The academy's private conference room felt smaller with so many important people gathered around its polished table. Axnem sat between his parents, facing an assembly that included Headmistress Vaelthorne, Master Vash, Professor Blackthorne, and Archmaster Stormwind—a concentration of magical authority that made the air itself feel heavy with power.
"Mr. Black's evaluation results were extraordinary," Master Vash began without preamble. "His theoretical understanding, practical capability, and innovative problem-solving approach place him among the most promising candidates we've assessed."
Grandfather Aldric, who had insisted on attending despite the meeting's focus on academy matters, leaned forward with obvious interest. "What specific capabilities did the evaluation reveal?"
"Advanced pattern recognition, sophisticated mathematical analysis, and most remarkably, intuitive understanding of network casting principles that should require years of specialized study," Archmaster Stormwind replied. "His performance suggests exposure to theoretical frameworks beyond standard curriculum."
The implication hung in the air—they suspected Axnem possessed knowledge that exceeded his apparent training. In his previous timeline, such suspicions had led to investigations that his family couldn't afford.
"The Black family archives contain extensive theoretical materials," Lord Marcus said carefully. "Axnem has had access to historical texts that most students never encounter."
"Indeed," Professor Blackthorne confirmed. "The materials he provided have proven crucial to our research development. But his practical application of those principles suggests more than casual study."
Axnem felt the weight of scrutiny from some of the most powerful magical authorities in their civilization. How much could he reveal without exposing the impossible truth of his situation?
"I've been studying the archive materials intensively since the crisis began," he said, choosing his words carefully. "The mathematical foundations are elegant once you understand the underlying principles."
"Mathematical foundations that took our research teams weeks to fully comprehend," Master Vash observed. "Yet you appear to have mastered them with remarkable speed."
"Perhaps," Grandfather Aldric interjected smoothly, "exceptional talent occasionally manifests in ways that exceed normal expectations. The Black family has produced notable scholars throughout our history."
Headmistress Vaelthorne, who had remained silent during the exchange, finally spoke. "Regardless of the source of Mr. Black's capabilities, the question is whether his family will permit his participation in our crisis response programs."
The decision point had arrived. Axnem's future memories suggested that direct involvement in crisis response would be dangerous but ultimately necessary. The knowledge and experience gained would prove crucial to preventing disasters that might otherwise destroy everything he hoped to protect.
"What specific risks are involved?" his mother asked, her tone carefully controlled despite obvious concern.
"Fieldwork in areas affected by magical disruption," Archmaster Stormwind replied honestly. "Exposure to unstable magical phenomena that have injured experienced researchers. Potential confrontation with hostile forces if our investigation identifies those responsible for the disruptions."
The stark assessment made clear that academy involvement was not an academic exercise—it was preparation for a conflict that might determine the fate of their civilization.
"But also," Master Vash added, "opportunity to develop capabilities that could prove crucial for protecting not only the academy's interests, but the broader stability of magical civilization itself."
Axnem looked at his parents, understanding that their decision would shape not only his immediate future but potentially the survival of their family and everything they had worked to preserve.
"I want to participate," he said quietly. "The crisis is real and growing. If my capabilities can contribute to solutions, then remaining safely uninvolved would be a form of cowardice."
Grandfather Aldric smiled—a rare expression that suggested approval rather than mere amusement. "Spoken like a true Black family heir. We've never survived by avoiding necessary risks."
Lord Marcus and his wife exchanged glances before his father nodded slowly. "Very well. But with conditions. Full disclosure of mission parameters. Regular communication during fieldwork. And immediate withdrawal if conditions exceed acceptable risk levels."
"Agreed," Headmistress Vaelthorne said immediately. "Mr. Black's safety remains our primary concern."
As the meeting concluded and formal agreements were finalized, Axnem felt the weight of commitment settling on his shoulders. The path ahead would test everything he thought he understood about magic, politics, and his own capabilities.
But it also represented the best opportunity to change the course of events that had destroyed his future. Armed with knowledge from that future and supported by resources his family had preserved for centuries, he might finally be able to prevent the catastrophes that had seemed inevitable.
The real test was about to begin.