The students followed the teachers through winding corridors that twisted upward into a vast hall, the ceilings impossibly high, arched like the ribcage of a colossal dragon. Enchanted light glimmered from floating orbs and subtle runes etched into the walls, casting gentle reflections that danced across the polished stone floor. The air was thick with a subtle, magical fragrance of spices they didn't recognize, flowers unseen, and a faint hint of ozone that reminded Lira of storms and rushing winds.
When the doors at the far end opened, a collective gasp swept through the students.
