The next day's classes passed in a haze of feigned attentiveness. I sat through lectures on runic theory and magical history, my mind a thousand miles away. The duel with Noora had secured my rank for another week, but it had also solidified my status as the Academy's primary target. The peace was temporary, a fragile bubble I knew would soon burst.
Professor Davos's voice cut through my thoughts, pulling me back to the present. "And one final announcement before we conclude for the day," he said, a rare smile touching his lips. "Following the physical examinations next week, the Academy will observe a one-month holiday."
A wave of joyous murmurs swept through the classroom. Students immediately began whispering to each other, their faces alight with plans for travel, family visits, and a much-needed break from the pressures of the Academy. They were planning trips to coastal villas, mountain retreats, and grand family estates.
