Applause gradually spread throughout the academy courtyard.
It started with only a handful of students clapping, but within seconds, more hands joined in until the sound rolled across the gathering like a wave. Every pair of eyes slowly shifted toward the same figure.
Ezra Ashenlocke.
Standing quietly among the crowd, Ezra looked back at his classmates with his usual calm expression.
His face showed little emotion.
He simply observed the sea of students before him as if he couldn't understand why everyone had suddenly focused their attention on him.
Princess Stella smiled gently.
"Come on, Ezra."
Her voice remained graceful and composed, carrying just enough warmth for those nearby to hear.
"Don't be shy."
Ezra's eyes slowly swept across the crowd.
Students from every Noble House stared at him with obvious anticipation.
Many had already raised their Paras, Starlixs, and Zphones.
Some were already recording, while others eagerly snapped photographs.
