When the first sounds of movement echoed from Alariel and Esteria, she forced herself to rise, though her heart felt heavier than usual.
"Good morning, Celene!" Alariel greeted cheerfully, pulling her wet hair into a loose braid. "Ready for another day of training?"
Celene offered a weak smile in response but felt the usual warmth of their morning camaraderie slipping away.
"I think I want to bathe alone today," Celene declared suddenly, surprising both her companions. Alariel's eyes widened, and Esteria looked taken aback.
"What? But we always bathe together," Alariel protested, her voice laced with confusion.
"I just… need some time alone," Celene insisted, the tension in her voice palpable.
Esteria exchanged a glance with Alariel, and Alariel, after a moment of hesitation, nodded. "Alright, if that's what you want."
