Winter break at the Academy had arrived.

  The following day, students from noble families began leaving the academy to return home and celebrate the holidays with their families. Those who did not belong to noble houses remained behind, but that was hardly a punishment. The academy staff prepared countless stands, games, and activities to distract the remaining students from any homesickness they might feel.

  The students themselves were busy preparing as well—buying alcohol that the Academy had officially permitted for the occasion, decorating lecture halls, and planning small celebrations with professors who had chosen to stay.

  Kael noticed the light, almost festive atmosphere as he made his way toward the academy gates. He was there to see off Lia and Zaros, who were spending the break with their families. They would meet again at the New Year’s Ball.

  Snow had been swept from the streets, and lanterns were adorned with ribbons and lights. Tents were being raised for communal celebrations. Wherever he looked, he saw movement and heard laughter. Servants followed noble students, carrying luggage toward the gates.

  Kael slowed when a familiar building entered his field of view: the administrative building.

  The administrative building.

  Of all places the one hiding the tunnel.

  Kael lingered for a moment, uncertainty creeping into his thoughts. I still don't know how to get inside unnoticed.

  Then he shook his head. Astra managed it. I have two more days to find a way.

  With one last glance, he continued toward the gates.

  They were crowded. Guards waved students through, clearly knowing who was allowed to leave. Kael spotted Lia and Zaros waiting a short distance away. Their attention snapped to him the moment they saw him approach.

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  Lia rushed toward him the instant he arrived, wrapping her arms around him tightly.

  Kael hesitated for a moment before returning the embrace.

  "I'm going to miss you," she whispered.

  He chuckled softly. "It's only a few days. No need for such a dramatic farewell.”

  She pulled back and studied his face; worry clouded her eyes. "Every time I don't see you, something happens to you. So, yes, this is necessary. Consider it a reminder not to do anything stupid until I can keep an eye on you again.”

  Kael scratched the back of his head, embarrassed. "That sounds suspiciously like surveillance."

  Zaros laughed and stepped closer, clapping a hand on Kael’s shoulder. "You definitely need it. But,” he added, glancing at Lia, “I think she just doesn’t want you to be lonely until the ball.”

  Lia snorted and turned away, her cheeks flushing. “You’re misinterpreting it completely.”

  Their laughter eased the moment.

  "I'll miss you, too," Kael said more quietly. "It'll be boring without you, but I'll manage."

  Lia’s gaze sharpened. “Perhaps you'll enjoy yourself with your ball partner?”

  Kael shot Zaros a look. Zaros raised his hands defensively. “She figured it out herself.”

  "Intuition," Lia said smugly.

  Kael sighed. "Yes, I have a partner, but it's just an arrangement. No feelings are involved.”

  Lia studied him carefully, searching for deception. Finding none, her expression softened. "All right."

  She turned to Zaros. "Do you know who it is?"

  He shook his head. "I guess we'll find out at the ball."

  Kael blinked. "You're not angry?"

  “No,” Lia replied. "I hesitated. That’s on me. Besides, if it's just an arrangement, you can ditch her and spend the evening with us." She grinned wickedly.

  Kael and Zaros exchanged a look. Both silently agreed: a demon in disguise.

  A servant signaled to Lia from beyond the gates.

  She suddenly leapt forward and hugged them both tightly. "Don't do anything stupid while I'm gone," she whispered dangerously. "If I hear anything, you'll get to experience my newest potion—you'll bark like a dog for an entire day."

  They both shuddered.

  With a final radiant smile, she stepped into her carriage. "I'll outshine everyone at the ball. That’s a promise.”

  The carriage disappeared down the road.

  Zaros exhaled and smiled. "She's determined to outdo your partner."

  Kael smiled faintly. "When Lia sets her mind to something, she always succeeds."

  They performed their usual handshake.

  “Let’s make it an unforgettable night,” Zaros said.

  Kael nodded. "So be it."