Chapter 82 - Acceptance

[It certainly sounds like they gave you a thorough rundown. I trust there were no issues with your heritage and your acting?]

"Only the first test, they thought I had snuck in," Lily replied. "It sounds like a few kids who don't have the capability for magic try to take the test anyway. I feel bad for them."

[It's an utter tragedy and possibly the worst of what has become since my slumber. While the evolution of people towards personal Mana and bloodlines is fascinating, I loathe that it has come at such a cost. Abandoning prospective mages who might've had the commitment and dream of becoming a spellcaster is a tragedy.]

"Magic was meant for everyone," Lily replied, repeating a phrase Arakil had often said.

[Exactly my point. Once free, I plan to rectify such things to the best of my abilities. At the very least, I'd like to possibly proliferate the knowledge of Mana Cores to the public.]

Lily swallowed, a little nervous, but ultimately spoke up, "We could do it sooner, I don't have to be the only special one."

[That's brave and generous of you. While I applaud it, I will say that we should hold off on such actions until you've well established yourself. At the very least, you should be an independent adult; perhaps, you could even turn it in as some form of research grant and be aptly rewarded.]

"I don't need to be rewarded for it," Lily said, shaking her head. "I'd like more people to have magic."

[Commendable, but I wouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth. You could do a lot by revealing it that way, and it would be taken more seriously. The alternative would involve you either telling the truth about my origins or offering yourself up for study, which I'd highly advise against.]

Lily gulped nervously. She definitely didn't want to become a test subject or anything like that—just the thought of needles gave her a cold sweat.

[There's also the possibility that nobody believes you, and who would risk going through a ritual dreamt up by a perceived child? On the other hand, if you were a respected mage and published your findings, it would be regarded as a higher echelon.]

"Okay, I see your point," Lily agreed. "I just thought it would be better sooner rather than later."

[Honestly, no. If you're dead set on releasing something before my own freedom, I'd rather we properly investigate it and do some research. Who knows what consequences having a Mana Core would do to others of your kind? Would it prevent them from reinforcing their bodies, or would they become like Rose and be capable of both?]

"Oh, I didn't even think of that," Lily admitted.

[Indeed. So enjoy being the only magical bunny for a while; you've certainly earned it.]

***

After class, Lily met up with Theo and Instructor Richardus at the training area as usual. Both seemed interested in hearing what transpired in the second round of testing, which had occurred over two days prior.

"So, are we finally allowed to discuss the second test?" Theo practically begged.

"Since both of you have participated, yes," Richardus said.

"Finally! I don't understand the whole point of keeping it a big secret," Theo groaned. "I'm pretty sure people reveal it in secret anyway, or the noble kids get tutored beforehand."

"Yes and no," Richardus replied. "In theory, the examiners could ask you to do virtually anything for your demonstration. Say you passed the test by creating a rock statue, but then Rose passed by setting the examiner's hair on fire. You'd be tempting others to do the same thing in their tests. I don't think the examiners would be happy if Lily attempted the same thing as Rose, now would they?"

"I can't imagine anyone wanting their hair on fire," Theo replied, shaking his head firmly.

"Did she really do that?" Lily asked.

"It was an accident brought about by a taunt, from what I understand," Richardus said with a sigh. "The examiner was egging her on, repeatedly asking 'Is that as hot as your flames can go?' and she lost her temper."

"That…" Lily paused and sighed. "Sounds like Rose."

Richardus nodded, "And yet she was accepted. She reached a level of firepower and scorching heat they didn't expect. Imagine if you opened up trying to impress them by doing something like that? Depending on their disposition, the examiner might fail you on the spot."

"And there's no way I could match Rose's flames," Lily added.

"Exactly my point. Nor would you be capable of making a stone statue like Theobald, would you?" the instructor asked.

Lily shook her head.

"So they want everyone to demonstrate what they think is best without worrying about what has worked for others?" Theo asked.

"Now you understand," Richardus replied cheerfully. "So. What did they have you do, Lily?"

Lily began her lengthy explanation of the entire process as best she could remember. Theo seemed quite shocked while Richardus nodded along in thought.

"Wow. They rung you dry," Theo commented. "I'm not joking when I say I literally pulled some rock out, and they passed me. Then again, I was only aiming for Tresnia."

"I imagine they were using the exam as a pretense to get as much info from an unknown bloodline as they could," Richardus answered.

"Why, though?" Lily asked. "I mean, I didn't mind, I wanted to prove myself, but it really seemed excessive even if they were curious."

"Well, they'd be eaten alive by their respective schools if they didn't try to gather as much information as possible," Richardus explained. "Both for research purposes and for scouting out the competition. Ultimately, only one school will get you as a student, and competition can be fierce amongst the top five. You could very well threaten their rankings due to how unknown you and your star magic are."

"Wow… I'm super glad I picked Tresnia," Theo chuckled. "None of those tournaments, and that for me."

"They do have crafting competitions, which can get quite heated," Richardus pointed out. "But yes, no combat tournaments and the like from them. Although one could argue that learning to become a cutthroat magical salesman is a whole other world entirely."

"I should introduce you to Miss Camilla," Lily giggled. "She can give you some tips."

"That woman could get you to buy your own hat," Richardus grumbled, sounding quite perturbed.

"I just want to build things with earth magic," Theo replied, holding up his hands in surrender. "I'm not planning on being some artistic bigshot who can summon immaculate marble statues of all the kings and queens from memory."

"Well, if James is your instructor at all, you might end up that way anyway," Lily replied. "He really did take basically one glance at Stuart, the other instructor, and made a stone mannequin of him. I had to shoot my spells at such a lifelike replica!"

Theo chuckled, "I guess we will see."

"Speaking of which, the one examiner, Stuart, said he would donate a pair of Wards for us," Lily mentioned while looking expectantly at Richardus.

The instructor sighed as if he knew this would happen and reached into his pocket, pulling out two of the magical devices.

"Woah, those look cool," Theo replied excitedly. "Hearing your story made me almost regret not trying the offense test."

"I must admit I'm a little reluctant to use such a thing for such young students," Richardus sighed. "But, I guess under strict supervision, we can start expanding the class for students who wish to. The nobles are certainly training their kids in it and will no doubt be the aces of their respective teams in the top five."

"So you're saying we'll help Lily power up?" Theo chuckled.

"If she wishes," Richardus replied. "Considering she had her heart set on Regarth, I'd recommend it. Combat magic is mandatory there, and being entirely green could be a detriment."

"Yes! Please!" Lily said excitedly.

"I still wish you were coming with me to Tresnia," Theo sighed. "I think they'd love your glyphs, and it would be much safer. Plus, I don't want to say goodbye to a friend I've only just made."

Lily giggled, "We still have over half a year before we leave. We will have plenty of time to train together and hang out. Besides, maybe I'll enter a crafting competition?"

"That's the spirit!" Richardus encouraged. "And I will mention that students at Tresnia are always open to volunteering for the solo tournaments."

"I'll… Think about it," Theo muttered nervously. "Assuming I don't get my butt beaten by Lily during these sessions."

"I won't hold back, even for a friend!" Lily teased.

Richardus clapped his hands, "Let's get started."

***

A few weeks passed since the examination. Margit and Camilla grilled Lily about her test, and both seemed to hope that she passed magnificently.

Other than that, things continued in a very routine manner for Lily, with the only exception being some light sparring, which had been added once or twice a week with Theo. Richardus was extremely hesitant at first, wanting to take baby steps in exploring this potential new addition to his curriculum.

Then, one day, there was a knock on her door.

"Lily, are you available?" Margit asked in her kindly and patient voice.

"I'll be there now!" Lily replied before opening the door.

"Are you free to come to my office for a bit?" Margit asked.

"Am I in trouble?" Lily asked hesitantly.

"No, nothing of the sort," Margit giggled. "Unless you did something that I don't know about?"

"Nothing!" Lily replied instantly. "Let me just put away my stuff, and I'll be right with you."

You could be reading stolen content. Head to NovelBin for the genuine story.

Margit nodded, and Lily went dashed back into her room. She corked her ink bottle and grabbed Arakil's book, which had already shifted back to its convenient notebook form. She carefully placed him in her pocket before following Margit.

They made some small talk until they eventually reached her small office. Opening the door, Lily was greeted by Instructor Richardus and Camilla.

"Are you sure I'm not in trouble?" Lily asked nervously.

"Ha! Pay up," Camilla snorted and held out her hand to Richardus.

The instructor grumbled and handed her a coin.

Lily eyed them both suspiciously until Margit gestured for her to enter. Still a bit nervous, she walked in and sat down in one of the empty chairs.

They all exchanged brief pleasantries before the matter of the meeting was brought up.

"Your acceptance letters have arrived," Richardus proudly announced. He gestured at a table where five letters were on display.

Lily's eyes sparkled with anticipation as she stared at the five, each with a different seal on the envelope.

"Only five?" Lily asked with a mischievous grin.

Camilla cackled with laughter, "That confident, huh? Not that I blame you. You're my apprentice for a reason."

"After seeing your results, I believe the lesser schools decided to not waste your time," Richardus replied.

"I got one from all of the top five!?" Lily asked excitedly.

"Well, top four," Richardus replied.

"I mean… I don't want to sound bigheaded, but is there a reason why one is missing?" Lily asked curiously. "I thought I went above and beyond with all the tests they made me do."

Margit and Camilla giggled, leaving the instructor to answer Lily's query.

"Well… Kalway is an all-boys school," Richardus answered.

"We could write them a letter if you want. I'm sure they would be willing to make an exception," Camilla teased.

"No!" Lily declined in a panic.

The three adults chuckled lightly at the bunny girl, who was blushing profusely. Richardus gestured for her to look at the letters and began systematically pointing to each letter and its mark.

"Stremweth, Helia, Abwany, Regarth, and last but not least, Tresnia," he explained.

Lily stared happily at the Regarth one, a sword and staff crossed over a treasure chest—it practically cried out to seek adventure. Lily felt her face flush, and her vision blurred as tears welled up.

Margit was immediately by her side before the first drops fell and hugged her from behind. The sympathetic action was the last straw. Lily began to sob softly. She had done it. After all this time, with the help of Arakil, Rose, and everyone else, she'd finally accomplished what she had set out to do.

"You did it," Margit said softly.

Camilla and Richardus nodded in agreement; the latter looked like a proud uncle while the former practically rolled her eyes. Evidently, Camilla had no doubt about the outcome, having witnessed countless tiny miracles in her atelier.

After drying her tears, she finally tore her eyes from Regarth's letter. After giving Margit a returning hug, she eventually glanced at the other letters and markings in more detail.

Tresnia's was a wand and hammer crossed over an anvil; Lily found it very fitting for the crafting school.

Stremweth's was a crown with a scepter and an open book. She could almost smell the smugness.

Helia's was a blooming rose entwined with a crescent moon. Lily hated to admit that the symbol itself drew her in, and she was very tempted by that alone for the all-girls school.

Finally, there was Abwany, a radiant sun above an open book. Honestly, she had heard nothing about this school and wondered what its specialty was.

"Shall we have a look?" Margit asked, touching Lily's shoulder gently.

"Is that what everyone's here for?" Lily asked.

"Girl, we all know you're going to pick Regarth," Camilla snorted.

"But!" Richardus interjected. "Just in case you have doubts, we are here to offer some guidance. Maybe Regarth doesn't give you the offer you want, or one of the other schools offers you a program that interests you more."

"Have you already looked at the letters?" Lily asked with a hint of worry.

"No, we left them untouched," Richardus said without hesitation.

Lily sighed with relief. She had worried that the Regarth letter might be only a bare minimum entry, thus out of her reach unless the orphanage or herself could pay the difference.

"Let's start," Lily said as she reached for the Stremweth letter.

"Not starting with Regarth?" Richardus asked curiously.

"Saving the best for last," Lily replied with a giggle.

She opened the letter carefully, and two pieces of parchment were inside. Lily picked up the first one and began reading the contents.

Stremweth offered her a full ride and promised to put her on the elite track. Richardus informed her that it was a track for someone looking to join a noble house through adoption or marriage.

Lily immediately wanted to reject this one, and then she curiously picked up the other piece of parchment.

"What the heck is this?" Lily asked, tilting her head.

All three adults examined it with her.

"It looks like a promissory note," Richardus mumbled.

"Th-that's a lot of zeroes…" Camilla said with an audible gulp.

Lily glared at the note, "Is this a bribe?"

"Perhaps they thought we would screen your letters before contacting you," Margit speculated. "If you claimed this, the orphanage could take temporary ownership of the assets until you come of age."

"A sneaky ploy," Richardus commented. "Then someone else could have disposed of your other letters before you found out about them."

Lily shuddered, feeling a little violated at the grossness of the situation. "No!" she rejected it loudly and harshly.

"Now, girl, don't be so hasty…" Camilla said, eyes wide.

"No!" Lily shouted and tore the note in half.

Camilla let out a cry like a dying animal and almost fell over if not for Richardus' quick action to grab her. She was like a limp puppet whose strings had been cut.

"Oh gods… I did not just see that…" Camilla groaned, sounding a little faint.

Richardus helped her to one of the couches, where the old woman slumped over it, looking like she'd survived an ordeal.

"Shall we continue?" Margit said, glancing at the old woman.

Lily nodded and grabbed the next one.

Helia also offered her a full ride and allowed her to join the witches' circle. Richardus didn't know what that was, but to everyone's surprise, Margit actually had the answer.

Effectively, it was a program for top performers, who were given specialized lessons and private tutors; calling them groomed for success would be an understatement. If that wasn't enough, during the final year, those in the witch's circle could actually constitute changes to the school curriculum and functions—within reason, of course.

It sounds amazing. A much better offer than Stremweth.

Lily didn't tear up the letter and put it gently to the side. A solid maybe, in her mind. She reached for the next one, Abwany.

To her surprise, the letter wasn't much. She qualified for the full scholarship, but other than that, there were no extra offers or promises.

"I don't actually know much about this school," Lily admitted.

"Some of the best healers come from Abwany," Richardus answered. "It's one of the few magic schools that dabble in both the arcane and divine, intertwined and together. While most institutes, including the churches, see the two as separate entities, Abwany sees them as two sides of the same coin."

"So, healing magic?" Lily asked.

"If you have the talent and faith," Richardus answered.

Lily nodded and placed the letter to the side. She picked up the letter from Tresnia and gingerly opened it.

"Tresnia's next," Lily told Camilla in case the old woman was interested.

"What's the point…" Camilla groaned, sounding like a wounded animal. "They can't match all those zeroes!"

Lily giggled and pulled out the letter.

Tresnia also offered a full scholarship and promised to pay all her licensing costs to be an alchemist and enchanter. From the second year onwards, she would be entitled to her own private atelier rather than being forced to use the public or rentable ones.

"That's an amazing deal," Richardus commented. "The private ateliers are top-notch. No doubt you'd have access to some good reagents."

"Yes, they are wonderful," Camilla mumbled. "Although you could have bought an atelier with Stremweth's offer!"

"It's Lily's decision to make," Margit retorted.

"I know," Camilla sighed. "It still hurts, though."

Lily shrugged, and after carefully placing the letter from Helia to the side, she reached for the final letter—Regarth.

Lily blew out some air and nervously opened the letter while the two able-bodied adults watched in anticipation.

"A full scholarship!" Lily immediately cried out loud.

Margit and Richardus clapped and cheered. Even the mentally wounded Camilla groaned out a celebratory "woohoo."

Lily continued to read the letter. It was a full ride, and to her surprise, nothing else was offered. They stressed that rewards could be earned through the school's exclusive dungeon while mentioning other prize avenues through tournaments and other activities.

Lily was a little confused as to why two of the five didn't try to sweeten the deal and expressed her confusion to the adults.

"The examiners must have stressed to their recruiters to get hold of you," Richardus answered. "No doubt some minor reductions in your accomplishments were withheld and saved to inform only their own schools."

"They'd really do that?" Lily gasped in surprise.

"I did mention the schools are extremely competitive," Richardus chuckled. "Although you could say that access to Regarth's dungeon is a reward on its own."

"The other schools have access to dungeons, too," Lily replied.

"True, but not right underneath them," Richardus chuckled.

"You have a week to reply; there's no need to rush to a decision," Margit said kindly.

Lily went silent. Did she actually need that time? She had to admit that she felt immediately drawn to Helia and that Tresnia was offering her a fantastic opportunity.

What would she be able to do with her own atelier in her second year and beyond? Would she be able to free Arakil? Or make Mana potions to grow even stronger? And she would have Theo, a friend in her own year.

But does any of that outweigh a dungeon? And Rose?

Lily shook her head.

"No. I don't need any time," Lily said confidently.

"You're absolutely sure?" Margit asked.

"I'm positive," Lily replied. "I want to go to Regarth!"

Richardus chuckled, "I didn't have any doubts."

"Neither did I," Margit agreed.

"I didn't… But those zeroes !" Camilla whined.

The group laughed while the old woman continued to groan.

Lily stared hard at the crossed sword and staff symbol, then gave Arakil's notebook a soft pat in her pocket and smiled happily.

Watch out, Regarth, I'm on my way! And I'm bringing the Archmage Arakil with me!