The student council stood in a semicircle before Archmage Mandira, their principal, whose usual light violet robes gleamed under the enchanted chandeliers. Her piercing eyes scanned the group, lingering briefly on each member. All eyes—except Daniel's—were fixed on Christina, the newest council member, who stood at the edge, her face flushed with embarrassment.
"Archmage Mandira, why have we been summoned today?" Daniel asked, his voice steady, cutting through the murmurs.
Mandira smiled faintly, extending a folded parchment. "It's that time of the year, Daniel. The Academy's Festival."
Daniel unfolded the parchment, scanning it. "The annual merge of knights and mages. Three challenges, four members per group."
"Correct," Mandira said. "The prize is a tour of Strugon Castle, an audience with the King and Queen, and a single request. Plus, the recognition opens doors—perhaps even to future ministers."
