Eliminations

The Hall of Ordeals remained hushed as Principal Eldarion took a step forward, his expression grave yet composed. The air seemed to thicken with a sense of quiet importance, drawing every student's focus to him. He clasped his hands behind his back, his voice steady as he began to speak.

"Prodigies, it is not enough to wield magic for glory or personal ambition," he said, his tone measured and commanding. "To exist in this world of power and wonder is to accept a greater responsibility. Magic, as you know it, is not simply a tool or a gift. It is a necessity for survival, for beyond these walls, the world is fraught with peril."

He gestured toward the towering walls of the hall, as though beyond them lay the lurking dangers he spoke of. "For centuries, our lands have been plagued by *anomalies*—events where the balance of reality falters. From these anomalies, monsters are spawned—creatures born of chaos, driven by instinct to destroy. They are not bound by reason, nor do they adhere to any law except their hunger. And when these creatures appear in great numbers, they bring with them what we call *dungeons*—pockets of twisted reality, labyrinths filled with dangers and treasures alike."

Eldarion's gaze swept over the students, his expression heavy with the weight of the subject. "The hunters—men and women trained to face these threats—are the shields of our civilization. They venture into dungeons to destroy what should not exist, to retrieve relics that can stabilize the balance of magic, and to protect the innocent from the horrors that would otherwise overwhelm us. Without them, our kingdoms would have long since fallen to ruin."

He paused for a moment, allowing the weight of his words to sink in. "But hunting is not merely about strength or courage. It is about strategy, mastery, and the ability to adapt to the unknown. It is a role reserved for the skilled, the disciplined, and the extraordinary. Some of you may one day be called to this path, and you must be prepared."

Eldarion raised a hand, and the obelisk glowed faintly once more, as though responding to his presence. "The hunters themselves are ranked according to their prowess, and though many achieve greatness, few rise to the highest echelons. The levels of mastery are known as the *Supreme* and the *Divine*. These titles are not merely ceremonial—they are a reflection of one's ability to transcend the limits of mortal magic."

His voice deepened, resonating with reverence as he continued. "The *Supreme* hunters are those who stand at the pinnacle of mortal potential. Their magic, their skills, their very existence is a testament to their dedication. They are forces of nature, capable of turning the tide of battles single-handedly. Yet even among the Supreme, there exists a level beyond comprehension."

Eldarion's gaze grew distant, as though he were recalling a memory etched deep in time. "The *Divine* are not merely hunters—they are legends. Their power is said to rival the gods themselves. Few have ever ascended to this level, and their names are whispered with reverence across the ages. To become Divine is to achieve unity with magic, to embody the essence of the elements in their purest form."

He turned back to the students, his expression sharp and unyielding. "And so I say to you all: do not seek these titles for the sake of pride. Seek them because the world needs protectors. Seek them because the power you wield is not yours alone—it belongs to the realm, to those who cannot fight for themselves."

Eldarion let his words settle over the hall like a heavy mantle before he stepped back, his hands once more clasped behind him. "Now, prodigies of Demiri, the path before you is clear. Prove yourselves not just as wielders of magic, but as guardians of the future."

Principal Eldarion stood tall in the center of the Hall of Ordeals, his commanding presence drawing the attention of every student and Guild Leader present. The air was thick with tension, the faint hum of the obelisk now silent after the final test. The students stood in a semicircle on the platform, their faces a mixture of nervousness, hope, and quiet resignation. Some glanced anxiously toward the balconies where the Guild Leaders sat, their faces unreadable as they prepared to make their decisions.

Eldarion raised a hand, and the hall fell into a reverent silence. His piercing gaze swept over the assembled prodigies, lingering for a moment on those whose tests had been lackluster. "Demiri is not a place for the timid, the complacent, or the unprepared," he began, his voice carrying an edge of finality. "Your performance today has been a reflection of your readiness. Some of you have proven yourselves worthy of the challenges ahead. Others… have not."

A ripple of unease swept through the students. Eldarion let the moment linger before continuing. "For those who failed to meet the standard, your time at Demiri ends here. While the path of the prodigy is not yours to walk, remember that this is not the end of your journey. Return to your families, to your towns, and find strength in what you have learned. There is honor in all paths."

With a subtle motion, the doors to the hall opened, and several Blondies entered, their serene expressions betraying no judgment. They guided the disqualified students toward the exit, their footsteps echoing softly in the otherwise silent chamber. Some left with heads bowed in disappointment, others with tears streaming silently down their faces. A few, despite their failure, walked tall, determined to find purpose elsewhere.

Eldarion watched them leave before turning back to the remaining students. "To those who remain," he said, his tone sharpening, "congratulations. You have taken the first step toward greatness. But this is only the beginning. Before you lies a road fraught with challenges that will test not only your magic but your spirit."

He gestured toward the Guild Leaders seated above. "Today, you are presented with an extraordinary opportunity. The leaders of the most prestigious guilds have come to witness your potential. Some of you may be invited to join them for specialized training. Consider their offers carefully, for they will shape your future."

The Guild Leaders stirred, their gazes sweeping over the remaining students. One by one, they began calling names, their voices ringing out across the hall like the chimes of destiny. Each chosen student stepped forward, their faces a mixture of pride and awe, and accepted the emblems of their respective guilds.

When Speed's name was called, an expectant hush fell over the room. A leader from the **Crimson Blade Order** leaned forward, their fiery emblem glinting in the light. "Speed," they began, their voice rich with admiration, "your performance was nothing short of extraordinary. The Crimson Blade Order would be honored to have you among us. Your strength and courage are exactly what we seek."

Before Speed could respond, another Guild Leader spoke up—a robed figure from the **Scholars of the Mind**, their voice calm and deliberate. "Speed, the Scholars of the Mind would welcome you into our fold. Your connection to Spirit magic is unprecedented. We can help you understand its mysteries."

Cassey, seated with the **Shadow Warrior Guild**, remained silent, her piercing eyes focused intently on Speed. She said nothing, but her gaze carried an unspoken invitation—an acknowledgment of his potential and the possibilities he represented.

Speed stepped forward, the weight of their words pressing on him. The room was silent, the air thick with anticipation as all eyes turned toward him. He hesitated, his gaze sweeping over the Guild Leaders and the emblems they offered. For a moment, doubt flickered in his chest. Joining a guild would grant him training, allies, and resources—but it would also mean giving up his independence, surrendering his path to the vision of another.

Taking a deep breath, Speed straightened his shoulders. "Thank you," he began, his voice steady despite the quiet tremor in his chest. "I am honored by your offers, truly. But… I must decline."

A gasp rippled through the hall. The Guild Leaders exchanged startled glances, and even the unshakable Cassey arched a brow in surprise. Eldarion's gaze locked onto Speed, his expression unreadable but his eyes gleaming with interest.

"I don't yet fully understand my magic," Speed continued, his voice growing stronger. "But I know that my journey is my own. I need to discover who I am, and what my power means, on my terms. I hope you can respect that."

For a moment, the room remained silent, the weight of Speed's words settling over everyone present. Then, slowly, Eldarion nodded. "A bold choice," he said, his voice carrying a note of approval. "But boldness, when tempered with wisdom, is the mark of greatness. May you prove yourself worthy of your potential."