A long pause filled the air as I thought about what the headmaster had just said.

So he’d known. What else would he know? Where did he receive his information?

As I continued to ponder, my mind raced through a list of potential informants. My fellow students? Unlikely, for I had been discreet, conducting my training in the shadows. The academy's staff? Perhaps, but the headmaster's cryptic knowledge left room for more enigmatic sources. It was a puzzle with missing pieces, and I was left with the disconcerting sensation that my life had been an open book, its pages laid bare before the headmaster's discerning gaze.

With a deep breath, I finally spoke, "How did you come to know this, Headmaster?"

"The mana leaks from you like a disease. You carry so much of it around with you that it's hard not to notice," the headmaster explained. His tone held a mixture of concern and frustration. "But, luckily for you, only I have the ability to see it."

His words deepened the mystery. The concept of mana leakage was well-known among magic practitioners, and it was usually a sign of untamed or uncontrolled power. I couldn't help but feel a twinge of vulnerability, knowing that the headmaster possessed this unique sight into my magical aura.

"Let's just say it's an ability of mine," he continued cryptically. "Now, here is my suggestion: when you participate in the tournament, I want you to go all out. Show everyone what you're capable of."

My curiosity was piqued, but skepticism lingered. "And why should I listen to you?" I questioned.

His response was delivered with a hint of sternness, "Because if you don't, you'll probably lose in your matches." The weight of his words settled heavily in the room, emphasizing the seriousness of the forthcoming tournament and the stakes involved.

The headmaster leaned in, his tone growing increasingly serious. "Let me impart a lesson about this continent," he began. "Over the years, studies and tests have been conducted across all the races on this continent, and it has been scientifically proven that humans are, on average, less magically inclined than other races. In the end, it comes down to factors like body composition and the development of the mind. For instance, elf and demi children are three times more magically potent than any human child."

The headmaster's words weighed on my mind as I pondered the implications. "Yes, but there are many factors that could play into that," I began, "why should this be the sole reason for me to go all out?"

The headmaster leaned back in his chair, his gaze unwavering. "True, there are always variables at play, and it's not just about magical potential. But consider this: the tournament is a stage where perception matters as much as reality. When people see a human with extraordinary magical prowess, it challenges preconceived notions and opens doors that might have otherwise remained closed."

"Are you suggesting that going all out like this could change people's perception of humans?" I inquired.

The headmaster nodded, a spark of conviction in his eyes. "Yes, and not only that. It could help you elevate your standing in the kingdom. The Elway name is already somewhat known, thanks to High-Knight Zephyrus. But in the end, you'll have to make your own mark in the world if you want to move up in it."

The headmaster's advice was helpful and logical, but I couldn't shake the nagging question: what was his true motive?

I finally asked, "And what would you get out of helping me?"

His response was enigmatic. "I simply want to see your full capabilities, Falyn Elway. I'm just curious."

Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

The notion of the headmaster's curiosity being the sole driving force behind his guidance seemed too simplistic, but for now, I had little choice but to accept his assistance and the opportunity it presented.

***

Two weeks later

Myla Elway’s P.O.V

I sat behind the auditorium's curtain, my heart pounding with anticipation as I waited for the students to pour in and fill the seats. It seemed that, out of all the people, I had been adorned with the daunting task of announcing this year's academy candidates for the tournaments.

To be honest, I should have seen this coming. The headmaster had a tendency to entrust me with significant responsibilities, and this was no exception. It was both an honor and a burden, one that I was prepared to bear for the sake of the academy and its promising students.

Irene stood next to me as I rehearsed what I was going to say in my head. Over the years, I had gotten used to being on stage, but the few minutes before were always nerve-wracking, and there was no way to stop it.

"You'll be fine, Myla," Irene cooed, a reassuring smile on her face as she finished applying her lip gloss.

"Easy for you to say, you never have to do this stuff," I retorted, my anxiety still lingering.

"I know, and probably never will, thanks to you, sweetie pie," she joked, attempting to lighten the mood.

Taking one last deep breath to steady my nerves, I sighed and mentally rehearsed my lines once more before stepping out into the crowd of eager students.

The grand auditorium unfolded before me, its opulence casting an aura of reverence and anticipation. The vaulted ceiling, adorned with intricate frescoes of legendary battles, reached up to touch the heavens. Massive crystal chandeliers hung like constellations, their lights gleaming with a warm, inviting glow.

The sea of students, their faces animated with excitement, stretched out before me in a vast, multicolored tapestry. The seats, polished to a shine, held generations of hopeful scholars, their collective presence a testament to the importance and tradition that the tournament held.

As the crowd noticed my presence, their chatter transformed into instant silence, and I pursed my lips in front of the microphone. The hushed expectancy in the room was palpable, a silence pregnant with hope and ambition.

"Ladies and gentlemen, fellow scholars, and esteemed guests,

Today, I find myself standing before you, not as an individual, but as a representative of our academy's collective spirit and tradition. I stand here with a profound sense of honor and responsibility as we gather to mark the beginning of an exciting chapter in our journey – the announcement of this year's academy candidates for the tournament."

I left my sentence with a pause, and claps and cheers erupted throughout the auditorium.

As they died down once more, I caught my breath, ready to speak again.

"As we look around this majestic auditorium, we see not just the grandeur of our surroundings but the legacy of countless students who have passed through these halls. Each name etched into the annals of our academy's history contributes to the rich tapestry of knowledge, dedication, and excellence that defines us.

The tournament, as we all know, is not just an event; it is a testament to our commitment to the pursuit of greatness. It is a stage where our most promising talents are showcased, and their abilities tested in the crucible of competition. It is a tradition that has been passed down through generations, and it serves as a reminder of our enduring dedication to growth, unity, and the celebration of diversity.

The journey ahead, for the candidates we will soon announce, is filled with challenges, but it is also filled with the promise of growth, learning, and self-discovery. It is a journey that will test not only their magical abilities but also their resolve, determination, and resilience.

As we cheer for our candidates and support them in their quest for victory, let us also remember the values that have been instilled in us. Let us embrace the principles of respect, fairness, and sportsmanship, for it is not just about winning but about how we conduct ourselves on this path.

I want to remind you all that the tournament is not just an opportunity for our candidates but for all of us to come together, to celebrate our collective achievements, and to reinforce our unity as a community. It is a time to reflect on the power of knowledge, the strength of diversity, and the bonds that tie us together.

As I stand here before you, I am filled with pride in our academy and its unwavering commitment to nurturing talents, fostering curiosity, and shaping the leaders of tomorrow. I am honored to be a part of this tradition, and I have no doubt that the candidates we are about to announce will carry the torch of excellence with grace and determination.

So, let us embrace this journey with open hearts and open minds, supporting our candidates and celebrating their dedication. Together, we can make this tournament not just a competition but a demonstration of the spirit that defines our academy.

Thank you, and may this tournament be a testament to the legacy we continue to build."

I took a pause once more to build the suspense, "Now, on to the candidates."