Chapter 37: The Graduation Test Begins

Morning had arrived, and in front of Mayhem City Magic High School, a bustling crowd of students could be seen. Today marked an important day that would determine the future paths for many students. It signaled the beginning of the graduation test at Mayhem City Magic High School.

As usual, the test was divided into two parts: the theory part and the practical part. The theory part, which commenced today, aimed to assess the students' knowledge of magic. Throughout the three years of high school, students had learned the fundamental aspects of magic, including mathematics, spell circles, magic theory, and more. This test would evaluate their understanding of these subjects. Despite the wide range of topics to cover, the test would conclude within a mere three days, thanks to the heightened brain cell activity of those who had already awakened their magical abilities. Even individuals with low mana affinity possessed an exceptional level of mental acuity compared to those who had yet to awaken. Thus, the test could be completed efficiently, just as it had been in previous years.

Following the theory part would be the practical part, which extended over a longer duration of seven days. Unlike ancient mages, modern-day mages focused not only on theory but also on the practical applications of magic and spells. Everyday magical items were a testament to this practicality and had shaped the current era of mages. There was even a saying that emphasized the importance of practical value: "Magic that doesn't have any practical value is useless." To uphold this ideal, practical tests were included in the graduation requirements.

The practical test encompassed various aspects, extending beyond combat. As the name implied, it emphasized the practicality of magic, including tests on magic mechanics, magical applications, magical survival, and magical combat. Due to the breadth of these tests, the scores obtained during the practical part would contribute to more than 60% of the students' overall test results.

After completing high school, the next stage for students was the university, where paths in magic diverged. The credibility of a university determined the breadth and depth of opportunities it provided to its students. However, admission to prestigious universities was not open to all students. Only the best would be admitted, and the results of the graduation test played a crucial role in the selection process. To secure admission to renowned institutions like Central Magic University, one had to work diligently to achieve a top 100 ranking among all students in the country. Otherwise, they would have to rely on more modest universities, which could make their future endeavors more challenging.

This test was widely regarded as a turning point for many individuals. For the wealthy, it was an opportunity to showcase their talents. However, for the less privileged, it was a time of struggle, as success in the test could lead to a brighter future. Some families spared no expense, even going into debt, to support their family members' success. The significance of this test was evident in the extent to which families were willing to go.

As for me, this test was not solely about entering a university. Ever since my path as a mage had been blocked, I had abandoned all my dreams of becoming one. Nevertheless, I couldn't help but reminisce at times, but I steeled my heart and continued on the path of a warrior—it was the only path left for me.

What this test meant to me was the opportunity to gain recognition from everyone. No matter how composed and mature I appeared, I couldn't deny feeling a hint of jealousy towards mages. It had been my childhood dream—to be acknowledged by all and become the strongest mage. Which child didn't harbor such aspirations? Sadly, I was destined not to become one, but I refused to give up. I still longed for recognition, particularly from my parents. Just this once, I wanted them to look at me attentively and praise me, as other parents did with their children.

Hence, despite the scorn I had endured since the awakening ceremony, I remained motivated to move forward. After all, not everyone scorned me. There were still people who cared and believed in me. Master's genuine concern and his efforts to assist me, along with Sarah, Anna, and Thomas treating me as an equal regardless of my magical abilities, instilled hope within me. When I showed them that I was no longer a cripple, everyone would be astonished, and they would come to realize the absurdity of their scorn.

Filled with determination, I raised my leg and stepped into the school, ready to embark on the day's test. From this day forth, the graduation test had officially begun.