The morning sun bathed Ravenwood Academy in golden light.
The campus had been restored to the jewel of learning it once was.
Marble towers gleamed anew, gardens overflowed with spring colors, and at the center of the courtyard stood a grand stage draped in blue and gold — the academy's colors — for the Graduation Ceremony.
Rows of families, nobles, soldiers, priests, and citizens filled the courtyard, whispering in awe at the young graduates who had survived a war and still returned to finish their education.
Music from the academy orchestra filled the air ... violins, flutes, and soft drums blending in solemn harmony.
Professors in formal robes stood at the sides, proud and teary-eyed.
When the Headmaster finally stepped forward to the podium, silence fell like snow.
"Today..." she began, his voice heavy with emotion.
"...we gather not just to honor achievement… but survival.
