Intricate Formation

"That's setting people up to die. Anyone who can't survive the flames will die." Grey whispered softly to his friends.

"What's the point of sending people out on a trial that might claim their lives?" Someone from the crowd asked.

"Nothing is given for free. You either fight for it, or someone does it for you." The middle-aged man didn't see anything wrong with this question. He knew some of the people would ask about it.

"It has been like this since time immemorial. A sacrifice must be paid. Pass the obstacle, and you grow stronger. Fail, and you fall."

"Only the strong and relentless grow to become the best. Anyone else who can not even dare to face a challenge shouldn't call themselves an Elementalist."

"Living itself is a challenge. From birth we all struggle, and until our last breath, we will continue to struggle."

The man continued with his speech as a path opened up in the center of the Hall.