The secluded park beside the administration building lay quiet under the muted warmth of the afternoon, its pathways bathed in soft light as a gentle breeze moved through the trees, rustling the leaves just enough to break the stillness without disturbing the privacy of the space. Away from the main flow of the academy, it remained an ideal place for conversations that were never meant to be heard.
"Fine… I agree to your conditions."
Serena's voice cut through the calm, steady yet carrying a firm resolve as she stood facing Celdric, her posture straight, her expression composed but far from yielding.
Celdric stood across from her, a small, satisfied smile forming on his lips as he took in her words, the tension in his stance easing slightly as though he had been expecting this outcome all along.
"But…"
The word came just as his smile began to settle, causing it to falter slightly as his brows drew together in faint irritation.
Serena did not hesitate.
