Time marched on as Skyler and the others he knew fought their way through the Gala, each advancing steadily toward the finals.
Isaac was caught up in the potion-making competition. Riruru faced her own battles. Charles had his hands full as well. At last, the final day of the week-long Gala arrived.
Whether by chance or sheer coincidence, Skyler found himself unpaired against any of the main cast after Zack all this time.
He cheered as Elena was defeated by a powerful student from the second-ranked academy on the Human Continent. In the end, 40 students advanced to the finals—eleven of them from Starlight Academy.
Skyler ruffled Charles's hair.
"How did you make it to the finals?"
Only to get a speechless look in return.
Isaac chimed in from behind.
"Willpower. He told me he wouldn't let me lose the many Star Coins I bet on him—and he kept his word. Over 10 million Star Coins were transferred to my account the instant his name made it to the finals."
