of envy in her tone. "If we make a good impression during the ceremony, who knows what could happen?"

Aria remained at the back, her expression unchanged, while the chatter around her grew more animated. The girls around her seemed oblivious to the weight of their words, caught up in fantasies of capturing the prince's attention.

Though she wouldn't allow herself to get swept away in their excitement, Aria felt the pressure building. She was determined to concentrate on her training, not letting the distractions of courtly admiration cloud her focus.

The headmaster cleared his throat, snapping Aria back to attention. "In addition, I must remind you all that this coronation is not only a celebration of your achievements but also a critical moment for the royal family. The threat we faced during our training in the forest is a stark reminder of the dangers that loom over us. Your dedication and skill will be crucial to protect our kingdom."

Aria's mind wandered to the cloaked figure and the shadows that had attacked them. She knew that the real challenges were far from over, but she pushed those thoughts aside, determined to give her best.

As the headmaster concluded the announcement, the girls resumed their excited chatter, their attention focused on the idea of impressing the eldest prince rather than the significance of their training.

"I wonder if he'll notice me in my coronation dress!" one girl squealed, while another speculated on the best way to catch his eye.

Aria shook her head slightly, her resolve strengthening. While others fantasized about the prince, she remained focused on her goal of proving herself worthy. In the days leading up to the coronation, the academy buzzed with preparations, the air filled with the promise of change and the weight of expectation.

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The day of the coronation approached swiftly, and the atmosphere at the academy buzzed with excitement and anticipation. Whispers filled the halls as students speculated about the upcoming event and what it would mean for their futures. Those who passed would be granted the honor of serving as royal guards, a position of prestige that many aspired to.