Chapter 35. Even the Emperor has to wait outside

Valerius Evander scanned every corner of the room, seeking an empty spot. However, the room was already packed to capacity, leaving no space. As he hesitated, unsure of what to do, a scholar with a scowling face scolded, "Latecomer, still trying to squeeze in?"

Another scholar chimed in, equally annoyed, "There's no room here, senior brother, go stand outside the door."

Elias Dawnfire stepped forward, ready to reprimand the scholars, but Valerius quickly raised a hand to stop him, signaling Elias to retreat to the door to avoid disrupting the class. This was the first time Valerius found himself in such an embarrassing situation, feeling a mix of awkwardness and confusion.

When the class ended, Valerius intended to approach Ethan Caelan to surprise him. But as he took a step, he was jostled back by another group of scholars. They surrounded Ethan, like fervent devotees around an idol, continually asking questions, their eyes filled with reverence. For a moment, Valerius felt utterly i