“This is everything my alchemy research has surmounted to, I can’t pass up this opportunity,” Piroue whispered passionately to her only friend, Clada, as they trekked the snowy trail.

“You’ve got to be kidding me!” Clada quietly spoke in frustration. “You can’t just ditch the group to go look for some rock you aren’t even sure is there!”

The two of them always walked in the back of the line during field trips. And as the supervisor of the group’s rear, the alchemist professor Miss Mad couldn’t help but overhear the conversation.

“I know it’s there,” Piroue hissed. “I know it’s *here.* And it’s not just some rock, it’s the Icicle’s Stone.” That enticing Icicle’s Stone that any alchemist would kill for. “It can only be found along this trail. Any alchemist worth their salt would want—“

“It’s risky, Piroue. The forest here is dangerous for anyone in this weather, especially at night. You’re risking your life. The Icicle’s Stone is a myth anyways!” Clada interrupted in a hushed voice, her brows furrowing in concern.

“No, it’s not. I have proof. I wrote a paper about it for the class’ last assignment. You would’ve known about it if you proofread it like you said you would,” Piroue huffed.

Miss Mad remembered grading that assignment. She knew Piroue could get herself killed out in those woods if she went after the Stone. That enticing Icicle’s Stone that any alchemist would kill for.

Clada rolled her eyes and extended her arm out to the dark woods. “Fine. Whatever. Go find your stupid rock.”

Without hesitation, Piroue left. Clada flinched towards her, wanting to go after her, but she decided against it. Miss Mad could turn a blind eye, however, she decided to intervene.

“Don’t worry, I’ll bring her back,” Miss Mad reassured with an unsettling smile and began tailing Piroue. Indeed, she knew Piroue could get herself killed out there.

But, that’s what she was counting on.