The purpose behind this change was clear: to bring only the truly deserving into the team battles—the real highlight of the tournament.

It was a way to let every candidate fight for themselves, without relying on teammates for support.

In past tournaments, one out of every four teams would be eliminated in the very first round. That's why holding individual battles before the team clashes made sense—it gave everyone a fair chance to show their strength.

But there was one issue: participation.

If two schools competed against each other, wouldn't that mean only two schools would make it to the final round?

Clark quickly addressed the concern, "The judges will evaluate and eliminate students based on performance, not just results. Yes, winning matters, but your effort won't be ignored. So, my children, don't ever think you've lost. Fight until your last breath. Never give up."

His words did inspire the students, but the sudden shift in plans still didn't sit well with many managers.

Clark didn't stay on stage for long, leaving no room for arguments or questions.

As he stepped down, several soldiers formed a protective circle around him. The crowd parted to make way as Clark walked toward the exit.

Meanwhile, Adrian stood with his back against the wall, deep in thought about what he needed to discuss with his student today.

That's when—

"Adrian Lockwood… I've finally met you."

The voice that had felt distant earlier was now speaking just beside him.

Adrian quickly straightened and offered a respectful greeting, "It's an honor to meet you, Sir Borodicus."

He noticed that many people were now watching them, and the room had fallen silent.

Well, it wasn't the first time Adrian found himself at the center of attention.

"I've heard quite a bit about you from Aiden."

"From Master Aiden? That's unexpected," Adrian replied, surprised. He had only met the master of the Twilight Vault once—and just for a few short minutes.

Had that meeting left such an impression?

"Your grasp of runes and the way you approach this craft are truly impressive," Clark said. "I'm looking forward to hearing more from you."

Adrian felt a quiet sense of pride swell inside him. Being praised by such a respected man… it meant a lot.

He nodded politely and replied, "Whenever you wish, I'll be there."

Borodicus gave him a gentle pat on the shoulder. "I hope that day comes soon. It's rare to meet a young man so deeply passionate about runes—not just the fame or money they bring."

Adrian gave a shy smile. That hit close to home. He'd always disliked those who used the craft only to fill their pockets.

As Clark walked away, Adrian offered a small bow, his heart just a little lighter than before.

Once he was gone, Dextor stepped a little closer and said, "That man...is the modern-day legend. I heard he can tune an armament with his eyes closed."

Adrian chuckled, "I am sure you can reach that level one day too."

Dextor bitterly smiled at the remark which felt like a jab thrown at him.

....

The rest of the celebration went on just as expected.

Boring.

The students mingled and moved about. Surprisingly, Altia was surrounded by a small group, and from where Adrian stood, it looked like she was actually enjoying the conversation.

Aries, naturally, fit right in. She was always good with people and quickly became the center of attention.

Allen and Brendon stood off to the side, quietly exchanging the occasional word.

And Elana… well, she was still standing beside him.

"Why are you so cautious around people now?" Adrian asked softly, his voice low enough for only her to hear. "You weren't like this before."

Elana smiled faintly. "Maybe I just saw the real world a little too soon."

Adrian let out a quiet sigh. Right. She had nearly left the academy because of people—people who constantly questioned her worth, who said she didn't deserve her family name, who claimed she had tarnished her father's legacy. A complete failure—that's what they called her.

But still…

"Not everyone is like that," he said gently.

"I know," Elana nodded, "but I don't want to give them another chance. And besides…" she glanced at the group, "Aries is like ten people rolled into one. She talks way too much."

Adrian chuckled. "That's because she talks enough for you too."

.....

"Haah...that was tiring," Adrian muttered under his breath as he removed his coat and started unbuttoning his shirt.

After the meet and greet, the buffet began, and then the dance.

The students danced and so did the Professors.

Naturally, Adrian was pulled in as well...and somehow, he ended up dancing with every female Professor in the hall.

Thankfully, Adrian liberated himself from the endless loop of switching partners, or the whole venue would have been three feet under the ice.

Elana looked anything but happy.

Naturally, he couldn't have danced with her. And she wasn't ready to dance with anyone else.

The situation was getting awkward so Adrian took his leave with his students.

"Seriously, she needs to work on her temper..." He doesn't want to directly confront Elana about these things. He had made things complicated in the past and since there is a contest tomorrow, he refrained from saying anything to her.

Shaking his head, he entered the bathroom.

There was a bathtub, but only cold water was supplied.

That's why, he took out a small artifact, his portable heater.

Attaching it to the base of the bathtub, he slowly dipped in and allowed his fatigued body some rest.

A few moments of silence, before he opened his eyes and checked the group chat.

One online.

And that person was Forgelet.

Perfect.

Forgelet: [I just got a sudden hiccup...is someone missing me dearly?]

Adrian grinned, "Forgelet...there are things I need from you."

Forgelet: [...why do you sound scary?]

Adrian chuckled, "What are you talking about? Well, forget about it and take a pen and paper."

°°°°°°°

A/N:- Thanks for reading. Drop a comment.