New Year Special: Fireworks and Fumbles

New Year Special: Fireworks and Fumbles

The academy’s grand New Year’s celebration was the most awaited event of the year. The sprawling grounds were transformed into a festive wonderland, with glittering lights, food stalls, and a spectacular display of magical fireworks promised at midnight. Students and staff were abuzz with excitement, chatting animatedly about their plans for the evening.

Aetrial, however, had no plans to attend. She had every intention of spending the evening in her dorm, away from the chaos, wrapped in a cozy blanket, and indulging in the pastries she had secretly hoarded. Why deal with all that noise when I can enjoy peace? she thought, nibbling on a tart.

But fate—or rather, meddlesome individuals—had other plans.

---

Dragged Into the Fray

“Aetrial!” Tyler’s boisterous voice echoed through the dormitory hall as he barged into her room without knocking.

“What are you doing here?” she asked, barely looking up from her pastry.

“You’re not seriously planning to skip the celebration, are you?” he asked, his tone incredulous. “It’s the biggest event of the year!”

“I don’t do crowds.”

Tyler narrowed his eyes suspiciously, then grabbed her wrist. “Nope. Not happening. You’re coming with me. End of discussion.”

“Wait, what—Tyler!” she protested as he pulled her to her feet.

---

The Festive Grounds

The celebration was even more overwhelming than Aetrial had feared. Lanterns floated midair, casting a soft glow over the lively crowd. Stalls offered everything from candied fruits to enchanted trinkets, and the air was filled with the sound of laughter and music.

“Isn’t this great?” Tyler said, grinning ear to ear.

“Crowded,” she muttered, glancing around uneasily.

But before she could complain further, a familiar voice interrupted.

“Aetrial?”

She turned to see Arthur, dressed impeccably as always, looking mildly surprised to see her.

“I didn’t think you’d come,” he said.

“Neither did I,” she replied dryly.

---

The Romantic Mishaps Begin

As the evening progressed, Aetrial found herself swept into a series of increasingly absurd situations.

First, Arthur insisted on winning her a prize at one of the game stalls. After numerous failed attempts—and much teasing from Tyler—he finally succeeded, presenting her with a small, enchanted snow globe.

“See? Told you I could do it,” he said, looking oddly pleased with himself.

“Congratulations,” she said, her tone deadpan. “You’ve truly proven your worth.”

Arthur flushed, muttering something under his breath about ungrateful people.

Next, Raynard appeared out of nowhere, offering her a steaming cup of hot cocoa.

“You looked cold,” he said simply.

“Thanks, but—” Before she could finish, Tyler snatched the cup.

“Hey, what about me?” he asked, grinning mischievously.

Raynard glared. “Get your own.”

---

The Fireworks Fiasco

As midnight approached, the crowd gathered near the central fountain, eagerly awaiting the fireworks. Aetrial found herself surrounded by the male leads, each vying for her attention in their own way.

“Do you want a better view?” Tyler asked, leaning closer.

“I’m fine, thanks.”

“You should stand over here,” Arthur said, gesturing to a spot beside him.

“Why? So you can block my view?”

Raynard, silent but ever-watchful, handed her a scarf without a word.

“Okay, what is happening?” she muttered under her breath, utterly baffled by their behavior.

---

Enter the Villain

Just as the first firework lit up the sky, Aetrial felt a presence beside her. She turned to see Anos, the mysterious guest lecturer—no, the demon lord—standing far too close for comfort.

“You’re quite popular tonight,” he remarked, his crimson eyes glinting in the light.

“Do you make it a habit to show up uninvited?” she asked, stepping back.

“Only when it’s interesting,” he said with a smirk.

Before she could retort, a particularly loud firework startled her. She stumbled, and in her panic, grabbed onto the nearest thing—him.

“Careful,” he said, steadying her. His hand lingered a moment too long on her arm, and when she looked up, she was struck by how annoyingly handsome he was.

“Thanks,” she mumbled, stepping away quickly.

Anos watched her with a bemused expression. “You’re welcome.”

---

The Midnight Moment

As the final firework burst into a cascade of golden light, the crowd erupted in cheers. Aetrial, however, was too preoccupied with her own thoughts.

Why do they keep acting like this? And why do I feel so... weird?

Before she could make sense of her emotions, Tyler nudged her.

“Happy New Year, Aetrial!” he said, grinning.

“Happy New Year,” she replied, managing a small smile.

As the others chimed in with their well-wishes, she found herself—despite everything—grateful for their company.

---

A Message for the Readers

Later that night, as the celebration wound down, Aetrial found a quiet spot to reflect.

“To everyone reading this,” she said, looking straight ahead, her expression softening. “Thank you for sticking with me through all the chaos. I’m not sure what the future holds, but... I hope you’ll keep watching over me.”

She smiled, a rare, genuine smile that lit up her face.

“Happy New Year!”