The evening breeze swept across the academy rooftop, carrying with it the faint laughter and chatter of students below.
From up here, the academy grounds looked peaceful, sunlight glinting off the glass windows of the Great Hall, patches of green where students lounged after classes, the air filled with the last hints of festival energy.
Headmaster Gavin stood near the stone balustrade, hands clasped loosely behind his back, his calm expression betraying none of the storms that brewed beneath. He already came back from whatever it is he left for, Professor Gertrude already rescinding from being temporary headmistress.
Behind him, Professor Gertrude, Professor Darenn, and Professor Irving finished their reports.
"It was one of the liveliest Cooking Festivals we've ever had," Gertrude said with a smile, her voice carrying that blend of teacherly pride and slight exasperation. "The students really poured their hearts into it."
