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ａｎｄ　ｔｈｅ　ｄａｗｎ　ｏｆ　ａｎ　ｏｌｄ　ｄａｙ[hr][/center][/color]

Estelle could surmise what Isana's request for meeting was about. She could wait until her siblings came to the same conclusion that she did--she would always wait for them. In response, she gave a sombre smile and nodded only to take a stoic expression take a deep breath when Isana challenged another student within the noble class.

Challenges came and went. Though, Estelle had no plans, reason, or ability to participate; she had not yet the time to recover and her class had already been lowered. Perhaps that was a blessing--she didn't need to attempt to defend her place in an impossible task. All she needed to do was cheer so long as her hoarse voice permitted. Apparently, it was not long at all--soon after Vincent's duel, she had already resigned to exhaust herself waving her arms and clapping.

Vincent's duel was shocking. Not for the result--the upset was something that she had expected the moment he uttered his challenge. No, what surprised her was just how he acted and spoke both during the duel and after he won. It certainly wasn't the Vincent she remembered.

She watched Isana's duel with baited breath. Levity was given Isana weaponized her spit. What did they teach her? Techniques that the Kaides would not tell you, that was for sure.

Ophelia's challenge to Sherry gave Estelle pause. She was significantly more vengeful than Estelle remembered. Amabilia's slights felt more like foppish posturing. And simply put, she didn't like her siblings fighting one another. The duel was one she didn't cheer for, but she still watched with solemn intent. A bittersweet relief came over her as Ophelia won, but that was soon replaced with worry as the winner left so much as a word.

Rodin's duel was equal parts expected and unexpected. Quite out of character for him, but with the result she had been expecting. Though, it was also quite childish as she winced at him slapping a bastard raw.

Lucas' duel was equally an impressive win. 

In spite of his actions and words from his duel, when Vincent called for her, Estelle perked up and waved him over. Though as he got closer, a wave of apprehension washed over her. She didn't quite know what face to make or what to say to him. Her apprehension vanished as he became close enough that Estelle could make out his face. She lunged out of her wheelchair once he was within reach. Her left hand grasped his hand while the other ran through his hair. Her fingers were much softer and thinner than would remember.

[color=b8ffd2]"It's been a long time"[/color] she asked, her weak voice already hoarse from what little cheering she could do. [color=b8ffd2]"How have you been?"[/color]