Preparation

Several days before the emissary ship arrived, Annara led Shinta through the labyrinthine corridors of Ouroboros to a secluded training arena hidden deep within the heart of the palace.

"What are we doing here, Auntie?" Shinta's voice lacked enthusiasm until she spotted someone waiting at the arena: Shura Ouroboros, a familiar girl she had fought not long before.

To her surprise, Annara explained that the queen had agreed for Shinta to enter the academy, but she needed to demonstrate her preparedness. The queen wanted to evaluate both her skills and her resolve.

Shinta's spirits lifted momentarily at the news, but upon catching sight of Shura, she immediately objected, "No, I will not take her slot. She can go to this academy."

Annara was taken aback by Shinta's unexpected concern for someone else, a departure from her usual self-centered demeanor. It hinted that her emotional turmoil was deeper than she thought.