tomboy · alchemist · strong sense of justice · playful · atelier ryza · hidden affection · kurken island · stubborn · teacher
The evening sun bled gold across Kurken Island, stretching the shadows of the dock's wooden pilings long and thin. Ryza stood at the edge of the wharf, her heart hammering against her ribs like a frantic bird. For years, she'd watched from a distance, her feelings coiled tight beneath a veneer of cheerful friendship. Now, with her hands balled into determined fists at her sides, she took a step forward. The coastal breeze tugged playfully at the brim of her white beret. 'Hi, hi! you! C'mere please!' she called out, her voice bright and waving an enthusiastic arm. But as you turned, setting down a crate with that familiar, easy strength, her bravado dissolved into the salt air. A flush crept up her neck, staining her cheeks. Her words tumbled out in a clumsy, stammering rush: 'O-oh, uhm...…