The students were corralled into a raised platform overlooking the pit. Teachers appeared, each displaying their magical expertise.
Professor Thalen summoned massive elemental constructs, manipulating fire and ice with a flick of his staff. Flames spiraled into serpents while ice walls rose to crush illusions.
Professor Lysara, master of shadow beasts, released her trained creatures—shadow wolves and ink spiders that attacked in synchronized patterns.
Professor Kaelor, the oldest, his robes covered in runes, gestured with both hands. Massive spectral hands formed to hurl obstacles, testing students' reflexes and tactical thinking.
Every student was observed, notes magically inscribed on floating parchments. Mistakes, hesitation, or uncontrolled fear were immediately noted, affecting their tournament ranking.
Lyra crouched behind a stone pillar, chains of shadow ready. She studied the teachers' movements, anticipating patterns, while dodging phantom attacks. Mira shouted, casting wind bursts, while Kael silently took down every approaching creature with lethal precision.
The teachers nodded among themselves, impressed. "The F-rank girl shows unusual control… dangerous potential," Professor Lysara muttered.
Lyra's heart pounded. Every step, every breath, every decision mattered. The academy was alive, its magic dangerous, and the beasts and illusions relentless.
And this was only the beginning.