Chapter 66 : The Quiet One
The second week at the Academy of Elemental Studies began with overcast skies, weak tea, and a lingering sense of judgment from Revantra's new roommate—a stubborn houseplant Elias had insisted on naming "Sir Fernsworth."
Revantra stared at it while brushing her hair into something vaguely presentable.
"Why does he have a knighthood?"
Elias, already halfway into his boots, shrugged. "He looks noble."
"He droops. Like a coward."
"He's doing his best."
So was Revantra. At least, that's what she told herself while navigating the churning tide of morning students, each one either too loud or too perfumed. Her own magic, restrained under layers of magical seals and her alias, pulsed beneath her skin like a restless heartbeat. Being "Rina" was exhausting. Being herself was... not an option.
Not here.
Not yet.
Magic Theory was held in one of the older halls, a long stone room with a vaulted ceiling, hexagonal desks, and windows that barely kept the cold out. Professor Linneus was the kind of instructor who spoke in hushed tones as if revealing ancient secrets, and students leaned in whether out of reverence or sheer confusion.
Revantra took her usual seat near the window. From there, she could ignore most people and most people, mercifully, ignored her. Except for one.