Winter had arrived at the Imperial Academy of Valon.
The change wasn't announced with fanfare—but it was everywhere.
The wind had teeth now, whistling through the stone corridors like a warning. Frost etched delicate veins across the outer windows of the main halls, and students moved briskly through the academy grounds, breath misting in the cold air.
The uniforms had changed with the season.
Robes now ran full-length
Deep blues and greys replaced the lighter autumn tones. Some students wore layered jackets over their shoulders, trimmed in their family colors or personal house sigils.
Noel walked with his hands in his coat pockets, shoulders hunched slightly—not from cold, but from the low thrum of exhaustion that never seemed to leave him anymore.
The aftermath of the debate still lingered in the air.
Students huddled in corners of the hallway, whispering and laughing. Some in disbelief. Others in smug satisfaction.
