As they joined the line for food, the easy banter between them carried the promise of many more sparring sessions to come—each one a chance to test limits, to learn, and to grow. The cafeteria hummed softly with the clatter of trays and the murmur of early risers, the air rich with the mingling scents of roasted meats, warm bread, and spiced tea. Towan grabbed a tray, his movements quick and efficient, while Sylra lingered for a moment, eyeing the array of pastries with a playful smirk. “You’re not one of those ‘strictly protein’ types, are you?” she teased, picking up a flaky croissant.
Towan raised an eyebrow, feigning offense. “I’ll have you know I’m a well-rounded individual,” he said, adding a slice of fruit tart to his tray. “Balance is key, after all.”
Sylra chuckled, her laughter light and melodic. “Balance, huh? I’ll believe it when I see it.”
Before long, they collected their meals and settled at Towan’s usual table, a secluded spot by the window where the morning light streamed in, casting a golden glow over the polished wood. Towan leaned back in his chair, stretching his arms as he surveyed the nearly empty cafeteria. “There aren’t many students around…” he noted, his voice tinged with curiosity.
Sylra glanced up from her plate, her silver hair catching the sunlight as she shrugged. “Well, it’s still pretty early,” she replied, her tone casual. “Plus, since there aren’t any classes this week, I’m sure most took the chance to sleep in.” She took a sip of her tea, her expression serene. “Not everyone’s as dedicated—or crazy—as we are.”
“Hmm… Didn’t think of that,” Towan admitted, scratching the back of his neck. He glanced around again, the quiet atmosphere feeling almost surreal compared to the usual bustle. “Guess I’m just used to the chaos.”
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They continued chatting, their conversation flowing effortlessly from training techniques to past fights.
After Towan recounted to Sylra how he and his brother arrived at the academy, she burst into laughter. "So you just ran through the forest?"
"Well… yeah? What was I supposed to do?" he defended.
"I don’t know, maybe look at a map? Who even does that? Personally, I’d just ask for directions."
"Oh, come on," Towan groaned.
He rolled his eyes but couldn’t suppress a grin. "Yeah, yeah. Keep laughing. I’ll get you back someday."
Sylra smirked, leaning in slightly. "Oh, I’m sure you’ll try. But let’s be real—you’re going to have to work really hard to top this one."
Their banter was interrupted as Towan, mid-bite, suddenly spotted Elliot entering the cafeteria. His younger brother looked disheveled, his hair sticking up in every direction and his uniform slightly askew. Towan smirked, raising his hand in a mock salute. “Looks like the sleeping beauty finally woke up,” he quipped as Elliot approached, his voice carrying just enough volume to ensure his brother heard.
Elliot groaned, rubbing his eyes as he shuffled toward the table. “Morning, jerk,” he muttered, though there was no real malice in his tone. He dropped into a chair beside Towan, yawning widely. “Some of us actually enjoy sleep, you know.”
“Sleep is overrated,” Towan shot back, nudging his brother’s shoulder. “You’re missing the best part of the day.”
“Says the guy who probably hasn’t slept in a week,” Elliot retorted, though his lips curved into a tired smile. He glanced at Sylra, nodding in greeting. “Morning, Sylra. Thanks for keeping him occupied so the rest of us can get some peace.”
Sylra laughed, her eyes crinkling at the corners. “Anytime. Though, to be fair, he’s the one who challenged me this morning.”
Elliot shook his head, feigning exasperation. “Of course he did. Can’t let anyone have a moment’s rest, can you?”