In the land of Arvelak, all citizens are required to attend military academies from the age of three to eighteen. Their progress is measured at three important milestones used for future placement in their squads and eligibility to attend officer’s school. These milestones are known as the fifth, tenth, and fifteenth year exams. Each exam has a written and performed component. Families, friends, and teachers attend the performed exam and cheer on their young cadet as they demonstrate spells, weapon techniques, and formations with their fellows. The fifteenth year exam receives the most scrutiny from current teachers and potential recruiters. Doing poorly could affect future opportunities, so cadets study hard and practice incessantly to succeed. After the exams, families and friends go out to celebrate at a restaurant or throw a big party at home. It is tradition to have meat pies with crusts dyed the academy’s colors. A favorite drink for the occasion is the tart, blue-hued kiiny juice.

— Morgan