From the early morning, Velium Academy was bustling with activity. Nobles and commoners alike gathered at the Academy, either to celebrate graduation or to be celebrated. The Academy had arranged dimensional gates for parents and relatives of current students, allowing them to attend the graduation ceremony with ease. This consideration extended to commoners, who could come without any financial burden.
The Imperial Academy believed that if a child graduated from the empire's top institution, their family deserved recognition too. Although there weren’t many commoner students, watching their families marvel as they passed through the dimensional gates gave them a sense of pride, strengthening their loyalty to the Empire.
Compared to the entrance ceremony, only about 0.5% fewer students graduated, which wasn't surprising. Some students had been expelled for failing three times, which was rare for such an elite institution. Historically, the maximum dropout rate was 2%, and it usually hovered in the single decimal range. Yet, the existence of any students who failed to graduate served to elevate the pride of those who succeeded.
“Mira!”
Lost in thought while taking a final look around the campus, I was suddenly pulled into an embrace from behind. A soft warmth pressed against my shoulder blades, and a familiar pink hair swayed into view as warm breaths brushed past my ear.
“What’s up, Nika?”
“Just wanted to hug you like this.”
She had asked if she could speak casually, like a friend, just for the graduation ceremony, so I’d agreed. It was a refreshing change, and she lingered, rubbing her cheek against my shoulder before pulling away.
I turned to see Nika dressed not in her usual maid or queenly attire but in the Velium Academy uniform. Despite the relatively modest outfit, certain areas clearly drew attention. The buttons on her chest strained, and her skirt barely covered the curves beneath, revealing just a hint of her hips and thighs. Had it not been for the perception-blocking spell, every gaze would have been drawn to her.
“What are you two doing? Just a reminder, no funny business outside,” Carna remarked as she approached.