Chapter 108
The evening air was cool when Arios left his dorm. The sun had already dropped low, leaving the sky painted in shades of grey and faint orange. Lanterns were being lit across the academy grounds, carried by attendants or mounted on poles, each one spreading a soft glow to keep the walkways visible. Students moved in groups, some heading back from training, others heading toward the market district just beyond the academy gates.
Lucy and Liza were waiting for him outside the dormitory entrance. Lucy wore a light jacket over her uniform and carried a small pouch tied at her waist. Liza had her sleeves rolled up, a grin on her face, and a large bag slung over her shoulder, as if she were already preparing to stuff it with whatever she planned to buy.
"You're late," Liza said the moment she saw him.
"I'm on time," Arios replied.
"You're late to me," she shot back.
Lucy sighed. "It doesn't matter. Let's go before the shops start closing."
