The morning drifted by in a blur, each class blending seamlessly into the next, my thoughts continuously circling back to Mara and Elira and the unsettling questions from last night. I tapped my quill lightly against my notebook, barely hearing the lecture our instructor droned on about regarding the historical significance of enchanted flora. Around me, students scribbled diligently, unaware of my internal turmoil.
Beside me, Riven squinted at the board, scribbling furious notes, the tip of his tongue sticking slightly from his mouth in concentration. I stifled a smile. At least someone was paying attention.
[You're obsessing again,] the system sighed inside my head, sounding bored. [If you're not careful, someone might mistake you for a real, caring human.]
"Shut up," I muttered under my breath, just quiet enough that no one heard. Except Riven, who glanced at me curiously.
"You say something, Elyzara?" he whispered, eyes wide with earnest curiosity.
