Esperanza paused, smile faltering for a moment as she tilted her head. “Why is that? High school is supposed to have many fights, yes?” In nearly every movie regarding the subject, fights were as common as fires among dry brush. Just as climatic, too, whether they were simplistic fist-fights like this one, or the more subtle play of words to bring rivals to the very bottom of the social ladder. And nearly every time that either happened, there would usually be a gang of other students huddled around, calling for action. It was unfathomable that the real thing would be any different.

She frowned for a moment, shook her head, then picked up the same bright smile as before as she sat down.  “I hope you do not mind if I sit with you. I do not know if I can sit anywhere else now, and you are very nice.” From where she sat, Esperanza could see another professor bound in, all bright lights and cheer and smiles. She leaned forward in her seat upon seeing him draw some sort of fire hound from thin air- if that was the Professor for Familiars, then he would be one of the many Esperanza would be working under. And with the addition of the Theory woman...immediately, Esp attempted to make herself look like the ideal student, hands folded properly on the table before her, back straight as a ruler, eyes wide and attentive.

The effect was quickly ruined as she noticed that another student had joined them at the table. Surprised, Esperanza turned towards the voice, then beamed at its owner and gave a vigorous nodding. “It is all very exciting,” she said. “It is like the movies, except with less singing and more of the shouting. And the students do not look like the thirty year old men.” Her accent thickened as she spoke, giving them a sharp, rolling edge. “Also, my name is Esperanza Ciervo. It is nice to meet you. I like your jacket.”

[@LokiLeo789][@VitoftheVoid]

[hr]

Dawn’s attention had been largely preoccupied by Professor Lovette’s brief speech and introduction- then, after, the sight of Norrevinter flinging a melon in the face of another instructor- that she didn’t notice Erica’s approach until her fellow Trickster had wrapped her arms snugly around her. Dawn started a bit, head swivelling to the side, but soon relaxed upon seeing who it was. 

“Erica? Is that you?” 

Within moments, she twisted around to return the embrace (albeit somewhat awkwardly, seeing as the other had grabbed her from behind, making reciprocating difficult), smiling all the while. “Um, hey there! It’s, um, it’s been a while, yeah. Long while, actually. How have you been?” It had been at least five years since Dawn had last seen the Luxlane in person. Six, maybe. Despite that, it was easy enough to recognize her, although both she and Dawn had grown quite a bit since then. 

Mostly Erica, admittedly. As unfortunate as it was, Dawn hadn’t been blessed when it came to height. 

[@Dodi do 900]