After class ended, William and Lia walked together through the hallways to the cafeteria. Though the atmosphere in the classroom had been tense, now the students' voices were a distant murmur.
The smell of freshly baked bread and spicy stews filled the air, but William barely noticed it. He was still thinking about the panther the professor had summoned, about the symbol on her palm… and what that implied.
They sat at a table in the back, as always, away from curious eyes.
"William…," Lia began softly, sipping her juice. "What happened yesterday? You were gone… and when you arrived today… it was all very strange."
William swallowed before answering. He couldn't tell her everything. Not yet.
"It was just a misunderstanding," he finally said, offering a slight smile. "But everything's fine now. Don't worry."
Lia eyed him, as if in doubt. But she decided not to press.
"Okay…"
They ate in silence for a few minutes. Then William leaned slightly towards her, his tone more lively.
