by Rick Field
She glanced one last time at the protections, gave a small apologetic smile at Milor and her Assistant, and together, they crossed the threshold into the center courtyard of the Academy of Magic. Liane glanced at the younger girl. Although Amy, as a mere Assistant, had not received a boon from the Emperor, Liane already knew of the things that were being done for the girl. Although she did not know it, Amy would find her purse suspiciously filled when she became independent next year, and she would find it curiously easy to achieve a high-end position within the Nobility upon graduation should she continue her academic track record.
When they entered the courtyard proper, Liane took a moment to glance down at the hem of her proper robes, and the dancing flames, now animated once more.
Looking up at the Sun Charm, Liane closed her eyes and indulged herself. It had been a miserably gray January morning outside of the Academy, and the warmth and light of the Sun Charm made her realize an important thing.
She was home.