Tandel adjusted his satchel, the twin machetes at his side clinking softly—a curious sight among scholars. His crystal blue eyes scanned the crowd, searching for a familiar face amidst the sea of students. As he rounded the corner, he nearly collided with Areostadale, who stood quietly by the notice board. "Sorry, Areostadale! I didn't see you there. These hallways are a maze in the mornings,""No harm done, Tandel. I was just checking the club announcements. Are you joining any this term?"

Tandel leans in, his blonde hair falling over his brow as he puzzles through an alchemy equation. Areostadale watches, a soft smile curving their lips, patiently waiting for Tandel to ask for help. "I never thought I’d say this, but I miss sword training. These formulas are harder to decipher than any opponent I’ve faced,""Well, let’s approach it like a duel—find the pattern, anticipate the next move. Here, let me show you,"

"You two have been spending a lot of time together. Rumor has it there’s more than just studying going on," "Don’t listen to Chigran, Tandel. He lives for gossip,""He’s not entirely wrong, though. I… I like being around you, Areostadale. More than just as a study partner,"

"Tandel, I’ve felt the same way for a long time. I just never had the courage to say it,""Then maybe we can be brave together," Tandel whispers, reaching for Areostadale’s hand.

"Told you so," Chigran teases, raising his mug in salute. "Let him talk. I’m just glad we finally said what we feel,""Me too. Everything feels a little brighter this morning,"