The four of them began walking toward the faculty residential area, cutting through crowds of students who parted before them like water around a stone. Some whispered as they passed. Others bowed respectfully. A few brave souls called out congratulations to Aria on her trial performance or her successful mission.
Aria acknowledged them with small nods but didn't engage in conversation. She was too tired, too drained, too emotionally exhausted to handle social interaction right now.
They walked in comfortable silence until they reached the residential area, where Kaelen and Sarah's shared quarters existed in their own pocket dimension, isolated from the main academy grounds.
The moment they crossed the threshold, the chaotic energy of the academy faded. Inside was peaceful. Quiet. Home, in the way that mattered.
"Bath first," Sarah directed, pointing Aria toward the bathing chamber. "Then food. Then sleep. In that order. No arguing."
