I walked through the busy streets of the capital, making my way towards the academy. The city buzzed with activity, as people hurried along their own paths, creating a lively atmosphere. Amidst the crowd, I focused on reaching my destination, taking in the sights and sounds of the urban landscape around me.
Eventually, I made it to the academy, and boy was it a sight to behold. I have to say, I'm impressed for cliche garbage. I walked inside, making my way towards the auditorium. The examination hall was filled with other candidates who anxiously awaited the start of the exam.
Conversations buzzed softly as they exchanged nervous glances and occasional words of encouragement. Some candidates reviewed their notes, flipping through pages with focused determination, while others fidgeted in their seats, attempting to ease their pre-exam jitters. The room exuded an atmosphere of anticipation and seriousness as everyone prepared themselves mentally for the upcoming test. Time ticked away slowly, heightening the tension in the air.
Then suddenly, someone walked into the auditorium, stepping up onto the stage. It was a woman with blinding red hair.
"Esteemed candidates, I am one of your many teachers at this prestigious academy, Melinda Combse."
'Wow, she's pretty good looking- no! I must stay focused!'
"Welcome to this momentous occasion within the realm of knowledge and learning. As we gather here today, envision yourselves transported to a setting reminiscent of a bygone era, where wisdom and intellectual pursuit were revered. Within these hallowed walls, you stand poised to embark on a journey that holds the power to shape your destiny.
I stand before you not only as an educator but also as a guide, ready to inspire and support you on this path of academic excellence. The entrance exam before you is more than a mere assessment; it represents an opportunity—a gateway that opens doors to a world of possibilities. It is a chance for you to showcase your unique talents, skills, and depth of your understanding.
I commend each and every one of you for your unwavering commitment and dedication in preparing for this exam. You have shown resilience and tenacity, sacrificing time and effort to pursue your dreams. Today, you stand as a testament to your hard work and determination."
She concluded her speech, and a noticeable change washed over the room. Faces that were once filled with uncertainty now displayed a newfound sense of confidence. The candidates exchanged glances, their expressions reflecting a growing belief in themselves. Whispers of encouragement and nods of reassurance passed among them, creating an atmosphere of shared optimism. Melinda's words had struck a chord, inspiring the candidates to embrace their potential and approach the upcoming challenges with renewed determination.
"And with that, we will begin the entrance exam."
Everyone cheered in excitement, clapping their hands. We got put into a white room, a massive blue crystal sitting in front of us.
"For this first phase, we will be testing your physical capabilities. You will punch this crystal, and a number will appear above it. If you pass 100, you pass. Don't try and cheat with magic, we'll know."
Interesting... how would they do that? Illusion magic? Maybe there are some things I can learn here!
"Rei Leythur, come up first."
Hm? I'm going first? Nice! I walk up front, stopping in front of the crystal.
'I'm not going to be the mc that hides their power. I want to be the center of attention!'
"WATCH AND LEARN NOOBS!!!" I shouted.
Summoning all my strength, I swung my arm forward with a swift and forceful motion, directing the full weight of my body into the blow. The impact reverberated through my hand as the crystal shattered into countless fragments, scattering across the floor. The room was in complete silence. I grinned as I pulled back my arm and looked at Melinda.
"Do I pass?"
Melinda had an expression of disbelief before correcting herself.
"Yes, you pass."
"Sweet!"
I walked back into the crowd with pride and arrogance. Quickly, they brought in another blue crystal and called some other candidates to the front. Of course, most of them were unimpressive. Only to be expected of noobs.
"Rosalind Arthur, please come up."
A blue-haired girl walked up in front, stopping in front of the crystal.
'She seems like an interesting character'
Rosalind took a deep breath before punching the crystal with her full strength, shattering it into pieces like I did.
"Rosalind Arthur, you have passed."
Rosalind spun around, her eyes locking with mine. There was a spark of defiance in her gaze, and she issued a challenge with a cold stare. Without hesitation, I met her stare and accepted, a confident smile forming on my lips.
"This ends the first phase."
As we progressed to the next phase of our training, the instructors guided us outside the training facility. Our surroundings transformed into an open training ground, bathed in the warm glow of the sun. Standing before us were wooden dummies, positioned at far distances. This was most definitely a magic test.
"For this second phase, your goal is to hit all of these dummies in a row. Rei Leythur, come up first."
"Alright! I get to go first again!" I cracked my neck and walked up front.
This was another chance to show off! I gather mana, prepared to go all-out.
[Flame Magic + Spell Amplification¹ + Gravity Magic (lesser)] =
I conjured the flames, wrapping them tightly around my arms. They obediently molded into the form of an arrow, spinning swiftly as they settled into place. The fiery shape took on a distinct arrowhead and shaft, ready to be launched with purpose and precision.
"𝙁𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝘼𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙬."
I released the flame arrow, sending it hurtling through the air. It struck the first wooden dummy with force, piercing through its center. With a mental command, I directed the flame arrow to reverse its course, guiding it to swiftly target the next dummy. It repeated this pattern, piercing each successive wooden dummy until the final one was struck, completing the fiery display of my control and precision. I definitely did not take this from one of my favorite manga back on Earth.
"Eh. I think I could've put on a better show, but I still pass, right?" I looked at Melinda.
Melinda was shocked but didn't seem as shocked as last time.
"Yes, you pass."
I walked back into the crowd, giving a smug grin to Rosalind as I walked past her. The other candidates, as usual, failed to impress. Their performances were lackluster. And of course, Rosalind couldn't resist trying to one-up me. Soon, the next phase began, and we were taken to a stadium.
"For this final phase, you will duel against your fellow candidates. Failing to beat your opponent will not lead to failing the entrance exam. However, if you have failed both of the last two phases, you will." Melinda explained.
If I am correct, then the top scorers will be picked to fight first.
"The top two scorers, which are Rei Leythur and Rosalind Arthur, will fight first."
Well, won't you look at that? I was correct. It was to be expected after all. I walk up in front, as so does Rosalind.
"Candidates, pick your weapons."
Rosalind reached for a sword from the display, her eyes filled with determination. In contrast, I didn't pick any weapon, I wouldn't need one anyway.
"You're not going to pick up a weapon?" Rosalind asked.
"I don't need a weapon to kick your ass. My hands shall do just fine!" I grin.
Rosalind had an expression of annoyance and a bit of anger as she readied herself. I crossed my arms, smiling smugly.
"Ready? BEGIN!!"
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1. [Spell Amplification] isn't actually a spell, I use it to let the reader know that the character is using more mana to boost their spells.
2. Starting now, there will be a footnote at the bottom of the chapter to explain how some things work, just like how I used it to explain [Spell Amplification].