The sun hung low in the morning sky, casting a warm golden hue over the towering spires of Azurean Academy.
Students moved over the cobbled pathways, the air buzzed with the usual early-hour energy.
Boots tapping against stone, conversations overlapping, the occasional rustle of wings from flying beasts overhead.
Kai made his way toward the main campus building, hands tucked in his pockets, his uniform neat but slightly rumpled at the collar.
Around him, students were already gathered in clusters, some chatting excitedly about upcoming classes, others yawning and clutching mugs of steaming tea.
The entrance doors stood ahead.
He was just stepping past them when—
"Hey, wait!"
A familiar voice cut through the buzz behind him.
Kai slowed, glancing back.
A caramel-haired girl was darting fast, her soft blue eyes narrowing at him as she closed the distance. Liliana's breaths came in quick gasps, as she looked at him.
