Nestled in Solstice, the vibrant city of Hestia Empire, stood the imposing Imperial Academy. Blending Roman grandeur with intricate Gothic artistry, its architecture spoke of history and magical excellence.
The academy's main structure, a three-story marvel, was adorned with spires and stained glass windows that depicted magical scenes. The courtyard, paved with ancient stones, was surrounded by gardens and serene water features—a sanctuary for learning and camaraderie.
The central tower, symbolizing wisdom and authority, housed the principal's office. Flanked by two smaller spires, it hosted libraries, laboratories, and lecture halls. The rear held the Arena of Mastery, where magical duels showcased students' combat skills.
The Enclave of Artifacts and Wonders encouraged creativity, allowing students to experiment with magical artifacts and enchanting projects. This balance of urban life and campus tranquility made the Academy a place of inspiration and aspiration.
As the sun set, casting a warm glow on the Academy's walls, it stood as a beacon of magical knowledge and excellence.
[Ren Hilton's POV]
"I don't know why, but this building makes me feel uneasy," I muttered as I stared at the grand edifice of the Imperial Academy, its tall spires reaching for the sky. The imposing gates stood open, welcoming countless students from Solstice and the surrounding cities.
'Why do you say that?' Blaze's voice chimed in from my shoulder.
Perhaps it was the result of spending so much time immersed in the game, but seeing the familiar structure in person felt strangely disconcerting.
"Attention, candidates! You may now enter the inner grounds of the Imperial Academy," announced an elderly woman wearing an oversized witch hat, her magically amplified voice echoing through the air. "Please proceed directly to the arena where the tests will be conducted. Do not wander unnecessarily."
With a sigh, I adjusted my bag on my shoulder and began walking through the open gates. The path ahead was wide and paved with intricate patterns that seemed to dance with magic. The buildings flanking the path were no less impressive – a harmonious blend of classical and Gothic architecture that whispered of the academy's rich history.
As I walked further, the bustling atmosphere enveloped me. Students of all races and backgrounds moved with purpose, their anticipation palpable. The academy grounds were vast, offering a mix of open courtyards, shaded alcoves, and elegant fountains that sparkled in the sunlight. The main building, the heart of the academy, towered ahead, its towering spires reaching for the heavens.
Passing through a colonnade adorned with enchanting runes, I finally reached the central arena. It was a sprawling space, surrounded by tiered seating where spectators would later gather to witness the tests. Already, groups of candidates were congregating, their faces a mix of nerves and determination.
"Hey, you there! Yes, you," a voice called out, interrupting my thoughts. I turned to see a short, stout man with a clipboard in his hand. "Name for registration?"
"Ren Hilton," I replied, providing the necessary information.
The man quickly scanned his clipboard. "Hilton, Hilton.... Follow the path to the left. You're in Group C. Once everyone is assembled, we'll begin."
I nodded and followed the indicated path, joining the other candidates in Group C. As we waited, I couldn't help but steal glances at the fellow students around me. There were elves with ethereal grace, dwarves with sturdy builds, and humans like me, each possessing their own unique aura.
An official-looking mage soon stepped forward, his robes adorned with the emblem of the academy. His presence commanded attention as he began to explain the rules and procedures for the tests. His words were measured and authoritative, setting the tone for what was to come.
The arena's magic-infused atmosphere seemed to pulse with anticipation, mirroring the collective heartbeat of the candidates. As the mage's speech concluded, the air crackled with energy, ready to be unleashed in the upcoming trials.
"Too much for such a small test," I couldn't help but mutter, my words carrying a touch of frustration. However, it seemed my comment wasn't as private as I'd thought, as the raised eyebrows and scornful gazes from others in Group C quickly informed me.
The testing process at the Imperial Academy was indeed comprehensive, almost exhaustive. Divided into four distinct parts, it encompassed Elemental Control, Spell Accuracy, Mana Manipulation, and for the select few who excelled in these areas, a final duel. All of this was condensed into a single day, a reflection of the academy's dedication to efficiency and thorough assessment.
With a resigned sigh, I refocused my attention on the proceedings. The Elemental Control Test was already underway, candidates demonstrating their mastery over their chosen elements. Fire, water, earth, and air – each candidate harnessed their innate magic to create intricate displays of power. It was both mesmerizing and humbling to witness the diversity of talents on display.
Soon, it was my turn. Stepping forward, I channeled my mana, igniting a controlled flame in my palm. The sensation was familiar, the heat a reminder of my connection to the fire element. I manipulated the flame, shaping it into intricate patterns that danced with elegance. As I concluded my demonstration, I sensed the scrutinizing eyes of the examiners upon me.
The Spell Accuracy Test followed suit. Candidates were required to hit a series of targets with their spells, testing their precision and focus. Each cast was evaluated meticulously, and the intensity of competition was evident in the concentrated expressions of my peers.
Then came the Mana Manipulation Test, where candidates were tasked with complex tasks that required precise manipulation of mana -body strengthening, imbuing mana and reinforcing the weapons.
As the day progressed, I found myself swept into a whirlwind of activity, yet I executed each task without hesitation.
'Umm, Princess,' Blaze's voice echoed in my mind.
ραndαsnοvεl.cοm 'Hmm?' I glanced over my shoulder at him.
'so... what happened to not wanting to draw any attention?' Blaze's inquiry hit me, and I quickly surveyed my surroundings, realizing what he meant.
(Hey, did you see that guy? He conjured a detailed bird with his fire!)
(That long-haired bastard hit all the moving targets effortlessly, tch.)
(He looks vicious for some reason. Did you notice how he stood without breaking a sweat while maintaining mana strengthening for a straight ten minutes?)
Whispers like these encircled me, reverberating with observations and opinions. It was hard to ignore the attention directed towards me—some curious, others scowling, and a few taken aback. I absorbed their reactions, a mixture of emotions.
I know I am great.
'Hold your horses now. Your ability to accomplish this stems from your greater proficiency in magic compared to them and the fact that you have a streak of craziness,' Blaze quipped, tugging a strand of my hair from behind. His action elicited a flinch from me, a small jolt of surprise.
"Hey, you there... Ren Hilton, is it?" A stern-looking man in robes called out, his expression taut with authority.
I turned my attention to him and nodded, walking toward him.
"You're one of the six candidates slated for the upcoming duel," the instructor stated, his words brimming with seriousness.
A sly smile curved my lips as I responded, "Oh, about that!" I met his gaze confidently, anticipation evident in my eyes. "I'd like to withdraw from the battle."
"You can go the-!?" The instructor's eyes widened," what did you say?"
My smile remained, and I repeated myself with a touch of foolish cheerfulness, "I said, I want to forfeit the duel."
'What's your game plan, Princess?' Blaze's voice echoed in my mind, mirroring his own confusion.
A moment of silence hung in the air as the instructor processed my words. He let out a sigh, his demeanor a mix of exasperation and acceptance. "I've been observing you, and I believe you should reconsider. Performing well in the duel might earn you a scholarship for the entire three years if you manage to secure a spot among the top two duelists."
I tilted my head slightly, a grin playing on my lips. "Hmm, no thanks. I'd rather not risk embarrassing myself in front of a large crowd," I lied smoothly, adding a touch of nonchalance. "Plus, you know I'm a bit low on mana."
I can eat them all candidates of I wanted to.
"I don't think..." The instructor began to protest, but his resolve crumbled. He let out a resigned sigh and addressed Mrs. Harris, the elderly woman from before. "Mrs. Harris, please bring me the registry." The scroll was handed over, and with a precise stroke of his quill, my name was struck from the list.
"What class can I expect to be placed in?" I inquired, my query unapologetically shameless.
"You'll have to wait for the results," he stated in a tone that held a touch of finality, then turned away and departed. Rather abrupt, I must say.
My attention shifted, drawn to the end of the crowd. There stood a figure, a girl who seemed to command the attention of the entire arena just by her presence. Her lightweight armor adorned her form, her white hair fluttering like a halo around her. She was the reason I'd withdrawn.
"Hey, look!" A voice called out from beside me. I followed the direction of the gaze and found what the excitement was about. "It's the Student Council!"
A small group of students was making their way toward the arena grounds. As I watched them approach.
The event was of the introduction of a side heroine and a third class villain.
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