Shadows & Starlight (Love Is A Game In The Face Of Danger Book 1)

Chapter 2: A Melody of Uncertainty and Determination

Persephone I.II

Perci made her way through the winding pathways of the dig site, her messenger bag slung over her shoulder and her mind buzzing with anticipation. The early morning air was crisp and cool, the gentle glow of the moons casting long shadows across the ancient ruins that surrounded her.

As she approached the main tent, Perci spotted her mentor, Dr. Nightshade, waiting for her with a small smile. "Good morning, Perci," he greeted her, his voice warm with encouragement. "Are you ready to get started on today's project?"

Perci returned the smile, her heart swelling with pride at the thought of working alongside such a respected archaeologist. "Good morning, Dr. Nightshade," she replied, her voice tinged with excitement. "I'm ready to dive in."

Dr. Nightshade led Perci into the main tent, where a table was spread out with a collection of arcane artifacts recovered from the excavation site. "Today, I'd like you to focus on analyzing these artifacts," he said, gesturing to the objects laid out before them. "We're hoping to uncover clues about the civilization that once inhabited this area, and your expertise will be invaluable in that endeavor."

Perci nodded eagerly, her fingers itching to examine the artifacts and unlock the secrets they held. She pulled out her notebook and pens from her messenger bag, her heart racing with anticipation as she prepared to delve into her work.

Throughout the day, Perci lost herself in the task at hand, her mind fully consumed by the challenge of deciphering the mysteries of the past. She carefully examined each artifact, documenting her findings in her notebook and piecing together the puzzle of the ancient civilization that had once thrived in this place.

But even as she worked, Perci couldn't escape the constant stream of congratulations and well-wishes from her colleagues, all of whom had heard the news of her acceptance into the Royal Match. She forced a smile and thanked them politely, but inside, her heart felt heavy with the weight of her secret.

As the day wore on, Perci's thoughts kept drifting back to the Royal Match and the implications it held for her future. She knew that she couldn't afford to let her internship suffer because of her decision to participate in the competition, but she also couldn't bring herself to turn down the opportunity of a lifetime.

It was with a heavy heart that Perci approached Dr. Nightshade at the end of the day, her stomach churning with anxiety at the thought of what she had to tell him. "Dr. Nightshade," she began, her voice trembling with uncertainty. "I need to talk to you about something."

Dr. Nightshade looked up from his work, his expression curious. "Of course, Perci," he said, gesturing for her to sit down. "What's on your mind?"

Perci took a deep breath, steeling herself for the conversation ahead. "I...I've been accepted into the Royal Match," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "And...I'm going to have to take some time off from my internship to participate."

Dr. Nightshade's expression fell at Perci's words, his brow furrowing with concern. "I see," he said, his voice tinged with disappointment. "I'm afraid we can't allow that much time off for internships. It wouldn't be fair to the other students who are relying on this experience to further their careers."

Perci's heart sank at Dr. Nightshade's response, her fears coming to fruition. She knew that she had to respect his decision, but it didn't make it any easier to bear. "I understand," she said softly, her voice tinged with sadness. "I'll do whatever it takes to make it up to you, Dr. Nightshade. I promise."

Dr. Nightshade gave Perci a sympathetic smile, his eyes filled with understanding. "I know you will, Perci," he said, his voice gentle. "You're a talented archaeologist, and I have no doubt that you'll go on to do great things. Just remember that you'll always have a place here when you get back."