The Shadow Order Book 4

Chapter 2: Dreams Reforged

A year before the anticipated graduation of Kael's cohort at Arcane Academy, before he and Seraphina shared their kiss, a series of events unfolded that brought them closer than ever. It was a time when every student was given the challenge of a year-long project—an opportunity to leave a mark on society, to bring forth an innovation or discovery that could potentially change the world. The project was essential for graduation, and the students had an entire year to bring their ideas to fruition.

In a lecture hall bathed in the late morning sunlight, rows of plush chairs faced a grand podium adorned with arcane carvings. The walls were lined with bookshelves that reached up to the vaulted ceiling, each shelf crammed with dusty tomes and scrolls on every conceivable topic. Light streamed in through tall, arched windows, casting long beams across the polished stone floors. Kael sat near the back, as he often did, enjoying the sense of space that allowed him to observe the entire room. His usual spot provided a view of the intricate carvings on the ceiling that depicted scenes of ancient battles and mythical creatures. It was a lecture hall designed for grandeur, where even the echoes of a dropped pen seemed to carry an air of importance. The professors had just left, and the murmur of students filled the space, discussing their assigned projects. Kael leaned back in his seat, his expression thoughtful as he turned to Beatrice, who was seated beside him.

Kael looked at Beatrice, a hopeful smile on his lips as he leaned closer. "Bea, how about we work together on the project? The guidelines mentioned we can team up if the impact is bigger. I think we could do something amazing." He expected her to agree without hesitation—they had been inseparable since childhood, always taking on challenges side by side. To his surprise, Beatrice shook her head slowly, a warm but apologetic smile touching her lips.

"Honestly, Kael, I'd love to work with you on anything. You know that," she said, her voice gentle but firm. "But not this time."

Kael blinked, taken aback. He stared at her, struggling to hide his confusion. "You... you don't want to work together? We've done everything together since we were kids. I thought... I thought we'd be doing this too." His words came out more uncertain than he intended, revealing his disappointment.

Beatrice reached out and squeezed his hand briefly. "I know, Kael. But this is different. I've made some plans with Serin, and we're going to travel together this month. I'll think of something for the project during the trip. It's important for me... and I need to do this without you." Her smile was sincere, but there was a determination in her eyes that made it clear she wasn't going to change her mind.

Kael felt a wave of disappointment wash over him. His shoulders slumped slightly as he looked away, trying to process her words. The usual brightness in his eyes dimmed as he managed a weak smile. "I see... I understand," he said, but there was a tightness in his voice that betrayed his true feelings. He forced himself to keep his expression neutral, but a hint of hurt lingered in his gaze as he glanced back at her.

After a brief, awkward pause, Kael made his way back to his dorm room, his thoughts heavy with uncertainty. The hallways were dimly lit, the sounds of footsteps echoing softly as students moved about. Just as he reached for the door handle, it swung open violently, and Seraphina crashed into him, nearly knocking him off balance. "Hey! Watch where you're going, Kael!" she snapped, a playful smirk on her lips.

Kael chuckled, steadying himself before raising an eyebrow. "You know, you could try greeting me normally for once, Seraphina. Ever thought of that?"

Seraphina rolled her eyes, crossing her arms. "Where's the fun in that? You'd get bored, wouldn't you?" Her grin widened as she leaned against the doorframe, blocking his way.

Kael sighed in mock exasperation, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Alright, alright. So, what do you need from me this time?"

"Well, did you hear about the project we're supposed to do this year?" she asked, her expression turning serious for a moment.