The Fire Zone arena teemed, exhaling a dense heat that molded the environment around it. With focus turned toward the internal flow, the mana was guided to the palms of the hands, where small flames began to come to life.
The heat was intense, but control remained absolute, allowing the blaze to grow in a rhythmic and contained dance.
The goal was merely to complete the test like any other participant. Suddenly, a gust of wind blew through the enclosure, threatening the element's stability. After a brief blink of an eye, the flame was restabilized and moved in circles, in gestures marked by precision.
All around, the effort of the other competitors was visible. While some kept their fire stable, others struggled against rebellious blazes.
The sorcerer's gaze drifted for a moment to a young sorcerer who was stumbling, letting the fire escape from control. Immediately after, his attention returned to the suspended holograms that updated the rankings in real time.
With calculated movements, the manipulation reached the necessary 60%. At the top of the panel, a tall human with a cold gaze led with an impressive 92%. There was a brief curiosity about the rival's identity, but focus soon returned to individual progress.
The transition to the Water Zone brought a dense and refreshing atmosphere. The vibration of the liquid seemed to respond promptly to the mage's will, as if every drop reflected his concentration. As he adjusted his posture, the humidity in the air mixed with the energy running through his body.
With eyelids closed for a brief moment, his hands rose to direct the flow. Under the command of his intention, a sphere of liquid crystal began to form, delicate and absolutely still, without a single oxygen bubble disturbing the purity of the water. It was a demonstration of technical balance that drew admiring glances from those present.
The light of the arena reflected on the surface of the creation, giving it an almost supernatural glow while it remained suspended. At the end of the test, a sense of duty fulfilled took hold of the ancient master. The mastery achieved was 70%.
Even as the judges noted the scores, serenity prevailed. Green eyes fixed on the slowly disappearing sphere, accompanied by a discreet smile.
Before the large results panel, the names of the day's best shone intensely. The list was headed by Erynn Duskwither, followed by Thaddeus Blackthorn. Just below, the weight of the Sylvaris lineage made itself present with Cordelia and Marcus, occupying the third and fourth positions, respectively. Other names, such as members of the houses Veyra and Windmere, completed the elite of that phase.
He decided to observe the siblings of the former owner of the body. Discretion was fundamental to avoid early recognition. After weaving through the crowd, he spotted the two targets near the fire zone, immersed in a private discussion.
— We cannot continue like this, Marcus — said Cordelia, firmly. — We need to find answers, and soon.
— I know — replied the military commander, his jaw tense. — But winning this championship might be the only way to find out what really happened.
Hidden in a corner, the intruder listened intently, noticing how tragedy had fragmented that family into deep grief. The desire to help was real, but patience spoke louder. However, in a brief oversight, Cordelia's violet gaze crossed his for a fraction of a second. The shock on his sister's face was evident, but before any action was taken, the white-haired silhouette had already lost itself in the shadows.
Twilight now covered Eldria, calming the once vibrant streets. Heavy steps led the exhausted body to the inn "The Traveler's Rest". The sanded stone facade promised the necessary refuge after a day of trials.
Upon entering the environment warmed by the smell of polished wood, the guest headed to the counter. With a few coins taken from Kaelus's pouch, he secured a bronze key for the first floor.
There was a soft laugh upon closing the bedroom door; the promise to compensate the young noble for the use of his resources still echoed in his mind.
The room was simple and clean, offering the peace necessary for rest. From the window, he watched the city lights go out before closing the curtains and surrendering to sleep. The second day would bring the Raw Magic Contest, an individual exhibition where anonymity would be an even greater challenge.
The task for dawn was set: display enough skill to advance, without releasing the magnitude of the Inner Forge which was now at the peak of its strength, touching the next level of progress.