The grand stadium of the Interstellar Academy buzzed with anticipation. Rows upon rows of seats were filled with eager applicants, their murmurs blending into a hum that resonated throughout the colossal arena. The air was thick with excitement and a hint of anxiety as everyone awaited the commencement of the entrance exams.

Noah sat between Mira and Kael, his gaze wandering over the vastness of the stadium. The polished marble seats reflected the soft glow of the luminescent crystals that hung suspended in the air, casting ethereal light over the crowd. Banners bearing the Academy's emblem—a star encircled by swirling galaxies—fluttered gently in an unseen breeze.

"This place is incredible," Mira whispered, her amber eyes wide with wonder. Her messy brown hair was tucked behind her ears, but a few strands had escaped, framing her face. She fiddled nervously with the hem of her tunic.

Kael leaned back, his feline ears twitching as he took in the sounds around them. "It's a bit overwhelming, isn't it?" His light gray hair fell casually over his forehead, and his golden eyes scanned the crowd. "So many people."

Noah nodded silently. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest, a mixture of excitement and nervousness. His dark brown hair brushed against his forehead, and he absentmindedly adjusted the bandage covering his right eye.

Noah - I can't believe we're actually here. After all those years in Rustfield, we've finally made it to the Academy. But can we really compete with all these people?

A hush fell over the crowd as two figures emerged onto the stage. Elara and Kyren stood side by side, their presence commanding immediate attention.

Elara was radiant. Her soft brown hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her emerald armor glinted under the stadium lights. The armor was intricately designed, adorned with patterns resembling angelic wings. Her deep green eyes scanned the crowd with a mix of warmth and authority.

Kyren stood tall beside her, his sleek black hair tied back neatly. He wore robes of deep blue that seemed to ripple like water with each movement. His crimson eyes were sharp, taking in every detail with a stoicism that contrasted with Elara's approachable demeanor.

"Welcome, future mages of the Interstellar Academy," Elara began, her voice carrying effortlessly across the stadium. "Today marks the beginning of a journey that will challenge you, shape you, and perhaps even redefine who you are."

Noah felt a swell of pride as he listened to her. Despite his earlier frustrations, seeing Elara up there filled him with admiration.

"We stand before you not just as alumni," Kyren continued, his tone firm and measured, "but as examples of what dedication and perseverance can achieve. The path ahead is not easy, but nothing worth achieving ever is."

Elara smiled softly. "Remember that your greatest adversary is often yourself. Overcome your doubts, push beyond your limits, and you will find that you are capable of more than you ever imagined."

As she spoke, her eyes swept over the crowd—and then they locked onto Noah. For a moment, she seemed surprised, and then her face lit up with unmistakable joy.

"Noah?" she called out, her voice ringing clear. "Is that you?"

Noah's eyes widened in horror. "Oh no," he muttered under his breath.

Mira stifled a giggle, and Kael grinned mischievously. "Looks like you've been spotted," Kael whispered.

Elara's composure shifted entirely. She waved enthusiastically, her armor clinking softly. "Everyone, that's my little brother, Noah Rosweld!"

A ripple of murmurs spread through the crowd. Applicants turned in their seats to get a glimpse of Noah. The famous nobles seated among the professors exchanged intrigued glances.

In the reserved section, Crown Prince Lucian Valerius raised an eyebrow. His silver hair caught the light as he leaned forward. "Elara Arden has a brother?" he mused aloud.

Seraphine Lumina, her ornate white mask with gold markings hiding her expression, tilted her head thoughtfully. "I was unaware the my father had connections with House Arden."

Aria Nightshade's cyan eyes flickered with interest. "He must be exceptional if she's so openly proud."

Noah wished the ground would swallow him whole. His face burned as he sank lower in his seat. "Why is she doing this?" he groaned.

Mira couldn't contain her laughter. "This is priceless!"

Kael chuckled. "Your sister sure knows how to make an entrance."

Kyren placed a hand gently on Elara's shoulder. "Perhaps we should continue," he suggested, though there was a hint of amusement in his eyes.

But Elara was undeterred. "I'm so proud of you, Noah!" she exclaimed. "You've worked so hard to get here."

The crowd's whispers intensified.

"Is he really her brother?"

"Does that mean he's from House Arden?"

"But he looks like a commoner."

Noah clenched his fists, a mix of embarrassment and frustration bubbling within him.

Noah - This can't be happening. All I wanted was to quietly take the exams, and now everyone's staring at me like I'm some sort of spectacle.

Kyren sighed softly. "Elara, perhaps we can praise your brother after the ceremony?"

She blinked, seeming to remember where she was. "Oh, right," she said sheepishly. "Apologies, everyone." She cleared her throat, attempting to regain her composure. "As I was saying, the journey ahead will be challenging..."

Noah dared to sit up slightly, hoping the attention would shift away from him. The crowd gradually settled, though occasional glances were still cast his way.

In the reserved section, the principal of the Interstellar Academy leaned forward. Master Chronos was a figure of legend—a tall, slender man whose age was impossible to guess. His hair was a cascade of silver, flowing like liquid mercury past his shoulders. Eyes of deep amethyst held the wisdom of centuries, and his presence seemed to bend time itself.

Clad in robes that shimmered between shades of twilight blue and star-speckled black, he exuded an aura of both serenity and immense power. Intricate patterns resembling clockwork gears adorned his sleeves, subtly moving as if alive.

"So that's Elara's brother," Master Chronos murmured, his voice smooth yet echoing with timeless depth. "Fascinating."

Prince Lucian glanced at the principal. "Do you know of him, Master Chronos?"

"Not until now," he replied thoughtfully. "But anyone who commands Elara's attention so thoroughly is worth observing."

Back on stage, Elara and Kyren concluded their speeches, receiving a warm round of applause. As they stepped down, the head professor took the podium—a stern-looking Elf with sharp features and piercing green eyes.

"Thank you, Elara and Kyren, for your inspiring words," she began. "Applicants, I am Professor Elowen. I will now explain the structure of your entrance exams."

She proceeded to outline the exams:

"The first exam will be a written test assessing your knowledge of magical theory, elemental affinities, and mana control techniques. This will test your intellectual grasp of magic."

"The second exam will be a practical demonstration of your abilities. You will be placed in controlled combat scenarios, both individual and group challenges, to showcase your skills."

"Your performance will determine your placement within the Academy, ranging from Class S—the elite—to Class D. Failure to meet our minimum standards will result in rejection."

The weight of her words settled over the crowd. Noah felt a knot tighten in his stomach.

Mira leaned over. "I'm a bit nervous about the written exam," she admitted quietly. "I hope I studied enough."

"You'll do fine," Noah assured her. "We've prepared for this."

Kael stretched his arms lazily. "I can't wait for the practical exam. Time to show off a little."

Noah managed a small smile. "Just remember, it's not about showing off. It's about demonstrating control and understanding."

Kael grinned. "Can't I do both?"

The head professor concluded her instructions. "You have one hour before the exams begin. Use this time to prepare yourselves."

As the crowd began to disperse, Elara made a beeline straight toward Noah. He saw her coming and braced himself.

"There she comes," Mira whispered, amusement dancing in her eyes.

Elara reached them quickly, pulling Noah into a tight embrace. "I can't believe you're here!" she exclaimed, her eyes shining with genuine happiness. "Why didn't you tell me you were applying?"

Noah awkwardly returned the hug. "I wanted it to be a surprise," he mumbled.

She pulled back, holding him at arm's length. "You've grown so much. Are you eating well? Sleeping enough? You look tired."

Kael snickered behind his hand. "Mother hen mode activated."

Noah shot him a warning glance.

"I'm fine, Elara," he assured her. "Really."

Kyren approached, his expression a mix of exasperation and fondness. "Elara, perhaps give him some space? He has exams to focus on."

She pouted slightly but relented. "You're right." She smiled warmly at Noah. "I know you'll do great. Just be yourself."

"Thanks," he said, appreciating her confidence in him despite the embarrassment.

Kyren nodded to Noah. "Best of luck."

As they began to walk away, Elara turned back one last time. "And don't forget to eat! You need your strength!"

Noah rubbed his temples. "I won't."

Once they were out of earshot, Mira burst into laughter. "That was amazing!"

Kael clapped Noah on the back. "You're quite the celebrity now."

"Just what I needed," Noah muttered.

They found a quieter corner of the campus, beneath a large oak tree whose leaves shimmered with a silvery hue. The sounds of the bustling crowd were muffled here, offering a brief respite.

Mira sat on the grass, pulling her knees to her chest. "Do you think the professors will expect more from you now?" she asked Noah.

He considered this. "Maybe. But I can't let that distract me. I have to focus on doing my best."

Kael leaned against the tree trunk. "At least we know you have someone rooting for you."

"More like smothering me," Noah sighed.

Mira smiled gently. "She cares about you. It's sweet, in a way."

He nodded. "I know. It's just... a bit much sometimes."

They sat in comfortable silence for a moment.

Kael broke the quiet. "So, any last-minute strategies for the exams?"

Mira shrugged. "For the written part, just answer what you know and don't dwell on what you don't."

Noah agreed. "And for the practical, stay calm. Demonstrate control over raw power."

Kael grinned. "But a little flair doesn't hurt."

Noah couldn't help but smile. "Just don't get carried away."

They stood up, ready to head back.

As they walked toward the exam halls, they passed the reserved section where the famous nobles were gathered. Noah could feel eyes on him.

Aria Nightshade watched them pass, her gaze piercing yet unreadable. "He seems... ordinary," she remarked softly.

Seraphine Lumina responded, her voice muffled slightly by her mask. "Appearances can be deceiving."

Prince Lucian observed quietly. "We shall see how he performs."

Thalos Stormwind smirked. "If he's anything like his sister, the exams might actually be interesting this year."

Sylvia Evergreen, her antler-like horns adorned with delicate leaves, added, "Everyone deserves a chance to prove themselves."

Maximilian Ironbeard stroked his braided beard. "Let's hope he has the mettle."

Mira noticed the stares. "They're definitely watching us."

Kael flashed a confident smile. "Good. Let them watch."

Noah felt a mixture of anxiety and determination. "Let's just focus on ourselves."

They reached the entrance to the exam hall. A large archway inscribed with runes loomed above them. The doors were crafted from dark wood, etched with symbols representing various elements.

A faculty member checked their badges. "Proceed inside and find your assigned seats," she instructed.

The interior of the hall was grand yet solemn. Rows of desks were arranged meticulously, each spaced evenly. Magical orbs hovered above, providing soft illumination.

Noah found his seat, his name elegantly written on a small placard: "Noah Rosweld."

He took a deep breath, sitting down and laying out his writing instruments. Around him, applicants settled into their places, the room filling with a quiet tension.

Noah - This is it. All the studying, all the training—it comes down to this moment. I can't let doubts creep in. Focus, stay calm, and do my best.

Mira caught his eye from a few rows over, giving him a reassuring nod. Kael was a couple of seats behind her, spinning a quill between his fingers with a relaxed demeanor.

A chime sounded, and Professor Elowen's voice echoed through the hall. "You may begin."

Noah turned over the exam parchment. The questions ranged from elemental theory to complex mana manipulation scenarios. He read the first question:

"Explain the fundamental differences between convergent and divergent mana streams and their applications in spellcasting."

He smiled slightly. This was material he knew well.

Time passed as he worked through the exam, occasionally pausing to collect his thoughts. The room was silent except for the soft scratching of quills on parchment.

After what felt like both an eternity and an instant, the chime sounded again.

"Time's up. Please set down your quills," Professor Elowen instructed.

Noah exhaled slowly, a sense of relief washing over him. He felt confident about his performance.

They were instructed to proceed to the arena for the practical exam. The applicants filed out, conversations buzzing around him.

"That was tougher than I expected," someone said.

"I think I did alright," another replied.

Mira and Kael joined Noah as they walked toward the arena.

"How'd it go?" Mira asked.

"Not bad," Noah replied. "You?"

She smiled. "Better than I thought."

Kael stretched his arms. "Glad that's over. Now for the fun part."

The arena was an impressive sight—a massive open space with varying terrains magically altered to present different challenges. There were rocky outcrops, patches of forest, and even a small body of water.

The applicants were divided into groups for the practical exam. Noah found himself grouped with Mira and Kael, along with a few others.

"Your task," a proctor announced, "is to navigate through the arena, overcoming obstacles and demonstrating your magical abilities. Teamwork is not required but encouraged."

Noah glanced at his friends. "Let's stick together."

Kael winked. "Wouldn't have it any other way."

Mira nodded, determination in her eyes.

As they prepared to enter the arena, Noah felt a surge of resolve.

Noah - This is our chance to prove ourselves. Regardless of who is watching or what they expect, we'll show them what we're capable of.

The gates opened, and the applicants stepped into the arena, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.

(Please comment any criticism. I may be taking a little break from posting chapters. Only a couple days.)