Chapter 5: The Test of Discovery

July shifted nervously under the weight of everyone's gaze. "I want to be a part of the Discovery Team," she announced, though her voice trembled slightly.

The crowd immediately stirred, murmuring among themselves. Surprise and skepticism were written on many faces. The Discoverers, after all, had the most dangerous job—venturing beyond the Heart Tree's protection to map the forest, find new resources, and occasionally scout for survivors. Few chose it, and even fewer passed the tests.

Mariana stepped forward, her sharp eyes narrowing as she assessed July. "The Discovery Team is not for the faint of heart. If you want this, you'll need to prove yourself."

"I'm willing to try," July said, though her heart pounded in her chest.

Mariana raised a hand to quiet the crowd. "You'll need to pass the three tests of discovery. If you pass all of them, the role is yours. If you fail, you'll be assigned a different role—one we choose for you."

July swallowed hard but nodded. "What are the tests?"

Mariana's expression remained stern. "The first is a test of observation. Discoverers must notice things others don't. You'll be placed in an unfamiliar environment and given a limited time to identify key details."

"The second is a test of endurance," Mariana continued. "You'll need to navigate through the forest on your own and return safely to the Heart Tree before nightfall."

July's breath hitched at the mention of the forest. She remembered the eerie whispers and the strange creatures she had encountered.

"And the third?" she asked.

"The third is a test of courage," Mariana said, her tone darkening. "You'll be sent to the edge of the Shadow Lands at dusk. It's not about surviving the night—it's about facing your fear."

The crowd went silent at the mention of the Shadow Lands, the edge of the Heart Tree's protective zone. Few had ventured there, and even fewer had returned unchanged.

"When do I start?" July asked, trying to mask her fear.

"Tomorrow morning," Mariana replied. "Rest tonight. You'll need it."

July felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Elias standing beside her. "You're brave to choose this," he said softly. "But don't underestimate the tests. They're harder than you think."

"I don't have a choice," July said. "I need to find out what this place is—and what the book is trying to tell me."

As the crowd began to disperse, July stood alone under the glow of the Heart Tree, her mind swirling with anticipation and fear. Tomorrow, she would face the unknown once again. And this time, there would be no turning back.