The next day came.
From his seat beside the long mullioned windows of the academy hall, the morning seemed slightly off than usual.
The glass should have emanated winter's bite, yet the light diffusing through it arrived softened, its pallor warmed to a restrained gold.
'The winter is almost over.'
Ruvian thought. And yet, the room somehow felt colder than usual, all due to the man standing at the front.
Instructor Edvoss entered precisely on time.
"Alright, listen carefully."
"Here, at Velthia, education is a foundation. It is not glory, it is not safety, and obviously, it is not imaginary powerful strength that you're chasing. It is just a floor below your feet. And if you think that's enough to keep you alive out there—"
He gestured vaguely toward the window, toward the world waiting beyond these walls.
"—then, I suggest you start digging your own grave now."
At this academy, education was a foundation, but mastery remained a personal choice.
