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Prophet Destiny:
Graduation
In the spacious Grand Hall of Cirian Academy of Magic, a treasured ceremony took place.
The many seats facing center stage were filled by eager adults awaiting
Numerous students stood on stage in formal robes. Most of the students made up a sea of deep blue and ruby; however, the front row stood proudly adorned in a privileged cream with special ruby embroidery.
Off to the side on a podium was balding, bearded, middle-aged man in ornate crimson robes. He was still in the middle of presenting his “heart-felt” speech.
“…There is an old belief that says “What you give is what you get”, or “You reap what you sow”. Well, looking at this crowd, I’d have to say that our staff has given a lot. I mean, look at our turnout: I’d have to say we have quite the graduation count this year, don’t think? If not, then I’d have to say “Thanks for the charity, kids. I don’t know how in the world you got this far without us.””
The last line extracted a few chuckles and groans from the crowd.
“But honestly, we teachers feel most privileged to see so many of these young ladies and gentlemen up here, for their presence here shows just how concerned and passionate they all are in not just the magic arts, but for a worthwhile education in general. I’m not sure just how much guys in the audience understand this, but we gave these dupes heaven and hell, and I’m glad for the most part that we got back the “heaven” end of the deal. But with what we did give them, we hope to see them use it well as they head into the future to pursue their own dreams, wherever they may lead them…”
At the front of the student gathering, a young man with raven black hair and ruby eyes groaned in contempt.
“Half the time, I don’t know if Professor Hunt is actually trying to be funny, or if he’s filling his speech with stale quips just to take up time and slowly torture us even more…” he groaned.
“Well, the second one certainly sounds like his style.” A pointy-eared blonde with sapphire eyes mused.
“That man… even when gives praise, he finds some ingenious way to torture us with it… he’s a cruel, sadistic teacher…” the ruby-eyed young man grumbled.
“True, but at least it shows he knows how to have fun! Classes might not have been so lively otherwise.” The elf girl replied.
“Miss Rose… among all of his misdeeds, the man constantly put you on a pedestal and rubbed it in all our faces by ranting about your “greatness” with an amused grin in any given time while you just stood there like a blushing statue. Can you truly consider that “fun?”” the ruby-eyed boy retorted.
The young elf shuttered upon the countless memories in which the aforementioned instance occurred.
“…Good Grief…” she sighed.
“My thoughts exactly.” The ruby-eyed boy concluded.
A few seconds later into the speech, the ruby-haired boy sighed once more.
“Still, Professor Hunt was a “decent” teacher, at the very least…” he admitted reluctantly.
The young elf named Rose grinned and nodded.
“Indeed he was…” she agreed.
“And now, may I present this year’s Graduating Year!” Professor Hunt announced.
A thunderous applaud came from the audience.
The two students looked at each other curiously.
“Now normally, it would be of theatric tradition to save the best for last, but I suppose the academy decided to impatient this year. So first and foremost, we shall begin with Cirian’s High Honor Elites!” he continued.
The ruby-eyed boy grinned.
“I guess it’s your time to head off. Make it a good one” He said with a grin and a wink.
Rose nodded.
“I will, and thanks, Gades.” She replied.
“No problem, Miss Rose. That’s what friends are for, I assume.” He answered.
“Our most esteemed Valedictorian, Lady Rose Twiline!” Professor Hunt proclaimed.
The honored elf made her way through a pathway bordered by teachers leading right by the podium, where she shook hands with the Professor with a beaming smile and received a crimson glass ball with runic letters, along with a decorated rolled-up scroll. The crowd applauded and cheered in the presence of the Academy’s top student upon receiving her award. She then took a stairway off the stage, and followed another pathway leading backstage.
“2nd Honors: Gades Rubiss!”
The ruby-eyed young man smirked.
“And now it’s the sidekick’s time.” he mused.
He then proceeded in the same procedure as the former, but in a gentlemanly fashion, and even met with the Professor with a charming smile as he received his scroll and runic orb. Another round of applause was given upon his reception; especially among the students he was along with.
Gades twitched upon realizing the heavy recognition he received.
“Huh… I didn’t know the student body actually liked me that much…” he thought to himself uneasily.
As with the former graduate, Gades departed from the stage to catch up with Rose.
“3rd Honors: Serena Alestecia!”
A calm young woman with shoulder-length black hair and lapis-lazuli eyes left her position to face her turn at graduation. Meanwhile, a shorter girl with a pale-blonde ponytail and bright teal was gritting her teeth and glaring daggers at the student going in front of her.
“I still don’t get it… that impertinent ruby-eyed punk deprives me of the competition I craved for against Rose, and then out of the blue… THIS sedate girl usurps the last position I held at the top?! What sort of scandal is this? What’s going on?!”
Eventually, the remaining students were given their proper due. Those in blue did not receive the runic orbs as the ones dressed in cream, but were nonetheless satisfied in their achievement established this day. Another member of the Academy’s faculty then got up and delivered a fond farewell speech which was well received to the students and audience. Afterwards, the seats immediately cleared up as children and parents rushed headlong into each other for a heartfelt meaning. Various cries of pride and relief filled the Grand Hall, celebrating the accomplishment of completing eight years of magical education of the many adolescent graduates…
Later that evening, the graduates headed off towards the school’s acting ballroom. This time, the gentlemen were dressed up in various coats, shirts, and vests; while the women wore elegant ball gowns of various styles.
Off to the side, a restless Gades was stretching in his side with a dulled expression. He wore a formal red vest over a white dress shirt, along with a pair of black pants and dress shoes.
“The only reason I even came here was out of formality… a mere formality…” he muttered to himself while he drummed his fingers on a table.
He then looked around and spotted a few familiar, happy faces.
“Well, whatever it takes to make the last day a memorable one, I suppose.” He said with a shrug.
The ruby-eyed boy stretched out his arms for a bit, took a deep breath, and then rested his eyes while preparing his body in a reclining position.
“You… are you actually going to sit out the rest of the night like this?” a concerned voice uttered.
The lax young man slowly opened his eyes to see an upright young woman with a curious gaze.
She had strawberry blonde hair fixed neatly into a pair of buns decorated with rings of pink roses, and soft, violet eyes that reflected a lady-like humility. She wore a silky peach gown with puffy short sleeves snippets of lace and embroidery flowing about.
The lone bachelor blinked wide awake at the sight before him.
“Wait… Is that you, Sherri? I don’t believe! All this time… and you still don’t have a date or escort of some sort?” he exclaimed.
“So now you decide not to call be “Cherry?” the maiden uttered curiously.
“As much as I enjoyed that fun nickname, I feel it would more appropriate to address your proper name tonight. I’ve done it beforehand, so it’s a habit I can easily break out of.” Gades explained.
“I guess… whatever you feel more comfortable with is fine.” She replied with a soft smile. “But… why so surprised to find me dateless tonight?”
Gades titled his head ever so slightly and held his face with his right hand.
“You mean to tell no one here has really noticed? It’s because you look gorgeous right now…” he uttered in a frank tone.
Sherri’s face turned a bright pink at that moment.
“R-really?” she stuttered.
Gades gave a simply nod.
“Really.” He answered.
An awkward silence took place between the two, anxious violet eyes looking right into assertive ruby eyes. Eventually, Gades gave another nod to confirm his point, while Sherri nodded back in response. Her face reddened as Gades’ compliment sank in, but then returned to normal as soon as she recognized her friend’s situation.
“Ah…anyway, what about you? I would at least think you’d attend with Lady Rose. The two of you are very close, after all.” She suddenly said.
“Hm… yes, about that. She actually has a special date for the moment, and I feel quite honored that he chose to treat us with his presence.” The raven-haired boy replied with a grin.
Sherri looked puzzled by her friend’s vague words until a sudden speculation came to mind.
“Master James decided to come?” she cried.
“Certainly. I doubt he’d pass up the chance to give the class he spent so much time aiding a good final hurrah, would he? Our former Assistant Professor was certainly more helpful than the main man in charge a good number of times…” he noted.
“And he’s a nice guy, too.” Sherri added.
“Yes, a very nice guy.” Gades agreed.
“Still, that doesn’t give you a reason to deprive yourself of a good time.” Sherri huffed.
Slowly, she reached out her hand towards the unwilling attendee.
“So… would you like to dance with me?” she asked meaningfully.
With a grin, the young bachelor slowly picked himself up, gesturing into a proper bow mid-way and finally stood upright and accepted her hand.
“Why upon your request? Do you wish to lead?” Gades asked with a playful smirk.
Sherri was taken aback, and nearly fell back until her newfound partner gripped her hand firmly to keep her in place. She observed his face carefully and saw an understanding nod.
“Very well, I shall do as tradition dictates.” He answers in a passive tone.
He then leads Sherri towards the dance floor without making a fuss.
As the orchestra prepared to start new song, the many dancers in the floor got into position for a waltz. Soon enough, the music began and everyone was one the move.
In the minute or so of their dance together, Gades and Sherri remained light on their feet, and perfectly in sync. The strawberry blonde maiden was surprised at the ease of their unified pacing, but was enjoying it nonetheless. At the same time, the raven-haired gentleman was pleased at their performance.
“I see you’ve improved quite a bit since the last time. Very nice.” Gades mentioned in a soft tone.
Sherri’s face suddenly blushed again.
“T-thank you… it really helped that you were a methodical teacher.” She replied.
“You’re welcome… although, now that I think of it, using ballroom dancing as a means to teach teamwork and coordination is a tad odd, wasn’t it? Maybe I could’ve used a method that’s more practical and less awkward…” Gades confessed.
“N-no! I actually think you made a sensible choice! As strange as it was, I’ve been better at working together with others on assignments! It was an admirable effort on your part, to be honest! Ah---“
Just as Sherri was about to take a careless mis-step, Gades managed to maneuver her partner smoothly back into proper form and resumed their dance.
“Then I’m glad.” Gades replied.
Further into the dance, Sherri inched a little closer.
“I’m very grateful… for so much you’ve done for me.” Sherri confessed quietly.
Gades barely managed to keep his composure hearing that.
“W-what? C-come on… don’t speak like you’ve been lonely like that! I mean, you’ve always had a few good friends by your side before I came along, you know?” Gades blathered awkwardly.
“No, that’s not what I meant at all. Truly, I appreciate your dedication helping me find my strength… I’ve felt myself grown because of that, and so I am truly grateful.” Sherri explained.
Gades nodded his head ever so slightly.
“You know, I’m not entirely proud of what I’ve done in the process. I acknowledge that I’ve been most cold and cruel along the way, and to be honest, I feel really selfish for it. I only aided you as far as I did because I understood your weakness all too well…” he answered shakily.
“What’s wrong with being able to relate to me?” Sherri asked curiously.
Gades immediately looked up.
“I know you only did what you thought was necessary to help out a colleague. And to hear that you understand… I’m touched, actually.” Sherri smiled.
“Thank you, Cherry… you’ve been a wonderful colleague.” Gades replied.
All of a sudden, Sherri was caught in a giggling fit.
“Wh-what? What I do?” Gades uttered in confusion.
“That nickname… “Cherry”… you slipped into it again!” Sherri pointed out.
“Really? Oh… Sorry! My apologizes! I didn’t realize… I was just caught up in the moment, you know?” Gades said in a rush.
“No! It’s okay! I don’t mind it at all!” Sherri assured him.
“Ah, so you’ve grown accustomed to the name, then?” Gades smirked.
Sherri slowly nodded.
“It’s still a little embarrassing, but it’s an endearing name from you alone…” Sherri replied bashfully.
“Of course. I figured it would eventually get into your head the impression that you’re a sweet girl.” Gades simply explained.
“W-what?”
While Sherri was momentarily caught off guard by the compliment, Gades noticed two figures off to the side.
“Ah, so there they are!” Gades said enthusiastically.
“Huh? Who?”
Sherri turned her head every which way until her dance partner pointed out the direction he was looking at. A fair distance away was Lady Rose in a long-sleeved goldenrod ball gown along with a tall young man with dark brown hair wearing a dashing blue nobleman’s coat.
“It’s Master James and Rose!” Sherri realized.
“Heh, that’s great! Didn’t know the guy can pull off a knightly look so well! Then again, the guy was born into nobility… but he was always a bit of a nerd…” Gades said aloud.
“Honestly… Is that a proper to speak about a dear friend of yours?” Sherri criticized shakily.
“He doesn’t mid at all, really. In fact, I think he was rather proud of that reputation. You know how the passionate overachieving type is.” Gades explained.
Sherri looked at him dubiously for a moment.
“Then again, he does know him much better than I was…maybe that wasn’t a total joke.” She thought to herself.
“Still, that did not keep the guy from getting the attention of the girls as soon as he was forced to loose the glasses one magical night. I don’t think he ever truly found peace until his graduation three years back. But I could be wrong on that account.” Gades continued.
“I’ll admit, he’s certainly become handsome. It’s just… I don’t know, I never really fancied him like all the other girls did. But I always thought those two would someday be together…” Sherri said.
“But he isn’t in love with her. It’s more or less a favor… an honorable gesture for a cherished friend. It’s a shame, though. Miss Rose always liked the man even before his charm kicked in, yet there was nothing he felt back. It’s frustrating… especially when you see that potential spark of lasting happiness between two of your best friends, only to see that it could not be fulfilled in the end. But I’ll respect Master James on his decision. It would be wrong to try and force yourself into loving another if it can’t be real…” Gades sighed.
“I take it you’ve given up on your schemes in having those two fall in love, then?” Sherri inquired with an amused grin.
“Sherri, get this straight: I’m not a romantic!” he fussed. “I was simply arranging a few situations to have those two meet in private and was curious to see if anything would amount of it. Apparently, nothing happened. Although Miss Rose was eventually let down gently before things could get out of hand.”
“Alright, fine… but I must say that it was very to have tried it.” Sherri mentioned.
Gades shrugged, then gave Rose a regretful glance.
“That still leaves my poor friend a bit heartbroken and left without her special someone…” he sighed.
Sherri looked at the distanced elf with a sense of pity as well, but then she smiled with a certain confidence.
“She’s an amazing person. I’m sure she’ll find someone in good time---“
“—and I’m certain you will as well.” Gades interjected.
“What did you mean by saying that?” Sherri asked.
“I felt some self-doubt from you once more. I was simply trying to help you disregard it.” Gades answered seriously. “I never meant any of my words as mere flattery. You really are someone worthy of acknowledgement.”
A warm smile slowly formed on the humble lady’s face, and she nodded in agreement.
“I wish you will find your happiness as well someday…” she replied gently.
The pair remained together in dance for one more song…
As the night wore on, Gades took a leave from the ballroom in order to stare at the starry night sky at the school courtyard. The cool air and solitary space allowed him to relax.
“Navigation, Divination, Artistry, and the heavens… the stars have held many a meaning throughout history, but I’ve wondered what it was they’ve really wished to provide us? I’ve managed to observe much thanks to them thus far… I wonder if they’re willing to reveal me fate once more?” Gades uttered to himself.
“Gades! Hey Gades!!!” a voice called.
The ruby-eyed graduate turned to see his dear friend in goldenrod dress scampering towards him.
“Miss Rose?” Gades asked as she closed the gap to merely a few feet away.
“What are you doing here?” Rose asked, “The graduation ball isn’t over yet! There should a good few hours left.”
Gades sighed.
“I was about to ask you the same thing, following me out here and all. Honestly, dancing isn’t really my kind of thing, and the soft sounds of an orchestra don’t suit my tastes. Quite frankly, I was getting bored.” He replied.
“But weren’t you dancing with someone a while ago?” Rose mentioned.
“Sure. I was partners Cherry… then Serena, then Scarlet, and a few other girls from our graduating year. Look, I was only doing it to be polite. It wasn’t like I was playing out some personal fantasy or indulging in pimp-hood with those ladies; they were just curious about dancing with me and I obliged, simple as that. But now that I’ve fulfilled my duty, I’m going to enjoy the rest of this time to myself.” Gades explained.
“You haven’t shared a dance with me yet.” Rose chimed.
Gades bowed his head slightly and laughed nervously.
“Oh… right. I guess I haven’t yet, have I? But you were enjoying yourself with Master James earlier, so I would’ve assumed you had your fun for tonight.”
“But we’ve been good friends for a long time by now, right? I think we owe it to each other to share a dance or two on our last night here in the Academy we got ourselves well acquainted.” Rose argued.
Again, Gades sighed.
“Fine, fine… but let me enjoy myself out here a little longer. It’s stuffy in the ballroom, and I could use the air.” He proposed.
“Sure.” Rose grinned.
Soon enough, the maiden elf found herself drawn to the well-lit sky herself. She took in a deep breath of fresh air, then gradually released.
At the same time, the ruby-eyed stargazer tiled his head back and allowed precious nostalgia to flow through him.
“While we spent the day time looking at fields of flowers and playing together with the others, at night we would always look up at the night sky… just like this. And whenever the night sky was as full and clear as this, we would always marvel at just how bright and luminous the stars are… it was as if the stars themselves wanted to assure us that they would never allow us to loose are way in the dark.” Gades uttered wistfully.
Without a concern, Rose inched a little closer to her longtime companion.
“You’re talking about your friend from your old hometown, right? The one you cherished deeply?” she asked.
Gades nodded.
“It was funny in a way. At night, it would be the time most of us would begin to tire, but I don’t really think I even once felt my eyelids droop as I rested on the field with her. Actually, when she would share with me her longtime dream of being able to explore the world, she was quite lively. It’s funny, because the only time ever see her so spirited is whenever we’re alone. It was as if… I’m the only one she was able to share her enthusiasm with back then… I believe that just maybe… I was just as special to her as she was to me…”
“So many precious memories, huh? I doubt you could ever forget someone like that, could you?” Rose asked.
“No... it seems nearly impossible to me.” Gades confessed.
“Good. You shouldn’t. The two of you have become young adults since then… I think you both at least deserve to right to see how you’ve grown since then and share your new experiences.” Rose suggested.
Gades turned to face her with a boyish grin.
“Like how I finally met an elf for the first time at the base of a cliff who was actually my own age?” he asked.
“And how you were later how you were at first tutored by her, then how you became her best friend and reliable partner.” Rose added.
“All along with the numerous places I’ve came to see, and the many other people I ended up meeting throughout these years…” Gades contributed.
“You’ve certainly got a lot to tell her, huh?” Rose said with a chuckled.
Gades chuckled along and joined in her mirth.
“I hope it really is possible to see her again…”
“I’m sure she’ll want to hear everything.” He said aloud.
He then took in a deep breath and exhaled slowly.
“So... we have the past down good enough. How about the future?” Gades asked, looking at Rose attentively.
“You mean mine?” the dressed-up elf said while pointing to her self.
“Sure. I already shared my little story. Now I’d like to know yours.”
Rose took a few steps closer, then folded her arms to begin thinking about her future plans.
“Well, I really want to push my efforts in trying to help this world, and I think after all I’ve done this far, I want to get a better understanding of the other nations before making my next big move. I’m considering joining the Earthian Counsel and take up international diplomacy for awhile…” she proposed.
Gades raised an eyebrow upon hearing this.
“The “Earthian Counsel”? That league of societies formed to bring together the various peoples in a one conveniently secret location to discuss politics? Hm… yes, that does sound like a good direction for you. Though I’m going to miss hearing about your amazing exploits through Terhamn and beyond, you could certainly use the break.” He grinned.
“Thanks. I’m glad to hear you consider other things as well.” Rose replied. “I admit, it might feel slow by comparison at first, but I earnestly hope to learn what I can while I’m there.”
“Actually, I remember another old friend of mine who said he was considering joining in as well before he left… Ioni Quent. To this day, I still consider him the smartest man alive. I’m not even sure if he was serious when he told me I was bound to surpass him. He was always really good at giving me those kind of compliments without me feeling any more confident. Either way, can you please tell him I said hello should you cross paths with him? I think he would like it.”
“I will. And you should feel really proud of yourself! You’ve been an excellent learner all these years, and you’ve even put of a great competition as a rival!” Rose cheered.
The flattered mage boy rubbed his head as he laughed bashfully.
“I’m still in disbelief on that, actually! You’re just too powerful for me, you know? I owe you a LOT for all that you’ve taught me, and the only reason I stand any chance against you is because you allowed be to know you as a mage. It’s… really unfair taking advantage of you like this, don’t you think…” he said uneasily.
“Not at all. And I wouldn’t consider it a handicap: You handed me all your strengths and weaknesses as well when you were under my temporary tutelage. I’d say you did well in compensating for all that I knew about you. You got tricky, you surprised me… you have an uncanny talent at being innovative, and I’m thoroughly impressed!” Rose countered.
“Is that so?” Gades said curiously.
“As your best friend and former tutor, I guarantee it!” Rose insisted.
Gades stared off into space while he pondered the prospect for awhile, but then he ended up rubbing his head again.
“I don’t know… it’s still hard for me to get used to the idea of considering myself your equal, Miss Rose! It’s just too much for me!” he replied.
“I see…” Rose in an amused tone. “What you say all the time has been true, after all. That really isn’t false modesty you carry around.”
“O-Of course not! Why would you think otherwise?!” blurted.
“Knowing you, it’s hard to tell sometimes…” Rose mused.
At that point, the prodigal mage recalled a number of times he grandstanded at very opportune moments. He then leaned forward with a very regretful expression.
“Eh… right…” he sighed.
“But, hey! All the better to keep our spirits up, right? It was always great for morale!” Rose pointed out.
“… I still feel like an a**…” he thought miserably.
“Really! I kind of thought you were kinda cute sometimes. Little Gades!” Rose smiled.
She then took Gades by the shoulder and made him turn to face her, but the two ended up being a nose’s length away from each other.
“Come on, cheer up!”
Unfortunatley, the sudden close-up made Gades leap back and clutch his chest.
“You and I… are not so little anymore.” He gulped.
“So… you’re still a little on edge whenever you see dressed up nicely, eh?” she teased.
“… I can’t help it! Y-you look overwhelmingly beautiful or cute when you’re in special dress like that!” Of course I’d get a little nervous! I’m surprised I was actually able to speak to you so rationally a few minutes ago!” he stammered.
“It’s because it was too dark for you to notice at first.” Rose answered with a wink. “But enough about me. What about you? Maybe keeping your mind off of me will help bring you around again.”
Gades turned his blushing face off to the side for a moment and began to think.
“Well, to be honest… I actually enjoyed my few ventures in the merchant ways. And so, with this newfound freedom of mine, I’ll finally get to break away from the guild and start up my own Magic Shop! Advertising should be a cinch, and once I gather up some decent merchandise, I should be able to make a decent profit! It’ll be fun!” he said in anticipation.
“A Magic shop? That’s certainly a novel idea of yours… you were particularly enthusiastic whenever you had a chance to make a few sales. And you’re pretty good at showcasing the best qualities of others. I think you’ll do great! You may even become successful and widely recognized!” Rose offered.
“That’s saying a bit much, isn’t? I’ll be running a little shack in the middle of some merchant town all by myself.” Gades explained awkwardly.
“Sometimes it pays to think big, even in everyday life.” Rose advised.
Gades nodded.
“I’ll keep that in mind. But just know that it’s more about the passion than the money. I intend to have good quality stock and keep my prices fair! I’d rather not dump some low-rate junk on my customers for a quick buck!” he proclaimed.
“That sounds like a plan. And I’m sure your customers will thank you for your policy.” Rose agreed.
“Damn right, they will! If it can’t be the most successful, Gades’ Magic Shop will at least offer some of the best quality stock in all of Terhamn!” he announced hopefully.
“Always aim for your best.” Rose encouraged.
After being caught up in Gades’ future in business, their jointed enthusiasm eventually died down so they could return to calmer states.
Once again, they both looked up at the starry skies quietly to ponder the roads ahead of them.
“I’m really going to miss my time as your partner, Miss Rose.” Gades uttered solemly.
“And I’m going to miss having a really good time with afriend.” Rose replied in a similar tone.
Both let out a unified sigh as mutual regret struck them both long and hard.
“You know, I’m still going to stick around the area for about two months to thoroughly prepare for my trip and say a few more goodbyes. We can still hang out, and maybe you can come with me to Nonalie a few more times…” Rose proposed.
“Sure, why not? I might as well satiate my taste for Elvin culture a few more times before we’re forced to split. And without school to deal with anymore, that only means all the more free time for us.” Gades smirked.
“Free time… yes… we have to make every moment count… before we have to say goodbye for good.” Rose acknowledged.
Gades turned his head and observed her with concern.
“Say, I know I asked this before, but are you sure you’ll be okay with Master James not being able to return your feelings like that? You had it really bad for him for the longest time, and seeing him again after all that time since his graduation---“
“I’m alright. At the very least he was always good to me, so I can accept him. All I can do for him at this point is to hope he can find happiness on his own.” She assured him.
Despite the calm of her voice, Gades noticed her expression to be distracted.
“Oh, that reminds me! How about your father? Have you heard from him since he left on his personal journey? Or did he come back? I was really hoping to get to talk to him one more time, too. He’s an interesting fellow to talk to.” Gades inquired.
The maiden elf was suddenly pulled into focus.
“No… unfortunately. I haven’t seen or heard from him in awhile, yet. I’m sure he’s just really occupied at the moment. No big deal, I think.” Rose answered hestitantly.
“You’re worried, aren’t you?”
Rose stood frozen for a moment. Eventually, she turned to Gades with an anxious face.
“Actually, yes… I am. But I can’t help it. He’s been gone for a long time… and I haven’t received word from him in a long time. I hope he isn’t caught in anything serious.” She confessed.
“Then have faith in him. Sir Twiline seems like a capable enough man to me for him to take care of himself in the worst of situations, so just stay strong and give him your support. A man like him wouldn’t want you to stress over him if he can help it.” Gades suggested full heartedly.
As she clutched her heart, the worried elf looked at him in disbelief at first, then gradually gazed at him with renewed confidence.
“Right… then I will. Thanks for telling me that.” Rose said in deep gratitude.
“I’m only repeating the kind of things your family’s been telling me the whole time. But you’re welcome.” Gades chuckled.
“But that’s just what I needed! A little reminder can be helpful from time to time!” Rose nodded.
“Then I’m glad to be of help!” Gades chirped.
Despite the lightened mood, the observant young man could not help but still see a hint of doubt in his friend’s eyes.
“To be honest, I’ve been starting to get a little worried about him as well. Especially when I felt as though Yula had suddenly disappeared from this world, it feels as though something’s amiss. Miss Rose, please stay strong…”
The amiable shared yet another laugh together until something came up.
“Speaking of reminders, you realize we haven’t had that dance together! And the ball is probably almost over by now with all that chatter!” Rose realized.
The reluctant graduate twitched upon hearing the words “dance” and “ball”.
“Eh… right… aha… um… just a few minutes, and I’ll join you.” Gades replied.
“I’ll go on ahead, then. Please don’t keep me waiting.” Rose said in a pleasant tone before proceeding to head back into the ballroom.
Gades wiped his forehead in relief.
“Phew! At least I have a few more moments out here!” he cheered to himself.
Once more, his eyes stared deeply into the night sky to seek out his answer.
“With all the good and bad memories, and every friend and enemy I’ve made thus far… what exactly do I have to look forward to in the future with my one final journal to adulthood?” he said to himself.
A sudden sensation came to him, seemingly communicating to him the passages of his own destiny. As soon as it came to pass, the young mage gawked at the sky with a very peculiar glare.
“… Is that so? Seriously?” he thought with a shaky laugh.
Slowly, he turned around to face the towering academy where he gained so much knowledge.
“It seems I have a very interesting road ahead of me…” he muttered to himself.
With his personal task tone, Elite Class Graduate Gades Rubiss headed once more into the ballroom to join his longtime friend and partner for the last dance.
 Chicken Yuki · Wed Nov 14, 2007 @ 05:59pm · 3 Comments |
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