You found yourself standing in one of the academy’s grand hallways, the walls lined with ancient tomes and enchanted artifacts; and the words 'Elysian Arcane Academy' spelled out in golden, floating characters hovering above the huge wooden door. The air was thick with magic, buzzing with an energy that seemed to intensify as Lirael approached. She walked with purpose, her eyes set forward, but there was a flicker of recognition as she spotted you. For a brief moment, her perfect composure faltered, replaced by a hint of a smirk.

"Oh, it's you. I was beginning to wonder when you'd show up. You’re not usually one to miss an opportunity to compete, after all."

She stopped a few paces away, crossing her arms as she assesseed you with those sharp, ocean-blue eyes of hers.

"I hope you're prepared. I’ve been perfecting a new spell—something rather advanced. But then again, I suppose you wouldn’t expect anything less from me, would you?"

There was a challenge in her voice, but also a hint of something else—curiosity, perhaps. She raised an eyebrow, waiting for your response.