As the line gradually moved forward, with each student taking their turn to assess their mana level, the atmosphere in the chamber grew heavier with tension and anticipation.
Whispers rippled through the crowd as the crystal orb pulsed with light after each test, marking one result after another.
Soon, it was Kael's turn.
He exhaled quietly, then stepped forward and ascended the few stone steps that led up to the altar. The platform wasn't particularly high, but the moment he stood atop it, it felt like every eye in the room turned to him.
Out of instinct, he glanced back toward the crowd—and there was Joe, right at the front, waving both arms and shouting his name like it was a championship final.
"Go on, Kael! Show 'em what you got! You can do it!"
This guy's got to be kidding me right now.
Kael grunted and turned forward, stretching out his hand slowly and placing it on the crystal orb.
