We trudged through the forest, heading back to where the principal had called us. The air was still thick with tension from the fight, and I could feel the prickly irritation growing as Lise and Thalira continued to bicker.
"You're always so reckless, Thalira," Lise snapped, her voice dripping with disdain. "Charging in without thinking."
"Oh, please," Thalira shot back, her shadows flickering in agitation. "Like you're any better, Miss Ice Queen. You think you're so perfect with your precious ice magic."
"At least I don't rely on sneaky tricks," Lise retorted, her eyes narrowing. "Shadows are for cowards."
"Cowards?!" Thalira's voice rose an octave. "You didn't seem so brave when you ran off without a word!"
