Written Exam
What do you know about world history? Explain using your own words!
What is the role of science in magic, and how is it implemented?
"Hmm... Why are there only two questions?" I frowned, rereading the exam paper in front of me. "This is strange. The Zenithia Academy exam shouldn't be this easy, unless..." I bit my lip, trying to suppress the sudden unease creeping in. "Unless these questions have a hidden meaning."
I glanced around the room. Some candidates looked relaxed, their pens moving swiftly across the paper as if they already understood exactly what to write. Others seemed deep in thought, occasionally scribbling and rewriting their answers.
I turned my gaze back to the exam sheet. My mind went blank in an instant. World history? That's an incredibly broad topic. Science in magic? Aren't there countless conflicting theories? I took a deep breath, trying to find the right approach.
Suddenly, a familiar voice echoed in my memory.
"You must provide detailed answers that go straight to the core."
I could picture Foerza's calm and sharp expression as he said those words. His advice stuck in my mind, reminding me that Zenithia Academy wasn't looking for ordinary answers. They sought critical thinking—answers that weren't just correct, but demonstrated deep understanding.
I exhaled deeply and grabbed my pen. Alright. I needed to tackle this differently.
Question 1: World History.
This world has never known true peace. Since its very inception, Avaroth has been a battleground for various races—humans, dwarves, elves, druids, yokai, sirens, demons, and even gods—fighting over the greatest power of all: the Ethereal Paradox. From what I've read in the translated book Celestial Paradox, I've concluded that this artifact is not just an object that grants power, but something that transcends the very concept of existence itself. It is said to blur the lines between reality and illusion, life and death. Yet, no one knows its true origin, and all who have tried to claim it met their downfall.
After the great war between races ended, humans created new conflicts among themselves. Those who could wield magic began to see themselves as superior, while those without magical talent developed science to rival magic. This imbalance created tensions that eventually erupted into the First World War—a war between technology and magic.
When the war finally subsided, the world seemed to take a breath of relief. But it didn't last long. Human ambition once again ignited the flames of war. The Second World War broke out due to the failure of the Artificial Mana Core experiment in the city of Zenith. The resulting explosion wiped out half the city, unleashing uncontrollable magical radiation and disrupting the world's energy balance. Magicians blamed scientists for meddling with powers beyond their control, while scientists accused magicians of hoarding mana secrets to maintain their dominance. Distrust turned into an all-out global conflict.
Eventually, both sides realized that war only led to destruction. With resources dwindling, they reached an agreement: science and magic had to unite. Those who embraced both disciplines gained unprecedented power, while those who resisted were left behind. Thus, the world entered a new era—an era where technology and magic coexisted, creating a more advanced civilization.
However, as always, peace was nothing more than an illusion. Behind the scenes, eight powerful families known as the Octogram secretly pulled the strings of the world's fate. They weren't just rulers of the economy, war, or information—they were also the arbiters of Avaroth's balance. With so many secrets still hidden within this world, especially the existence of the Ethereal Paradox, one thing remains certain:
History is far from over. And whoever—or whatever—controls Avaroth's future is yet to be determined.
I paused for a moment, staring at my answer. This wasn't just an ordinary account of past empires, nations, or wars. It was an interpretation of history based on my own understanding. I could only hope it would be enough to catch the examiner's attention.
Question Number 2: What is the role of science in magic, and how is it implemented?
I stared at this question with confidence, then picked up my pen and began writing my answer on paper. The role of science in magic? For some, they may seem different, but for me, science actually enriches our understanding of magic and opens up new possibilities in its application.
Magic is not just spells and mystical energy. It has patterns, laws, and order—similar to principles in science. For example, in alchemy, the transformation of a substance follows the principles of chemical reactions. A magician who understands the molecular structure of an object can transform it more easily. Likewise, in energy manipulation, the laws of thermodynamics still apply: energy cannot be created or destroyed, only converted into different forms.
Science continues to evolve, and so does our understanding of magic. By combining the two, we can create extraordinary innovations that push the boundaries of this world. The relationship between science and magic is not a contradiction but a synergy that leads us to limitless possibilities.
I took a deep breath before I began writing my explanation on paper.
When talking about fire magic, the first law of thermodynamics is one of the most relevant scientific concepts in its use. This law states that the change in internal energy within a system is the result of the heat energy added, minus the work done by the system itself.
Formula:
ΔU = Q − W
Where:
• ΔU: Change in the system's internal energy (Joules).
• Q: Heat energy added to the system (Joules).
• W: Work done by the system (Joules).
I neatly recorded the formula, then continued my explanation. A fire mage can use mana as an internal energy source, which is then converted into heat to raise the air temperature around the focal point. If the temperature rises beyond the ignition point of a material—such as 300°C for wood or 1000°C for metal—then the material will spontaneously combust without needing an external spark.
I recalled one of the experiments I had conducted. By understanding how heat energy works, I slowly channeled mana into the air on my palm. Bit by bit, the air began to vibrate, its molecules moving faster and faster, and within seconds, sparks appeared from my fingertips. If I channeled more mana, the fire would last longer and could be used for various purposes, whether as a heat source or an attack.
I attempted to measure how much heat energy I needed to create a flame. Suppose I channeled 500 Joules of heat energy into the air (Q = 500 J) and the system only performed work of 200 Joules (W = 200 J), then the change in internal energy in the system is calculated as:
ΔU = Q - W ΔU = 500 J - 200 J ΔU = 300 J
Thus, the internal energy of the air increased by 300 Joules, enough to trigger a small spark. If I channeled more energy or reduced the work done by the system, the fire that appeared would grow larger and stronger.
In battle, this principle is highly useful. If I increased the amount of incoming energy without providing an outlet, the temperature would rise rapidly, creating a fire explosion that could devastate a specific area. However, if I spread the heat over a wider area, I could create a heat wave strong enough to weaken my opponent before attacking them directly. By understanding this law, I could not only control fire more efficiently but also utilize it in various situations without having to rely solely on magical instincts.
I paused for a moment, took a deep breath, then resumed writing my answer.
When it comes to controlling the direction of projectile-based magic attacks, the Magnus Effect is one principle that can be utilized. This effect occurs when air flows faster on one side of the projectile compared to the other, causing the projectile to curve toward the lower-pressure side.
Formula:
F = S (ω × v)
Where:
• F is the lateral force that causes the object to spin. • S is the scaling factor that depends on the shape and size of the object. • Ω is the angular velocity of the object's rotation (rad/s). • V is the velocity of the airflow around the object (m/s).
I recorded the formula and pondered for a moment, trying to explain it more simply. If a mage creates a high-pressure air ball and gives it a spin in one direction, the air moving faster on one side will create lower pressure on the other. As a result, the air projectile will follow a curved trajectory according to its rotation instead of flying straight.
I recalled how this technique could be applied in combat. If a mage releases a fireball or wind projectile with the right rotation, the projectile will not only travel straight but can also curve sharply, deceiving an opponent trying to evade. This technique can be used to bypass an enemy's defense that relies only on static shields, as the attack can maneuver around obstacles to reach its target.
I dipped my pen into the ink again and added a few small notes on the edge of the paper.
For example, suppose a mage fires a fire projectile with an airflow velocity around it of 30 m/s and gives it a rotational speed of 50 rad/s. The projectile's scaling factor, which depends on the shape and size of the fireball, is 0.05.
Using the formula:
F = S (ω × v)
Substituting the values:
F = 0.05 × (50 × 30)
F = 0.05 × 1500
F = 75 N
Thus, the lateral force causing the projectile to curve is 75 Newtons.
This technique would be extremely useful in long-range combat, especially when combined with high speed and precise control over the projectile's rotation. If mastered well, an attack that seems simple could become incredibly difficult to evade.
I smiled in satisfaction before continuing to the next part of my answer.
I looked back at the paper in front of me and began writing my next explanation. The photovoltaic effect is one of the most intriguing concepts because it allows solar magic to be converted into electrical energy. This principle was discovered in science through the phenomenon in which light striking a certain material can generate an electric current.
Formula:
P = IV
Where:• P is electrical power (Watts).• I is electric current (Amperes).• V is electric voltage (Volts).
I carefully wrote down the formula and started explaining how it works. In physics, when photons from sunlight hit a conductive surface like silicon, they can release electrons and create an electrical flow. This means that the more light absorbed, the greater the electrical energy generated. This principle can be applied in solar magic in a more flexible and efficient manner.
I continued writing, explaining its implementation. A solar mage can absorb sunlight using mana, convert it into an electric current, and then release it as a high-voltage lightning attack. If the generated energy is strong enough, the mage could create solar lightning that is more stable and powerful than regular lightning. This would be highly useful in combat, especially against opponents vulnerable to electricity-based attacks.
I attempted to calculate the electrical power produced under certain conditions. Suppose a solar mage is capable of absorbing sunlight and converting it into an electric current of 5 Amperes with a voltage of 300 Volts. The generated electrical power can be calculated as:
P = I × VP = 5 A × 300 VP = 1500 W
With 1500 Watts of power, the mage could generate a lightning attack strong enough to incapacitate multiple enemies at once. If they could increase the current or voltage, their attack could become even more lethal.
I envisioned a battle scenario where this technique could be applied. A mage stands in the middle of the battlefield, feeling the solar energy flooding their body. With a deep breath, they absorb the sunlight, gathering it within their mana core. Their hands begin to glow with a golden light as compressed electric currents concentrate in their palms.
In an instant, they unleash a golden lightning bolt that streaks forward, striking their enemies with power surpassing ordinary lightning, shattering their defenses in an instant.
I smiled slightly and added a few notes to the margins of the paper. If this technique could be further developed, then perhaps one day, solar magic would not only be used for battle but also as an alternative energy source for this world.
I stared at the paper filled with my handwriting. Every line of my answer was neatly arranged, but there was still something I wanted to add. I let out a quiet sigh before raising my hand.
"Professor, may I request additional paper?"
The entire room suddenly fell silent. Some of the other exam participants sitting nearby glanced at me with confused expressions, and a few even whispered to each other.
"Seriously? They need extra paper?"
"Are they writing a book over there?"
I tried to ignore their stares and kept my eyes on Professor Elric, who had momentarily paused his activity. He raised an eyebrow before walking closer with a curious expression.
"Extra paper?" he asked, glancing at the answer sheets on my desk. "It's rare for someone to request more than one sheet in a theory exam like this. Your answers must be quite in-depth."
I nodded politely. "I still want to include my final analysis, Professor."
Professor Elric was silent for a moment before giving a small smile. He took a few sheets of paper from his desk and handed them to me. "I'm curious about your answers, Livia. I hope your thoughts are worth the amount of paper you're using."
I carefully took the papers. "Thank you, Professor. I hope so."
Sitting back down, I immediately dipped my pen into the ink and continued writing. I stared at the blank page before me, feeling hesitant. For this final part, I wanted to include a theory I had been contemplating. But… was this really a good idea? Truthfully, I wasn't entirely sure about the hypothesis I had derived from my research on entropy laws in space-time magic.
If my theory was correct, this concept could give birth to extremely dangerous magic—something that could potentially be misused by anyone. But on the other hand, my curiosity outweighed my fear. I wanted to know if the boundaries of space and time could truly be broken through entropy manipulation.
If a system's energy could continuously increase without reaching stability, could time itself become nonlinear? Had I discovered a flaw in the world's structure?
I bit my lip, suppressing all my doubts, then began writing. I might not be strong enough to prove it now, but if someone greater than me appears in the future, I want them to see this and carry it forward.
In physics, entropy is a measure of disorder within a system. The second law of thermodynamics states that entropy in a closed system will always increase over time. However, what if entropy could be controlled? If someone could reduce a system's entropy to a certain point, could the object itself lose its existence?
Formula:
S = k_B ln Ω
Where:• S is the system's entropy.• k_B is Boltzmann's constant (1.38 × 10^{-23} J/K).• Ω is the number of possible microscopic states of the system.
I carefully wrote down the formula and began contemplating its implications. If the number of microscopic states of an object were reduced to near zero, then the object would no longer have a stable existence.
In the context of space-time magic, this would mean that an object could be completely erased from reality. By suppressing its microscopic states, not only would its physical form disappear, but its very existence in history would be wiped away.
I attempted to calculate how entropy could be reduced to a critical threshold. Suppose a system initially had 10^23 possible states, then its entropy would be:
S = (1.38 × 10^{-23} J/K) × ln(10^{23})S ≈ 7.33 × 10^{-22} J/K
If its microscopic states were reduced to only 10^5 possibilities:
S' = (1.38 × 10^{-23} J/K) × ln(10^{5})S' ≈ 1.59 × 10^{-22} J/K
This nearly 80% decrease in entropy could cause the destabilization of an object's existence. If this number continued approaching zero, then theoretically, the object would vanish entirely from reality.
This concept is dangerous. If true, it would not be ordinary destructive magic but complete erasure. Something erased in this manner could never be restored. On a small scale, it could remove inanimate objects, but on a larger scale, it could threaten the very continuity of the world itself.
I added a small note in the corner of the paper:
Professor, this theory is merely a hypothesis. If it is correct, the consequences are too great for the public to know. I leave it to you to decide whether this theory is worth further study or if it should be buried forever.
I stared at the paper before me, trying to steady my thoughts. My hands were still slightly trembling as I recorded this explanation. I knew this theory was dangerous. If someone were to master it, they would possess an unrivaled power—not just to destroy but to erase something from history itself.
And yet, my curiosity remained stronger than my fear. I had to write it down, even if I wasn't sure the world was ready to comprehend its consequences.
The sound of the bell signaling the end of the exam echoed through the room. I held my breath, speeding up my hand movements to finish the final section. Carefully, I wrote the last sentence, making sure every word was legible before time ran out.
As soon as the ink dried, I set my pen down and let out a long breath. Finally, it was done. The tension that had been pressing against my chest slowly faded, replaced by relief. I leaned back in my chair, allowing my mind to rest for a moment. Though I felt relieved, worry still lingered in my thoughts. Would my theory be understood? Or would it be deemed too dangerous? I didn't know. But for now, all I could do was wait and see what would happen.
When the final bell rang, marking the end of the exam, I quickly gathered my answer sheets and walked toward the front desk. Professor Elric stood with his arms crossed, observing the exam participants as they began submitting their papers.
I handed him my answers, and for a moment, his sharp eyes lingered on the thick stack of pages—far more than what the other participants had submitted.
"Lucas Costa, correct?" His voice held more curiosity than a simple name check.
I nodded. "Yes, Professor."
Professor Elric flipped through the first few pages, his eyebrows slightly raising before he gave a small smile. "A lengthy answer… and it seems intriguing."
Before I could respond, a woman with neatly styled golden-brown hair—Professor Evangeline—approached and glanced at the papers in Professor Elric's hands.
"What's this?" she asked, her tone filled with curiosity.
"An exam answer from a rather ambitious participant," Professor Elric replied lightly, though there was evident interest in his eyes.
Professor Evangeline took one of the pages and began reading. Her brown eyes narrowed slightly before she turned to Professor Cressida, who had been fidgeting in her seat, stealing glances at the stack of papers with barely contained curiosity.
The moment she received the pages, she quickly flipped through them, not even realizing that some sheets were about to slip from her grasp.
"Hah?! This… this is incredible! Or insane! Maybe both!" she exclaimed, her eyes shining as she hastily grabbed the nearly falling sheets. "Oh no, that was close! You know, I always thought concepts like this only existed in theoretical discussions that could never be proven! But… if this is correct…"
She turned to Professor Elric and Professor Evangeline, excitement brimming in her expression as if she had just discovered a hidden treasure.
"We have to discuss this further! Right now! I mean, after we make sure this won't blow something up, of course."
After ensuring all the pages were intact in her hands, she looked at me with excitement.
"Lucas, you do fully understand what you wrote here, right? I mean, you're not just throwing out theories without realizing how dangerous this could be, are you?"
I swallowed hard, trying to maintain my composure. "I understand the risks, Professor, but I also believe this is something worth exploring further."
Professor Elric let out a quiet sigh before finally taking all of my answer sheets from Professor Cressida and placing them on the table.
"We will review this very carefully. You may leave for now."
I bowed respectfully before turning around and walking out of the room. My heart was still pounding.
Had I just paved the way for something extraordinary… or something that was never meant to be created?