Ang made his way through the crowd, following the signs and maps on the notice boards until he found the direction for freshman registration. He walked along a broad stone-paved road lined with lush trees. Sunlight filtered through the leaves and spilled across the ground, lending the entire academy a tranquil atmosphere. From time to time, tiny magical sprites could be seen fluttering beside the road, emitting faint glimmers as they guided the students. Ang could not help admiring the academy's thoughtful design. Everything here seemed both exquisite and steeped in magic.
After walking for more than ten minutes, Ang finally saw the building for freshman registration. It was a tall domed structure, its outer walls covered by a pale blue magical barrier with runes constantly flickering across its surface. Several upperclassmen in academy uniforms stood at the entrance, maintaining order and directing the newcomers. Ang noticed that a long line had already formed outside the registration office. It seemed there were quite a few students who had arrived early like him.
Ang went to the end of the line and took out his letter of introduction. As he waited for the line ahead to inch forward, he surveyed his surroundings. The students in line were dressed in all manner of clothing. Some wore simple apprentice mage robes, while others wore distinctive outfits from different regions, clearly having come from all across the Empire's provinces. Many of them, like Ang, held letters of introduction or recommendation. They looked nervous, but their faces were also full of anticipation. Ang saw several parents accompanying their children, quietly offering reminders from time to time, as if afraid they might overlook some important detail.
As the line moved forward, Ang heard the students ahead discussing the registration process and their respective backgrounds. Some came