Noah and Arlo walked side by side across the academy grounds, the cool afternoon breeze brushing through the trimmed hedges that lined the path.
The hum of distant conversation filled the air as students moved between buildings, but Noah's mind was still caught in their last class.
"That was something." He muttered.
"Theriology?" Arlo grinned, stuffing his hands into his pockets. "Yeah. Stark's the type that makes sure you remember every word."
Noah nodded. "I didn't know abyssal beasts could be that important after merging. Or that they still run wild after slipping through Monoliths."
"Well, they're not just important," Arlo said. "They're the core of the entire mage system. From the moment we merge to the moment we die, we'll be dealing with abyssal beasts one way or another."
They turned the corner, the white stone path giving way to the wide steps that led to the cafeteria. The scent of roasting meat drifted through the air, and both boys felt their stomachs growl.
