/* ============================================
   CSS STYLESHEET FOR ADVEXDIRECT
   File: style.css
   Purpose: Complete styling for landing page
   Last Updated: February 8, 2026
   
   SECTIONS INCLUDED:
   1. System Architecture (CSS variables)
   2. Reset & Global Styles
   3. Navigation Bar
   4. Hero & Badge Section
   5. Statistics Bar
   6. About Section
   7. Why Choose Section
   8. Destinations Section
   9. Workflow/Timeline Section
   10. Hub/Partners Section
   11. Footer
   12. Animations
   13. Responsive Design
   ============================================ */

/* ============================================
   SECTION 1: SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE
   Purpose: Define CSS custom properties and theme variables
   Usage: Used throughout the stylesheet via var() functions
   ============================================ */
:root {
  /* Primary brand color - vibrant orange gradient base */
  --primary: #ff4d00;
  /* Secondary accent color - royal purple for gradients */
  --accent: #8a2be2;
  /* Main background - deep obsidian black */
  --bg: #080808;
  /* Secondary surface color for cards/containers */
  --surface: #121212;
  /* Primary text color - white for maximum contrast */
  --text: #ffffff;
  /* Secondary text - muted gray for secondary info */
  --text-dim: #999;
  /* Border color - subtle white with transparency */
  --border: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.08);
  /* Main gradient used throughout design */
  --grad: linear-gradient(135deg, var(--primary) 0%, var(--accent) 100%);
  /* Total number of university items in hub (used for orbital calculations) */
  --total: 7;
  /* Distance from center for hub orbital layout */
  --radius: 250px;
}

/* END: SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE */

/* ============================================
   SECTION 2: RESET & GLOBAL STYLES
   Purpose: Normalize default browser styles
   and set global base styling
   ============================================ */
* {
  margin: 0;
  padding: 0;
  box-sizing: border-box;
}

/* Smooth scrolling behavior for anchor links */
html {
  scroll-behavior: smooth;
}

/* Main body styling */
body {
  background: var(--bg);
  color: var(--text);
  font-family: "Inter", sans-serif;
  overflow-x: hidden;
  line-height: 1.6;
}

/* Container utility - max width wrapper for content */
.container {
  max-width: 1200px;
  width: 100%;
  margin: 0 auto;
  padding: 0 15px;
}

/* Gradient text utility class */
.gradient-text {
  background: var(--grad);
  -webkit-background-clip: text;
  -webkit-text-fill-color: transparent;
}

/* Text alignment utility */
.text-center {
  text-align: center;
}

/* Margin bottom utility for spacing */
.mb-80 {
  margin-bottom: 80px;
}

/* Flexbox centering utility */
.flex-center {
  justify-content: center;
}

/* END: RESET & GLOBAL */

/* ============================================
   UTILITY CLASSES
   Purpose: Common reusable classes for spacing,
   sizing, colors, and other repeated patterns
   ============================================ */

/* Spacing utilities */
.mt-50 {
  margin-top: 50px;
}
.mt-100 {
  margin-top: 100px;
}
.mb-10 {
  margin-bottom: 10px;
}
.mb-15 {
  margin-bottom: 15px;
}
.mb-20 {
  margin-bottom: 20px;
}
.mb-30 {
  margin-bottom: 30px;
}
.mb-50 {
  margin-bottom: 50px;
}
.mb-80 {
  margin-bottom: 80px;
}
.gap-15 {
  gap: 15px;
}
.gap-20 {
  gap: 20px;
}
.gap-30 {
  gap: 30px;
}
.p-40 {
  padding: 40px;
}
.p-60 {
  padding: 60px;
}
.px-40 {
  padding-left: 40px;
  padding-right: 40px;
}
.py-50 {
  padding-top: 50px;
  padding-bottom: 50px;
}
.py-70 {
  padding-top: 70px;
  padding-bottom: 70px;
}
.py-80 {
  padding-top: 80px;
  padding-bottom: 80px;
}
.py-120 {
  padding-top: 120px;
  padding-bottom: 120px;
}
.py-150 {
  padding-top: 150px;
  padding-bottom: 150px;
}

/* Typography utilities */
.font-syne {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
}
.font-inter {
  font-family: "Inter", sans-serif;
}
.fw-600 {
  font-weight: 600;
}
.fw-700 {
  font-weight: 700;
}
.fw-800 {
  font-weight: 800;
}
.uppercase {
  text-transform: uppercase;
}
.letter-spacing-xs {
  letter-spacing: 1.5px;
}
.letter-spacing-sm {
  letter-spacing: 4px;
}
.letter-spacing-md {
  letter-spacing: 5px;
}
.text-center {
  text-align: center;
}
.text-left {
  text-align: left;
}
.text-right {
  text-align: right;
}

/* Color utilities */
.text-primary {
  color: var(--primary);
}
.text-dim {
  color: var(--text-dim);
}
.text-white {
  color: #fff;
}
.bg-primary {
  background: var(--primary);
}
.bg-dark {
  background: #080808;
}
.bg-darker {
  background: #050505;
}

/* Border & Shadow utilities */
.border-primary {
  border-color: var(--primary);
}
.shadow-lg {
  box-shadow: 0 30px 60px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3);
}
.shadow-md {
  box-shadow: 0 15px 35px rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.25);
}

/* Size & Position utilities */
.w-full {
  width: 100%;
}
.max-w-600 {
  max-width: 600px;
}
.max-w-800 {
  max-width: 800px;
}
.h-auto {
  height: auto;
}
.relative {
  position: relative;
}
.absolute {
  position: absolute;
}
.inset-0 {
  inset: 0;
}
.flex {
  display: flex;
}
.flex-col {
  flex-direction: column;
}
.items-center {
  align-items: center;
}
.justify-center {
  justify-content: center;
}
.gap-2 {
  gap: 8px;
}

/* Grid utilities */
.grid-2col {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(2, 1fr);
}
.grid-3col {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(3, 1fr);
}
.grid-4col {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(4, 1fr);
}
.grid-6col {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(6, 1fr);
}

/* Transition utilities */
.transition {
  transition: 0.3s;
}
.transition-sm {
  transition: 0.3s;
}
.transition-lg {
  transition: 0.6s cubic-bezier(0.16, 1, 0.3, 1);
}

/* Animation utilities */
.fade-up {
  opacity: 0;
  transform: translateY(30px);
  animation: fadeUp 1s ease forwards;
}

.fade-up-delay {
  opacity: 0;
  transform: translateY(30px);
  animation: fadeUp 1s ease 0.3s forwards;
}

.pulse-effect {
  animation: pulse 2s infinite;
}

.orbit-pulse-effect {
  animation: orbit-pulse 3s infinite;
}

/* Opacity & Effects */
.opacity-0 {
  opacity: 0;
}
.opacity-1 {
  opacity: 1;
}
.blur-none {
  filter: blur(0);
}
.cursor-pointer {
  cursor: pointer;
}

/* Common card hover effects */
.card-lift-sm {
  transition: 0.5s cubic-bezier(0.19, 1, 0.22, 1);
}

.card-lift-sm:hover {
  transform: translateY(-10px);
  border-color: var(--primary);
}

.card-lift-md {
  transition: 0.6s cubic-bezier(0.16, 1, 0.3, 1);
}

.card-lift-md:hover {
  transform: translateY(-10px);
  border-color: var(--primary);
  box-shadow: 0 30px 60px rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.15);
}

.card-scale-hover {
  transition: 0.8s;
}

.card-scale-hover:hover {
  transform: scale(1.1);
}

/* ============================================
   SECTION 3: NAVIGATION BAR STYLES
   Purpose: Fixed sticky navigation with
   responsive desktop and mobile layouts
   Features: Glass-morphism effect, dropdown menu
   ============================================ */
/* Fixed navigation bar positioned at top */
.glass-nav {
  position: fixed;
  top: 0;
  left: 0;
  width: 100%;
  z-index: 9999;
  padding: 20px 0;
}

/* Inner navigation container with glass-morphism effect */
.nav-inner {
  background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.08);
  backdrop-filter: blur(40px) saturate(180%);
  -webkit-backdrop-filter: blur(40px) saturate(180%);
  border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.18);
  border-radius: 100px;
  padding: 12px 32px;
  display: flex;
  justify-content: space-between;
  align-items: center;
  transition: 0.4s cubic-bezier(0.16, 1, 0.3, 1);
  box-shadow:
    0 8px 32px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3),
    inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.1);
  position: relative;
}

/* Brand/Logo styling */
.brand {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-weight: 800;
  font-size: 1.1rem;
  color: #fff;
  z-index: 10001;
  position: relative;
  text-decoration: none ;
}

/* Brand dot accent */
.brand .dot {
  color: var(--primary);
}

/* Brand secondary text */
.brand .direct {
  opacity: 0.6;
  font-weight: 400;
}

/* Desktop menu styling */
.menu {
  display: flex;
  list-style: none;
  gap: 5px;
  margin: 0;
  padding: 0;
  transition: 0.4s cubic-bezier(0.16, 1, 0.3, 1);
}

/* Menu link styling */
.menu li a {
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);
  text-decoration: none;
  font-size: 0.85rem;
  font-weight: 600;
  padding: 10px 15px;
  border-radius: 50px;
  transition: 0.3s;
  white-space: nowrap;
}

/* Menu link hover state */
.menu li a:hover {
  color: #fff;
  background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.05);
}

/* Navigation action buttons area */
.nav-actions {
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 15px;
  z-index: 10001;
  position: relative;
}

/* CTA button styling - using unified button system */
.nav-btn {
  background: #fff;
  color: #000;
  padding: 10px 20px;
  border-radius: 50px;
  text-decoration: none;
  font-size: 0.75rem;
  font-weight: 800;
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 8px;
  transition: 0.3s;
  white-space: nowrap;
}

/* CTA button hover effect */
.nav-btn:hover {
  transform: scale(1.05);
  box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.3);
}

/* Hidden checkbox for mobile menu toggle */
.menu-checkbox {
  display: none;
}

/* Mobile hamburger menu toggle */
.mobile-toggle {
  display: none;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 5px;
  cursor: pointer;
  z-index: 10001;
}

/* Hamburger bar styling */
.mobile-toggle .bar {
  width: 22px;
  height: 2px;
  background: #fff;
  transition: 0.3s;
  border-radius: 2px;
}

/* Hamburger animation - top bar */
.menu-checkbox:checked ~ .nav-actions .mobile-toggle .bar:nth-child(1) {
  transform: rotate(45deg) translate(5px, 5px);
}

/* Hamburger animation - middle bar */
.menu-checkbox:checked ~ .nav-actions .mobile-toggle .bar:nth-child(2) {
  opacity: 0;
}

/* Hamburger animation - bottom bar */
.menu-checkbox:checked ~ .nav-actions .mobile-toggle .bar:nth-child(3) {
  transform: rotate(-45deg) translate(6px, -6px);
}

/* ============================================
   SECTION 4: HERO & BADGE SECTION
   Purpose: Main landing hero area
   Features: Animated badge, gradient headline, CTAs
   ============================================ */
.hero-block {
  padding: 140px 0;
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  position: relative;
  background: radial-gradient(
    circle at 80% 20%,
    rgba(138, 43, 226, 0.1) 0%,
    transparent 50%
  );
}

.hero-badge {
  display: inline-flex;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 0.75rem;
  padding: 0.6rem 1.5rem;
  background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.05);
  border: 1px solid var(--border);
  border-radius: 50px;
  font-size: 0.85rem;
  font-weight: 500;
  color: var(--text);
  /* Space added above badge */
  margin-bottom: 2.5rem;
  box-shadow: 0 10px 30px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5);
}

.badge-dot {
  width: 8px;
  height: 8px;
  background: var(--primary);
  border-radius: 50%;
  animation: pulse 2s infinite;
}

@keyframes pulse {
  0% {
    transform: scale(0.95);
    box-shadow: 0 0 0 0 rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.7);
  }

  70% {
    transform: scale(1);
    box-shadow: 0 0 0 10px rgba(255, 77, 0, 0);
  }

  100% {
    transform: scale(0.95);
    box-shadow: 0 0 0 0 rgba(255, 77, 0, 0);
  }
}

.hero-content h1 {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-size: clamp(3rem, 8vw, 6.5rem);
  line-height: 0.9;
  margin-bottom: 30px;
  /* letter-spacing: -3px; */
}

.hero-content p {
  color: var(--text-dim);
  font-size: 1.25rem;
  max-width: 650px;
  margin-bottom: 45px;
}

.hero-btns {
  display: flex;
  flex-wrap: wrap;
  gap: 20px;
}

/* Unified button component system */
.btn {
  text-decoration: none;
  border-radius: 12px;
  font-weight: 700;
  display: inline-block;
  transition: 0.4s;
  padding: 22px 45px;
  border: none;
  cursor: pointer;
}

/* Backward compatibility - combine with primary classes */
.btn-main {
  background: var(--grad);
  color: white;
  box-shadow: 0 15px 35px rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.25);
}

.btn-main:hover {
  transform: translateY(-5px);
  transition: 0.3s ease-in-out;
  box-shadow: 0 20px 45px rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.4);
}

.btn-common {
  text-decoration: none;
  border-radius: 15px;
  padding: 16px 30px;
}
.btn-secondary {
  border: 1px solid var(--border);
  color: white;
  font-weight: 600;
}

.btn-secondary:hover {
  background: rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.1);
  border-color: var(--primary);
}

/* END: HERO & FLOATING BADGE */

/* ============================================
   SECTION 5: STATISTICS BAR
   Purpose: Display key metrics in grid layout
   Features: 4 stat boxes with responsive grid
   ============================================ */
.stats-bar {
  padding: 80px 0;
  border-top: 1px solid var(--border);
  border-bottom: 1px solid var(--border);
}

.grid-stats {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(4, 1fr);
  gap: 40px;
}

.stat-box {
  text-align: center;
}

.stat-box h2 {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-size: 3rem;
  margin-bottom: 8px;
}

.stat-box h2 span {
  color: var(--primary);
  font-size: 4rem;
}

.stat-box p {
  color: var(--text-dim);
  font-size: 0.8rem;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 2px;
}

/* END: STATS */

/* ============================================
   SECTION 6: ABOUT SECTION
   Purpose: Company mission and features showcase
   Layout: Two-column with text and visual cards
   ============================================ */
.about {
  padding: 150px 0 70px 0;
}

.about-wrapper {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: 1.1fr 0.9fr;
  gap: 6rem;
  align-items: center;
}

.section-label {
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 1rem;
  margin-bottom: 1.5rem;
}

.label-line {
  width: 40px;
  height: 2px;
  background: var(--grad);
}

.label-text {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 3px;
  font-size: 0.8rem;
  color: var(--primary);
  font-weight: 700;
}

.section-title {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-size: 3.5rem;
  line-height: 1.1;
  margin-bottom: 2rem;
}

.section-description {
  font-size: 1.1rem;
  color: var(--text-dim);
  line-height: 1.8;
  margin-bottom: 3rem;
}

.feature-list {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 2rem;
  margin-bottom: 3.5rem;
}

.feature-item {
  display: flex;
  gap: 1.5rem;
  align-items: flex-start;
}

.feature-icon {
  width: 32px;
  height: 32px;
  background: var(--grad);
  color: #fff;
  border-radius: 50%;
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  justify-content: center;
  font-weight: 700;
  flex-shrink: 0;
  box-shadow: 0 5px 15px rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.3);
}

.feature-text h4 {
  font-size: 1.25rem;
  font-weight: 700;
  color: var(--text);
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  margin-bottom: 0.5rem;
}

.feature-text p {
  font-size: 0.95rem;
  color: var(--text-dim);
}

.btn-text {
  display: inline-flex;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 0.75rem;
  color: var(--text);
  font-weight: 700;
  text-decoration: none;
  border-bottom: 2px solid var(--primary);
  padding-bottom: 5px;
  transition: 0.3s;
  background: none;
  padding-left: 0;
  cursor: pointer;
}

.btn-text:hover {
  color: var(--primary);
  gap: 1.25rem;
}

.about-visual {
  position: relative;
  height: 500px;
  width: 100%;
  max-width: 600px; /* Constrains the card container */
  margin: 0 auto;
}

.visual-card {
  position: absolute;
  backdrop-filter: blur(15px);
  border-radius: 24px;
  padding: 2.5rem;
  border: 1px solid var(--border);
  transition: 0.5s cubic-bezier(0.19, 1, 0.22, 1);
}

.visual-card:hover {
  transform: translateY(-10px);
  border-color: var(--primary);
}

.card-1 {
  top: 0;
  left: 0;
  width: 280px;
  background: linear-gradient(
    135deg,
    rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.1),
    rgba(138, 43, 226, 0.1)
  );
  z-index: 3;
}

.card-2 {
  top: 160px;
  right: 0;
  width: 280px;
  background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.03);
  z-index: 2;
}

.card-3 {
  bottom: 0;
  left: 40px;
  width: 260px;
  background: var(--surface);
  z-index: 1;
}

.card-number {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-size: 3rem;
  font-weight: 800;
  color: var(--primary);
}

.card-label {
  font-size: 0.9rem;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  color: var(--text-dim);
  font-weight: 600;
}

.card-icon {
  font-size: 3rem;
  color: #ffd700;
}

/* END: ABOUT SECTION */

/* ============================================
   SECTION 7: WHY CHOOSE SECTION
   Purpose: Showcase competitive advantages
   Layout: Architectural 2x2 card grid with effects
   ============================================ */
.why-choose {
  padding: 70px 0;
  background: #080808;
  position: relative;
}

.arch-container {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  gap: 20px;
}

.arch-row {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: 1.2fr 0.8fr;
  /* Staggered width for a pro look */
  gap: 20px;
}

/* Flip the ratio for the second row to create a "Z" pattern */
.arch-row:nth-child(even) {
  grid-template-columns: 0.8fr 1.2fr;
}

.arch-card {
  position: relative;
  background: #111;
  height: 380px;
  border-radius: 40px;
  padding: 60px;
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  overflow: hidden;
  border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.05);
  transition: 0.6s cubic-bezier(0.16, 1, 0.3, 1);
}

/* The Index Number (Floating behind text) */
.arch-card::before {
  content: attr(data-index);
  position: absolute;
  left: 40px;
  top: -20px;
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-size: 15rem;
  font-weight: 900;
  color: white;
  opacity: 0.02;
  transition: 0.6s;
}

.arch-content {
  position: relative;
  z-index: 10;
  max-width: 350px;
}

.arch-content h3 {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-size: 2.5rem;
  margin-bottom: 20px;
  /* letter-spacing: -1.5px; */
  background: linear-gradient(to right, #fff, #666);
  -webkit-background-clip: text;
  -webkit-text-fill-color: transparent;
}

.arch-content p {
  color: #999;
  font-size: 1.1rem;
  line-height: 1.6;
}

/* The Visual Element (The "Gorgeous" bit) */
.arch-visual {
  position: absolute;
  right: -50px;
  top: 50%;
  transform: translateY(-50%);
  width: 250px;
  height: 250px;
  background: var(--grad);
  filter: blur(100px);
  border-radius: 50%;
  opacity: 0.1;
  transition: 0.6s;
}

/* HOVER EFFECTS */
.arch-card:hover {
  background: #161616;
  border-color: rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.4);
  transform: scale(0.98);
  /* Subtle "press" effect */
}

.arch-card:hover::before {
  opacity: 0.08;
  top: 20px;
  color: var(--primary);
}

.arch-card:hover .arch-visual {
  opacity: 0.4;
  right: 20px;
  filter: blur(60px);
}

.arch-card:hover h3 {
  background: var(--grad);
  -webkit-background-clip: text;
  -webkit-text-fill-color: transparent;
}

/* END: WHY CHOOSE */

/* START: BENEFITS */
/* --- BENEFITS --- */
.title-xl {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-size: 3.5rem;
  margin-bottom: 50px;
}

/* END: BENEFITS */

/* ============================================
   SECTION 8: DESTINATIONS SECTION
   Purpose: Display study destinations
   Features: Responsive card grid with hover effects
   ============================================ */
.dest-section {
  padding: 120px 0;
  background: #080808;
}

.dest-grid {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(auto-fit, minmax(250px, 1fr));
  gap: 30px;
}

.dest-card {
  position: relative;
  border-radius: 30px;
  height: 450px;
  overflow: hidden;
  cursor: pointer;
  background: #111;
  border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.05);
  transition: 0.6s cubic-bezier(0.16, 1, 0.3, 1);
}

.dest-img-wrap {
  position: absolute;
  inset: 0;
  width: 100%;
  height: 100%;
  z-index: 1;
}

.dest-img-wrap img {
  width: 100%;
  height: 100%;
  object-fit: cover;
  transition: 0.8s;
  opacity: 0.6;
  /* Balanced brightness */
}

/* Gradient Overlay for Text Readability */
.dest-overlay {
  position: absolute;
  inset: 0;
  background: linear-gradient(
    to bottom,
    transparent 30%,
    rgba(8, 8, 8, 0.95) 90%
  );
  z-index: 2;
}

.dest-info {
  position: absolute;
  bottom: 0;
  left: 0;
  width: 100%;
  padding: 40px;
  z-index: 3;
  transition: 0.5s;
}

.dest-tag {
  font-size: 0.7rem;
  font-weight: 800;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 2px;
  color: var(--primary);
  margin-bottom: 10px;
  display: block;
}

.dest-info h3 {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-size: 1.8rem;
  color: #fff;
  margin-bottom: 10px;
  /* letter-spacing: -1px; */
}

.dest-info p {
  font-size: 0.95rem;
  color: #999;
  line-height: 1.4;
  max-height: 0;
  overflow: hidden;
  opacity: 0;
  transition: 0.5s;
}

/* --- HOVER EFFECTS --- */
.dest-card:hover {
  transform: translateY(-10px);
  border-color: var(--primary);
  box-shadow: 0 30px 60px rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.15);
}

.dest-card:hover .dest-img-wrap img {
  transform: scale(1.1);
  opacity: 0.8;
}

.dest-card:hover .dest-info {
  padding-bottom: 50px;
}

.dest-card:hover .dest-info p {
  max-height: 100px;
  opacity: 1;
  margin-top: 10px;
}

/* END: DESTINATIONS */

/* ============================================
   SECTION 9: WORKFLOW/PROCESS TIMELINE
   Purpose: Display step-by-step onboarding process
   Features: Timeline with animated markers and smooth rail
   ============================================ */
.workflow-clean {
  padding: 70px 0;
  background: #080808;
}

.timeline-rail {
  max-width: 800px;
  margin: 0 auto;
  position: relative;
}

.rail-item {
  display: flex;
  gap: 60px;
  padding-bottom: 80px;
  position: relative;
}

/* Remove padding from last item */
.rail-item:last-child {
  padding-bottom: 0;
}

/* The Vertical Rail System */
.rail-marker {
  display: flex;
  flex-direction: column;
  align-items: center;
  flex-shrink: 0;
}

.marker-dot {
  width: 20px;
  height: 20px;
  background: #080808;
  border: 2px solid var(--primary);
  border-radius: 50%;
  position: relative;
  z-index: 5;
  box-shadow: 0 0 15px rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.3);
}

.marker-line {
  width: 1px;
  flex-grow: 1;
  background: linear-gradient(
    to bottom,
    var(--primary),
    var(--accent),
    transparent
  );
  margin-top: 10px;
  opacity: 0.2;
}

/* Hide line on the last step */
.rail-item:last-child .marker-line {
  display: none;
}

/* Content Styling */
.rail-content {
  padding-top: -5px;
  /* Alignment with dot */
}

.rail-number {
  display: block;
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-size: 0.8rem;
  font-weight: 800;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 3px;
  color: var(--primary);
  margin-bottom: 10px;
  opacity: 0.6;
}

.rail-content h3 {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-size: 2.5rem;
  margin-bottom: 15px;
  color: #fff;
  letter-spacing: 2px;
}

.rail-content p {
  font-size: 1.15rem;
  color: var(--text-dim);
  line-height: 1.8;
  max-width: 550px;
}
/* ==========================================
   START: SMOOTH RAIL INTERACTION
   ========================================== */

/* 1. Base State - Define the transition here for the way "back" */
.rail-item {
  position: relative;
  transition: all 0.6s cubic-bezier(0.16, 1, 0.3, 1);
  cursor: default;
  will-change: transform;
}

/* Base state for child elements */
.marker-dot {
  background: transparent; /* Default subtle color */
  transition:
    background 0.5s ease,
    transform 0.6s cubic-bezier(0.34, 1.56, 0.64, 1),
    /* Slight bounce for the dot */ box-shadow 0.5s ease;
  will-change: transform, background;
}

.rail-content h3,
.rail-content p {
  transition:
    color 0.4s ease,
    transform 0.6s cubic-bezier(0.16, 1, 0.3, 1); /* Ultra smooth slide */
  will-change: transform;
}

/* 2. Hover State - Simple and Clean */
.rail-item:hover .marker-dot {
  background: var(--primary);
  transform: scale(1.4);
  box-shadow:
    0 0 20px var(--primary),
    0 0 40px rgba(59, 130, 246, 0.2); /* Layered glow for depth */
}

.rail-item:hover .rail-content h3 {
  color: var(--primary);
  transform: translateX(12px);
}

.rail-item:hover .rail-content p {
  color: #ffffff;
  opacity: 1;
  transform: translateX(12px);
}

/* Optional: Slight dimming of other items when one is hovered */
/* This makes the hovered university process step pop! */
.arch-container:has(.rail-item:hover) .rail-item:not(:hover) {
  opacity: 0.5;
  filter: blur(1px);
}

/* END: SMOOTH RAIL INTERACTION */

/* END: WORKFLOW */

/* ============================================
   SECTION 10: HUB/PARTNERS SECTION
   Purpose: Display university partners in orbital layout
   Features: Orbital animation, responsive grid fallback
   ============================================ */

.hub-section {
  padding: 100px 0;
  background: #050505;
  overflow: hidden;
}

.hub-wrapper {
  position: relative;
  height: 600px;
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  justify-content: center;
}

.hub-center {
  width: 140px;
  height: 140px;
  background: #111;
  border: 1px solid var(--primary);
  border-radius: 50%;
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  justify-content: center;
  z-index: 10;
  box-shadow: 0 0 50px rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.3);
  color: #fff;
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-weight: 800;
}

/* Orbital Calculation Magic */
.hub-blade {
  position: absolute;
  background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.03);
  border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.1);
  padding: 12px 20px;
  border-radius: 50px;
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 12px;
  backdrop-filter: blur(10px);
  transition: 0.5s cubic-bezier(0.16, 1, 0.3, 1);

  /* Equation to place items in a circle */
  /* Formula: angle = (index * 360 / total) */
  --angle: calc(var(--i) * (360deg / var(--total)));
  transform: rotate(var(--angle)) translate(var(--radius))
    rotate(calc(-1 * var(--angle)));
}

.hub-blade img {
  height: 25px;
  filter: grayscale(1) brightness(1.5);
}

.hub-blade span {
  color: #fff;
  font-size: 0.85rem;
  font-weight: 600;
  white-space: nowrap;
}

/* Hover Effect */
.hub-blade:hover {
  background: var(--primary);
  border-color: var(--primary);
  transform: rotate(var(--angle)) translate(calc(var(--radius) + 20px))
    rotate(calc(-1 * var(--angle))) scale(1.1);
  z-index: 15;
}

.hub-blade:hover img {
  filter: grayscale(0) brightness(1) invert(1);
}

/* Pulse Animation */
.hub-pulse {
  position: absolute;
  width: 200px;
  height: 200px;
  border: 1px solid rgba(255, 77, 0, 0.2);
  border-radius: 50%;
  animation: orbit-pulse 3s infinite;
}

@keyframes orbit-pulse {
  0% {
    transform: scale(1);
    opacity: 1;
  }
  100% {
    transform: scale(3);
    opacity: 0;
  }
}

/* MEGA BUTTON */
.mega-btn {
  background: white;
  color: black;
  border: none;
  padding: 20px 40px;
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-weight: 800;
  border-radius: 10px;
  cursor: pointer;
  display: inline-flex;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 15px;
  margin-top: 50px;
  transition: 0.4s;
}

.mega-btn:hover {
  background: var(--primary);
  color: white;
  transform: translateY(-5px);
}

/* MODAL UI */
.modal-overlay {
  position: fixed;
  inset: 0;
  background: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.95);
  z-index: 1000;
  display: none;
  align-items: center;
  justify-content: center;
  backdrop-filter: blur(10px);
}

.modal-content {
  background: #111;
  width: 90%;
  max-width: 800px;
  padding: 60px;
  border-radius: 30px;
  position: relative;
  border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.1);
}

.modal-grid {
  display: grid;
  grid-template-columns: repeat(3, 1fr);
  gap: 20px;
  margin-top: 30px;
  color: #999;
}

.close-modal {
  position: absolute;
  top: 20px;
  right: 30px;
  font-size: 2rem;
  background: none;
  border: none;
  color: #fff;
  cursor: pointer;
}

/* END: HUB */

/* ============================================
   SECTION 11: FOOTER SECTION
   Purpose: Page footer with brand, navigation, and legal
   Features: Two-column layout with responsive stacking
   ============================================ */
.elite-footer {
  padding: 80px 0 40px;
  background: #080808;
  border-top: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.05);
}

.footer-top {
  display: flex;
  justify-content: space-between;
  align-items: flex-end;
  gap: 50px;
  margin-bottom: 50px;
}

.footer-brand-area .brand {
  font-family: "Syne", sans-serif;
  font-weight: 800;
  font-size: 1.5rem;
  margin-bottom: 10px;
}

.footer-brand-area p {
  color: var(--text-dim);
  font-size: 0.9rem;
  letter-spacing: 0.5px;
}

/* THE HORIZONTAL MENU */
.footer-nav {
  display: flex;
  flex-wrap: wrap;
  align-items: center;
  gap: 15px;
}

.foot-link {
  color: #fff;
  text-decoration: none;
  font-size: 0.85rem;
  font-weight: 600;
  text-transform: uppercase;
  letter-spacing: 1.5px;
  transition: 0.3s;
}

.foot-link:hover {
  color: var(--primary);
}

.foot-link.highlight {
  color: var(--primary);
}

.sep {
  color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.1);
  font-weight: 300;
}

/* DIVIDER */
.footer-divider {
  height: 1px;
  width: 100%;
  background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.05);
  margin-bottom: 30px;
}

/* BOTTOM AREA */
.footer-bottom {
  display: flex;
  justify-content: space-between;
  align-items: center;
}

.copyright {
  color: #555;
  font-size: 0.8rem;
}

.legal-links {
  display: flex;
  gap: 20px;
}

.legal-links a {
  color: #555;
  text-decoration: none;
  font-size: 0.8rem;
  transition: 0.3s;
}

.legal-links a:hover {
  color: #fff;
}

/* END: FOOTER */

/* ============================================
   SECTION 12: ANIMATIONS
   Purpose: Define reusable animation keyframes
   Usage: Applied to various elements for smooth UX
   ============================================ */
@keyframes fadeUp {
  from {
    opacity: 0;
    transform: translateY(40px);
  }

  to {
    opacity: 1;
    transform: translateY(0);
  }
}

.fade-up {
  animation: fadeUp 1s ease forwards;
}

.fade-up-delay {
  opacity: 0;
  animation: fadeUp 1s ease 0.3s forwards;
}

/* END: ANIMATIONS */

/* ============================================
   SECTION 13: RESPONSIVE DESIGN
   Purpose: All media queries organized by breakpoint
   Includes: Tablet (1024px, 950px), Mobile (900px, 768px, 480px, 360px)
   ============================================ */

/* ====== TABLET BREAKPOINT (1024px) ====== */
@media (max-width: 1024px) {
  .nav-inner {
    padding: 12px 24px;
  }

  .menu li a {
    font-size: 0.8rem;
    padding: 8px 12px;
  }
}

/* ====== TABLET BREAKPOINT (950px) ====== */
@media (max-width: 950px) {
  .hero-content h1 {
    font-size: 3.5rem;
  }

  .about-wrapper,
  .choice-grid,
  .card-stack,
  .timeline,
  .footer-content {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
    flex-direction: column;
    gap: 30px;
  }

  .grid-stats {
    grid-template-columns: repeat(2, 1fr);
  }

  .about-visual {
    margin-top: 50px;
    max-width: 480px;
    transform-origin: center;
  }

  .arch-row,
  .arch-row:nth-child(even) {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }

  .arch-card {
    padding: 40px;
    height: auto;
    min-height: 300px;
  }
}

/* ====== MOBILE BREAKPOINT (900px) - Full mobile menu styling ====== */
@media (max-width: 900px) {
  .glass-nav {
    padding: 15px 0;
  }

  .nav-inner {
    padding: 12px 20px;
    border-radius: 60px;
  }

  .brand {
    font-size: 1rem;
  }

  .mobile-toggle {
    display: flex;
  }

  /* Mobile dropdown menu with glass effect */
  .menu {
    position: absolute;
    top: calc(100% + 15px);
    left: 0;
    right: 0;
    width: calc(100% - 40px);
    margin: 0 20px;
    background: rgba(10, 10, 10, 0.65);
    backdrop-filter: blur(30px) saturate(160%);
    -webkit-backdrop-filter: blur(30px) saturate(160%);
    border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.18);
    border-radius: 24px;
    padding: 20px;
    flex-direction: column;
    gap: 8px;
    opacity: 0;
    pointer-events: none;
    transform: translateY(-20px);
    transition: 0.4s cubic-bezier(0.16, 1, 0.3, 1);
    box-shadow:
      0 8px 32px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3),
      inset 0 1px 0 rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.1);
    max-height: 0;
    overflow: hidden;
  }

  /* Show mobile menu when checkbox is checked */
  .menu-checkbox:checked ~ .menu {
    opacity: 1;
    pointer-events: all;
    transform: translateY(0);
    max-height: 400px;
  }

  /* Mobile menu items animation */
  .menu li {
    opacity: 0;
    transform: translateX(-20px);
    transition: 0.3s cubic-bezier(0.16, 1, 0.3, 1);
    width: 100%;
  }

  /* Show animated menu items */
  .menu-checkbox:checked ~ .menu li {
    opacity: 1;
    transform: translateX(0);
  }

  /* Staggered animation delays for menu items */
  .menu-checkbox:checked ~ .menu li:nth-child(1) {
    transition-delay: 0.1s;
  }

  .menu-checkbox:checked ~ .menu li:nth-child(2) {
    transition-delay: 0.15s;
  }

  .menu-checkbox:checked ~ .menu li:nth-child(3) {
    transition-delay: 0.2s;
  }

  .menu-checkbox:checked ~ .menu li:nth-child(4) {
    transition-delay: 0.25s;
  }

  /* Mobile menu link styling */
  .menu li a {
    font-size: 0.95rem;
    padding: 14px 20px;
    color: #fff;
    display: block;
    width: 100%;
    border-radius: 16px;
    background: rgba(25, 25, 25, 0.638);
    border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.08);
    transition: 0.3s;
  }

  /* Mobile menu link hover */
  .menu li a:hover,
  .menu li a:active {
    background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.1);
    border-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2);
    transform: translateX(5px);
  }

  /* Mobile CTA button adjustments */
  .nav-btn {
    padding: 8px 16px;
    font-size: 0.7rem;
  }

  .nav-btn span {
    display: none;
  }

  .nav-btn svg {
    width: 16px;
    height: 16px;
  }
}

/* ====== MOBILE BREAKPOINT (768px) - Tablet/Mobile shared ====== */
@media (max-width: 768px) {
  /* Destinations grid */
  .dest-grid {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
  }
  .dest-info {
    padding: 22px;
  }

  .dest-card {
    height: 350px;
  }

  /* Workflow timeline */
  .rail-item {
    gap: 30px;
  }

  .rail-content h3 {
    font-size: 1.8rem;
  }

  .rail-content p {
    font-size: 1rem;
  }

  /* Hub/Partners orbital to grid */
  .hub-wrapper {
    display: grid;
    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
    height: auto;
    gap: 15px;
  }
  .hub-center,
  .hub-pulse {
    display: none;
  }
  .hub-blade {
    position: relative;
    transform: none !important;
    justify-content: center;
  }

  /* Footer */
  .footer-top {
    flex-direction: column;
    align-items: flex-start;
    gap: 40px;
  }

  .footer-nav {
    flex-wrap: wrap;
    gap: 10px;
  }

  .footer-bottom {
    flex-direction: column;
    gap: 20px;
    text-align: center;
  }
}

/* ====== MOBILE BREAKPOINT (480px) - Small mobile ====== */
@media (max-width: 480px) {
  .glass-nav {
    padding: 10px 0;
  }

  .nav-inner {
    padding: 10px 15px;
    border-radius: 50px;
  }

  .brand {
    font-size: 0.9rem;
  }

  .brand .direct {
    display: none;
  }

  .mobile-toggle .bar {
    width: 20px;
  }

  .nav-btn {
    padding: 8px 12px;
  }

  .nav-btn svg {
    width: 14px;
    height: 14px;
  }

  .menu {
    width: calc(100% - 30px);
    margin: 0 15px;
    padding: 15px;
    border-radius: 20px;
  }

  .menu li a {
    font-size: 0.9rem;
    padding: 12px 16px;
    border-radius: 14px;
  }

  /* Destinations */
  .dest-grid {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }
  .dest-info {
    padding: 40px;
  }

  /* Stats */
  .grid-stats {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }

  h2 {
    font-size: 1.5em !important;
  }
  h1 {
    font-size: 3em !important;
  }
  h3 {
    font-size: 1em !important;
  }

  .hub-wrapper {
    grid-template-columns: 1fr;
  }

  .about-visual {
    height: 500px;
    transform-origin: center;
  }
}

/* ====== MOBILE BREAKPOINT (360px) - Extra small mobile ====== */
@media (max-width: 360px) {
  .nav-inner {
    padding: 8px 12px;
  }

  .brand {
    font-size: 0.85rem;
  }

  .nav-btn {
    padding: 6px 10px;
  }

  .nav-btn svg {
    width: 12px;
    height: 12px;
  }

  .menu {
    width: calc(100% - 24px);
    margin: 0 12px;
    padding: 12px;
    border-radius: 18px;
  }

  .menu li a {
    font-size: 0.85rem;
    padding: 10px 14px;
  }
}

/* END: RESPONSIVE DESIGN */

/* ============================================
   END OF STYLESHEET
   All sections complete with comprehensive comments
   ============================================ */