The city was just as crowded as it had been the day they passed through it on their way to the bastion. People shouted the prices of their goods in the bustling streets, while others strolled around, searching for items to purchase. Most of the crowd consisted of students, and their needs were modest. Still, weapon and armor shops, along with bookstores, were packed. In particular, runic scrolls were the most popular item in bookstores, as the academy library offered a superior collection of spellbooks for free.
Damian recognized many familiar faces from the academy grounds. Although everyone owned an academy uniform now, few actually wore it. Here and there, some students did—likely to take advantage of the discounts some shops offered based on their year of admission. The uniform served as proof of enrollment, though the academy badge alone sufficed. Students were instructed to keep their badges on them at all times.
