Throughout the week, a total of six different tests were held, examining all of the students in each year.

During the testing period, William participated in all six tests, showcasing his knowledge, magical prowess, and physical abilities. He approached each challenge with a calm and focused demeanor, never wavering in his determination to excel.

The second test was the practical examination, where students had to demonstrate their spellcasting abilities in a controlled environment.

Next came the combat assessment, a test of martial skill and strategy. Students were paired up and tasked with engaging in simulated battles using their magical abilities.

The fourth test focused on mana control, assessing the student's ability to manipulate and channel their mana with precision in a low mana environment.

In the fifth test, students were evaluated on their knowledge of history, be it magical or not.

The final test was a practical application of magic in a real-world scenario. Students were tasked with solving complex magical puzzles and challenges using their wit, creativity, and spellcasting abilities.

As the testing period came to a close, the results were announced. William's exceptional performance in all the tests propelled him to the top of his class and garnered the attention of both his peers and the faculty.

He had not only passed with flying colors but had also set new standards for excellence within the Academy. His classmates were astounded by his results, especially the ones in the top ten.

However, William's mind was still preoccupied with his mana absorption issue. Despite his remarkable success during the testing period, he couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that his progress would be hindered if he didn't find a solution.

When it came to his results, William didn't find them that impressive. He was an old man competing with young students in things he had learned a long time ago. The only reason he even showcased so much of his prowess was due to the credit system and resource acquisition.

With his newly acquired credit from achieving such an outstanding result, he rented an isolation room.

Isolation rooms were exactly as the name suggested—rooms that isolated everything except mana.

In this room, William could focus all his attention on finding a solution. Activating his aspect, he let mana flow into his channels, feeling them slowly clump up and block themselves once again.

Sighing, he forcefully pushed himself to absorb even more, completely blocking his channels. He needed to approach this problem from a different angle and think outside the box. Perhaps there was a way to work with his aspect rather than fight against it.

He focused on the green runes covering his body, visualizing them as part of his mana channels rather than a hindrance. Slowly, he tried to merge the runes with the flow of mana, allowing them to become a natural extension of his magic.

To his surprise, as he visualized the integration of the runes, he felt a subtle shift within his mana channels. The blockages started to dissipate, and the mana flow became smoother. It was as if the green runes were no longer causing disruptions but rather enhancing the absorption process.

Excitement surged through William as he continued to refine his technique. He found that by aligning the flow of mana with the intricate patterns of the runes, he could enhance his absorption efficiency. The green runes acted as conduits, guiding the mana into his channels with precision and control.

As he practiced this new method, mana absorption became more efficient than ever before. The energy surged through his body, replenishing his reserves at an accelerated pace. It was a breakthrough that exceeded his expectations, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment.

With his mana absorption issue resolved, William's focus shifted back to his goal of reaching the third stage. He knew that the path ahead wouldn't be easy, but he felt more confident than ever in his abilities.

Days turned into weeks as William dedicated himself to rigorous training and study. He continued to excel in his classes, impressing both his instructors and fellow students with his remarkable progress. His reputation as a rising star within the Academy grew, and he started to receive recognition for his achievements.

He had become a somewhat mysterious figure since he never interacted with anyone outside of class. Many teachers showcased him as an example in classes and even tried to talk to him after the classes were over.

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Ever since William's first class, Andrew Cline had become highly interested in him.

In every class, he would try to challenge William in unique ways, but William would always answer correctly, elevating his interest.

After William became the top student in his class, Andrew decided to have a one-on-one talk with him and take him in as a personal student.

Personal students were different from regular students. They would be directly taught by the teacher in the subject and would later represent the teacher in the academy tests.

Andrew had to make a request to take William as a personal student, and that request had to be accepted by the Academy Head. Though he had yet to ask William to become his student, he decided to first look for the Academy Head and then ask William to become his student.

The Academy Head was mysterious, and no one knew their identity apart from some high-level individuals inside the Academy. Andrew knew the identity of the academy head thanks to his teacher, the Time Tower Master, Arlington Conwyn.

Andrew made his way to the head's office, his steps stable yet rapid.

Andrew knocked on the door of the Academy Head's office, a sense of anticipation coursing through him. The door swung open, revealing a figure seated behind a large desk, shrouded in shadows. The academy head's voice echoed through the room, commanding yet tinged with a hint of curiosity.

"Enter, Andrew Cline. What brings you here today?"

Andrew stepped into the office, his gaze fixed on the Academy Head. Despite the shadows concealing the person's features, Andrew could feel a powerful aura emanating from them. He took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before speaking.

"I come before you to make a request, esteemed Academy Head. I wish to take William Virtu as my personal student. His exceptional abilities and potential have caught my attention, and under my guidance, he can reach even greater heights.

The academy head leaned back in their chair, their voice carrying a hint of intrigue.

"William Virtu, you say? The student who recently achieved remarkable results during the testing period? I have heard of his extraordinary prowess. What makes you believe that he is worthy of your personal attention?"

Andrew's eyes sparkled with conviction as he spoke.

"I have observed William closely throughout his time here, and his dedication, intelligence, and talent in magic are undeniable. I believe that with my guidance, he can surpass even his own expectations. Together, we can shape him into a formidable mage and an asset to the Academy."

The Academy Head fell silent, their gaze fixed on Andrew. After a moment, they finally spoke, their voice filled with a mixture of approval and caution.

"Very well, Andrew Cline. Your request to take William as your personal student is granted. However, remember that this responsibility comes with great expectations. I trust that you will nurture his potential and guide him on the path of greatness."

Andrew bowed respectfully, gratitude and determination shining in his eyes.

"Thank you, esteemed Academy Head. I will not disappoint you. I shall do everything in my power to help William reach his full potential."

Saying so, he exited the room, the door closing behind him. The Academy director stared at the closed door, muttering to himself.

"Sure enough, that child is special. There was no way that the greedy emperor of Thelwedean would give a recommendation letter to an outsider. I wonder if father will be interested in him…"

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With the academy head's approval, Andrew's next step was to inform William about the opportunity. He found him in the library, engrossed in a book about advanced spellcasting techniques. Andrew approached him with a warm smile on his face.

"William, may I have a word with you?"

William looked up from his book, surprise flickering in his green eyes. He closed the book and nodded, curious about the reason for Andrew's visit.

"Of course, Professor Cline. What can I do for you?"

Andrew motioned for William to follow him, leading him to a quieter corner of the library. He paused for a moment, contemplating his words, before speaking.

"William, I have been watching your progress closely, and I must say, I am impressed. Your dedication, talent, and thirst for knowledge have caught my attention. I believe that you have the potential to achieve great things, and I would like to take you under my wing as my personal student."

William was taken aback by his words. He was just minding his business when suddenly he was offered to be a personal student. His emotions were mixed, and he did not know how to react.

However, even though he was internally struggling, his expression didn't expose him, as he smiled brightly.

"Sir, I would love to be under your personal tutelage, but I hope it will not hinder my personal time since I would like to improve my other abilities as well."

In truth, William didn't want to go under his tutelage, but he couldn't refuse him since that would only hinder his growth. William didn't doubt Andrew's capabilities as a mage and teacher, but he knew that they were on a similar level when it came to knowledge.

Thankfully, William wasn't narrow-minded and knew how to cherish situations like this, wanting to cooperate with Andrew and improve their knowledge together. Although it might not be a teacher-student relationship, in the end, it was a good situation for both of them.

Andrew appreciated William's cautious response, realizing that the young mage valued his personal time and growth. He nodded understandingly, his smile widening.

"I understand your concern, William. Rest assured, being my personal student doesn't mean you'll be confined solely to my teachings. I believe in fostering well-rounded individuals, and I encourage you to continue honing your other abilities alongside your magical studies. My goal is to guide and support you on your path to greatness, not restrict you."

William's relief was evident as he let out a sigh of relief. He respected Andrew and his expertise, but he also cherished the freedom to explore different aspects of his abilities.

"Thank you, Professor Cline. Your understanding means a lot to me. I'm truly honored to have this opportunity, and I'm eager to learn from you. I promise to give my best and make the most of this chance."

Andrew placed a hand on William's shoulder, a gesture of reassurance and encouragement.

"I have no doubt that you will, William. You have already shown remarkable talent, and I believe you have the potential to achieve great things. Together, we will unlock your full capabilities and shape you into an extraordinary mage."

William could only smile at those words. If only Andrew knew who William really was, he wouldn't have gotten himself into such a situation. For now, he would genuinely act as his student.