After the announcement, our group of six made its way toward the Academy's exit. The crowd was thinning, with most candidates who were confident of their selection dispersing to celebrate as the assessment ended. Just as we neared the grand gates, a commotion erupted behind us.
Curious murmurs rose like ripples in a pond. Turning back, we saw a cluster of candidates—mostly commoners—gathering around someone. Their excited chatter hinted at admiration, bordering on idol worship. Nobles, of course, wouldn't lower themselves to such displays.
From the heart of the bustling crowd came a sweet, melodious voice, clear and commanding despite its polite tone.
"Can you please let us pass? We have somewhere else to be."
The words, though phrased as a request, carried an unmistakable authority. The noise hushed instantly, and the crowd parted like the sea, forming a path for the speaker.
That's when I finally saw him.
