The battle reached the Academy.

Flames licked the edges of the once-beautiful garden. Gargoyles broke mid-air. Runes sparked and died.

I found Seraphina defending the fountain square alone, frost armor half-melted, blade glowing white-hot.

"You should’ve called for backup."

She turned, face flushed, eyes shining. "Would’ve ruined the drama."

We fought side by side, blades crossing, magic surging.

And when it was over, when the ash had fallen like snow, she leaned against me.

"I think I finally understand why Lilith loves you," she whispered. 𝑓𝑟𝑒𝘦𝓌𝑒𝑏𝑛𝑜𝘷𝑒𝘭.𝒸𝘰𝑚

I froze.

She looked up. "You didn’t know?"

I shook my head.

She laughed, soft and tired. "Idiot."