Sitting quietly in the carriage, the two of them were on their way back to the academy.
Rudolph had already returned from the Dukedom two days ago after checking up on them. Thanks to Austin's request, he had most likely arranged a letter of absence on their behalf.
They sat in a gentle silence, holding hands as they watched the scenery pass by outside the window.
"Did you convince her?" Valerie asked softly.
Austin didn't need to ask who she meant. He replied with a quiet sigh, "I think I did. But I'm not sure if she'll actually put in the effort."
Valorian Academy's assessments were harsh. Even though Averis had the talent, she had spent most of her years shut inside her room, wasting away the time she should've used to grow stronger.
If she didn't give it her all, she wouldn't make it in. And not even the King's influence could change that.
"I think she'll manage," Valerie said after a pause. "In case you didn't notice, she's been heading into the forest to hunt."
