Amberine strode through the bustling streets of the city with an air of triumph. Her bag, now stuffed with a hefty sum of cash, weighed heavily on her shoulder, but it was a weight she welcomed. For the first time in her life, she felt invincible. The world, which had always seemed so intent on crushing her, now felt like it was bowing at her feet. A million Elnes. No more worrying about rent, tuition, or scraping by at her part-time job. She was rich.
She spotted Maris and Elara sitting under a shaded tree near the university's entrance, and her grin widened. Perfect timing.
"Hey! There you are!" Amberine called out, her voice carrying through the open courtyard. She waved dramatically, her red hair catching the sunlight as she made her way over to them.
Maris looked up, her gentle smile spreading as she saw Amberine approach. Elara, ever calm and collected, simply gave a small nod in acknowledgment, her golden eyes as sharp and observant as always.
