As the days passed in the academy, things slowly began to settle into a familiar rhythm. It almost felt as if everything had gone back to normal.

But something had changed, something that hadn't gone unnoticed.

The students who had gone on the expedition with the Underfang Guild had returned noticeably different. Stronger. Sharper. Their techniques had improved, their senses were heightened, and their overall commitment to their studies had increased tenfold. Even those who hadn't been chosen for the Cultural Exchange had picked up on the shift and responded in kind.

Principal Wilton was incredibly pleased by this transformation. In his mind, the sudden boost in motivation was thanks to the presence of the transfer students, perhaps their success had sparked something, lit a competitive fire under the others.

What Wilton didn't know was the truth behind that change: the near-death experiences, the real battles, and the sobering understanding that their lives could be lost at any moment in this field. That kind of firsthand reality had a way of leaving a permanent mark.

Now, the day before the Cultural Exchange had finally arrived.

The selected students were called into one of the academy's large classrooms. When Raze and the others stepped inside, they quickly noticed the top five ranking students already seated in a neat row. Without needing to speak, Raze and his group sat directly in front of them. It created a united front, all eyes facing forward toward the person standing at the center: Principal Wilton himself.

"I'm sure you're all aware of why we've gathered here today," Wilton began. His voice was soft, yet it carried through the room effortlessly, infused with magical energy to ensure every word reached every student clearly.

He gestured with his hand, and the air above him began to shimmer. A glowing magical projection burst into life, displaying radiant holograms and diagrams that floated in midair for all to see.

"As you've likely guessed, only those selected for the Cultural Exchange are in this room," Wilton continued. "Today, I'll be walking you through exactly what to expect from the event."

The glowing projection shifted again, displaying a large, elegant banner that read Cultural Exchange – Four-Day Program.

"This event spans four days in total," Wilton explained. "During that time, you'll have the opportunity to explore the Central Academy's facilities, attend their specialized lessons, and engage in networking with students and instructors from all across Alterian."

He waved his hand again, and a new set of images appeared, depicting bustling fairs, magical workshops, and students interacting with representatives from various mage guilds.

"This event is not limited to just academies. It's a platform for public engagement as well. You'll meet guild members, researchers, and other figures of importance. It's more than just a student exchange, it's a gathering of magical minds."

He paused for a moment before adding, "However, for you specifically... the key part lies in the five major events that take place during those four days."

The projection shifted once again, now revealing a circular chart with six crests, each one belonging to a different academy. The emblems included Wilton Academy and the Central Mage Academy, as well as four others recognized among the elite institutions in Alterian.

"These six academies were hand-selected to participate," Wilton said. "While other academies may send their professors or administrators as guests, only the chosen schools will be participating in the core events. In many ways, it is a showcase of magical progress, a demonstration of the power and potential of future generations."

The events, however, were not open to the general public. Only select officials, leaders, and magical influencers would be in attendance.

As Raze listened, his mind turned. He saw an opportunity. This wasn't just a stage for show, it was a battlefield of influence. A place where rising stars could be placed in front of powerful eyes. And perhaps, just perhaps, it was the perfect place to make a statement. A place to challenge someone like Ibrain... in front of those who mattered.

"There are five major events in total," Wilton continued. "Spread across the four days, they will test different aspects of your abilities."

He gestured toward the projection again, which now displayed each event with glowing titles and brief summaries.

"The first is the Portal Expedition Event," he began. "Each academy will send a group of ten students into a portal of identical rank and level. The goal is simple: bring back as many power stones as possible, or complete the expedition first."

"The second is the Dueling Event. One student from each academy will be selected to represent their school in a head-to-head magical duel. This is a high-prestige event and one of the most anticipated."

"Third is the Specialty Magic Exhibition. This event highlights the most unique magical talents your academy has to offer. You'll be presenting your signature skills, something that showcases the distinct magic your school is known for."

"The fourth event is the Group Battle, where a team of students will engage in a large-scale skirmish against other academies. Think of it as a simulated warzone, meant to test teamwork and combat awareness."

"And finally," Wilton said, his eyes scanning the students with a quiet seriousness, "there is the Teacher Battle Event, where a professor from each academy will engage in a duel. Yes, even we will be expected to represent our schools."

Raze listened closely. Most of the events involved combat in some form, which was ideal. That meant more chances. More opportunities to confront Ibrain, even outside the spotlight if needed.

Still, before anything else, Raze had three goals in mind.

First: find any books or scrolls on time magic. He needed to master this new element, fast.

Second: locate the mysterious item Amir had spoken of.

And third: uncover the truth behind Ibrain's darker dealings. If there were skeletons in that mage's closet, Raze would find them, and use them.

"Principal," Chiba spoke up, raising her hand. "What are the usual results of these events?"

Wilton sighed lightly. "Historically, it's safe to say the Central Academy dominates nearly every one of them. That includes the professor battles as well."

A few students exchanged glances, surprise evident on their faces. They had always known the Central Academy was strong, undisputed, even, but this event had been framed as an exchange. A place to learn from each other. Not a one-sided display of dominance.

So what was the real purpose? To foster connection between mages across the continent, or simply to reaffirm the Central Academy's superiority to the world?

"Well," Piba spoke with a confident smirk, "things have changed, haven't they? I'd say they're in for a surprise if they expect to sweep everything again this year."

Wilton chuckled softly but didn't disagree.

"As for who will be participating in each assessment," he added, "that will be decided by your instructors on the day of the event. Professors Redrick, Panla, and Luka will be accompanying you throughout. As for me, I'll be present, but I'll be handling administrative matters and won't be able to guide you personally."

His eyes scanned the room one last time, full of pride and hope.

"All I can do now is wish you the best of luck. I look forward to seeing the results each of you bring back."

With that, the briefing ended, and the rest of the day passed by in a blur of preparation, speculation, and building anticipation.

At last, the day of the first Magical Exchange Event had arrived.

****

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