Challenges of the Aether: Call of the Abyss

Chapter 35: The Celebration

Finally, the day our results came in, everyone gathered in the Assembly Hall. Everyone was Eager to find out how much they had improved since they first arrived.

As we filed into the hall, I couldn't help but glance around at my friends. Scarlet was the first to catch my eye, her usual confident smirk in place, though I could tell she was just as anxious as the rest of us. Sylvia stood quietly to the side, her hands clasped together, while Pearl fidgeted with her shirt.

Jacob, Edger, and Hadger were clustered together, exchanging hushed words that I couldn't catch, but I could see the tension in their faces. We all took our seats, the chatter gradually dying down as the headmaster stepped up to the podium.

"Students," Headmaster Enzo began, his voice carrying through the vast space. Today, we reveal the results of your final Mana evaluations. These results reflect not just your power but your growth and dedication throughout the year. Remember, this is not the end of your journey but a milestone along the way."

As the headmaster concluded announcing the scores, he smiled warmly at the gathered students. "We've already updated your info cards to reflect your new scores," he announced, holding up one of the cards for emphasis. "Make sure to check them after the assembly. And remember, after this, we will be holding a celebration to congratulate all of you on making it through this year."

A wave of excitement rippled through the crowd as everyone began taking out their cards. The headmaster's voice, filled with pride, continued, "I can't wait to see you all again next year, stronger and ready for the challenges ahead. This has been a remarkable year, and each of you should be proud of what you've accomplished."

He gave a final nod, signaling the end of the assembly. The room erupted in conversation, students discussing their scores, plans for the celebration, and the year that lay ahead. I exchanged a look with my friends, pointing outside for us to meet up.

As we made our way out of the Assembly Hall, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of anticipation and determination. The celebration would be a moment to enjoy, but my mind was already turning towards the future.

"Well, I guess we should start with the obvious," Scarlet said, grinning as she glanced at each of us. "Our mana values—how much have we grown?"

"I'm still processing it," Jacob admitted, holding up his info card like it was a fragile artifact. "I went from 47 at the beginning of the year to 74. I mean, that's huge for me."

"Same here," Pearl chimed in, her eyes shining with pride. "From 68 to 96.7—I never thought I'd come this far in such a short time."

Sylvia smiled shyly, her voice barely above a whisper. "I hit 99.4 from 80... It feels surreal, but I'm happy. I worked hard for this."

Edger and Hadger exchanged looks before nodding in unison. "85 to 103.1 for me and 58 to 82.2 for Hadger," Edger announced, his face lit up with a smile. "We're not where we want to be yet, but it's progress."

"What about you, Scarlet?" I said curiously.

She looked down at her card and then back at us. "I went from 138 to 158.2."

"And you, Rune?" Scarlet nudged me, her expression curious.

"I went from 134 at the beginning of the year to 164.6." I felt happy for being able to grow so much, but there was something else. "I've improved, but there's still a lot of work to be done. I'm glad we're all growing."

Scarlet nodded, understanding in her eyes. "So, what's everyone planning to do during the break? I'm heading back home to spend time with my family and get more practice."