The reaction was immediate.
Gasps.
Whispers.
Shock.
"But more than that," Velqira continued, her eyes scanning the sea of students, "I look forward to training alongside all of you. I hope we can grow stronger together."
She smiled.
"And thank you… for choosing this academy."
Then she performed a light, elegant bow.
The hall erupted.
Thunderous applause filled the room.
Students clapped wildly.
Some stood.
Others cheered.
Even Rowan joined in, clapping calmly as he watched her from his seat, his eyes sharp and unreadable.
Velqira slowly straightened, her gaze sweeping the hall.
For just a moment—
Her eyes met Rowan's.
And she froze.
Just for a fraction of a second.
…It's really him.
The boy from four years ago.
The reaction was immediate.
Gasps.
Whispers.
Shock.
"But more than that," Velqira continued, her eyes scanning the sea of students, "I look forward to training alongside all of you. I hope we can grow stronger together."
She smiled.
