Rumors

Chapter 6

The grand hall for the student gathering was decorated to the highest standard. Massive crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, bathing the room in a soft, warm light. The walls were adorned with silk draperies in the university's colors—burgundy and gold—giving the entire event a touch of solemnity. Tables were arranged throughout the hall, adorned with exquisite floral arrangements and gleaming silverware. In the corner stood an orchestra, ready to fill the space with lively melodies.

The evening began with the arrival of the students, who, dressed in their finest attire, curiously took in the luxurious hall. The gentle murmur of conversations and laughter filled the room, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and joy. Everyone gathered eagerly awaited the start of the official part of the evening.

The formal proceedings began with a speech from the academy's director. Silence fell over the hall as he ascended the stage and, with a calm and serious gaze, looked at the assembled students.

"Good evening, dear students. Today we are gathered here to mark the beginning of a new academic year and to welcome the new members of our academic community. For many of you, this year will be a turning point in your lives, filled with new knowledge, discoveries, and, of course, new magical skills. Our academy has always strived to create not only conditions for career growth but also an environment conducive to the personal development of each of you. I am confident that many wonderful moments await you, and we, as the administration, are ready to support you every step of the way. May this ball be the beginning of a beautiful journey, full of achievements and joyful moments. Thank you!"

A wave of applause swept through the hall as the director stepped aside. In his place, the student council president—a girl clad in a striking crimson suit—approached the podium. She stood poised, her confidence radiating as she addressed the room.

"Dear students and teachers. This evening is our shared celebration. We are gathered here to celebrate our unity, our pursuit of knowledge, and our desire to make this world a better place. Each of us brings something unique to our world, our island, our kingdom, and our magic. The coming year will bring many challenges and opportunities, and I am confident that at this academy, we will overcome any difficulties. We will double our strength for the flourishing of our kingdom. So, today, I wish you all a good rest, for tomorrow your journey as students of Eden Academy begins. I wish you all an unforgettable evening and a successful academic year!"

With that, she descended from the stage, her calm composure a testament to her character. She disappeared behind the curtains with the principal, leaving the evening to continue with music, laughter, and dancing.

Harabi, captivated by the student council president’s demeanor, turned to Tatsuki. "Did you see how effortlessly she carried herself? It was as though she’s been speaking to crowds her whole life—not a trace of nerves."

"That’s Adena Redheart for you," Tatsuki replied, glancing across the room. "Everything she does is flawless. She’s practically perfect."

Harabi’s brow furrowed in thought. "It’s not just her poise—it’s her resemblance to the principal. The same composed demeanor, the same intensity. Do you think there’s a connection?"

Tatsuki smirked, lowering her voice. "There is. Adena is the principal’s niece."

"Seriously?" Harabi’s eyes widened. "That explains so much."

"It gets better," Tatsuki added. "She’s also the Queen’s daughter. The Redheart family has always been tied to the academy. Leadership is in her blood."

Before Harabi could respond, a sudden presence loomed behind them, the weight of it palpable. Suddenly, the atmosphere around Harabi and Tatsuki shifted as a distinct presence approached them. Harabi felt it before she turned—an unmistakable aura of confidence mixed with mischief.

"Good evening," a smooth, teasing voice interrupted their conversation. "I hope you were talking about me."

Tatsuki turned sharply, already recognizing the voice. Her expression, calm but sharp, contrasted with the slightly smug smile of the newcomer.

"Eiles," Tatsuki said, her voice steady but laced with a hint of exasperation. "I didn’t expect to see you tonight. I thought you weren’t fond of gatherings like these."

Eiles grinned, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Oh, you know me. Dresses, friendly small talk, teachers fawning over students—it’s all so thrilling." Her tone dripped with sarcasm, but there was warmth behind her words. "But tonight, I made an exception. I came to see you, Tatsuki."

Harabi watched as Tatsuki sighed, rolling her eyes but not entirely hiding the slight smirk tugging at her lips. "If that’s the case, you’ve seen me. Now go enjoy the party."

Eiles stepped closer, refusing to be dismissed so easily. "Don’t be like that, Tatsuki. I’ve always enjoyed teasing you. It’s tradition by now, isn’t it?" Her grin widened as she saw Tatsuki’s stoic demeanor waver ever so slightly.

Deciding to change the subject, Tatsuki turned abruptly toward the table laden with dishes. "If you’re staying, at least make yourself useful. Try the food and tell me what’s worth eating."

Eiles chuckled, clearly enjoying herself. As Tatsuki led the way, Eiles leaned slightly toward Harabi, her playful expression softening. "And you, Harabi, how are you finding the party? It can be overwhelming, I know."

Harabi hesitated for a moment, then admitted, "It’s... different. I’m not used to so many people in one place."

Eiles nodded knowingly. "I understand. Large crowds aren’t my thing either. But there’s a reason we’re all here tonight." Her tone lowered as she glanced around the room. "By the way, have you seen Rumiya today?"

Harabi blinked, surprised by the sudden shift in conversation. "Rumiya?"

Eiles leaned in conspiratorially. "There’s been a lot of talk about her lately. You know how rumors are—they spread faster than fire."

Tatsuki, sensing Harabi’s discomfort, stepped closer, shielding her from prying eyes. "It’s about Rumiya again, isn’t it?" Tatsuki muttered.

Eiles sighed. "The rumors never stop. They talk as if they know her, but all they have are baseless tales."

"Some claim she’s involved in dark dealings," Tatsuki added. "Others insist she has mysterious powers. The truth, though, is always more complicated."

While the two friends were standing and talking amongst themselves, Harabi couldn't help but notice several whispers coming from different directions.These were other students around them, glancing sideways in their direction. Some pretended to be busy with their own matters but were sneaking curious looks. Others, on the contrary, openly discussed them, barely concealing their interested gazes. The whispers gradually grew louder, becoming more noticeable to Harabi.

Harabi felt the tension rising, and her breathing became slightly faster. Her friend's attention remained focused on the conversation, but she knew Eiles also noticed this unusual interest. Harabi tried not to show her unease, but she couldn't shake the feeling that they had become the center of attention.

Harabi’s expression darkened. "It’s not just about her. It’s about our sisters—Meruka and Mire. My sister died 10 years ago, and people still blame Mire Suzukawa."

Eiles looked at her sharply. "You mean Rumiya’s eldee sister? The one who vanished?"

"Yes," Harabi said quietly. "No body, no trace of her magic—nothing. My mother refuses to believe Mire was responsible, but others aren’t so forgiving."

Eiles hesitated. "And you? Do you believe it?"

Harabi’s gaze grew distant. "I don’t know. What I do know is that Rumiya and I share the same pain. We both lost our sisters, and I feel like I need to speak with her. To understand. To make things right."

Tatsuki placed a hand on her shoulder. "Your families have kept you apart for a reason. They think it’s safer that way."

"Perhaps," Harabi said firmly, "but this is something I need to do. Rumiya is alone, just like me. If anyone can understand her, it’s me."

Eiles regarded her thoughtfully. "You’re willing to risk everything for this conversation?"

Harabi nodded. "If we’re going to move forward as students and as people, we need to confront the past. I won’t let rumors dictate my life—not anymore."

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