Chapter 128: Black Mist
The courtyard buzzed with light and chatter, students scattered under the glow of floating lanterns while music played faintly in the distance.
Dune walked slowly, hands in his pockets, his dark hair shifting slightly in the breeze. As he moved between groups of chatting students, someone stepped in front of him and bowed.
Dune blinked.
Syras Vermilion.
Syras straightened. "Didn't think I'd see you here again," he said, tone calm but warm.
"What do you think about this place so far?"
Dune looked around at the decorations, the nobles, the coats of arms sewn into cloaks like walking billboards. "This is new for me... if i'm being honest, not a fan," he said.
Syras smiled faintly. "Yeah, but that's kind of how things work around here. You're already important to Rendely, whether you like it or not. An S-Class Bloodrose student? That's not something the King ignores. He might force you into a family."
Dune sighed. "I'd rather not."
Syras didn't push it. Instead, he said, "You were amazing in our fight. Seriously. Your swordsmanship, clean and fast. I thought I was decent until you made me look like a beginner."
Dune didn't expect praise from him at all. "Thanks."