C36 The Thunderous Applause

President Jager took his work extremely seriously, tolerating not even the slightest error. Known for his fiery temper, he was notoriously strict.

"Indeed, the origins of magic date back 2,500 years, as recorded in the ancient tomes deep within the academy's library."

"You've never laid eyes on those books."

"Zhang Xing is correct. He didn't just recite bookish theories; he offered an objective exposition based on his own understanding."

"Granted, his explanation wasn't exhaustive. But let's remember, he's been studying for only a month, and he's but a six-year-old child."

"Yet, this six-year-old has taught you all a valuable lesson."

"With his level of theoretical knowledge, he could very well serve as your tutor."

"I've emphasized time and again in our meetings that studying magic isn't about blindly chasing innovation."

"Innovation, as I define it, must be grounded in a solid foundation of basic knowledge. You can't conjure innovations from thin air!"

Jie Ge paused, softening his tone before adding, "That's all I wanted to say. Please, carry on."

President Jager made his way to the doorway, where the academy's senior officials were seated, listening intently as the new students answered questions.

"Students, we must apologize for the incorrect judgments made by our instructors earlier."

"Those who err must own up to and rectify their mistakes, whether mentor or student."

"For the second question, we award Zhang Xing an additional point, and Student Clive will lose one. That said, Student Clive, your theoretical acumen is commendable. Don't let this single point deter your performance going forward."

Solina initiated a round of applause, her intentions clear without words.

A thunderous ovation filled the hall, particularly from the ten deans of the jury, who clapped vigorously.

They had no choice but to join in with gusto; with the President and other dignitaries applauding, anything less could spell disaster for their futures.

"Let's proceed with the examination. Now, the fourth question!"

Zhang Xing remained the picture of serenity, while Cliff appeared visibly tense.

"Share with us your understanding of Instant Magic. Begin!"

Zhang Xing hit the buzzer.

"Mr. Zhang, your response, please."

Amidst the envious and astonished looks from his peers and the instructors, Zhang Xing rose to his feet with an air of unruffled composure.

"The so-called Instant Magic is the magic that is cast using a pure medium."

"This introduces two key concepts: the pure medium and the Construction Talisman. I won't go into detail on each."

"Many of you may have seen or heard about powerful mages who can cast spells without any incantations. They seem to effortlessly wield various magics."

"You might believe that such a mage's grasp of magic is so advanced that they've penetrated the very essence of the spells."

"While that's a reasonable assumption, the truth is that it's not possible."

"No one can directly harness a pure medium to unleash magic."

"Even those esteemed figures capable of Instant Magic, whom we admire, require time to cast their spells, albeit at varying speeds."

At that point, several elders nodded in agreement.

Ta Er, who had been glancing back, quickly joined in the nodding, wearing an expression of approval.

"My understanding is that their speed comes from using Formations, which are essentially Construction Talismans."

"These Construction Talismans are like schematics, long since etched into their minds."

"If we, too, had these Formation Talismans in our minds, Instant Magic would become a breeze!"

"Answer concluded!"

President Jager was the first to rise and lead the applause, followed by the academy's senior staff, the panel of judges, and all the students.

The applause resonated for quite some time!