Chapter 45

As the sun set over the academy, the students settled into their dormitories, exhausted from the day's events. The members of the top-tier groups, however, remained in the common room, discussing the events of the day and planning their next moves.

Lena sat with her group, the five of them deep in conversation. They had all agreed that the competition was going to be tough this year, but they were determined to come out on top.

As they discussed their training schedule for the coming weeks, a knock on the door interrupted their conversation. Lena went to answer it and found the headmaster, Professor Darcy, standing outside.

"Good evening, Lena," Darcy said. "May I speak with you for a moment?"

Lena was surprised but nodded and stepped out into the hallway with the headmaster.

"I wanted to talk to you about your recent performances," Darcy began. "I have been watching you closely, and I believe that you have what it takes to be one of the best in this academy."

Lena's heart leapt at th