As Alice's question hung in the air, the room seemed to shift, the teasing and chaos subsiding as we transitioned into something more grounded.
The mention of schoolwork reminded us, albeit briefly, of our various paths and the futures we were shaping or stumbling toward.
"Well," Kaelith began, tossing her sleek black hair over her shoulder, "most of us are still grinding away in magical school.
Trying to become mages, you know, the usual." She smirked, but there was a hint of weariness in her voice.
"That's because you keep taking on way too many classes," Sarah pointed out, leaning back in her chair with an air of authority. "You don't need to overachieve to prove yourself, Kaelith."
Kaelith snorted. "Says the one who already graduated and is working as a mage. Easy for you to give advice when you're not drowning in exams."
Sarah laughed, the sound warm and unbothered.
