Kael settled into his seat in the testing room, surrounded by the other applicants. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation, and he could feel the nervous energy radiating from his peers. The room was spacious, with rows of desks facing the front where a large screen displayed the academy's emblem. He glanced at Leo and Mira, who sat nearby, their expressions a mix of determination and anxiety.
A few moments later, a striking woman entered the room, her presence commanding immediate attention. She had long, dark hair that cascaded down her back and sharp, piercing eyes that seemed to assess each applicant with a single glance. "Good morning, applicants," she announced, her voice firm and authoritative. "I am your proctor for the third part of the exam. My name is Captain Elara Kofhika."
Kael straightened in his seat, feeling the weight of her gaze. "You will have one hour to complete this test. It consists of various questions designed to assess your knowledge of battle tactics, strategy, and other essential subjects. Cheating will not be tolerated. If you are caught, you will be immediately discharged from the test and deemed a total failure."
A murmur of shock rippled through the room. Kael had expected strict rules, but the severity of her warning sent a chill down his spine. He glanced at Leo, who looked equally taken aback. Mira, however, seemed unfazed, her expression resolute.
"Four instructors will be circulating the room to monitor for any dishonest behavior," Captain Kofhika continued, her tone unwavering. "I suggest you take this seriously. You are here to prove yourselves, and I expect nothing less than your best effort."
With that, she handed out sheets of paper filled with questions and pens. Kael took a deep breath, scanning the paper as he received it. The questions ranged from tactical scenarios to mathematical problems related to combat. He felt a surge of confidence; he had studied hard for this moment.
"Begin!" Captain Kofhika commanded, and the room fell silent as everyone focused on their tests.
Kael dove into the questions, his pen flying across the paper. The first few questions were straightforward, and he breezed through them with ease. He felt a sense of satisfaction as he answered each one, recalling the countless hours he had spent studying in preparation for this moment.
However, a few questions stumped him. One involved calculating the optimal formation for a squadron in a specific battle scenario, and another required him to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of different elemental affinities in combat. He paused for a moment, but he quickly pushed through, relying on his instincts and the knowledge he had gained.
After thirty minutes, Kael looked up, surprised to see that many of his peers were still scribbling away. He felt a rush of pride; he had finished the test ahead of most of them. He stood up and walked to the front of the room, handing his test to Captain Kofhika.
She took the paper, her expression critical as she scanned his answers. Kael held his breath, anxiety creeping in as he waited for her judgment. After a moment, she nodded, her demeanor slightly softening. "You may wait in the hallway," she instructed, gesturing toward the door.
Relieved, Kael stepped out into the hallway, where he leaned against the wall, trying to calm his racing heart. He glanced at the nearby screen, which flickered to life with another news broadcast. The familiar face of the young news anchor appeared, her expression serious.
"In breaking news, the Silverlien Federation is facing escalating tensions with the Archons," she reported. "Recent developments indicate that the Archons have begun deploying battle mechs against Federation forces. Initial reports suggest that the Federation is struggling to provide an adequate response to this new threat."
Kael's stomach twisted at the news. The thought of advanced mechanical foes attacking their world was terrifying. He listened intently as the anchor continued, detailing the ongoing battles and the government's efforts to reassure the public.
"Citizens are urged to remain calm and trust in the Guardians and Knights who are bravely defending our territory," the anchor concluded. "We will provide updates as the situation develops."
As the broadcast ended, Kael felt a mix of fear and determination. He had always dreamed of becoming a knight, but now that dream felt more urgent than ever. He wanted to protect his family and his home from the looming threat of the Archons.
After a few minutes, the other applicants began to filter out of the testing room. Kael spotted Mira and Leo approaching, their expressions a mix of excitement and anxiety.
"How did it go?" Kael asked, trying to gauge their reactions.
"I think I did alright," Mira replied, her voice steady. "But I was worried about a couple of questions."
"Same here," Leo added, running a hand through his hair. "I saw a few people get booted for cheating, though. It was crazy!"
Kael nodded, feeling a sense of camaraderie with his friends. "I finished pretty quickly. I hope that's a good sign."
Just then, Sergeant Johiem entered the hallway, calling for everyone's attention. "Alright, applicants! Gather around!"
The group quickly assembled, and Kael felt a rush of anticipation. Johiem's presence commanded respect, and he could sense the weight of the moment.
"Congratulations on making it through the test," Johiem announced, his voice booming. "You've all worked hard, and I commend you for your efforts."
Mira and Leo exchanged relieved glances, and Kael felt a swell of pride at their accomplishments. Johiem continued, "I'd like to introduce you to someone who plays a crucial role in our academy."
A lithe-looking woman stepped forward, her graceful yet powerful aura captivating the room. "This is Captain Kofhika, the instructor in charge of our combat teams," Johiem said, gesturing to her.
Captain Kofhika's presence was commanding, and she spoke with authority. "The combat teams represent the best of what Silvercrest has to offer. We compete with other academies to showcase our skills in both duels and team battles. Those who join the combat team will receive special privileges, including private training and a monetary income from the academy."
Kael's heart raced at the prospect. He had heard stories about the competitions, how they captivated the entire Federation. The thought of being part of something so prestigious filled him with excitement.
"However," Captain Kofhika continued, her tone stern, "joining the combat team is not easy. You must earn your spot by competing in the end-of-year competition. Only those who truly give it their all will have the opportunity to join."
Kael felt a surge of determination. He wanted to help his family, and being part of the combat team could provide the financial support they desperately needed. His father had been struggling to make ends meet since his injury, and Kael wanted to do everything he could to lighten that burden.
"Thank you for your time," Captain Kofhika concluded, her gaze sweeping over the applicants. "I hope to see many of you as first-year students in our combat teams."
With that, the applicants were released to find their families. Kael turned to Mira and Leo, a mix of excitement and apprehension in his chest. "I hope you both get in," he said sincerely.
"Thanks, Kael! You too!" Leo replied, his enthusiasm infectious.
As they parted ways, Kael made his way to the front of the academy, where his family was waiting. He spotted his parents and little sister, Arya, their faces a mix of excitement and anxiety. They waved eagerly as he approached.
"Kael!" his mother exclaimed, pulling him into a warm embrace. "We've been waiting to hear how it went!"
"I'm not sure yet," Kael admitted, trying to keep his tone light. "But I think I did alright."
His father clapped him on the shoulder, pride shining in his eyes. "We're proud of you, son. No matter the outcome, you've worked hard."
Arya bounced on her toes, her eyes wide with excitement. "Did you pass? Did you? Tell me!"
Kael chuckled, ruffling her hair. "I don't know yet, Arya. I'll let you know as soon as I find out."
As they walked toward their family's hover car, Kael couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. He hated lying to his family, but he knew he had to keep his secret about controlling Sul. It was a burden he would carry alone for now.
Once they were settled in the hover car, Kael gazed out the window, admiring the city of Teriem. The blend of futuristic architecture and medieval elements created a stunning skyline, and he felt a sense of pride for the place he called home. The towering spires and intricate designs were a testament to the Federation's progress, and he couldn't help but dream of what his future might hold.
As they flew back home, Kael's mind raced with thoughts of the academy, the tests, and the looming threat of the Archons. He wanted to protect his family and his city, and he was determined to do whatever it took to become a knight.
When they arrived home, his mother immediately headed to the kitchen to start making dinner. Kael's father turned to him with a smile. "Meet me in the backyard for some light sparring, Kael."
Kael felt a mix of annoyance and acceptance. This had been their routine for years, ever since he had entered squire school. "Alright, Dad," he replied, trying to hide his reluctance.
He made his way to the backyard, where his father was already waiting, his stance relaxed but ready. Arya watched intently from the sidelines, her eyes wide with excitement.
"Let's see what you've got, son," his father said, a playful glint in his eyes.
Kael squared his shoulders, adopting a fighting stance. His father had been a knight before his injury, and even though he was retired, he still possessed incredible skill. They began to spar, trading blows as Kael focused on his movements.
Kael was fast and fluid, but his father was even quicker. They exchanged strikes, and Kael felt the familiar rush of adrenaline as they fought. In between blows, his father asked, "So, what do you think of the Silvercrest Knight Academy? How do you think you did?"
Kael dodged a strike and countered, "It was overwhelming at first, but I think I did alright." He didn't want to reveal too much about the test, especially not the secret of his abilities. "I think I did good."
His father nodded, clearly impressed. "And what about your friends? Anyone catch your eye?"
Kael hesitated, then said, "I made two new friends, Mira and Leo. They're both really talented."
When his father heard about Mira, he raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile forming on his lips. "Oh? A lady's man, are we?"
Arya chimed in from the sidelines, catcalling playfully, "Kael's got a crush!"
Kael felt his face flush with embarrassment, and in that moment of distraction, he dropped his guard. His father seized the opportunity, breaking through and lightly tapping Kael on the head.
"Focus, Kael!" his father laughed, stepping back. "You can't let distractions get to you."
"Alright, alright!" Kael said, shaking off the embarrassment. They continued to spar, trading blows and laughter until his father finally called an end to the practice.
"Let's clean up and have dinner," his father said, clapping Kael on the back. "I'm proud of you, no matter what happens."
As they headed inside, Kael felt a mix of gratitude and conflict. He loved his family and wanted to share his accomplishments with them, but the weight of his secret loomed over him. He would have to navigate this new reality carefully, balancing his desire to protect his family with the truth he couldn't yet reveal.
Dinner was filled with laughter and stories, and Kael felt a sense of warmth enveloping him. He cherished these moments, knowing that whatever challenges lay ahead, he had the support of his family and friends.
As he lay in bed that night, Kael couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation. The academy, the tests, and the looming threat of the Archons all swirled in his mind. He was ready to face whatever came next, determined to prove himself as a knight and protect those he loved.
With that thought, he closed his eyes, drifting into a restless sleep filled with dreams of battles, friendships, and the unknown future that awaited him.