Practical Exam Draws Near
1. Wrapping Up the Theory Exams
The last day of the theory exams was marked by quiet determination and mounting anticipation. The final subject, Advanced Magical Application, was widely regarded as the most challenging. Students huddled in groups outside the exam hall, nervously reviewing their notes and whispering theories.
Samson sat apart from the others, his expression calm and focused. Despite the occasional doubt that crept into his mind, he felt confident about his performance. The weeks of rigorous preparation had paid off, and he had tackled each paper with precision. When the bell signaled the end of the final exam, a wave of relief washed over him.
As the students streamed out of the hall, Pedro caught up to Samson, slapping him on the back. "You look way too calm for someone who just finished the toughest exam of the year."
Samson smirked. "Maybe that's because I know I aced it." (Well that's true actually as he have a lot of practical experience of this practical application of magic in his previous life.)
Pedro chuckled. "Show-off. Let's hope you're this confident during the practicals."
"I plan to be," Samson replied. But deep down, he knew the practical exams would be a different beast altogether.
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2. The Week-Long Break
With the theory exams over, the academy announced a one-week break before the practical exams began. Students used the time to relax, recover, and strategize. For Samson, however, rest wasn't an option.
Each night, long after his classmates had gone to bed, Samson slipped out of his dorm and made his way to a secluded clearing beyond the academy grounds. Here, under the cover of darkness, he continued his training with the powers granted by the mysterious watch.
His focus was on mastering lightning magic, as he knew it would play a crucial role in the upcoming tests. The raw, untamed energy of lightning was the most difficult to control, requiring precise focus and a steady flow of mana. Samson practiced summoning sparks to his fingertips, channeling them into controlled arcs, and finally releasing them in bursts of power. Each attempt left him drained, but he pushed himself harder, determined to refine his abilities.
The watch hummed faintly against his wrist, its strange energy synchronizing with his efforts. Samson was beginning to understand the extent of its power, though he knew he had barely scratched the surface.
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3. A Meeting of Minds
Meanwhile, in the academy's staff room, the professors gathered to finalize the format and location of the practical exams. Professor Irwin stood at the head of the table, a map spread out before him.
"We need a location that will test their adaptability," he said, tracing a finger over the map. "Somewhere diverse, with enough challenges to separate the strong from the weak."
Professor Mayra, a specialist in healing magic, leaned forward. "What about the Twilight Forest? It has a mix of dense vegetation, open plains, and underground caves. The environment alone will be a test of their survival skills."
Professor Callen, a defensive magic expert, nodded. "The Twilight Forest is also home to a variety of magical creatures. They'll need to work together to handle the threats."
Irwin tapped the map thoughtfully. "And the format? I suggest a team-based competition. The students will be divided into raid teams, mimicking the structure of real-world mercenary groups."
The room buzzed with murmurs of agreement. Professor Mayra raised an eyebrow. "A raid team structure? That's an interesting choice."
Irwin folded his arms. "It's practical. Raid teams are commissioned by high-ranking officials for tasks that range from monster extermination to artifact recovery. Each team includes a mix of specialists—offensive and defensive magic users, healers, movement spell users, and more. The goal is to create balanced teams capable of handling any situation."
Professor Callen added, "And by using this format, we can evaluate not just individual skill but also teamwork and strategy."
Mayra nodded, her skepticism replaced by intrigue. "Fair enough. Let's proceed with this plan."
Irwin looked around the table. "Then it's decided. The practical exam will take place in the Twilight Forest, and the students will be divided into raid teams. Each team will receive a set of objectives to complete within a time limit. Success will depend on their ability to work together and adapt to the challenges."
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4. Forming the Teams
The next step was to divide the students into teams. The professors gathered detailed records of each student's magical attributes, strengths, and weaknesses. They debated over combinations, ensuring each team had a balanced composition.
"We need at least one defensive magic user in each team," Callen said, scanning the list. "They'll be the backbone during combat."
"And at least one healer," Mayra added. "Otherwise, injuries will accumulate too quickly."
Irwin nodded. "Don't forget mobility. A movement spell user can mean the difference between success and failure in the field."
The discussions continued late into the night. By the time the teams were finalized, every student had been assigned to a group designed to maximize their potential while also challenging them to grow.
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5. Samson's Determination
Unaware of the professors' plans, Samson continued his secret training. His progress with lightning magic was slow but steady. He discovered that channeling the energy through his body required not just focus but also an understanding of the flow of mana.
One night, as he practiced summoning a controlled lightning strike, he felt a surge of frustration. The bolt fizzled out before reaching its target, leaving him exhausted.
"Why can't I get it right?" he muttered, sinking to the ground. The watch hummed against his wrist, its energy pulsing faintly. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath.
Images of his past life flashed through his mind—his failures, his family's disappointment, Ayla's loss. But those memories no longer filled him with despair. Instead, they fueled his resolve.
"I won't fail again," he whispered. "Not this time."
With renewed determination, he stood and tried again. This time, the lightning bolt struck true, illuminating the clearing with a brilliant flash. A small smile played on his lips. He was getting there.
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6. The Calm Before the Storm
As the week drew to a close, the academy buzzed with rumors about the practical exams. Whispers of the Twilight Forest and raid teams circulated among the students, filling them with a mix of excitement and dread.
Samson spent his final night in the clearing, perfecting his lightning magic and mentally preparing for the challenges ahead. He knew the practical exams would be a test not just of his skills but also of his resolve.
When he returned to his dorm that night, Pedro was waiting for him. "You've been sneaking out a lot lately," Pedro said, a teasing grin on his face. "Anything you want to share?"
Samson chuckled. "Just... getting some fresh air."
Pedro raised an eyebrow but didn't press further. "Well, whatever you're doing, I hope it pays off. The practicals are going to be brutal."
"They always are," Samson replied, his expression resolute. "But I'm ready."