March 2nd, evening.
Tomorrow would be the third day of First Bud Moon, as well as Gloria's traditional First Bud Festival.
In the Empire's ancient folk calendar, this was the first day of spring, symbolizing the revival of all things and marking the start of the new year's planting season.
On this day, people would rise early in the morning to gather the tender Mangur Willow branches that first showed hints of green, still beaded with dew, and weave them into vibrant crowns.
Then, wearing these crowns, they would dance gracefully around bonfires, celebrating the sun warming the earth once more and praying for favorable weather and abundant harvests over the coming half-year.
Pamir Academy's triennial grand competition would also officially begin on this day.
It was an important night. Most students were quietly preparing, hoping to achieve a good ranking in the competition and thereby catch the attention of the Empire's high-level figures and top powerhouses.
Meanwhile, Anvis was playing Arcane Cards with Fiona, who had come over to play with him.
In the living room of the residence, the girl held a hand of cards with a grin, curled up softly on the sofa.
Her alluring legs, clad in white lace stockings, were tilted together, while her crystalline, adorable toes fidgeted restlessly, as if victory were already hers.
Fia, the little dragon, had been shrunk by a secret art until she was only slightly bigger than Kate. She was currently lying obediently beside the girl, immersed in the world of "Fiona's Adventures in Wonderland" together with Kate.
In truth, Anvis was highly doubtful about what exactly Fiona could learn at the Summoning Academy.
After half a year of study, the girl's Magic proficiency had barely improved. Under the influence of her noble lady classmates, however, her Arcane Card