«The second phase of the semester exams officially begins!»
The announcer's voice echoes through the arena, sparking a roar of applause and cheers. The tension in the air is palpable, and the spectators are eager to witness the duels between students. All eyes are, of course, on Eiric Serenvalir — the prodigy who has drawn an unprecedented number of army officers and private observers, thanks to his extraordinary performance during the selections and his mastery of Manipulation Magic.
By regulation, challengers are chosen by random draw shortly before each match begins, a precaution that prevents participants from devising plans to sabotage their opponents in advance.
«The first duel will be between... Amelia Lunara and Darius Lharok!» the commentator announces, and the applause continues as the designated students prepare for battle.
