The five of them strolled down the stone path, books still tucked under their arms, the domes glinting in the distance. Their legs ached, and the weight of the day's lessons lingered in their shoulders, but the chatter of other students pulled them out of their weariness.
"…a welcome party?" one boy whispered to another, just loud enough for Alex and the others to catch.
Kael slowed, curiosity sharpening his expression. "Did you hear that?"
They turned toward a small group of freshmen gathered under a lantern post. One of them was bubbling with excitement, gesturing wildly. "My brother's a third-year. He said the upperclassmen are hosting the Freshman Welcome Party this weekend. Big tradition. Everyone goes."
Saphira folded her arms, frowning slightly. "A party? After all this work? I'm not sure I'd fit in."
Edrin's voice was quieter, almost hesitant. "People like us don't usually… stand out at things like that."
Riven let out a laugh, slinging an arm dramatically around Alex's shoulders. "Nonsense! This is exactly what we need. Food, music, dancing—oh, and of course, the chance to see how the mighty upperclassmen strut about." His eyes gleamed mischievously. "Besides, do you really think I'd let Cupcake here skip out? Absolutely not."
Alex sighed, but his lips curved into that subtle smile Riven seemed to chase after.
Kael glanced between Saphira and Edrin, tone firm but kind. "You should both come too. It's a chance to see what kind of people we're going to share the Academy with. Better to face them now than later."
Edrin looked uncertain, but Saphira's frown softened, just slightly.
Riven spread his arms wide, voice rich with mock drama. "That's settled then! We're all going. Now the real question is—" his eyes swept theatrically over the group, landing with exaggerated flourish on Alex— "how do the rest of us make sure we don't look like drab little shadows standing next to him?"
A ripple of laughter passed through their little circle. Alex shook his head, pretending to be exasperated, but the smile tugging at his lips betrayed him.
For the first time that day, the long walk back to the domes felt shorter.