Page 34 of Cursed Dreams
Thalia rolled her eyes. "You almost fainted when we had to dissect a cadaver last month."
"That was different," Cellen said solemnly. "That was unnatural. The body was already dead. It felt wrong."
Marand grinned. "And seeing broken bones or open wounds won’t?"
"At least those people are still alive. That makes a difference."
Thalia shook her head, amused. The excitement in the room was infectious, and she couldn’t deny that she was thrilled too. Two more days. Soon, she would finally be taking her first steps toward real, hands-on healing.
""I have found the perfect place for us to celebrate," Cellen announced, sitting up with a wicked grin.
Thalia immediately narrowed her eyes. "That sounds suspicious."
Marand perked up. "Perfect place for what, exactly?"
"For our night of revelry, of course," Cellen said, dramatically placing a hand over his heart. "We have the whole day off tomorrow. No studying, no classes. It is our duty, nay, our obligation, to enjoy ourselves while we can!"
Nyla clapped her hands together, eyes gleaming. "I like the sound of this. Where are we going?"
"There’s a tavern just outside the temple district. It’s well known for its wine, music, and a certain lack of oversight from the more pious members of society."
Thalia frowned. "We’re not going to get into trouble, are we?"
Cellen gasped, looking personally offended. "Thalia, I would never lead us into trouble. I would only lead us into… mild mischief."
"That’s the same thing," she deadpanned.
Marand laughed. "Come on, Thalia! It’ll be fun. We deserve a break after all the work we’ve been doing."
Nyla nudged Thalia’s shoulder. "You can’t tell me you don’t want a night to just enjoy yourself. We’ve been buried in books and lessons for months. Let’s do something reckless—just a little reckless."
Thalia sighed, still hesitant, but it was hard to resist their enthusiasm. "Fine," she conceded. "But if we end up scrubbing the temple floors as punishment, I am blaming all of you."
Cellen beamed. "That’s the spirit! And don’t worry, I’ll take the blame. I have a way of talking my way out of trouble."
"Do you?" Thalia raised a brow.
"Absolutely. I am a male of charm, wit, and endless persuasive talents."
Marand snorted. "You’re also a male who once got locked in a supply closet for three hours because you thought you could fit through a window."
Nyla cackled. "Oh! And let’s not forget the time he tripped carrying a tray of herbal tinctures and managed to dye himself, and half the infirmary, bright green."
Cellen waved a dismissive hand. "Irrelevant. Ancient history. The point is, I am leading us on an adventure tonight, and I fully expect to be celebrated for my efforts."
"And what exactly are your ‘efforts’ going to be?" Thalia asked, suspicious.
"Finding myself in the company of a fine fae or human woman," he said, wiggling his brows.
Thalia groaned. "Of course."
Nyla shook her head, amused. "You are incorrigible."
"Thank you, I try."
The laughter was contagious, and despite her reservations, Thalia found herself smiling. Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad after all.
"Alright," she said, shaking her head. "What time are we meeting?"
