An bounced on her heels, the excitement making her fingers tingle with residual magic. The stone steps of the dormitory radiated the warmth of the day's sun even as evening approached. She was thrilled about the final prom, but a knot of sadness twisted in her stomach at the thought of leaving the academy behind.

Beside her, Akito kicked at a loose stone, the sound echoing in the quiet courtyard. An could practically feel his eagerness to escape the academy's strict rules. Toya stood calmly, his gaze fixed on the sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, seemingly at peace with both endings and new beginnings.

The three friends stood in front of Kohane's dorm, the scent of her perfume - a magical blend of night-blooming jasmine - drifting through the slightly open window.

"Kohane, are you done?" An called up, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "Akito's getting desperate to kiss Toya!"

Akito's face flushed crimson, the color visible even in the fading light. "HELL NO!" he sputtered, crossing his arms tightly across his chest.

Toya chuckled softly, the sound warm and melodic. "She's clearly joking," he said, though his eyes sparkled with amusement.