As the carriage rolled nearer to Lumina Aeterna, the aspiring knights were treated to a breathtaking view of the capital city. It sat upon a vast plain, flanked by hills on one side and a lush forest on the other. The imposing walls stood tall, guarding the city's secrets and treasures. From afar, Lumina Aeterna's resplendence was awe-inspiring, and as they drew closer, the true majesty of the city unfolded before their eyes.

However, the closer they got, the more apparent it became that the city's glamour was not as dazzling up close. The magnificent gate that loomed before them was still grand, but the intricate details were marred by age and wear. Nevertheless, the sight was impressive, a testament to the city's rich history.

A long line of people waited at the gate, eager to enter the bustling city. But as the aspiring knights were accompanied by the imperial knights, they were given priority and granted access without having to queue. Ardyn felt a mix of gratitude and unease as they bypassed the other eager travelers. He couldn't help but wonder if he truly deserved such treatment, knowing that he still had much to prove.

The city streets were vibrant and alive, teeming with a colorful assortment of people and businesses. The markets were bustling with merchants hawking their wares, while entertainers showcased their talents for eager crowds. Lumina Aeterna seemed to hum with energy, a place where dreams were chased, and fortunes were made.

As the group moved through the city, the knight commander explained its structure. Lumina Aeterna was divided into three concentric rings. The outer ring was for the commoners, where the majority of the city's population resided. The middle ring was a bustling hub of wealth, merchants, and nobility. The inner ring, the most exclusive, was home to royalty and select nobles.

The knights were led to the middle ring, where the knight academy awaited them. This was where they would spend the next four years, undertaking rigorous training to forge themselves into knights worthy of the Yule Empire. The academy's grand facade held the promise of transformative experiences and the potential for greatness.

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Timothy, with his characteristic excitement, spoke of rumors he had heard about the academy, like ancient tomes filled with tales of valor and hidden chambers with legendary artifacts. Melinda, on the other hand, took in the sights with a calm observance, absorbing every detail without uttering a word.

Ardyn, too, was engrossed in the view. The academy stood as a symbol of his journey's next chapter, a place where he would learn and grow, but also where he could falter and fall.

Upon arrival at the knight academy, the aspiring knights were separated by gender and guided to their respective dormitories. Ardyn found himself assigned to a room with Timothy, which seemed fitting given the bond they had formed during their journey.

Their room was simple yet comfortable, with twin beds and a small writing desk by the window. The walls were adorned with paintings depicting legendary knights of yore, a reminder of the legacy they now sought to become a part of.

As the night descended, the trio sat on their beds, reflecting on the day's events and the adventures that lay ahead. Timothy's excitement bubbled over as he shared more tales he had heard about the academy

Ardyn listened intently, his mind a swirl of anticipation and nerves. The weight of expectations still loomed large, but he found comfort in the company of his newfound friends. They spoke for a while, sharing hopes and fears, before eventually deciding to turn in early, eager to rest and prepare for the challenges that awaited them on the morrow.

As they settled beneath the soft covers, Ardyn felt a mix of apprehension and excitement. The next day marked the official beginning of their training, and the journey to become imperial knights would take them through trials and tribulations they could not yet fathom.

With a deep breath, Ardyn closed his eyes, ready to embrace the days and years to come. The journey had only just begun, but the promise of Lumina Aeterna and the path to knighthood was a tapestry of wonders that awaited him and his companions.