The summary meeting was held on the broad platform in front of the administrative building. A light breeze stirred cloaks and robe hems, while sunlight fell across the faces of every mage and magic apprentice.
Ang stood on the raised platform, calm and composed. His gaze swept over the familiar figures below as his clear, powerful voice rang out:
"This Magic Exchange Meeting was an immense success. We not only sparred and refined our skills, but also gained a deeper understanding of each other's strengths and weaknesses. For every one of us, this was a rare opportunity."
Applause rose from below. Several young magic apprentices nodded excitedly, while someone murmured wistfully, "It would be great if we could have exchanges like this every month."
Ang paused briefly, his tone turning serious. "However, I must also point out that one of our weaknesses remains glaringly obvious—we are still far from proficient enough with runes."
His words stirred a wave of whispers. Some frowned, while others lowered their heads in thought.
Saitu, one of the recruited mages seated in the front row, immediately raised his hand. His tone carried faint confusion and protest.
"My lord, I believe our command of runes already surpasses that of many ordinary magic groups. Quite a few mages can even independently construct complete Rune Arrays... Isn't that enough?"
His words prompted the other dozen recruited mages to nod in agreement. Clearly, most of them had a certain degree of confidence in their own abilities.
Ang did not answer at once. He looked at them, his tone mild yet resolute. "I understand what you mean, Saitu. But I must remind everyone that we improve our rune abilities not for others, nor for comparison—it is for ourselves."
He raised one hand slightly. A faint glow gathered at his fingertips,