The morning sun had climbed higher by the time Aurelion reached the great avenue that led to the Imperial Academy.
The carriage had left him near the entrance road, and from there he continued the rest of the way on foot. The wide stone path stretched forward like a ceremonial road, lined on both sides by towering trees whose branches formed a natural arch overhead. Their leaves shimmered softly under the sunlight, casting scattered shadows across the white stone pavement.
Dozens of students walked along the same road. Some moved in small groups, laughing nervously as they talked about the coming term. Others carried stacks of books or luggage, clearly new arrivals still adjusting to the scale of the academy.
Aurelion walked quietly among them. His dark coat moved slightly with the breeze as he made his way toward the distant gates. Ahead, the entrance of the Imperial Academy slowly came into view.
