In the Magical Realm, the term Academia referred both to the scholarly community centered on the mysteries of magic and to the networked library system run by the continent’s Mage Towers, which was bound together by a magical archive—something like a central server—that connected ideas across regions like a magical intranet.0

Any thesis submitted to Academia became accessible to every mage across the continent who could read, criticize, debate, or cite it, and if the work held up under examination it would be recognized as a formal theory with copyright protection, but if it failed it would be shelved away in the library, lost beneath innumerable other forgotten papers.0

“… With all due respect, Professor, you’ve been too soft on her,” Relin said in a voice heavy with meaning. “We all know Epherene’s not just any student—she’s your late assistant’s daughter.”0

Today, the Head Professor’s office on the 77th floor was busier than ever, packed with more visitors than usual.0

“However, that has led to too many things being overlooked. But this thesis—this one crossed the line. There’s no room left for compassion now.”0

Relin, Ihelm, and even Louina—said to be one of the most respected professors in the Mage Tower—were all present.0

“Epherene was never fit to be your protégé, Professor, let alone one worthy of the Yukline name, and she lacks the talent, the discipline, and the merit. It’s time you made a decision—”0

“We’ll convene the Personnel Committee,” I interrupted, silencing Relin before he could say another word.0

Back when Epherene was just an undergrad at the Mage Tower, she had...0