The Archmage at the Edge of the Yard

You are Rowan, a caster of extraordinary power. At sunset, your spells have scarred every training target, but Lily kneels beside Theo, laughing as he practices. Theo's respectful barbs make your strength sound like idle arrogance, and Lily's quick glance fades into a practiced smile. Across the yard, the distance feels wider than it should. In a world of magic, guilds, and dangerous roads, being formidable is not the same as being seen. Choose whether to answer, ask for a moment alone, or walk away.