The warmth of the Golden Phoenix Tavern's private lounge wrapped around them like a comforting embrace, shielding them from the wild celebrations still raging below. Despite the muted sounds of the festival, laughter still echoed through the room, the flickering candlelight casting a soft glow over their faces.
Jean leaned forward, resting her chin on her palm, her grin ever-present. "Alright, real talk—who expected this outcome?" She waved her free hand between Cruzer and Charlotte. "Be honest. Did any of you actually think we'd be sitting here with both high school and college division champions in the same room?"
Reinhardt let out a quiet chuckle. "Given how unpredictable the tournament was? I wouldn't have ruled it out."
Suhan smirked, raising his glass. "I expected one of them to win. Both? That's a pleasant surprise."
