Elric woke up to the soft rays of the morning sun filtering through his window. Today, he had a feeling that something significant was going to happen. After the events of the past few days and his newfound understanding of his magical abilities, he was eager to see what the future held.

After breakfast, Elric was helping Elda with some chores when a knock sounded at their door. Elda opened it to reveal the village elder, a wise and kindly man named Elder Bran.

"Elder Bran, what brings you here?" Elda asked, a hint of surprise in her voice.

"Good morning, Elda, Elric," Elder Bran greeted them with a warm smile. "I've come with important news. May I come in?"

Elda nodded and invited Elder Bran inside. They all sat around the kitchen table, and the elder began to speak.

"The Royal Academy has announced a new scholarship program," Elder Bran said, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "They are seeking young geniuses with exceptional magical abilities from all over the kingdom. I believe Elric would be an excellent candidate for this opportunity."

Elric's heart raced at the mention of the Royal Academy. He had heard tales of the prestigious institution where the most talented mages and scholars were trained. The thought of attending such a place filled him with a mix of excitement and apprehension.

"The Royal Academy?" Elric asked, barely able to contain his curiosity. "What do I need to do to apply?"

Elder Bran smiled reassuringly. "The process is quite rigorous, but I have no doubt you are up to the challenge, Elric. First, you will need to demonstrate your magical abilities through a series of tests. These tests will be administered by representatives from the academy who will be visiting our village next week."

Elda looked at Elric with pride. "You've been practicing diligently, Elric. I believe you are ready for this."

Elder Bran continued, "In addition to the practical tests, you will also need to write an essay explaining why you want to attend the Royal Academy and what you hope to achieve there. The essay should reflect your aspirations, goals, and your understanding of magic."

Elric nodded, feeling a surge of determination. "I will do my best, Elder Bran. Thank you for believing in me."

"The tests will cover various aspects of magic," Elder Bran explained. "You will need to showcase your telekinesis, healing abilities, and, most importantly, your spirit magic. The academy values versatility and strength in magic, so it's crucial to demonstrate your proficiency in each area."

Elric listened intently, absorbing every detail. He knew that this opportunity could change his life and open doors he had never imagined.

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Elder Bran then outlined the admission process. "The academy's representatives will evaluate each candidate's magical abilities during the tests. They will look for not only raw power but also control, creativity, and the potential for growth. After the practical tests, the essays will be reviewed, and a final decision will be made."

Elda reached out and squeezed Elric's hand. "I have faith in you, Elric. You've worked so hard, and I know you have the talent and determination to succeed."

Elric felt a swell of gratitude for his mother's unwavering support. "I'll give it my all, Mother. I promise."

Elder Bran stood up, preparing to leave. "I'll inform the village about the upcoming tests and the opportunity for our young ones. Elric, I'll see you at the village square next week for the tests. Good luck."

As Elder Bran left, Elric's mind was already racing with thoughts of how to prepare for the tests. He knew that he had to push himself even harder in the days leading up to the evaluation. The chance to attend the Royal Academy was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and he was determined to seize it.

Over the next few days, Elric dedicated himself to honing his magical abilities. Elda helped him practice his telekinesis and healing spells, while Elric also spent time exploring the depths of his spirit magic. The connection he felt with the spirit world was still new and mysterious, but he could sense its immense potential.

When the day of the tests finally arrived, Elric was both nervous and excited. The village square was bustling with activity as the academy's representatives set up their testing stations. Elder Bran greeted the villagers and explained the significance of the tests, emphasizing the importance of supporting their young candidates.

Elric took a deep breath and approached the first station, where a stern-looking mage in academy robes awaited him. The mage introduced himself as Master Theron and explained the first test: telekinesis.

"Lift these objects using your telekinetic abilities," Master Theron instructed, pointing to a series of stones and wooden blocks of varying sizes.

Elric focused his energy and extended his hand. He could feel the familiar sensation of magic flowing through him as he lifted the stones and blocks, arranging them into a neat stack. Master Theron nodded in approval and noted something on his clipboard.

"Next, demonstrate your healing abilities," Master Theron said, leading Elric to another station where a dummy with simulated injuries lay on a table.

Elric placed his hands over the dummy and concentrated. He visualized the injuries healing, and soon, a soft glow emanated from his palms. The cuts and bruises on the dummy began to mend, and Master Theron observed with a keen eye.

"Impressive," Master Theron remarked. "Now, for the final test: spirit magic."

Elric felt a surge of anticipation as he approached the third station. He closed his eyes and reached out to the spirit world, feeling the ethereal energy respond to his call. He summoned a small wisp of spirit energy and guided it through a series of intricate patterns, showcasing his control and connection with the spirit realm.

Master Theron watched closely, his expression inscrutable. When Elric finished, the mage gave a slight nod and made a final note on his clipboard.

"You have demonstrated remarkable talent, young man," Master Theron said. "Now, submit your essay to the scribe over there, and we will review your application thoroughly."

Elric handed his carefully crafted essay to the scribe, who smiled and wished him luck. With the tests complete, Elric felt a mix of relief and hope. He had done everything he could, and now it was up to the academy to decide.

As the days passed, the village buzzed with excitement and anticipation. The news of Elric's participation in the tests had spread, and many villagers expressed their pride and support.

Finally, a letter arrived from the Royal Academy. Elda and Elric gathered around the kitchen table, their hearts pounding with anticipation. Elric carefully opened the letter and began to read aloud.

"Dear Elric Gray,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted into the Royal Academy. Your exceptional display of magical abilities and your heartfelt essay have impressed our evaluators. We believe you have great potential and are excited to welcome you to our institution.

Please find enclosed the details of your scholarship and the preparations you need to make for your journey to the academy.

Congratulations, Elric. We look forward to seeing you thrive and grow as a mage.

Sincerely,

The Royal Academy Admissions Committee"

Elda hugged Elric tightly, tears of joy streaming down her face. "You did it, Elric! I'm so proud of you."

Elric felt a mixture of elation and disbelief. The Royal Academy awaited him, and he knew that this was just the beginning of an incredible journey. With his mother's support and the knowledge he had gained, he was ready to face whatever challenges and opportunities lay ahead.

As the village celebrated Elric's acceptance, he couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the people who had supported him along the way. He was determined to make the most of this opportunity and prove that even a humble boy from a small village could achieve greatness.