The airship glided steadily through the clouds, the steady hum of its engines filling the spacious cabin. Zane and Sera found a quiet corner to sit and talk.
"So," Sera began, stretching her arms, "there's something I forgot to mention about this academy we're heading to."
Zane glanced at her, curious. "Yeah? What's that?"
Sera smiled softly. "My sister's there. Her name is Valerie."
Zane's heart skipped a beat. He looked away for a moment, the image of the purple-eyed girl who nearly fell through a portal flashing in his mind. "Valerie?" he echoed quietly.
Sera nodded. "Yeah. It's kinda strange how things work out."
Zane shrugged it off and smiled. "Must be a coincidence. We'll see."
Before they could talk more, the announcement crackled over the speakers.
"All students, prepare for combat training. Pair off and spar — no powers allowed."
Zane stood and turned to Sera with a playful grin. "Ready to lose again?"
She laughed, standing too. "We'll see about that."
Their duel was fast and fierce — no magic, just skill and reflexes. In the end, Zane edged out a win. Sera grinned, brushing hair from her face. "Next time, I'm not holding back."
Later, tired from the day's events, Sera slipped into Zane's room and made herself comfortable on his bed. They relaxed in companionable silence as the airship soared onward, the promise of new challenges waiting ahead.