The supervisor's voice rang out, firm and steady.
"Victor—Alex Rosetta."
The hall erupted in a low murmur of awe as Alex stepped down from the stage, his mana still humming in the air like distant thunder.
Before he could even catch his breath, the gang was already waiting. Edrin clapped him on the shoulder with a grin wide enough to split his face. "That was incredible, Alex. Truly."
Kael gave a firm nod, his usual calm carrying quiet weight. "You've earned this. Be proud."
Even Saphira's lips curved into a rare, genuine smile. "Well done, Rosetta. That was flawless."
But Riven didn't stop at words. He strode forward, tugged Alex into a firm embrace, and then pressed a lingering peck against his forehead. Not quick, not mocking, but slow—steady, reverent. As though he wanted Alex to feel every ounce of pride he carried for him.
"Proud of you, Cupcake," he whispered low, just for Alex.
Heat rushed unbidden to Alex's cheeks, but for once, he didn't argue. He let himself smile, shoulders finally easing.
---
The following morning, the academy gathered once more in the great hall. The supervisors called out names, ranks, and results with clipped precision. Alex's victory still echoed in whispers, but now it was official: every one of the gang had advanced. Their first year was complete.
The final announcement stirred the hall into a frenzy:
"By decree of the Academy Council, students are granted a holiday of three months before the commencement of second year. Use this time wisely."
The words rang like music. A wave of cheers, sighs, and laughter swept the students.
Later, the gang found themselves sprawled in the academy garden, shaded beneath ancient oaks where blossoms drifted lazily on the breeze. For the first time in months, there was no pressure, no supervisors watching—only sunlight and freedom.
"I'm spending the first week asleep," Edrin declared, stretching out with his arms behind his head. "Don't wake me unless the kingdom is burning."
Saphira smirked, idly twirling a petal between her fingers. "And I'll be… busy. Let's just say, I've already made plans."
Kael chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I'll be visiting home. Skyrim estate hasn't seen me in months."
Riven lay on the grass beside Alex, one arm lazily tucked beneath his head. "I suppose I'll tag along wherever Cupcake goes. Someone has to keep him out of trouble."
Alex rolled his eyes, though his lips betrayed a smile. "Speaking of which… I'd like to invite you all to my home during the holiday. Nothing grand, just a dinner with family—and friends. My birthday's coming up, and I'd rather have a quiet celebration than some big display."
The gang exchanged glances, smiles breaking out almost in unison.
"Count me in," Kael said.
"Of course," Edrin agreed warmly.
"Wouldn't miss it," Saphira added.
Riven only smirked, leaning closer. "Like I said—I'll be there. Always."
---
That evening, Alex sat at his desk, a small stack of sealed envelopes waiting for him. He broke each one carefully, reading by the glow of a single candle.
From his father—measured words of pride, restrained but unmistakable. From his stepbrother—a more casual note, teasing yet supportive. From his loyal butler—a detailed update on the estate's affairs. And finally, from his childhood caretaker, his nanny and personal maid—letters filled with warmth, affection, and a kind of grounding comfort only she could give.
For the first time in months, Alex leaned back in his chair, heart light. The battles and burdens of the year were behind him, and the path ahead felt clearer.
The holiday stretched before them like an open road. And for Alex Rosetta, surrounded by friends and carrying the weight of his new breakthrough, the future had never felt more alive.