The Elementiels

Ch. 17: EXAMINATION

Adam and Cynthia continued to walk side by side, their footsteps barely disturbing the serene quiet of the night. Cynthia stole glances at Adam now and then, her gaze lingering a moment too long on the sharp angles of his face, the way the soft light seemed to highlight his features. She blushed and quickly looked away, embarrassed by her own thoughts.

Adam turned his head toward her, breaking her reverie. “Tomorrow’s a big day. Are you ready?”

Cynthia hesitated, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her tunic. “Well… honestly? I’m a little nervous,” she admitted, her voice quieter now. “We’ve studied, and we’ve even fought a dragon before, but this feels… different. I just hope all our training pays off.”

Adam smiled, a reassuring warmth in his expression. “Don’t worry. We’ll be fine. As long as we stick together, everything will work out.”

Cynthia couldn’t help but return his smile. “You’re always so bright and positive about everything,” she said, her tone light but tinged with admiration. “I shouldn’t be surprised—you are the academy’s golden boy, after all.”

Adam laughed, the sound rich and genuine. “It’s not really that,” he said, looking up at the sky, his gaze fixed on the stars. “Everyone assumes I can handle everything on my own, but the truth is… I rely on you guys a lot. No warrior, no matter how skilled, can do it all by themselves. Having people you trust by your side—that’s what really matters.”

Cynthia stopped walking for a moment, her eyes softening as she studied him. “You always know just what to say. You inspire everyone to give their best, to believe in each other. That’s why you’re not just a great knight, but a great person too.”

Adam turned to her, his lips curving into a modest smile. “Thanks, Cynthia,” he said sincerely. “You know, you’re pretty incredible yourself.”

Her cheeks flushed, and she waved her hand dismissively. “Me? No, no. I’m just… ordinary. Nothing special.”

Adam shook his head. “That’s not true. You really proved yourself during your duel with Beatrix. Sure, you didn’t win, but did you see the crowd? They cheered louder for you. You know why?” He waited, watching as her eyes flicked to his. “It’s because you stood your ground, even when you knew the odds weren’t in your favor. That’s courage.”

Cynthia’s lips parted slightly, caught off guard by his words. She felt the heat rise to her cheeks again, but this time she didn’t try to hide her smile. “Thank you, Adam.”

As they walked, her boot caught on a stray root, and she stumbled. Before she could fall, Adam’s arms shot out, steadying her. Her hands instinctively rested against his chest, and for a brief moment, they were close enough to hear each other’s breaths.

“Are you okay?” he asked, his voice calm, his smile reassuring.

Cynthia nodded quickly, her face flushed. “Yeah… I’m fine. Thanks,” she murmured, stepping back slightly.

Adam’s hand lingered on hers briefly as he helped her regain her balance. “We’re almost there,” he said, his tone light and comforting.

They continued on, but now Cynthia was acutely aware of every step, her mind whirling. When they finally reached the lake, its surface shimmered under the silver moonlight, surrounded by tall reeds that swayed gently in the breeze. Cynthia’s breath caught as she took in the scene.

“It’s… beautiful,” she whispered, her voice full of wonder.

Adam smiled, watching her reaction as they approached the water’s edge. “Yeah,” he agreed, though his gaze lingered on her for a moment before shifting back to the lake.