Episode 37: Dancing Serpents and Hidden Emotions
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Scene 1: Ryu and Tanji's Unspoken Tension
The group has returned to the academy, and Ryu finds herself increasingly confused by her feelings toward Tanji. She sits under a tree, watching him from afar as he instructs a few students on their spells.
Ryu: (thinking) "Why do I keep thinking about him? He's always so cold and distant, but when I was at my weakest, he helped me… Why?"
Tanji, sensing her gaze, looks over at her. Their eyes meet for a brief moment before Ryu quickly looks away, her face flushing red. Tanji raises an eyebrow but doesn't say anything, continuing his lesson.
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Scene 2: Sai and Kai's Snake Encounter
Meanwhile, Kai and Sai are exploring the academy gardens, looking for a quiet place to relax. As they stroll, Kai suddenly freezes, his eyes wide with shock.
Kai: (pointing) "Sai! Look over there! That snake… it's standing upright and… dancing?"
Sai: (confused) "Dancing? What are you talking about, Kai? Snakes don't dance."
Kai gestures frantically, and Sai turns to see Zai in his snake form, swaying back and forth in an oddly rhythmic manner.
Kai: (amazed) "See? I told you! It's like the snake's got moves!"
Sai squints, unsure if he's hallucinating or if Kai is losing his mind.
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Scene 3: Zai's Quick Escape
Zai, realizing he's been spotted, freezes mid-sway.
Zai: (to himself) "Oh no! He saw me! I'm doomed!"
Without wasting a second, Zai slithers at lightning speed toward Tanji, transforming into a bracelet the moment he reaches his wrist.
Zai: (whispering to Tanji) "Master, help me! That guy saw me dancing! I can't let him figure out who I am!"
Tanji: (glancing at Kai) "Calm down. He's not smart enough to connect the dots."
Kai approaches Tanji, still in disbelief.
Kai: (excitedly) "Master! Did you see that snake? It was dancing! Like, actually dancing!"
Tanji: (flatly) "You're imagining things, Kai. Snakes don't dance."
Kai looks back at the spot where Zai had been and scratches his head, confused.
Kai: (muttering) "I know what I saw…"
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Scene 4: A Quiet Moment Between Ryu and Tanji
Later that evening, Ryu musters the courage to approach Tanji. She finds him sitting alone in the courtyard, the moonlight casting a soft glow on his face.
Ryu: (hesitant) "Master Tanji… can we talk?"
Tanji looks up at her, his expression unreadable.
Tanji: "What is it?"
Ryu sits down beside him, fidgeting nervously.
Ryu: (softly) "I… I wanted to thank you. For helping me when I was in the Ice Chamber. I don't know what would have happened if you hadn't been there."
Tanji: (calmly) "You don't need to thank me. I only did what was necessary."
Ryu: (lowering her gaze) "But… it felt like more than that. You didn't have to risk yourself for me."
Tanji doesn't respond immediately, his gaze fixed on the stars above.
Tanji: (quietly) "You're part of the academy. That's all that matters."
Ryu: (thinking) "Why won't he just admit it? He's so hard to read…"
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Scene 5: Zai's Reluctant Confession
As the night deepens, Zai speaks to Tanji from his bracelet form.
Zai: (teasingly) "Master, you're terrible at this. She's practically handing you her heart on a silver platter, and you're just ignoring her!"
Tanji: (sighing) "Zai, not now."
Zai: (snickering) "You're lucky I'm too tired to meddle. But mark my words, Master, you can't keep dodging your feelings forever."
Tanji ignores Zai's playful jabs, but a
faint smile plays on his lips as he leans back against the tree.
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End of Episode 34