They say the eyes are the mirrors of the soul, revealing truths that words cannot. They expose the pain we hide, the burdens we carry.

That night, I saw two pairs of eyes. One pair was as blue as a summer sky, vibrant and boundless. The other was dark as the ocean under the night sky, deep and impenetrable.

Regret lingered in both gazes, raw and unspoken. There are many kinds of regrets: words left unsaid, mistakes made, wounds inflicted, and fateful meetings that should never have occurred.

“It’s a pity we met tonight,” the girl whispered, her voice trembling with sorrow as she cast away the memories that haunted her.

Their eyes met one last time before they lunged into battle. This fight would decide everything—one victory to end it all, one death to liberate two souls.

"If only we hadn’t met that day," Harabi muttered under her breath.

Two years earlier

The fireplace crackled, its warmth battling the relentless howl of the wind outside. Tree branches scraped against the window panes, and shadows danced across the walls of the small room.

The fire consumed a book, its pages blackened and curling in the heat. The thick cover, however, resisted the flames, standing stubborn against the destruction.

A girl sat on a worn armchair, rubbing her red, swollen eyes, heavy with exhaustion. Her long black hair fell in disarray around her shoulders, her nightgown wrinkled and her snow-white skin marred with faint irritation.

Harabi Kurosaki, the youngest daughter of the esteemed Kurosaki family, rose from her chair. Bare feet touched the cold floor as she walked to the window and pressed her fingers against the frosted glass.

“So cold... The cold has come early this year,” she murmured.

A sharp knock at the door startled her.

“Who’s there?” Harabi asked, her voice carrying a mix of curiosity and annoyance.

“It’s me, Miss Kurosaki,” the maid called from the other side. “I’ve brought a letter from the academy.”

“The door isn’t locked. Come in.”

The door creaked open, and the maid entered, carrying a sealed envelope.

“You’re awake at this hour again,” the maid said softly. “Another sleepless night?”

“Insomnia,” Harabi replied dismissively. “What about the letter? It’s arrived, hasn’t it?”

“Yes,” the maid confirmed, holding it out. “It came just now. I thought to deliver it in the morning, but I saw the light in your room.”

Harabi reached out with trembling fingers, her eyes fixed on the envelope as though it held her destiny. She hesitated for a moment before tearing it open. Her gaze flitted across the words, her breath quickening with every line.

“Dear Kurosaki Harabi... We are pleased to inform you... Your test results were among the highest... We look forward to welcoming you to Eden Chronicles Academy...”

“I passed,” Harabi whispered, the realization dawning slowly. “I really passed!”

The maid smiled gently. “Congratulations, Miss. I knew you would.”

“I did it! Look, I did it!” Harabi exclaimed, her joy spilling over.

“Not so loud, Miss,” the maid warned. “You’ll wake the others. If your mother hears...”

Harabi lowered her voice but could not suppress her excitement. “I’ll finally be able to leave these walls. For the next few years, I’ll be free. My life—”

“Miss,” the maid interrupted gently, “there is still much to prepare. You’ll have to wait another month, but for now, you need rest. If your mother sees those tired eyes, it won’t end well for either of us.”

Harabi nodded reluctantly. “You’re right. She’ll be furious if she sees me like this.”

The maid guided her back to bed, tucking the blanket snugly around her. “Sleep now, Miss. I’ll take care of the fire.”

As she approached the fireplace, the maid’s gaze fell on the charred remnants of a book. Its blackened cover stood out among the ash.

“You burned another of Meruka’s diaries,” she said softly. “Don’t you feel any regret?”

“They were just gathering dust on the shelves,” Harabi replied, her voice cold. “There’s nothing important in them anyway.”

The maid sighed. “If I were you, I’d keep them. Your sister—”

“They bring sadness to this place,” Harabi interrupted.

The maid smiled faintly, her expression tinged with melancholy. “Meruka was the golden child. I still remember baking cookies with her. She adored you, always making your favorites. She would have been so proud of you.”

“I know,” Harabi murmured, her voice barely audible.

The maid extinguished the fire, gathered the charred remains, and left the room quietly. Harabi stared at the window one last time before closing her eyes, a small, hopeful smile gracing her lips.

“I’ll see everyone again,” she whispered as sleep finally claimed her.

A Month Later

The city of Nox was a gem nestled in the northern reaches of Misty Island. Renowned for its exquisite textiles and beloved national dishes, it offered residents a rare sense of peace. Towering mountain peaks stood like vigilant guardians around the city, shielding it from harm. Here, life was serene—if one could overlook the biting cold and frequent snowfalls.

Harabi stood by the frosted window, watching the sun pierce through the cloudy sky.

“I can’t believe it’s sunny today,” she said, a rare smile lighting up her face.

“It’s a rare gift in Nox,” replied Laura, her maid, folding the last piece of clothing into a suitcase. “Perhaps the weather is celebrating your departure, Miss.”

Harabi smirked. “Of course, it is. Everything today is in my honor.” She glanced at the packed luggage. “Well, the suitcases are ready.”

“Are you sure two suitcases will be enough for you?” Laura asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Why would I need more? I’ll come back for the holidays anyway.”

The maid hesitated before speaking again. “Are you absolutely certain you don’t want me to come with you?”

“No need to worry,” Harabi said with a casual wave of her hand. “I’m almost sixteen. I can take care of myself. Besides, my magic has improved.”

To demonstrate, she flicked her wrist, summoning a book from the windowsill. It floated through the air, but just as it reached her hands, it tumbled to the floor with a loud thud.

“Um... I meant for that to happen,” Harabi muttered, cheeks turning pink.

Laura shook her head, a mix of fondness and concern in her expression. “It’s not your magic that worries me, Miss. It’s your health.”

Harabi scoffed lightly. “I’ll be fine. The Academy is outside of Nox, which means the climate will be much warmer. I’m as healthy as a wolf!”

“I still can’t believe Madam Nemura allowed you to go,” Laura said, her voice laced with disbelief.

“Don’t fret,” Harabi replied. “I’ll be careful. And anyway, it’s time for you to enjoy your vacation. You deserve it.” She smiled warmly at the maid. “I’ll carry my own suitcases, don’t worry.”

“Wait,” Laura said suddenly, reaching into her pocket. She pulled out a small amulet in the shape of the crescent moon and placed it in Harabi’s hands.

“This is for you,” Laura said softly. “I cast a blessing spell on it. It’s my gift to you for getting into the Academy.”

Harabi stared at the amulet, touched by the gesture. “Laura... Thank you. For this and for everything.” She clasped it tightly, her voice trembling slightly. “I’ll see you in winter.”

Laura smiled, though her eyes betrayed the sadness of parting. “Take care of yourself, Miss.”

With a wave of her hand, Harabi sent the two suitcases floating behind her as she made her way downstairs. In the grand hall, three figures awaited her: Kurosaki Norio, her father and head of the Kurosaki family; Kurosaki Nemura, her elegant mother; and the family butler, who stood ready to assist.

“Harabi, my lovely daughter,” Nemura greeted, opening her arms.

“Mother, thank you for letting me go,” Harabi said, embracing her. She turned to her father. “And Father, thank you for the recommendation letter. It helped me so much.”

Norio nodded, his expression a mix of pride and sternness. “The butler will load your belongings into the carriage. If you don’t leave soon, you’ll miss your train.” He sighed. “I wish Ryu were here to see you off. He would have been so proud.”

“And Meruka,” Nemura added, her voice tinged with melancholy. “My children have grown so quickly. She would have been so happy for you.”

“I’ll make our family proud,” Harabi said firmly. “Don’t worry about me—I’ll take care of myself. And who knows? Maybe I’ll meet Ryu at the Academy. I hope he’s still there.”

“Your older brother could at least visit for a week,” Norio grumbled.

“Not his style,” Harabi replied with a small chuckle.

Nemura placed a gentle hand on Harabi’s cheek. “At least he’s there to look after you.”

Norio checked his watch. “It’s time, Harabi. The train won’t wait.”

Harabi gave them one last smile. “Goodbye, Mother. Father. I’ll see you soon.”

As she climbed into the waiting carriage, Norio called out, his voice uncharacteristically soft. “Harabi, just remember... we love you.”

Nemura added, “Take care, my dear.”

Harabi waved as the carriage began to move, her gaze lingering on the family home. For the first time in her life, she was leaving Nox. The thought both thrilled and terrified her.

As the snowy peaks of the city faded into the distance, she took a deep breath and let a smile curve her lips. A new chapter awaited her, full of possibilities.

An hour later, she arrived at the train station. Standing beside the butler, she clutched the amulet in her hand, her heart pounding with anticipation.

The station was bustling, filled with the noise of departing trains and the chatter of travelers. Harabi Kurosaki stood amidst the chaos, her gaze scanning the crowd. Her dark eyes betrayed a mix of nervousness and determination, though she carried herself with practiced poise.

A sudden voice interrupted her thoughts.

"Miss Kurosaki, Mr. Norio informed me that you'll be accompanied by the eldest son of the Morgan family and the daughter of the Lawrence family," her butler stated matter-of-factly.

Harabi frowned. "And no one thought to tell me sooner? I didn't know father wrote the recommendation letters to other families too. So, where could they be now?"

Before butler could respond, a deep voice cut through the air from behind her.

"We've been waiting for you for quite some time."

Turning sharply, Harabi was met by a striking figure—a young man with fiery red hair leaning nonchalantly against the wall. His sly smile and piercing gaze immediately set her on edge.

"Morgan Gray," he introduced himself, his voice carrying an air of arrogance. "Surely you've heard of me. Our families have been... allies for years."

Harabi remained silent, her expression unreadable.

Morgan's smirk deepened as he continued, "It’s rare to see you out in the open. Rumor had it that you were... well, no longer among the living. Much like your sister."

The words struck like a whip. Harabi's hand clenched into a fist.

"Enough!" Butler's voice rang with authority. "Mr. Gray, I suggest you choose your words carefully. The Kurosaki family leads the city of Nox. Insulting its youngest heir is not a matter to take lightly."

Morgan raised his hands in mock surrender. "No offense intended. Just thought Miss Kurosaki should know what’s being said in her absence."

Harabi refused to let him see how deeply his words had cut. She turned sharply on her heel. "We’re leaving."

"As you wish, madam."

Morgan’s voice followed her. "Until we meet again, Miss Kurosaki."

She did not look back.

Butler looked at the girl. He sighed, wanting to day something, that could make her smile. But Harabi spoke first.

"The train will be here soon. I am so worriedly. My legs are shaking, I hope everything goes well. "

The butler smiled and chukled: " You seem scared"

"Who? Me? Of course not." - Harabi answered looking back at the butler, - "i have waited so Ling for this moment. Just wait. When I graduate, I will be a great magician, just like my father."

---

The announcement of the train’s arrival filled the air as Harabi approached the platform. The sight of the massive, foreboding train sent a shiver down her spine. Unlike the elegant carriages her parents used for travel, this train radiated power and mystery.

The doors slid open with a hiss, and a stream of young men and women in matching crimson uniforms stepped out. Each bore the academy’s emblem, a hexagonal star, proudly displayed on their jackets. Behind them, armored knights stood in silent vigilance.

From the group, a figure emerged—a girl with dark violet hair, a turquoise strand falling across her sharp amber eyes. Her presence commanded attention.

"Adena Redheart," Harabi murmured. "The Queen’s daughter and the academy’s student council president."

Adena’s voice was calm yet authoritative as she addressed the crowd. "Welcome to the academy’s transport station. I am Adena Redheart, and I will oversee the boarding process. Before entry, all magical artifacts must be declared and left behind. Our guards will ensure their safe return to your homes."

She scanned the crowd, her gaze unwavering. "We will begin with those at the top of the list. Harabi Kurosaki, step forward."

Harabi’s heart pounded as all eyes turned to her. Taking a deep breath, she steadied herself. Her moment had arrived. With a determined step, she approached the train, ready to face the path ahead.

The small windows lining the train's corridors were sealed tightly, muting any sound from the outside world. Harabi Kurosaki walked briskly, her steps echoing softly against the metal floor as she scanned the cabin numbers, searching for 304C. At last, she found it. A small plaque on the door bore the names: Tatsuki Shirakawa & Harabi Kurosaki.

A smile tugged at her lips as she reached for the handle. The door creaked open, and a faint, sweet aroma wafted out to greet her. Cherries. Tatsuki’s favorite perfume lingered in the air like a signature.

“I thought you’d never come in,” Tatsuki’s familiar voice chimed, a trace of amusement in her tone.

“I got lost,” Harabi admitted with a sheepish grin. “It’s been a while, hasn’t it?”

“A month, hardly that long,” Tatsuki replied, though her smile betrayed her own delight. “Still, I’m glad to see you.”

“It felt like the longest month,” Harabi said with a chuckle, stepping inside.

“Well, we’ll be seeing much more of each other now,” Tatsuki assured her, smoothing the hem of her uniform. “Congratulations on your admission, by the way. If you need help, don’t hesitate to ask. I’ve been at the academy longer, and I’m on a higher course than you, so…”

Harabi raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in her eye. “That doesn’t necessarily mean you’re smarter.”

Tatsuki smirked. “Who knows?”

They both laughed, the easy camaraderie of old friends filling the cabin.

“So,” Harabi asked after a moment, “when will we get there?”

“Tomorrow evening, most likely,” Tatsuki replied. “There are still cities to visit, more students to pick up.”

“What’s the next stop?”

“Soleil.”

At the mention of the city, Harabi fell silent. Her expression turned pensive, her gaze distant.

“What is it?” Tatsuki asked, leaning forward. “You went quiet all of a sudden.”

“When you say Soleil,” Harabi murmured, “there’s only one person that comes to mind.”

“Rumiya Sudzukawa,” Tatsuki guessed, her voice dropping slightly.

---

The city of Soleil sweltered under a relentless sun, its golden rays scorching the bare skin of anyone caught outside. A hot wind swept through the bustling streets, rustling the fabric of umbrellas held tightly by the city’s residents as they sought refuge from the heat. Unlike Nox, Soleil was a city of dry, searing summers and rare, cherished rains. Life here never paused, even under the oppressive sun.

Among the throng of hurried passersby was a girl with striking light blue eyes. She sat on a suitcase at the station, clutching a guitar case in one hand and shading her face with the other. Her lips parted in a heavy sigh.

“So hot,” she whispered, her gaze drifting skyward.

The townspeople, rushing about their errands, cast wary glances at her as they passed, whispering amongst themselves. Everyone in Soleil knew her.

Rumiya Sudzukawa—the youngest daughter of the Sudzukawa family. Her father had died nine years ago, her elder sister was presumed missing, and her mother had fled the city, leaving her behind at the tender age of eight. The elders had seized the opportunity to turn her into a puppet, molding her into the family’s unwilling heir. Yet even as the sole representative of the Sudzukawa name, the people of Soleil could not accept her. To them, she was the cursed daughter of a cursed lineage, a burden on their city.

Rumiya shifted uncomfortably under their gazes, pulling herself further into the shadows. Her fingers tightened around the guitar case as she murmured, “I wish the train would come already…”

Finally, a distant whistle signaled its arrival. The gleaming train pulled into the station with a rush of air. Rumiya stood, adjusting the strap of her guitar case before approaching a tall, sharp-eyed figure waiting by the platform—the president of the student council.

“Sudzukawa?” she asked, her voice crisp.

“Yes,” she answered softly, bowing her head.

“I heard thirteen students from Soleil were admitted to the academy,” Adena began, her tone laced with disapproval. “The limit is ten. How did this happen?”

“Thirteen?” Rumiya echoed, her brow furrowing in confusion.

The president crossed her arms. “The academy confirmed their admission, but only because of their recommendations. All of them were endorsed by the elders, except for you. You’re the only one admitted with a recommendation from the Sudzukawa family.”

Her heart sank at his words. She bit her lower lip, struggling to suppress the knot of anxiety rising within her.

“Does this mean you had no knowledge of these students?” Adena pressed.

“I didn’t,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “The elders… they don’t consult me about these matters.”

Redheart studied her for a moment, she chukled. “I see. The elders have taken control over you.”

Rumiya’s silence was her only response.

“Regardless,” The president said, stepping aside, “board the train. Your cabin is 407B.”

With a slight nod, she clutched her belongings and stepped forward, disappearing into the train’s cool interior.

....

Rumiya entered the train, glancing nervously at her surroundings. She tightened her grip on the guitar case slung over her shoulder, her other hand clutching her hood as she pulled it further over her head. While her luggage had been taken by staff, she refused to let anyone touch the guitar case—it was far too precious to her.

Walking down the narrow corridor, she paused at the cabin door, marked with the number she had been given. After a deep breath, she knocked three times. The door swung open almost immediately, revealing a striking young woman with vivid red hair cascading down her back. Her deep crimson eyes seemed to flicker like flames as they locked onto Rumiya’s pale blue ones.

“Who are you?” the girl asked sharply, her voice sharp and commanding. “I don’t recall calling for a servant.”

Rumiya took a step back, startled. “Wait, I’m not—”

“Ah,” the girl interrupted with a smirk, her tone softening slightly. “You must be my cabin mate.”

“Yes... that’s right,” Rumiya replied hesitantly, her voice barely audible.

The girl’s expression shifted as she offered a small bow. “Florence Eiles, from Teikos. You can call me Eiles. Welcome to our cabin.”

Eiles stepped aside, allowing Rumiya to enter. The cabin was modest but cozy, with two small beds placed opposite each other and matching bedside tables between them.

“My bed is on the left, yours is on the right,” Eiles said nonchalantly. “So, what’s your name again?”

“Rumiya... Rumiya Sudzukawa,” she replied.

“Sudzukawa?” Eiles repeated, her eyebrows raising slightly. “That name sounds familiar... Have we met before?”

“I don’t think so.”

“Hmm... Sudzukawa... Aren’t you from Soleil?”

“Yes, Soleil is my hometown.”

Eiles’ eyes lit up as recognition dawned on her. “Oh, now I remember. The Sudzukawa family! You’re that mysterious daughter everyone talks about. Some people even say you’re cursed—”

Rumiya flinched but quickly masked her discomfort. “Oh, I see...”

Eiles’ cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she hurriedly backtracked. “Oh no, I didn’t mean to say that! I have a bad habit of saying things without thinking. Sorry!”

“It’s fine,” Rumiya said softly, forcing a small smile. “I’m used to it.”

Eager to change the subject, Eiles leaned closer, studying Rumiya’s face intently. “You know, I’ve heard good things too. Like how the Sudzukawa's daughter is known for her beautiful sapphire eyes. People say they look like precious jewels sparkling in the sunlight.”

Rumiya chuckled nervously, shifting uncomfortably under Eiles’ gaze. “My eyes are a little lighter than that,” she explained, stepping closer to the light streaming through the small window. Her pale blue eyes shimmered faintly, catching the sunlight, though they lacked the deep intensity. “You must be thinking of my older sister.”

“Your older sister?”

“Mire Sudzukawa,” Rumiya said quietly.

Eiles’ jaw dropped in shock. “Wait a second... Mire Sudzukawa? Isn’t she the one who killed Kurosaki Meruka? And then disappeared mysteriously? Oh my gosh, and you’re her younger sister?”

Rumiya stiffened, taking a step back, her breath catching in her throat. For a moment, her face betrayed her emotions, but she quickly forced herself to smile. “Yes, that’s me.”

“Oh no, I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to bring that up!” Eiles exclaimed, groaning in frustration. “Why can’t I just keep my mouth shut?”

“It’s alright,” Rumiya replied with a small laugh. “You’re just... honest. I appreciate that.”

Eiles glanced at the guitar case lying on Rumiya’s bed. “Is that a guitar?”

“Yes. Why?”

“You play, don’t you?”

“Yes, it’s my hobby.”

Eiles grinned. “Play something for me! Something to lighten the mood.”

Rumiya raised an eyebrow, amused. “You really say whatever comes to your mind, don’t you?”

“I guess so. Is that a good thing?”

“Maybe,” Rumiya replied, opening her guitar case. She sat down and adjusted the instrument. “Any requests?”

“Play your favorite song,” Eiles suggested, leaning forward eagerly.

Rumiya nodded, her fingers moving deftly over the strings as a soft, melancholic melody filled the cabin. Her voice followed, light and filled with emotion:

“Why do we have to say goodbye,

When my destiny is to make you mine?

I have lost the day we met,

In my memory, and it’s hard

To say that I have to go...”

When she finished, Eiles clapped softly, her face alight with admiration. “That was beautiful. Did you write it yourself?”

“No,” Rumiya said, shaking her head. “My mother wrote it. She had a beautiful voice.”

“Had?” Eiles asked hesitantly. “Oh no... Did she—”

“No, no,” Rumiya interrupted quickly. “She just... left the city when I was about eight.”

Eiles let out a sigh of relief. “I see. So, who takes care of Soleil now?”

“The elders... and me,” Rumiya replied softly.

Eiles opened her mouth to ask another question, but Rumiya raised a hand to stop her. “I’m sorry, Eiles. I’m really tired. Do you mind if I take a nap?”

“Of course,” Eiles said, stepping back with an apologetic smile. “No more questions. Rest well.” Before leaving the cabin, she gently patted Rumiya’s head. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“You too,” Rumiya murmured, her eyes fluttering shut.