The grand hall of Starhaven Academy shimmered like a jewel carved from starlight, its marble floors veined with gold, walls pulsing with soft, iridescent light that shifted from sapphire to emerald.
Floating chandeliers cast prismatic glows, their crystals tinkling faintly, while towering arches framed stained-glass windows depicting elven heroes in vibrant hues.
Alex stood just inside the entrance, his green tunic and Elaris crest catching the light, his blonde hair a tousled contrast to the polished chaos around him.
Sylra's arm was looped through his, her auburn hair bouncing as she chattered, her excitement a warm current pulling him along.
But his focus lingered on Lirien, the tall girl with glossy black hair and violet eyes, whose bold introduction still echoed in his mind.
"Everyone's buzzing about you," Lirien had said, her voice smooth and teasing, and Alex felt a jolt of surprise, his confident smirk faltering.
