The Physical Examination

On the fourth day, the red-grade affinity users bid farewell and returned home, while the orange-grade and above awakened and made their way to the Gymnasium for the highly anticipated practical exams. Luc and his peers were curious, as the pamphlet they received only covered the details of the written exams.

As the awakened gathered, Kyle Burrow stepped forward to announce the organization of the practical exams. He explained that the practical exams would consist of two parts: the physical test and the combat test. The purpose of the physical examination was to assess their physical parameters, including strength, agility, reaction time, and endurance. Each participant would undergo the physical test individually. Still, due to the large number of participants, they would be divided into groups of ten, with each group taking the test simultaneously. Kyle emphasized that the content of the test was strictly personal and should not be shared with others.

To determine their respective groups and exam venues, Kyle Burrow retrieved an urn and activated a set of runes. Plates floated out of the urn and came to a stop in front of each student. These plates bore their assigned numbers. Kyle continued, instructing the first group to proceed with the physical test, knowing that the rules were well understood by all.

Luc's anticipation grew as he awaited his turn, grateful that he still had some time before his group was called. He decided to observe the first few groups as they approached their designated venues and embarked on the physical tests. An hour later, the last participant of the initial group emerged, visibly exhausted and drained. Avery Doughbates, known for his athleticism, appeared worn out and fatigued, which hinted at the arduous nature of the test.

Luc's observations of subsequent groups confirmed his initial assumption. None of the participants seemed to come out unscathed. Some were so fatigued that they fainted upon leaving the venue, requiring immediate attention and recovery in the infirmary. The toll of the physical test was evident, painting a clear picture of the challenges that awaited Luc.

After approximately five hours, it was finally Luc's turn to undergo the physical test. Nerves and anticipation coursed through his veins as he entered the designated venue. There, he discovered a large stone placed in the centre of the area. A teacher approached him and instructed him to deliver a powerful punch to the stone, emphasizing that the use of magic was prohibited. Taking a deep breath, Luc gathered his strength and struck the stone with all his might.

To his surprise, instead of encountering a solid and resistant object, Luc felt as though he was punching a rubber surface. A numerical value appeared on a display screen, manipulated by the invigilator. Luc was asked to repeat the motion three times, ensuring consistency and accuracy in his punches.

Following the strength test, the focus shifted to agility. Luc was tasked with sprinting a distance of 100 arkas three times, with the invigilator meticulously recording his time. The pressure was on as Luc pushed his limits, striving to give his best performance.

Next in line was the endurance and reaction speed test. Luc was presented with a challenging course spanning 10,000 arkas, filled with a series of traps. The activation of these traps was random, putting participants' endurance and reflexes to the test. Luc took a deep breath, steeling himself for the challenge that lay ahead.

As he stood at the starting line, knowing that this particular test would be his ultimate trial, Luc was aware that athleticism was not his strong suit compared to his peers. It was likely that he would face elimination before reaching the finish line. However, instead of succumbing to discouragement, Luc embraced the opportunity to push beyond his limits and prove his resilience.

With determination in his eyes, Luc began to run, his footsteps echoing through the venue. Each step propelled him forward, fueled by a deep desire to showcase his unwavering spirit and determination. The physical test was his chance to demonstrate his inner strength, even in the face of perceived weaknesses.

After what felt like an eternity, Luc managed to push himself past the 2000 arkas mark. Every fibre of his being screamed with exhaustion, and pain radiated through his entire body. Despite his weariness, he braved the activation of a series of traps along the course. Although not life-threatening, they inflicted considerable pain upon him. Determined to persevere, Luc pressed on, refusing to let the agony hinder his progress. Finally, he came to a halt at the 3000 arkas mark, his body reaching its limit. With that, Luc's physical test came to an end.

Weary and drained, Luc emerged from the venue and immediately collapsed, his body unable to bear any further strain. He was swiftly transported to the infirmary, where he succumbed to a deep and restful sleep. After what seemed like an unknown amount of time, Luc gradually regained consciousness. The nurse attending to him inquired about his well-being, to which Luc replied that he was hungry. Upon ensuring that he was stable, Luc was discharged, discovering that he had slept for at least three hours.

Hungry and in need of sustenance, Luc made his way to the cafeteria. He consumed a hearty meal, replenishing his energy reserves. With renewed vigour, he returned to the gymnasium to witness the remaining two groups' tests, eager to observe their performances and support his fellow awakened.

As the physical exams concluded, Kyle Burrow addressed the participants, announcing the commencement of the combat test the following day. He instructed everyone to gather at the same location in the morning. Luc absorbed the information, preparing himself mentally for the upcoming challenge. The physical test had pushed him to his limits, but he remained resolute, ready to face whatever trials awaited him in the combat test. With a mix of excitement and apprehension, Luc looked forward to the next phase of the examination, knowing that it would be another opportunity for him to prove his mettle.

Note: Arkas: equivalent to 0.5 meters