Exams
As the final week of school draws near, the entire atmosphere at Arcanum Isle becomes charged with tension and anticipation. Students can be found in every corner of the school—some furiously studying in the library, others practicing spells in the dueling rooms, and many gathering in small groups to quiz each other on key concepts. Harry, with Talon by his side, is no exception. The pair spends long hours in the library and practice rooms, reviewing notes and preparing for the three types of exams: oral, written, and physical. Talon continues to take diligent notes and help organize Harry's study materials, ensuring that he's as prepared as possible for the challenges ahead.
The final exams at Arcanum Isle are designed to test every aspect of a student's knowledge and abilities. They are divided into three parts. The Oral Exams test a student's knowledge of magical theory, history, and spellcraft. Professors ask detailed questions that require not just rote memorization, but also deep understanding and the ability to think critically under pressure. The Written Exams consist of complex essays and problem-solving exercises. Students must demonstrate their understanding of advanced magical concepts, their ability to analyze and interpret magical texts, and their skill in applying what they've learned over the year. The Physical Exams are practical exams where students must perform spells, engage in duels, and demonstrate their mastery of various forms of magic. The physical exams are the most demanding, requiring not just skill, but also endurance, focus, and the ability to think quickly on one's feet.
The first day of exams is devoted to oral assessments. Harry is called into a small, dimly lit room where three professors are waiting. The questioning is intense, with topics ranging from ancient magical history to complex spellcraft theory. Harry draws on everything he has learned over the year, including the guidance of the Custodians and the knowledge he's gained from his studies. Talon waits outside, ready to provide support when needed.
The next day is spent in the grand examination hall, where students are seated at long tables with quills and parchment. The written exams are grueling, with hours spent crafting essays on topics like the ethics of dark magic and the properties of rare magical creatures. Harry's focus is unwavering, and the detailed notes Talon has taken throughout the year prove invaluable as he draws on them to answer complex questions.
The most challenging part of the exams takes place over the next two days. In the dueling arenas and magical practice rooms, students are tested on their spellcasting abilities, dueling skills, and magical resilience. Harry faces off against other students in intense duels, conjures complex spells, and demonstrates his ability to control powerful magical energies. Talon, though not directly involved in the exams, provides quiet encouragement and ensures that Harry has everything he needs to succeed.
The last day of exams culminates in a final challenge—a comprehensive test that combines elements of all three exams. Students are placed in a controlled environment where they must solve a series of magical puzzles, defeat a series of enchanted obstacles, and present their findings to a panel of judges. This final challenge is designed to test not just knowledge, but creativity, adaptability, and leadership.
When the final challenge is over, the students are physically and mentally exhausted. The tension that has been building for weeks finally breaks, replaced by a collective sigh of relief. The exams are over, and now all that remains is the wait for the results. Harry feels a mixture of exhaustion and satisfaction, knowing that he has given his best effort in every part of the exams.
After the exams, the students are given a few days to rest and recover. Harry takes this time to relax, reflect on the year, and spend some quiet moments with Talon. They go for walks around the grounds of Arcanum Isle, enjoying the beauty of the late spring and the sense of calm that has settled over the school.