The morning sun filtered through the tall, arched windows of the Magic Tower University, casting soft rays across the stone floors and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere within the otherwise imposing structure. Amberine, with her fiery red hair tied back in a messy braid, hurried down the hallway, her robes fluttering behind her. Ifrit, the small fire spirit, hid within the folds of her cloak, his glowing eyes peeking out occasionally to observe the surroundings.
She was late—again.
Elara, on the other hand, walked with a measured, purposeful stride, her cold blue eyes scanning the hallway with the same calculating efficiency that marked everything she did. Unlike Amberine, Elara's appearance was immaculate, her blonde hair pinned neatly in place and her robes pristine. She walked slightly ahead, not bothering to look back, knowing full well that Amberine would catch up, as she always did.