Draven began explaining the exam's rules. "There are hidden magic orbs in the Forest of Dawn. Your task is to collect as many as you can within one week. If you fail this exam, you will remain in the first year."
With a flick of his hand, they were teleported to their destination. "One more thing," Draven added, his voice echoing in their minds, "the 10 Student Council members will protect you all in case of an emergency. Now, proceed."
The students dashed toward the forest entrance, while some lingered, employing various tactics. Some formed alliances, while others chose to venture alone.
“Velgrim, let’s go!” Lyra called out.
“Yes,” he responded, and together they moved deeper into the forest. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t find a single magic orb, so they decided to delve further. They soon encountered a group of goblins.
Zariel used his aura to enhance his speed and mana to empower his sword, swiftly killing four goblins. Lyra, with brute force, dispatched five goblins. Zariel thought, She’s strong for her age. Suddenly, he stopped.
“What is this? Too strong... dark mana. Sister, do you feel it?”
“Yes,” Lyra answered. “Be careful, Velgrim.”
Before long, a dark, powerful barrier activated. The Headmaster and the other instructors sensed it and immediately took action, but it was too late. The barrier was perfectly activated, trapping some students inside while others remained outside.
“This is dark magic,” Draven said, inspecting the barrier. “It's strengthened by a divine power. I can’t destroy it.”
Instructor Althea and Seraphena approached him. “Headmaster, this is…”
“I know,” Draven interrupted. “We can't destroy it. Let's put our hope in the students.”
Inside the barrier, Zariel and Lyra were tense. So they’re starting, Zariel thought.
“Sister, what should we do?”
“We need to be wary, Velgrim. Even if it’s a student from our academy, we can’t trust anyone in this situation,” Lyra replied.
As expected of her, Zariel thought. They quickened their pace, searching for a safe place to rest.
As they moved cautiously, they heard footsteps and decided to investigate. They were shocked by what they discovered—a group of students, including Thalor Drakewood, were huddled together, whispering and emanating a dark aura.
“Thalor!” Zareil called out, trying to keep his voice steady. “What’s going on here?”
Thalor turned, his eyes glinting with an unsettling light. “Ah, Velgrim, Lyra. Welcome. We’ve been expecting you.”
“Expecting us?” Lyra echoed, her hand instinctively moving to her weapon.
“Yes,” Thalor said smoothly. “You see, this barrier... it’s part of our plan. We’re here to test not just your strength but your resolve. Those who can’t handle the pressure will fail, and only the strongest will survive.”
Zariel’s eyes narrowed. “This isn’t part of the exam. What are you really planning?”
Thalor’s smile widened. “All in due time, Velgrim. For now, consider this a lesson in survival. You’ll need every ounce of your power—and your wits—to get through this.”
Zariel and Lyra exchanged glances. The stakes had just been raised, and the true challenge of the exam had begun.
YOU ARE READING
Twilights of the Gods
Fantasy"Centuries ago, the battle mage who dared to challenge the gods was sealed away in eternal darkness, his name erased from history. But prophecies whispered of his return, and now, after ages of imprisonment, he has been reborn in a world dominated b...
