Sovereign of The Abyss

Chapter 76

Dawn at the Knight Academy arrived with the resonant toll of bronze bells,

A sharp knock interrupted his thoughts. "Ten minutes to assembly," Darin called through the door. "Wear your training uniform, not the formal one."

"Thanks," Miko called back,

The morning air carried a crisp chill as first-year trainees assembled in the largest practice yard. About thirty young men and women stood in rigid formation, their breath forming small clouds in the cold. Most looked to be seventeen or eighteen, fresh-faced and eager despite the early hour.

Miko took position at the end of the back row, trying to blend in despite being several years older than the other trainees. He noticed several curious glances, but discipline held—no one spoke or broke formation.

Precisely as the bells struck five, a tall woman strode into the yard. Her salt-and-pepper hair was pulled back in a severe bun, and she carried herself with the unmistakable confidence of someone who had earned her authority through years