The Last Aayu: Book 1 - Ashes

Chapter 4: The Seas of Ambition

It had been several months since Utahis first set foot on the grounds. During this time, his friendships with Zalish, Leisan, and Niala had blossomed, while subtle tensions with Jurt and Kaiden seemed to simmer within their training group quietly. They thought not much of it, even offering support to the male human at times. 

They noticed the change shortly after they had received the results from the aptitude tests. All within their group were placed amongst the top twenty acolytes. Except for Jurt, who was placed around the mid two-hundreds. 

The reports indicated each acolyte's strengths, both during and in between tests. Utahis, with strength, determination, and courage, caught the eyes of many Overseers as an exemplary baseline for what a Talor should be. It made him proud, though he would be lying if that did not add to the mounting pressure. 

Leisan was praised for her stoicism, her analytical thinking, and her diligence. Kaiden, for his strength, tactical acumen, and resilience. Zalish, his bravery, agility, and adaptability. Niala was a curious case, though she expected to be lower on the rankings for her display of refusing to continue the strength test. Yet, she was praised. Her sense of self, strategic thinking, and cunning set her apart from the typical acolytes who arrived at the Academy.

As they sat in their dorm, nursing sore muscles and reflecting on their rigorous conditioning, Overseer Ushak entered the room with his customary cup of tea, commanding attention from all the Acolytes.

"Aayu. With me," Ushak stated abruptly before swiftly exiting, leaving behind curious whispers among the group.

"Oh... Someone's in trouble," Niala teased, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"Let us know what happens when you return," Zalish urged, injecting a note of curiosity.

"If he returns," Niala added cryptically, her red hair framing her face as she glanced towards Zalish.

Utahis rose, following Ushak silently. The overseer led him to his office, a small room illuminated by a softly glowing crystal and candlelight. On Ushak's desk sat a painting depicting two young Utalans, almost fraternal in their likeness. One was unmistakably a youthful Ushak, his face still bright with youth and vigor, while the other figure intrigued Utahis deeply. His attention refocused as Ushak dropped a stack of papers before him—Utahis' scores and evaluations.

"House Aayu's reputation holds true," Ushak remarked, pacing around the desk before setting the painting face down.

"How have I performed?" Utahis inquired anxiously.

"You're performing admirably. You're the seventh best Acolyte in this generation." Ushak confirmed matter-of-factly. Utahis smiled with relief as he scanned over his results.

"That means you're ready for your trials," Ushak continued, his tone serious. "You'll have a few weeks to plan and prepare. Your first trial will be a solitary endeavor."

Utahis nodded hesitantly, knowing well the dangers that awaited him during these tests. Ushak then placed another aged stack of papers beside Utahis' results—his father's scores from nearly five decades ago in the same program. Studying them side by side, Utahis couldn't ignore the striking similarities in their academic performance.

"You really do resemble him," Ushak remarked, noting Utahis' uncertain expression. "It's in the eyes—a blend of uncertainty and resilience."

Curious, Utahis asked, "How well did you know my father?"

"We were as close as you and Zalish," Ushak began, recounting their shared history. "My parents served as lieutenants under your great uncle during the War of the Returned. Together, they reclaimed the Academy from Avarian forces that had desecrated our lands." Utahis listened intently, realizing there were many untold stories about his family's past.