Jace the Elemental

The arena filled with mist again, the familiar hum of magic returning before it slowly dissipated, revealing that the arena had returned to the podium state. The two teachers stood behind Dean Karnell, their expressions calm but proud, as the students quieted down, their attention fixed on the stage.

"I just want to start by thanking Ms. Vale and Mr. Voss for their amazing performance," he said, gesturing to the two teachers. His voice carried a warmth that seemed to fill the arena, and the students erupted into cheer and applause once more.

Jace clapped along with the rest, his mind still buzzing from the duel. The sheer skill and creativity of the teachers' magic had left him in awe, and he couldn't help but wonder what it would take to reach that level. He glanced at Ethan, who was grinning from ear to ear, his hands clapping enthusiastically.

"Absolutely," Jace replied, nodding. "And how sharp do you think Mr. Voss had to get that metal blade to cut through her fusion magic like that?"

"I don't know, man," Ethan said with a chuckle. "Probably sharp enough to cut you if you got too close to it."

As the applause started dying down, Dean Karnell raised his hand, signaling for silence. The students went silent.

"Now," Dean Karnell began, clasping his hands behind his back, "over the course of your time here, it's our job to get you as close to what you saw today as possible." His voice was calm but firm, carrying an authority that commanded respect. "But it will be up to all of you whether or not you achieve that. If you push yourselves to your limits, listen to your teachers, and constantly strive to do even more than your best, then you can hope to join them at their level of skill."

Jace felt a surge of determination as he listened to Dean Karnell's words. The challenge was clear, and the path ahead was daunting, but he was ready to give it everything he had. He glanced at Ethan, who was nodding along, his usual grin replaced by a look of quiet resolve.

"This is it," Ethan whispered, his voice barely audible. "No holding back."

"You had better not," Jace said, holding out his hand. "I wouldn't want to leave you behind."

"You couldn't outrun me if you tried." Ethan laughed, clasping Jace's hand pulling him close and putting him into a headlock, messing up his hair.

"Hey, cut it out!" Jace protested, laughing as he tried to squirm free. "You're just mad because you know I'm better than you ."

"In your dreams," Ethan shot back, finally releasing him with a playful shove. "But seriously, we're going to crush this

Before Jace could respond, Dean Karnell's voice echoed through the arena once more. "Tomorrow you will all be split into groups depending on how you ranked in all the entrance exams. Those who rank high get more benefits, if you end up ranking low but want more. Do better" His tone was firm, leaving no room for argument.

Jace exchanged a glance with Ethan, his competitive spirit flaring. The ranking system added a new layer of stakes, and he was determined to prove himself.

"For those of you in the dorms your stuff has already been moved to your rooms, the rest of the night is free time. We'll see you tomorrow" With that he turned and left, Ms. Vale and Mr. Voss followed close behind.