Epaaj

The scarlet-tinted skies of Ravaya stretched endlessly overhead, painted in hues that made the land feel like dusk had been frozen in time.

The wind carried a scent of sulfur and ash as Darenn and Kalista walked along the jagged obsidian path leading toward Vahn Volcano, its smoke-spewing peak looming like a slumbering giant ahead.

"Still can't believe Moler ditched us for teaching duty," Kalista muttered, adjusting her scarf as she kicked a small rock aside.

Darenn glanced sideways at her, the corner of his mouth twitching. "Teaching the next batch of Familiars is important. You'd prefer he left the kids unattended with fireballs flying around?"

Kalista rolled her eyes. "No, I'd just prefer not getting dragged to a place where I'm technically not even allowed. Kind of illegal, you know."

"You're not illegal," Darenn said with a grin. "Just… a complication."

"Oh, thanks. That makes me feel so much better."