The week passed and William spent most of it training alone and letting his affinity gates continue opening naturally. His ribs had healed completely and his essence control was steadily improving.
He'd seen Seraphina and Lyanna around the academy but didn't approach either of them. Whatever tension existed between them wasn't his problem to solve, and he had better things to focus on than relationship drama he hadn't asked for.
The morning of departure arrived and William packed his supplies according to the equipment list. Survival gear, extra clothes, basic supplies, and his practice sword. He left the dormitory while Kai was still asleep on the couch.
The main courtyard was crowded with first-years gathering in their assigned groups. William found the area marked for Group 7 and saw Marcus already there organizing his pack.
Sara arrived shortly after looking excited. "Five days away from classes and training schedules. This is going to be great."
