The moment all six teams had exited the gateways, Headmaster Aldwyn moved toward the enchanted podium at the center of the Concourse.
His presence commanded immediate silence. The laughter died. The congratulations ceased. Every eye in the observation chamber shifted toward him.
His voice, when he spoke, carried the weight of absolute authority.
"The trials have concluded," he announced, his gaze deliberately sweeping across the assembled students and observation balconies simultaneously. "Your performance is being tallied by the basin's runic systems. The final scoring will be displayed shortly."
He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle.
"In the interim, I encourage all students to seek food, water, or healing from the academy's medical staff. Some of you will require magical intervention. All others may return to your designated resting areas until the score tallies all six teams."
