The Exams (2)

Arlon was exempt from Orlen's first individual assignment and Elwyn's group assignment, but he still had two remaining tasks—the counterplay evaluation and Borik's defense exam.

Unlike most students, who would have to wait for their turn in a crowded examination area, he only had Mei and Alia with him. There was no rush.

After a short walk, he approached one of the examiners—a magician, standing at the entrance to a sparring hall.

The examiner, a man in his late forties with deep violet robes and a sharp gaze, glanced up as Arlon approached. He checked the list of assignments before nodding.

"Counterplay, is it?"

Arlon gave a simple nod.

The magician exhaled and gestured toward the center of the hall. "Then let's see it. No magic, just your body and blade. We begin when you're ready."

His exam had the condition of not using magic. Arlon stepped forward, taking his stance.