As the director concluded her address, Aleric felt a surge of anticipation for the journey that lay ahead. With classes set to begin the next day, she encouraged the students to familiarize themselves with the academy and get to know their fellow classmates.
Eager to explore, Aleric wandered the halls of the academy, his senses alive with the sights and sounds of magic. He caught glimpses of students hurrying to and fro, each lost in their own thoughts and aspirations. Among them, he spotted the girl from the entrance exam, her prowess with the sword still fresh in his mind. Curiosity gnawed at him, and he resolved to learn more about her.
Venturing further, Aleric found himself drawn to the back garden, a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling academy. Here, he discovered two statues, their imposing figures casting long shadows in the fading light. Intrigued, he approached and read the inscriptions below.
The first statue depicted Aldrich, a legendary hero whose deeds were etched into the annals of history. His noble visage spoke of courage and determination, a beacon of hope in dark times.
Beside him stood Elrendar, a figure shrouded in mystery yet revered by all who knew his name. As Aleric read the inscription, he felt a pang of longing, a yearning for the guidance and wisdom of a loving father.
Lost in contemplation, Aleric pondered the significance of these statues and the legends they represented. In their stone forms, he saw echoes of his own aspirations and dreams, a reminder of the path he had chosen to walk. With newfound resolve, he vowed to honor the legacy of those who came before him and forge his own destiny in the halls of the academy.