Juno's boots echoed softly against the polished stone floor of the Imperial Academy.
He glanced around the familiar halls, noting the many small changes—new banners, rearranged statues, polished murals that had grown brighter since his time as a student here.
"Has it really been that long…?" he muttered.
Despite the memories, he rarely visited. The Academy reminded him of things he didn't want to recall.
His steps faltered for a moment.
A sharp flash of memory cut through his thoughts—soft laughter, silver hair, the scent of lilies.
He winced.
"Tch… Don't think about that now." He rubbed his temples and let out a slow breath.
Students peeked from doorways and windows, whispering among themselves. Their curious eyes followed the tall figure of the war hero, Sir Juno of House Agreste, as he strode through the corridor.
"Is that really him?"
"Wow, he's taller than I imagined…"
"He fought in the siege of Blackwall Fortress, didn't he?"
He ignored the attention.
