Elysia stepped out of the staff room after what she said to her class teacher.
The Next Day
The first-year students gathered on the training field. The usual running laps had already left everyone panting.
Kael wiped a sleeve across his brow, breathing steadily despite the burning in his legs.
Around him, other students slumped against benches and stretched to keep their muscles from locking.
Before anyone could relax too much, the familiar figure of Professor Sylvia appeared at the edge of the field.
"First-years," she called.
"Today, we will add a new component to your training. As of this moment, you will begin friendly duels."
"The rules are simple," Sylvia continued. "You may challenge either a single opponent or an entire team. No killing, no crippling injuries, and no outside interference. This is to test your combat awareness and adaptability. Remember, this is training. Fight seriously, but fight with control."