Lana
We walked together toward the Arcane Spire.
Ezric's steps were as light as ever—there was some kind of endless energy in that boy's body, even after he almost exploded a few days ago. He kept talking—about how tall the Spire was, about how this year's trial was rumored to be more brutal than the last, even about how my fake fox ears were crooked again.
Usually, I would talk back. Throw in some sarcasm, or at least shoot him a bored look.
But not today.
Today, I just walked. Silent. My eyes fixed forward, never turning to him.
"Hey, Lana" Ezric said softly. "You're nervous, huh?"
I didn't answer.
He walked a little closer, matching my pace. "That's normal, you know? The Arcane Spire trials are insane. I heard someone almost drowned in the illusion maze. One guy... exploded like me. But most—most of them make it out fine."
Still, I said nothing.
Ezric gave a nervous laugh. "Okay, maybe not the most comforting story…"
