With a ripple of shadow, Zane and Sera materialized just outside the Academy Hall. Students crowded the steps and doorway, murmuring with curiosity and confusion. It wasn't often they were summoned so urgently.
They slipped inside, just as a robed instructor stepped up to the center podium, flanked by banners bearing the academy's sigil. His voice rang out clearly across the large chamber.
"Students," he began, "today marks the beginning of a rare opportunity. The Academy has arranged an Inter-Academy Exchange Event—a chance for our top students to engage with elite members of other magical institutions across the continent."
The hall buzzed with excitement. Whispers of competition, alliances, and prestige spread like wildfire.
"Only a select few will be chosen to represent our Academy," the teacher continued, eyes scanning the crowd. "These students were chosen based on their strength, growth, combat potential, and unique qualities."
Zane raised a brow. "Bet I'm on that list," he muttered.
Sera rolled her eyes. "Confident much?"
"First," the teacher called out, "Adrien Stormveil."
A familiar buzz of electricity sparked as Adrien, the senior with lightning powers, raised a hand smugly.
Elegant and poised, Lucia stood gracefully, giving a respectful nod.
The senior who helped lead them during the earlier journey gave a lazy wave.
The list continued: "Talia Graves... Kieran Duskroot... Velra Rain..."
More names were called—each representing an exceptional student from either the junior or senior departments.
"And finally... Sera Galeheart and Zane Nightshade."
Zane smirked and leaned toward Sera. "Told you."
She elbowed him lightly, but her smile betrayed her pride.
The final few names followed, bringing the total to fifteen.
"You will all depart in one hour," the teacher said firmly. "Pack your essentials. You will be representing the academy. You are not just students—you are its vanguard. Dismissed."
The hall erupted with noise as students congratulated the chosen ones—or complained about not making the cut. Zane and Sera exchanged a look.
"Well," Sera said, "guess we're going on a trip."
Nyx shimmered into view above them, barely visible to anyone else. "Please don't embarrass us. I just got comfortable in this place."
Zane grinned. "You worry too much. What's the worst that could happen?