The roar of the crowd thundered through the Caelora Grand Colosseum.From the highest stands to the lowest seats, thousands of spectators gathered, waiting for the grand trial to begin. Banners of the kingdoms fluttered proudly, and magic light formed the symbol of the Council of Fourteen in the bright blue sky.
Among the crowd, Elara and Sylveras walked side by side until they reached two massive gates — one for contestants, and one for spectators.
Sylveras gave her a faint smile."Don't be nervous. You're more prepared than anyone here."
Elara took a deep breath. "Easy for you to say."
Sylveras chuckled softly, patting her shoulder. "You'll do fine. Let's meet by the tree near the exit once it's over, alright?"
Elara nodded, her eyes softening. "Promise."
They parted ways — Elara entered through the contestants' passage, while Sylveras joined the waves of cheering spectators in the stands.
Contestant Hall
The air inside was tense. Dozens of young mages from across the Kingdom of Urtz stood in lines, each wearing robes of different colors — symbols of their origin and element.Some were nervous, others eager, and a few wore calm, unreadable expressions.
Elara walked slowly among them, her heart a mix of awe and anxiety. But suddenly, a strong hand pulled her into a small chamber beside the hallway.
"Eh—! Who—"
"Relax, Elara," came a deep, familiar voice.
Elara froze. "Gorion?!"
The old Sage smiled gently. "You look tense. Take a breath — I know how important this day is for you."
Elara stared in disbelief. "Why are you here? Aren't you supposed to be with the Council?"
"Yes," Gorion replied. "The others and I will greet the participants soon. But I wanted to make sure my student walks in with her head held high."He looked at her with quiet pride. "You've come so far, Elara. Don't doubt yourself."
Elara gripped his hand tightly. "I don't know if I'm ready… but I'll try."
Gorion nodded. "That's all I need to hear."A circle of azure light began to swirl beneath his feet. "I'll return to my place now. See you in the arena."
In an instant, his figure vanished into a shimmering portal, leaving behind only a lingering warmth in the air.
The Stands
Meanwhile, Sylveras had found his way to the western stands. He gazed down at the massive circular arena below, where a shimmering barrier pulsed faintly — the field where the trials would soon take place.
But somewhere among the sea of faces, a pair of unfamiliar eyes watched him closely.A man in a dark coat, his face hidden beneath the shadows, smiled faintly.
"So, you're carrying the box as well," he murmured. "Good. Keep it close… until the time comes."
Sylveras felt a strange chill but dismissed it quickly. He shook his head and continued walking until he spotted an empty seat.
As he sat down, a familiar voice came from behind him."Hey, Sylv!"
It was Brant, holding a paper bag filled with toasted bread.
"Brant!" Sylveras grinned and waved him over. "Sit here! Let's watch together."
"Good idea," Brant replied, smiling as he sat beside him. "I've got a feeling this exam's gonna be insane."
The two young men turned their eyes to the arena just as the barrier began to glow brighter.A massive gong echoed across the Colosseum — a sound that marked the beginning of the Trial of the Sages.