After the ceremony on the square dispersed, Leon followed the crowd to the mid-level area, where he saw maids distributing small cakes to the academy's children. He picked up a portion, walking quickly back to the square, climbing the higher steps, and passed through the Magic Veil.
"Lola." Spotting the white-haired girl still leaning against the balcony railing, gazing into the distance, Leon waved the cake wrapped in a napkin in his hand: "Come try this. Everyone gets some."
Lola tilted her head slightly, smiled, and rose gracefully before descending lightly from the balcony.
Watching the young teacher take the cake, unwrap the napkin, and take a small bite with delicate lips, Leon couldn't help but ask, "Are you really not attending the banquet?"
Swallowing the sweet pastry, Lola's gaze softened as she saw his expression of concern for her loneliness, unable to suppress her amusement.
