Chapter 27: The Calm Before the Storm
The trio—Raven, Seraphine, and Lyra—strolled through the bustling market, their laughter blending with the lively hum of vendors and shoppers.
The air was thick with the aroma of sizzling street food, and the vibrant stalls lined the cobblestone streets, offering everything from handmade trinkets to fresh produce.
Raven, with his striking white hair and piercing black eyes, walked slightly ahead, his hands tucked into the pockets of his black pants.
Seraphine, her crimson hair cascading like a fiery waterfall and her golden eyes glowing under the sunlight, walked beside Lyra, whose silky white hair and delicate features made her look almost ethereal.
The contrast of their pale skin against the colorful backdrop of the market made them stand out, drawing occasional glances from passersby.
"This place is amazing!" Seraphine exclaimed, her golden eyes sparkling as she took in the sights. She tugged at the sleeves of her white hoodie, her crimson hair swaying as she turned to Lyra. "I've never seen so many things in one place."
Lyra smiled softly, her black eyes warm with affection. "It's been a while since we've had a day like this. Let's enjoy it while we can."
Raven glanced back at them, his black eyes softening as they landed on Seraphine. Her beauty was undeniable—her crimson hair framed her face perfectly, and the way her golden eyes lit up when she smiled made his heart skip a beat. She caught his gaze and smiled at him, causing him to blush and quickly look away.
Lyra noticed the exchange and smirked, her white hair catching the light as she shook her head. "You two are adorable," she teased, earning a playful nudge from Seraphine.
They stopped at a food stall, where the tantalizing smell of grilled meat and spices filled the air.
Raven bought skewers for all three of them, and they sat on a nearby bench, enjoying the simple pleasure of street food. For a moment, the weight of their responsibilities and the looming changes in their lives seemed distant.
They laughed, shared stories, and simply enjoyed each other's company, unaware of the challenges that awaited them.
As they continued their stroll, they came across a sports equipment store. Raven paused, his black eyes narrowing in thought. "We should start training," he said, his voice firm. "Whether it's the gym or a martial arts club, we need to be ready for whatever's coming."
Lyra nodded, her white hair shimmering as she tilted her head. "I agree. We can't afford to be unprepared."
Seraphine's golden eyes lit up with determination. "Let's do it. We'll start tomorrow."
They entered the store and picked out gym baggy clothes and basic training equipment. Raven couldn't help but steal glances at Seraphine as she tried on a hoodie, her crimson hair peeking out from under the hood. She caught him looking and smiled, her golden eyes teasing. "See something you like?"
Raven's pale cheeks flushed, and he stammered, "I—uh, just making sure it fits."
Lyra rolled her black eyes, her lips curving into a knowing smile. "Sure, Raven. Keep telling yourself that."
By the time they left the store, the sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the city.
They decided to head back to Luxe Haven, their arms laden with bags and their spirits lighter than they had been in weeks.
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Back at Luxe Haven
The trio arrived at Apartment 102, their laughter echoing in the hallway as they opened the door.
The warm, inviting scent of home-cooked food greeted them, and they found Grim's mother in the kitchen, her white hair tied back in a loose bun as she stirred a pot on the stove. Her black eyes softened when she saw them. "Welcome back," she said, her voice gentle. "Dinner will be ready soon."
Aurelia, seated at the dining table, looked up from her conversation with Grim's mother. Her crimson hair fell in soft waves around her shoulders, and her golden eyes sparkled with warmth as she greeted them. "How was your day?" she asked, her voice melodic.
Lyra beamed, her white hair catching the light as she rushed to Aurelia's side. "Sister-in-law! I missed you!" She hugged Aurelia tightly, her black eyes filled with affection.
Aurelia chuckled, her golden eyes crinkling at the corners. "I missed you too, Lyra." She turned to Seraphine, her sister, and Raven, greeting them with equal warmth. "Come, sit. Tell me everything."
As they gathered around the table, Seraphine couldn't help but ask, "Sister, do you know about us joining the Royal Academy?"
Aurelia's golden eyes softened, and she nodded. "Yes. Grim has arranged for all of you to attend starting next month. It's the most prestigious academy in this country, and it's an opportunity you shouldn't miss."
Raven frowned, his black eyes narrowing. "But I don't want to join. Can't you talk to Grim?"
Aurelia's expression turned firm, her crimson hair framing her face like a halo. "I'm afraid not. Grim's orders are final." She glanced at Grim's mother, who nodded in agreement.
"You'll all go to the academy," Grim's mother said, her black eyes filled with quiet resolve. "It's for the best."
Raven sighed, his white hair falling into his eyes as he leaned back in his chair. He knew arguing was futile.
After dinner,
Raven retreated to his room, his mind racing. He couldn't shake the feeling that he needed to prepare for what was coming. Slipping out unnoticed, he made his way to a nearby forest, where he began to train. His healing ability allowed him to push his body to its limits, and he emerged hours later, stronger and faster than before.
When he returned home, he found the others in the living room, chatting and laughing.
Seraphine's crimson hair glowed in the soft light, and her golden eyes met his as he sat beside her. "You're late," she teased, her voice light.
Raven smirked, his black eyes glinting. "I was just thinking about how beautiful you look tonight."
Seraphine blushed, her golden eyes widening as she playfully squeezed his hand. "Shut up," she whispered, though her smile betrayed her.
Aurelia and Grim's mother exchanged amused glances, while Lyra rolled her black eyes, her white hair shimmering as she shook her head. "You two are impossible."
The door opened, and Grim entered, his presence immediately filling the room. His long white hair framed his sharp features, and his dark eyes swept over the group, lingering on Raven for a moment.
Aurelia rose to greet him, her crimson hair swaying as she took his hand. "Have you eaten?" she asked, her golden eyes filled with concern.
Grim's expression softened slightly as he looked at her. "No. I was busy."
Aurelia led him to the kitchen, where they shared a quiet moment. As she served him food, she couldn't resist leaning in to kiss him, her golden eyes filled with love. Grim's dark eyes met hers, and for a moment, the coldness in his gaze melted away.
Back in the living room, the atmosphere grew tense as Grim's sharp senses picked up on the changes in Raven. His dark eyes narrowed, and the air grew heavy. Raven lowered his gaze, his mind racing. Not yet, he thought. I'm not ready to face him.
Aurelia, sensing the tension, held Grim's arm tightly. "What's wrong?" she asked, her golden eyes searching his face.
Grim smirked, his dark eyes glinting with amusement. "Nothing," he said, his voice low. He sat on the sofa, pulling Aurelia close as she nestled against him, her crimson hair spilling over his chest.
As the night deepened, the family enjoyed a rare moment of peace, unaware of the challenges that lay ahead.
The game is starting, and each of them would soon have to play their part—whether they were ready or not.