After the class, the group of five exited the room, their footsteps echoing down the wide stone corridors of the academy. The air was thick with a mixture of tension and exhaustion, typical after a session with Mr. John. The clatter of dishes and low murmur of conversation guided them towards the cafeteria. William walked among them, silent and distant, barely acknowledging the sounds around him.
At the lunch table, Eleanor glanced at William, noticing how he picked at his food without much interest before standing up abruptly. "I'll catch you guys later," he muttered, his voice low, almost as if he wasn't fully there.
As he left, Eleanor turned to the others, confusion evident in her eyes. "What's the deal with William lately? He's been acting... off."
Gavin shrugged, chewing thoughtfully before responding, "He's probably trying to form his soul crystal. Get an ability fast, you know? He's an orphan, after all. That's his only real shot."
