The bells of the Royal Magic Academy of Hiroshima rang once more—clear, deep, and commanding silence.
Every student in the grand courtyard turned toward the main bridge.
A procession of white-and-gold banners fluttered in the air.
"The royal family…"
"She's coming."
Princess Ariel of Hiroshima had arrived.
---
The Royal Entrance
The royal carriage moved slowly across the bridge, escorted by elite knights and court mages. When the door opened, Princess Ariel stepped out gracefully, her pale blue academy cloak trimmed with gold.
At fifteen years old, she carried herself with practiced elegance—yet her eyes sparkled with curiosity rather than arrogance.
"So this is the academy…" she whispered, awed.
Students immediately bowed.
"Your Highness!"
Ariel blinked, startled. "P-Please don't do that here. We're all students now."
Her words spread quickly, softening the atmosphere.
She's different, many thought.
---
A King's Quiet Gaze
From the upper viewing terrace, King Arthur watched in silence.
"Everything proceeds as planned," a minister said.
Arthur's eyes narrowed slightly. "Ensure her safety. And ensure… discretion."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Queen Maria stood behind him, her hands clasped tightly.
Four years, she thought. Four years is too long.
---
First Steps Inside
Ariel entered the academy halls, marveling at floating staircases, glowing runes, and magical constructs moving freely.
"This place is amazing!" she said to her attendants.
But then—
She felt it.
A sudden shift in the air.
Wind brushed her cheek, gentle but unfamiliar.
She turned.
---
An Accidental Reunion
Down the hall stood Luo Chaos, speaking with a group of instructors. His presence was calm, restrained—but the wind around him moved unconsciously.
Ariel recognized him instantly.
"The Chaos heir…" she murmured.
Their eyes met.
Luo inclined his head politely. "Your Highness."
Ariel smiled warmly. "You don't have to call me that here."
He nodded. "Then… Ariel."
She felt a strange relief at hearing her name spoken so naturally.
Yet there was no spark.
No pull.
Only a quiet politeness.
---
A Watchful Distance
Not far away, Mei Lin observed the exchange.
Her expression remained composed—but the system responded instantly.
> [Royal Subject Detected: Princess Ariel.]
[Fate Binding: Latent — Inactive.]
[Warning: Political Convergence Imminent.]
Mei Lin exhaled softly.
So this is her…
She felt no hostility.
Only caution.
---
The Princess and the Scholar
Later that day, Ariel attended her first academy briefing. Unlike many royals before her, she chose to sit among ordinary noble students.
Mei Lin happened to be nearby, reviewing a map of the academy layout.
Ariel leaned over curiously. "You draw very precisely."
Mei Lin looked up. "Habit."
"I'm Ariel."
"Mei Lin."
Their hands shook briefly.
The system remained silent.
---
Unknowing Hearts
That night, Ariel stood on her dormitory balcony, gazing at the academy grounds illuminated by mana lamps.
"I wonder what kind of future awaits me here," she whispered.
Far below, the wind stirred.
It did not answer her.
Because its loyalty lay elsewhere.
---
Threads Tighten
In a sealed chamber beneath the castle, King Arthur sealed another document.
> Engagement Announcement: Year Four, Royal Magic Academy.
He pressed the royal crest into wax.
"Let fate ripen," he said coldly.