Chancellor Elysia stood before us, her hands clasped together.
"Congratulations to all of you for making it this far," she began. "Surviving the trials of the first Selection Round is no small feat. However, do not grow complacent. The written exam before you is designed to test not just your knowledge, but your adaptability, critical thinking, and mastery of the arcane arts."
Her gaze lingered briefly on certain faces—Odessa, Anais, even me—before continuing.
"Just a reminder, only three of you will be accepted into Waurweth Academy. The rest will be sent home."
A murmur rippled through the courtyard, but Elysia wasn't done talking.
"This is a important. Those accepted will be forged into the finest wielders of magic, sword, and strategy in the known world. That is why you all must give it your all in this final exam."
Raven stiffened beside me, her fingers curling into fists. I could practically feel the frustration radiating off her.
