Arc: Shadow Beneath the Sunlight
Part 2 — Days in the Light
The moon was already cresting the treetops when Kael dusted his palms.
"That was a draw," he said, glancing at the shadow wolf, who sat with head tilted, tail brushing leaves.
Liora shook her head. "You let him win the last exchange."
"Maybe I did," Kael replied, crouching to scratch behind the wolf's ears. "But we have to go. If we stay out much longer, someone's going to notice."
The wolf gave a soft, rumbling sound—almost disappointed—but didn't follow when they stepped back onto the forest path.
"Stay safe," Liora whispered to it before they turned toward the academy gates.
The Next Morning
Golden light spilled into the dorm corridors, warm and lazy. Kael stretched, still feeling the faint ache of yesterday's match in his shoulders.
The day began like most: the steady thrum of student chatter, footsteps on polished floors, and the smell of fresh bread drifting from the kitchens.
Dining Hall Banter
Kael found Liora already seated, a tray of eggs and fruit in front of her.
"You're late," she said without looking up.
"I was up studying," Kael lied, sliding into the seat opposite her.
"Studying or thinking about yesterday's duel?"
"Both," he admitted.
At the next table, two first-years were loudly arguing over whether lightning or ice magic would win in a duel.
"Ten silver says they challenge each other by the end of the week," Liora murmured.
Kael smirked. "You're on."
Midday Training
Combat class paired students in rotating groups for timed skirmishes. Kael spent the better part of the afternoon dodging an overeager flame caster who nearly set half the field ablaze.
After the final whistle, Liora tossed him a water flask. "You attract chaos."
"I attract opponents with bad aim," Kael corrected.
Quiet Evening
The day ended with the two of them leaning on the outer wall of the courtyard, watching the sun dip behind the western towers.
Somewhere beyond the academy's border, the forest swayed. Kael wondered if the shadow wolf was hunting or resting in den.
"Feels strange," Liora murmured, "knowing something's out there… and it's not our enemy."
"Maybe not all shadows are."
They stayed until the first lanterns lit, then went inside before the night patrol passed