"For our newcomers, this tradition dates back to the founding of our academy. It serves as both introduction and initiation—a chance for our newest students to prove themselves and for our second-years to demonstrate how far they've come."
He gestured to both teams with a sweeping motion.
"The rules are simple but the execution is not. Upon commencement, all sixteen participants will be teleported to random locations within a specially generated terrain. Your objective is twofold: protect your flag-bearer while seeking out and capturing the enemy's flag."
Bourne produced two gleaming objects from within his robes—silver batons approximately thirty centimeters long, each etched with glowing runes.
"These are your flags," he explained, handing one to Francine and the other to Marcel.
