There was a festive mood in the air as the magic academy held its finals. Unlike previous years, these finals were open to the public, and other students were encouraged to watch. Though time slots were assigned for performances, students were left alone if they had pressing preparations. This was why Ravina was allowed to arrive ten minutes before her scheduled display. She was the second-to-last candidate to showcase her skills and cared little for the others' performances—she had watched them grow firsthand. Instead, she looked forward to showcasing her own blink spell, a feat she was certain would astonish. Earl’s reaction was the only thing she truly anticipated, imagining his expression as she claimed first place for the first time since she started at the academy. Though it was bittersweet that this was their final exam, she couldn’t help but smile widely when her name was called over the enthusiastic cheers of the crowd, still buzzing from the previous contestant’s dazzling display.
“Now then, ladies and gentlemen!” The roaring voice of the announcer echoed across the amphitheater, magically amplified to reach every corner. Originally a stage for aspiring drama students at the Jemini Arts Academy, the space had been graciously lent to the magic tower for this final event. The collaboration was part of a longstanding tradition. By providing spells for theatrical displays, the tower had gradually elevated public opinion of magic—from fearful mystery to awe-inspiring wonder—over the past 300 years.
“We have only two contestants left! These two have been competing for first place since they started at the academy two years ago!” Ravina blinked as her confident smile faltered slightly. Did everyone really know about her obsession with taking first place? Did they have to announce it so publicly? The announcer, a young man with an unexpectedly girlish voice, continued unabated. “This is their final chance to claim the top spot. What sort of exciting spells will we witness? Don’t worry, ladies and gentlemen, arcane masters are standing by to ensure your safety is (almost) guaranteed!” At this, the crowd erupted into cheers, their excitement renewed by his dramatic delivery and the impressive performances they’d already seen.
“Introducing Miss Ravina Grant!” A senior student ushered her forward, part of the fourth-year body tasked with managing the event to gain experience in hosting large-scale exhibitions. Ravina stepped onto the stage, her movements fluid and confident. She glanced at the thousands of people seated in the stands. Earlier, she had worried about stage fright, but now, staring out at the crowd, she realized not a single one of them possessed the commanding presence of the count. Her lips curled into a smile as she took her position on the stage.
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A hush fell over the amphitheater, the audience eager to witness what the second-place student would display. They wanted a performance? She would give them one. Placing a hand to her throat, she cast a spell to enhance her vocal cords, amplifying her voice. A cooling and rejuvenation spell followed—a combination often overlooked, though deceptively dangerous when used improperly.
“A year ago,” she began, her voice ringing clear even to the back rows, “I lost first place due to the introduction of ancient magic. It wasn’t a completed spell but a working theory that advanced research by decades.” She paused, letting her words settle over the crowd. Her gaze shifted to the five senior judges seated in the central box, typically reserved for nobles. Her smile widened as she released tendrils of black and purple energy, timing the display perfectly.
“It was a spell that allowed one to move from one place to another in the blink of an eye.” On the word blink, she activated three spells simultaneously. A resounding thump echoed from her starting point as vibrant trails of magic streaked across the stage. In the blink of an eye, she reappeared behind the judges, her voice carrying seamlessly as she finished her sentence. “I’ve proven that the spell is not only functional but entirely practical.” She turned her gaze to the judges, who had risen from their seats in shock. “I look forward to winning this competition with the very spell theory that young man introduced.”
With that, she vanished again, returning to her seat. The crowd was silent for a moment before scattered applause began, building into polite waves. Mutters of curiosity rose among the spectators. To many, the spell seemed overly simplistic—aesthetic, perhaps, but not particularly groundbreaking. Yet among those wearing wizardly robes, there was an undercurrent of excitement, their wide eyes and animated discussions betraying their recognition of its significance.
“Ladies and gentlemen, congratulations!” The announcer finally pulled himself together, his voice regaining its lively energy. “You’ve just witnessed the first blink spell in over 1,000 years!” The crowd responded with polite cheers, though not with the fervor of earlier performances. “And now, I can’t wait to see how Earl of the Magic Academy plans to top that incredible display!”
The applause continued as the announcer introduced the final contestant. “Ladies and gentlemen, Earl…” The announcer hesitated, briefly forgetting the surname. “…Earl Hayes!”
Earl walked onto the stage stiffly, his posture rigid and his nerves visible even from a distance.