"Like the time we—"
Before Ronan could continue his endless yap, a powerful voice echoed across the grand arena, amplified by magic to reach every corner.
"ALL ACADEMIES, GATHER AT YOUR DESIGNATED ZONES!"
The referee, a tall, imposing figure in official robes, stood on a floating platform above the central stage.
His voice boomed with authority.
"The Inter-Academy Exchange is about to officially begin! Students, please assemble with your academy representatives immediately. No delays!"
The arena erupted into organized chaos as students from every academy began moving toward their assigned areas.
Banners fluttered as groups reformed, the excitement and tension in the air becoming almost palpable.
Ronan groaned dramatically, still trying to cling to Gray's sleeve.
"Nooo! We were just getting to the good part! I had at least five more stories ready! The time we fought the giant slime monster! The time I almost won a bet against Leon! The time—"
