First Round

The first week of the examination began.

Unlike the grand openings of past Magus Academy events, which attracted thousands of outside visitors, the mid-year examinations began subtly, focusing initially on the first-year preliminary rounds.

There were 1,885 first-year students among the current total of 3,968 inner hall acolytes. These first-years were summoned to the [Virtual Hall], a technologically advanced facility designed for simulations and virtual training. Here, a virtual image of Headmaster Goldstein appeared before them, delivering a few inspiring words.

"Welcome, young acolytes," the headmaster's holographic form intoned. "Today marks the beginning of your journey to prove your skills and determination. May you all give your best and emerge stronger from these trials."