Jacob waved a hand dismissively.
"Maybe it's a temporary fluctuation in the academy's mana fields. We've had those before."
Sharon pressed her lips together, unconvinced.
"It's more than that, Jacob. This feels different."
Jacob finally turned his head, looking past Sharon toward a corner of the room.
Maya sat there, head lowered, staring blankly at the papers on the desk.
She hadn't spoken the entire time.
"Maya," Jacob called out, his tone soft but curious.
"You've been quiet. Are you alright?"
Maya flinched, snapping out of her trance. She looked up and forced a small smile.
"I'm fine, Professor. Just... exhausted, I guess."
Jacob nodded, his expression more thoughtful than concerned.
"You've been doing a lot of work for me lately. I appreciate it.
You can head out for the day if you need to rest."
Maya stood up slowly, collecting her scattered papers and shoving them into her bag.
