The cafeteria buzzed like a low, unending current—clattering trays, the shimmer of mana-enhanced burners, and the overlapping murmur of nearly a hundred conversations. Ethan stepped in beside Kai and Aiden, the scent of spiced meat and herbs filling the air instantly. A mild enchantment above the room cycled clean air downward, mixing with the warmth of roasted bread and tangy sauces.
They filed into the line, Ethan grabbing a deep ceramic bowl from the floating rack as Kai leaned over the rail to see what was steaming in the golden trays.
"Please tell me it's those fried mana rice dumplings," Kai said, peeking.
"Top left," Aiden replied, already nudging a tray into Ethan's hands. "Take them before they're gone."
Ethan accepted it quietly, letting the warmth bleed into his fingers. It had been a long morning.
