As Professor Galardón's nomination echoed through the chamber, a hushed silence fell over the room. All eyes turned to Aleric, who stood frozen in disbelief at the unexpected turn of events. In that moment, a flicker of surprise crossed Galardón's features, his keen gaze lingering on Aleric as if assessing him in a new light.
Unbeknownst to Aleric, the professor harbored his own motives for nominating him. Behind his impassive facade, Galardón saw untapped potential lurking within Aleric, a potential waiting to be unleashed. With a subtle nod, he silently resolved to test the limits of Aleric's abilities, eager to discover the depths of his magical prowess.
Meanwhile, another name was announced, drawing attention away from Aleric's stunned expression. Lyra Frostwind, a student known for her prodigious talents in ancient magic, joined Aleric as one of the nominees for the elite class. The contrast between the two nominees couldn't have been more striking, yet Galardón saw potential in both, a potential that could shape the future of the academy's elite.
As the murmurs of speculation filled the room, Aleric's mind raced with a whirlwind of thoughts. Despite his initial surprise, a sense of determination welled up within him. He understood the significance of this opportunity and resolved to rise to the challenge, ready to prove himself worthy of the nomination and unlock the full extent of his magical abilities.
As the final nomination resounded in the hall, all eyes turned once again to Aleric, whose astonishment seemed to deepen with each passing moment. To his surprise, Professor Alderbane's voice rang out, nominating him for the elite class. Aleric couldn't help but feel a surge of disbelief at being chosen not once, but twice, for such a prestigious opportunity.
Beside him, Elyana stood tall and composed, her expression one of quiet confidence as she accepted her nomination with grace. Professor Alderbane's reasons for selecting her were clear—her profound understanding of governance and natural leadership qualities marked her as a standout candidate for the elite class.
For Aleric, the weight of the moment was not lost. With each nomination, he felt the gravity of the responsibility that lay before him. It was a chance to prove himself, to rise above the doubts and uncertainties that had plagued him. As the murmurs of approval and anticipation filled the chamber, Aleric's resolve solidified.
Despite the challenges that lay ahead, he was determined to seize this opportunity with both hands. With Elyana by his side and the support of his fellow nominees, Aleric knew that together, they would embark on a journey that would shape their destinies and define the future of the academy's elite.
As the nominations concluded, Director Liriel addressed the gathered students with a sense of finality. "Congratulations to all the nominees," she announced, her voice carrying across the chamber. "You have been chosen for the elite class based on your exceptional talents and dedication to your studies."
With those words, a sense of anticipation hung in the air, mingled with a palpable excitement for the challenges that lay ahead. The students were dismissed for the day, their minds buzzing with thoughts of the elite class and the opportunities it presented.
Aleric wasted no time in seeking out Director Liriel, his heart pounding with nervous energy as he approached her. With a respectful bow, he made his request to leave the academy, citing urgent personal matters that required his attention.
Director Liriel regarded him with a thoughtful expression, weighing his request carefully. After a moment of consideration, she nodded, granting him permission to depart. "Go, Aleric," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of encouragement. "Handle your affairs, but remember, your duty to the academy remains. Return swiftly, for there is much yet to be done."
With a sense of determination burning in his chest, Aleric thanked Director Liriel and took his leave, his mind already racing with plans and possibilities. As he stepped out into the crisp afternoon air, he knew that his journey was far from over.