For citizens of the Victoria Kingdom, the awakening ceremony held great significance, but the upcoming unified magic institution entrance exams were equally momentous. In the past, each institution conducted its own exams, leading to missed opportunities for many awakened individuals to enter their preferred institutions.
However, with the visionary leadership of Victor the First, the founder of the Victoria Kingdom, the examination system underwent a transformation. The first examination was now organized under his auspices, ensuring a fair and unified process for all aspiring students. This new system brought a sense of hope and equal opportunity to the awakened population.
With only a month left until the exams, the awakened Primeans, particularly those with orange-grade and above affinity, found themselves immersed in a whirlwind of preparation. Their days were consumed by intense revision sessions and basic magic lessons, leaving little time for personal pursuits. Even the red-grade awakened were not exempt, as a special low-grade affinity examination had been introduced to provide opportunities for those with lower affinity grades.
This low-grade affinity exam was a recent addition, born out of the realization that one's magic grade affinity did not necessarily determine their potential for scientific progress. Many magic institutions now welcomed low-grade students, recognizing their potential as future researchers and scholars in the field of science.
Luc, like his peers, dedicated himself to these rigorous preparations. He woke up early each day to tackle past examination questions, carefully analyzing and mastering the concepts they presented. As noon approached, he transitioned to physical training, honing his body and mind for the demanding challenges that lay ahead.
The days continued to pass swiftly, and as the exam week approached, the young awakened were summoned to the Primean Infant Shelter. Gathered together, they listened intently as the principal took the stage and addressed them.
"In one week's time, you will be undertaking either the UMIEE or the SLGAE exams right here in this very place," the principal announced. "Before that, each of you will be provided with an examination card that will be tied to your identity. It is essential that you present this card on the day of the exams."
The gravity of the situation settled upon the awakened, understanding the significance of the exams that awaited them. The principal continued, shedding some light on the nature of the exams. "While we are not privy to the exact content, we anticipate that the exams will include both written and practical components. The examination period will span approximately a week, during which time you will be residing within these premises and not permitted to leave."
With the principal's speech concluded, the teachers at the Shelter promptly began distributing the examination cards, ensuring that each awakened had their card properly bound to them. Once this task was completed, the awakened were released, allowing them some time to rest and mentally prepare for the challenges ahead.
Luc returned to his home to get some much-needed rest. The following day, he accompanied his parents as they purchased necessary supplies to aid him during the exams. They understood the importance of being well-prepared and supported him in his endeavors.
Finally, the day of the exams arrived. Luc woke up early in the morning, gathered his supplies, and made his way to the shelter. As he reached the entrance, he was greeted by a large crowd of awakened individuals, all anxiously awaiting the start of the exams. Soon after, the gate opened, and a man unfamiliar to them stepped forward.
With a commanding tone, the man introduced himself as Kyle Burrow, the invigilator assigned to oversee the exams. "Hello, awakened! I am Kyle Burrow, sent from the capital under the auspices of his majesty, Victor the fiftieth, to supervise the exams in the city of Primea," he announced. "This year's exam will consist of both a written and practical component. The practical exam will be exclusive to the UMIEE, while the written exam will be common to both the UMIEE and the SLGAE. The written exam will span three days, and you will be tested in subjects such as History, Literature, Arithmetics, and Geometry."
Luc, having absorbed the weight of the impending challenges, mentally and emotionally prepared himself for the rigorous days of examination that lay ahead. With determination fueling his every step, he stood ready to prove himself and showcase his abilities.
Under the guidance of Kyle, the awakened were led to the dormitories where they would be lodged throughout the duration of the exams. Each awakened received a booklet containing the rules and program for the exams, ensuring they were well-informed and prepared for what lay ahead. The exams were set to begin the following day, spanning a week of intense assessments. To sustain them during this time, three meals a day were provided to the awakened.
The next morning marked the start of the exams, commencing with the first history exam. As history happened to be one of Luc's favorite subjects, he approached it with a sense of confidence. The exam was divided into two parts. The first section focused on major historic dates, testing the awakened's knowledge and understanding of significant events throughout time. The second section involved a discussion on a particular topic, allowing the awakened to showcase their analytical and critical thinking skills.
In the afternoon, the geography exam took place, following a similar structure to the history exam. Luc returned to his dormitory feeling mentally and physically drained. The exams had proven to be more difficult than anticipated, leaving many of his peers in tears. The level of intricacy and challenge presented in the history and geography exams had taken them by surprise, serving as a reminder of the depths of knowledge and understanding required to excel in their chosen fields.
Luc, though exhausted, remained resolute. He knew that success required perseverance and the ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances. He spent the evening reviewing his performance and preparing for the days ahead, knowing that the journey to achieve his goals was not without obstacles. As the nights grew longer, Luc found solace in his unwavering determination, ready to face the remaining exams with renewed vigor and an unwavering belief in his abilities.