CHAPTER 8: THE DEBATE II

After Allan had concluded his debate presentation and had left the stage.

The auditorium was still awash with sounds of applause and cheers.

On the side where the seekers were seated, a discussion arose.

Oof, "That was a fine argument." Dela said with a grin, seemingly not too bothered with how impressive their opponent was.

Heh heh, "Very fine argument indeed," Ivan responded with a wide grin.

"You look excited, don't you, Ivan?" Dela asked, a playful smirk on his face.

"Look who's talking," Ivan looked at Dela incredulously.

"You're smiling like a fool," Ivan added as he teased his friend.

"Of course, things are just heating up," Dela replied with a chuckle.

"That Library guy provided some solid arguments. It's now even more exciting to see how this debate will unfold." Dela said, a curious glint flashing across his eyes.

Ivan nodded in agreement, his grin widening. "Indeed, I can't wait to see how our team responds. This debate is far from over."

Dela and Ivan then turned their attention back to the stage, eager to see what their teammates had to offer in return to the Librarian.

On the centre stage Allan, who had already had his seat, cast a glance at Romnwell, who returned the look with an indifferent expression. Seeing his opponent's reaction, Allan's visage broke into a smile.

Ben's figure then made it to the centre stage again, drawing all attention to him, and then he spoke.

"Ladies and gentlemen, after those compelling words from the Librarians, through young master Allan, it's time to hear from the opposition what they have to say in retort," Ben said with a smile.

"So please, join me in welcoming to the stage, the representative of the seekers, young master Romnwell Castrol." Ben introduced, causing the audience to break out into a round of applause and cheers.

Romnwell then stood up and made his way to the centre of the stage amidst the noises from the audience's cheers and applause.

Adjusting his already well-fitted garment with a graceful touch, Romnwell began to speak…

"Good day, ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests and honourable dignitaries. My name is Romnwell Castrol, lead representative of the Haven of Seekers. I stand before you all this hour, poised to present the opposing viewpoint on the motion of magic regulation. Romnwell's voice rolled out with practised ease.

"As my colleague and opponent here have done, I would also like to acknowledge the presence of the dignitaries in our midst, it is indeed a great honour to have you all here with us, "Romnwell said as he faced the VIP arena with a slight bow.

Straightening up once again, Romnwell continued.

"Now to my argument proper, firstly let us acknowledge the inherent beauty and wonder of magic itself. As my opponent has said, magic is a mysterious force that has existed since the beginning of time. Upon man's discovery of his ability to manipulate mana, he marvelled at the endless possibilities magic presents."

"Magic is a gift bestowed upon us by the world, a manifestation of its very essence. To regulate magic is to stifle this natural wonder, to impose limitations on what should be a boundless exploration of the unknown."

"Magic is not merely a force to be regulated and controlled, it is a natural expression of the world. To subject such a wondrous phenomenon to the confines of regulation is to constrict its very essence."

"While my esteemed counterpart argues for regulation in the name of safety and order, I implore you to consider the consequences of such measures. Regulation implies that the authority will dictate magical practices, inevitably leading to the suppression of individual freedom and creativity."

"He might have made a point of adding courses on magic into the syllabuses of the children and youths at their various academies and institutions, but what about those who do not have access to these sources of education?"

"If we were to take such an approach, sure it has its advantages, it will leave those who are not able to afford such privileges at a loss, as they won't be able to practice magic without a certificate. And might I remind us that man makes the most progress when he is free to explore and innovate without unnecessary limitations?"

"It is during times of freedom that humanity has made its greatest leaps forward, whether in science, technology, art, or any other field. When individuals are encouraged to think freely and push their boundaries, that's when true progress is made."

"Therefore, imposing strict regulations on magic could hinder this progress by stifling creativity and innovation, ultimately holding back the advancement of society as a whole."

"Furthermore, let us not forget the rich history of magical innovation and discovery that has shaped our world. From ancient civilizations to present-day marvels, magic has been a catalyst for progress. To impose regulations on such a profound force would be to deny future generations the opportunity to explore its boundless potential."

"A perfect example of this is one of the kingdom's six grand magi in our history and a globally renowned figure, grand magus Duran Isharr, who propagated the Isada theory of Arcane magic and practices."

"Grand Magus Duran's journey into the world of magic began with his pioneering theory, the Isada Arcane theory, which he developed before his formal education at the Yaran Institute of Magic and Technology."

"During the days of his youth, grand magus Duran was like any other magic enthusiast, driven by his love and passion for magic, he engaged in a series of experiments involving magic, which led to his discovery of a new branch of magic, 'The Arcane magic'. Which has now grown into a renowned global phenomenon, with new subsets and applications still being discovered, even until this day."

"It was with this discovery that his talents as a mage were recognised, thus earning him a scholarship into the Yaran Institute of Magic and Technology."

"Now let's imagine a scenario where grand Magus Duran was not able to freely experiment on magic, shackled by the chains of restrictions, would he have been able to discover the Arcane branch of magic?"

"Without the freedom to freely experiment on some magic disciplines, grand magus Duran may not have had the opportunity to practise magic not to talk of discovering the arcane branch. Thus, we can say that the absence of strict regulations allowed him to freely explore his passion, ultimately becoming the renowned figure he is today. This serves as a testament to the role of freedom in magical innovation and nurturing the talents of aspiring mages.

"And also magic, by its very nature, defies rigid control. It is a fluid force that cannot be contained by governmental regulations. Attempts to regulate magic would only serve to create division within our society, pitting practitioners against authority."

"Moreover, the notion that regulation promotes equality and fairness is fundamentally flawed. In reality, regulation often serves to further emphasise the current structure, favouring the privileged few while denying the majority the privilege. We cannot ignore the fact that regulation would inevitably benefit the ruling elite at the expense of the common people."

"In conclusion, I urge you to reject the motion of magic regulation and instead embrace the inherent beauty and diversity of magic. Let us celebrate its wonders and embrace its mysteries without the need for regulations. For in doing so, we honour not only our past but also the limitless possibilities of our future."

"Thank you."

Romnwell concluded while adjusting his fit again.

After Romnwell's presentation, the entire arena broke out into deafening sounds of applause and cheers, completely in awe of Romnwell's impressive display.

Romnwell just bowed slightly, before silently leaving the centre of the stage.

After having his seat, he noticed Allan's gaze, turning towards him, Romnwell maintained an uninterested expression. Seeing Romnwell's expression. Allan's lips curved into a wide grin.

Nice argument Romnwell, very nice. Allan said, still maintaining his smile.

Hmm, Romnwell just released a soft murmur in agreement.

***

At the VIP area within the arena, Otto's voice rang out.

Haha, "Impressive, truly impressive." Otto said with a laugh.

"Indeed, it was a fine argument by the young man, especially with him using the legacy of grand magus Duran to back up his point," Maria said, her eyes alight with a playful glint.

"This exchange never fails to entertain." Master Deswill Song, the ambassador of the Barracks of Guardians said with a light chuckle.

"Oh! That's right Master Song, you were present at the last exchange, how would you place this so far, in comparison with the last?" Maria asked with a curious expression.

"Well, it's still too early to say, Maria, the last exchange was an incredibly tense affair, and this one has just begun, but one thing is for sure, its kick-off has been very impressive," Song said as he stroked his bushy beard.

***

Two hours later, the debate concluded, prompting Ben to reach the centre of the stage again.

"Ladies and gentlemen, that brings an end to the first part of this exchange, the result of the debate will be announced on the sixth day of the event, where the results of all the events held over that period will be announced," Ben announced.

"So, with that, I would like to once again thank you all for making the time to be here, to be part of this incredible moment, we will be here again tomorrow for the second part of the exchange, do have a good day everyone."

Following Ben's concluding words, the crowd at the arena began to make their way out, each person with an excited and satisfied look.

The seekers were all on their feet ready to leave the stage, when Chennai, the captain of the librarians approached them, turning to Romnwell with a smile, she said. "Nice competition today friend." Prompting Romnwell to nod his head in acknowledgement.

Chenai then shifted her gaze from Romnwell to Dela, flashing a smile at him, she then turned around and left.

Beautiful, Dela mutters to himself with a dazed expression.

Noticing Dela's expression, Ivan asked with a teasing tone, "What's with that face you're making?"

"I think she likes me," Dela said, still looking dazed.

"What?" Ivan asked in shock, before breaking into laughter.

"You can't be serious, Dela?" Ivan asked.

"What? Aren't I good-looking?" Dela asked with an offended look.

"Who told you that?" Ivan asked, looking genuinely curious.

"Well, you're just jealous she has eyes for me and not you Mr. Ivander Rostov Marquez. Dela answered with a mocking tone. Well, now it's up to me to have this in the bag. Dela added while rubbing his palms together with a grin.

Looking at his friend in amusement, Ivan said. "Yeah, whatever you say Mr Dela Sol Vesper."

Moving into the haven's halls the two friends continued with their light banter. With the events to be held the following day in their minds.