SELINA STELLAR’S P.O.V

Today wasn't like any regular school day. Classes were called off, and everyone was bustling around the academy, filled with excitement about the events in the weeks to come. Whether they would watch it on the big mana screen or be there in person, the Archipelago Tournament was a big deal.

The academy's halls were abuzz with chatter, and students were discussing their favorite contenders, making predictions, and sharing stories from previous tournaments. It was a time of camaraderie and anticipation, as the tournament was not only a showcase of magical talent but a celebration of the academy's spirit and traditions.

For many, the Archipelago Tournament marked a highlight of the academic year, and the atmosphere was charged with a sense of adventure and competition. It was a time when friendships would be tested, new alliances formed, and the bonds of the academy community strengthened.

As I navigated through the excited crowd, I couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation myself. The Archipelago Tournament was not just a magical competition; it was a stage where dreams were realized, and the future of the academy was shaped.

And now that both Fal and Hanz were in the tournaments, it would be wrong for me not to be excited myself. I had been one of the first ones to buy a warp gate ticket to the event, ensuring I would be among the first to make it there.

The thought of watching them compete in the tournament added a personal dimension to the excitement. I was filled with pride for them and eager to see their magical prowess on display.

The tournament spanned several days, so booking a hotel room was a necessity for most attendees. However, Myla, being the Student Council President, generously suggested that I stay with her in her suite, an offer I gladly accepted. Her position came with some perks, and in this case, it meant that her room and the full round trip expenses were covered by the school.

Staying with Myla not only saved me the trouble of finding accommodation but also provided the opportunity for us to share the experience of the Archipelago Tournament more closely.

I had already packed all my clothes and headed to meet up with Myla and Irene at the Warp station.

Arriving outside of the bustling station, I immediately spotted them in the sea of people.

Myla waved high in the air, making sure I saw her. "Selina!"

I made my way towards them, relieved to have found them. "I was afraid I was never going to find you," I said, looking around at the surge of people.

Myla chuckled, her voice filled with warmth. "Yeah, it's always busy this time of year."

Irene, who had been standing beside Myla, nodded in agreement. The station was teeming with excitement, as travelers from all over were converging for the Archipelago Tournament, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

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"The only bad part is the warp gate lines," Irene sighed, her frustration evident. "We won't make it to the Archipelago for another two hours, minimum."

As the day wore on, I soon realized Irene couldn't have been more right. The wait in the warp gate lines felt interminable and, at times, rather boring. But eventually, after what felt like an eternity, we finally made it through and were ready to embark on the next leg of our journey to the Archipelago.

As we stepped out of the warp gate and onto the Archipelago, a breathtaking vista unfolded before us. The landscape was a vivid tapestry of natural beauty. Lush, green grass carpeted the land, and the gentle ocean breeze carried the scent of salt and adventure. The azure waters stretched out as far as the eye could see, merging seamlessly with the horizon.

In the distance, a chain of small, picturesque islands dotted the sparkling sea. Each island was a paradise of its own, with pristine beaches, swaying palm trees, and inviting coves. The Archipelago was renowned for its natural wonders, and it was easy to understand why. The view was nothing short of magical, and it was a testament to the beauty and diversity of the magical world we lived in.

We were currently on the back island and would have to take a fairy to get to where our hotel was located, but it all worked out amazingly.

And I found myself thoroughly enjoying this girls' trip of ours.

As the day progressed, the sky transformed into a canvas of colors. Brilliant hues of orange, pink, and purple painted the horizon as the sun began its descent. The Archipelago sunsets were famous for their breathtaking splendor, and we were lucky to witness one on our arrival. It was a sight that left us in awe, a perfect backdrop for the magical events that would unfold during the tournament.

FALYN ELWAY’S P.O.V

I found myself at the top floor of my hotel room, standing on the balcony. The view that stretched before me was nothing short of awe-inspiring, and it was a world apart from anything I had experienced in my past life. This was a truly magical world, where the beauty of nature and the wonders of the Archipelago came together in perfect harmony.

As I gazed out over the ocean, the sky overhead took on hues of vibrant colors, casting a mesmerizing spell. It was a sight that left me breathless, and I couldn't help but feel like I had stepped into a dream.

The pier below was bustling with light and people, adding to the enchantment of the scene. The beach, just beyond, carried the same vibrant energy, with laughter and joy echoing in the salty sea breeze.

Pulling me out of my gaze I heard a knock on my room door.

"It's unlocked," I said as I heard Hanz approaching.

As I opened the door, Hanz stumbled into the room, clearly excited. "This is crazy, Fal. There are girls everywhere. We have to go to the beach. Come on. No fun never hurt anyone."

I smiled at his enthusiasm, but I had different plans in mind. "I think I'm just going to relax up here, Hanz," I replied. "I want to get my thoughts straight before the first day of the tournament. You go ahead and have fun at the beach. I'll catch up with you later."

Hanz nodded, understanding my need for some quiet time. "Alright, Fal. If you change your mind, you know where to find us. Enjoy your peace and quiet."

As he left, I closed the door and returned to the balcony, where I could once again lose myself in the breathtaking view and the serenity of the Archipelago.

Suddenly, I felt a nudge in my inner mana core, and my feline friend, Rye, appeared in a corporeal form, stretching after his transition.

I couldn't help but be surprised. "I don't even get a hello?"

Rye, in his usual energetic manner, instantly darted to the balcony. "Where the hell are we?"

I joined him, leaning against the balcony rail. "We're in the Archipelago," I replied. "A tournament is starting tomorrow, and we're here to compete."

"It seems I woke up just in time," I remarked.

Rye responded, "Yeah, you did."

I gave him a serious look. "I'll need you if I want to go all out."