SWNOVELXO Chapter 20: Chapter 20 – The Night Before the Finals
The Grand Ranking Trials were nearing their conclusion.
After the intense battle between Show and Drake, the academy was still buzzing. But as the night settled in, a strange calm blanketed the Arcane Academy. The top-ranking students, though competitors, found themselves together—not as rivals, but as comrades who had fought and grown alongside one another.
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🌌 Under the Moonlight – Dorm Balcony
The gentle wind whispered through the trees surrounding the academy. On the boys' dorm rooftop, Show, Drake, Raelyn, and Criss sat in a quiet circle, gazing at the moon.
> Criss (smiling gently):
"Crazy how far we've come."
> Drake (resting his arms behind his head):
"I didn't expect to lose… but I'm not angry. That was a hell of a fight."
> Show (grinning):
"You're strong, man. I had to push everything I had."
> Raelyn (eyes closed):
"Strength isn't always about winning. It's about growing… and helping others grow."
> Drake (glancing sideways):
"Tch. You're still a nerd, Raelyn."
They all chuckled.
There was no hatred. No jealousy. Just the bond of battle.
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🌿 Girls' Dorm Garden – A Quiet Talk
Meanwhile, in the academy's serene garden, Karen, Lyra, Lina, and Lily walked among glowing flowers and soft magic lamps.
> Karen (arms crossed):
"Show's still reckless… But that fire of his… it inspires people."
> Lyra (smiling faintly):
"Even Drake respects him now. That says a lot."
> Lina (nervously):
"I tried my best… but I wasn't enough…"
> Lily (gently holding Lina's hand):
"You were brave. You fought with healing magic and tactics. That was incredible."
> Karen (softly):
"None of us are perfect. But we're not done yet."
They all paused.
Looking up, the stars shimmered—as if watching over them.
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📚 Raelyn and Teach – Study Over Battle
In the library's quietest corner, Raelyn sat across from Teach, who was—of course—surrounded by floating books.
> Raelyn:
"You fought well. For someone who hates fighting."
> Teach (bluntly):
"I still do. But the trial… was enlightening. I realized that magic isn't just knowledge—it's heart too."
> Raelyn (smiling):
"Glad to hear that."
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💫 The Final Thought
That night, as each student returned to their rooms, they carried no bitterness—only strength and understanding. Win or lose, they had grown.
And somewhere in the academy tower, Principal Alden watched over them from the highest spire, his eyes stern yet hopeful.
> Alden (to himself):
"They are not ready for the storm coming… But they will be."
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> TO BE CONTINUED