Amberine moved through the bustling corridors of the university, her mind still replaying the lesson she had just left. The intricate web of mana circles she had crafted in class felt like a distant memory, overshadowed by the ache in her temples and the relentless hum of student chatter. As she walked, the bell of the university rang out, but this time with a melody unfamiliar to her.
"What's happening?" Ignis's voice whispered from inside her robe, his tone curious and slightly impatient.
"I don't know," Amberine muttered back, feeling the fire spirit's heat radiate against her chest. She glanced around, looking for someone who might have answers. Spotting a fellow neophyte, she tapped her on the shoulder. "Do you know what's going on?"
The student turned, her eyes bright with excitement. "We're supposed to head to the grand auditorium. It's the opening ceremony for the semester. They do it a few weeks in so we're not too distracted by clubs right away."
