"We at Arcadia offer five core subjects to all our students," Bartholomew began, his calm smile still etched firmly in place. "Regardless of one's innate talents, you will learn these foundational disciplines."
He ticked them off on his fingers as he spoke. "Mana Theory, History, Alchemy, Spellcrafting… and, of course, Combat."
Michael's eyes narrowed slightly. The headmaster's gaze sharpened almost imperceptibly on that last word, his eyes glinting in a way that made Michael's skin prickle. Though Bartholomew's smile never wavered, Michael swore he could feel a shift in the man's presence—as if a gleaming sword had just been drawn from its sheath, poised to strike.
A murmur swept through the room at the mention of Combat. Several of the new students leaned forward, unable to mask their excitement.
