Autumn had settled over Dawn, painting the village in shades of crimson, amber, and gold. The once vibrant summer foliage had given way to a cooler, more muted beauty, with fallen leaves crunching underfoot as the cadets gathered at the training grounds. The air was crisp, carrying with it a sharpness that hinted at the oncoming chill of winter.

The training had been relentless these past two months. After a grueling summer of honing their Aura abilities, the cadets were stronger than ever, their bodies lean and battle-hardened. Yet, there was a sense of anticipation in the air today. They had heard rumors about the next stage of their training, and it was clear that something important was on the horizon.

Instructor Tora, his imposing figure as solid as ever, stood before them, his arms crossed as he surveyed the cadets with a look of quiet approval. The group had come a long way, and Tora was proud of their progress. His voice, when it finally broke the silence, carried a weight of seriousness that caught the attention of every cadet present.

"The next phase of your training begins soon," Tora announced, his eyes scanning the faces of Isaki, Riku, Balko, Jenia, and the others. "This will be one of the most challenging parts of your third year."

The wind rustled through the trees as the cadets exchanged glances, a mix of curiosity and excitement bubbling just beneath the surface.

"Your next training exercise will take place on the northern mountain, beyond Dawn," Tora continued. "Every third-year cadet must complete this trial. It's a rite of passage."

The cadets straightened up at this, knowing full well the weight behind Tora's words. They had heard stories of this particular challenge. The mountain trial was infamous, known for testing not only their combat skills but their endurance, survival instincts, and mental fortitude.

"Let me be clear," Tora said, his voice firm. "This is not a simple training exercise. You'll be on that mountain for as long as it takes to complete your tasks. You'll need to hunt for food, set up camps, and watch out for animals, especially those that possess Aura."

This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

At the mention of Aura-infused animals, a few cadets shifted uneasily. It wasn't uncommon for creatures in this world to develop a connection to Aura, but on the mountain, it was said that these animals were different—more powerful and potentially dangerous.

"Most of the animals you'll encounter won't be aggressive," Tora reassured them. "But some of them might be. You'll need to be prepared for that possibility at all times. Stay sharp."

The wind picked up slightly, tugging at the cloaks of the cadets as Tora continued, "Your main objectives are straightforward: you'll need to kill at least three animals that possess Aura and bring back their hides. Additionally, each of you will be given a list of medicinal herbs to collect from the mountain. These herbs are important for survival and for the practical application of your training."

Tora raised a hand, signaling that the next part was crucial. "How long this takes is up to you. It could take a week, or it could take a month. You'll need to manage your resources, you may cooperate with your fellow cadets, and stay focused on the task at hand. When you've completed your objectives, you'll return to Dawn with your hides and herbs. Only then will the trial be complete."

There was a palpable tension in the air now, as the gravity of the task began to settle on the cadets. They had faced tough challenges before, but this was different. This was survival, and they wouldn't have the safety net of the training grounds or their instructors watching over them.

"You have a few days to prepare," Tora said, his tone final. "Make sure you have the necessary gear—tents, supplies, and weapons. Once you leave for the mountain, there will be no turning back until the trial is over."

Isaki, standing beside Riku, clenched his fists in determination. His Aura training had come a long way, but this was the type of challenge he had been waiting for—a real test of his skills and endurance. Riku, too, looked focused, his usual smirk replaced with a more serious expression. Both knew that this trial would push them beyond their limits.

Jenia and Balko exchanged glances, their earlier playfulness gone, replaced by the resolve that had been forged through months of training. Everyone knew what was at stake now.

As the cadets began to disperse, discussing what they would need for the trial, Tora remained where he stood, his eyes lingering on the group as they walked away. He knew this trial would shape them in ways no training ground could. The mountain had a way of revealing one's true strength—and one's weaknesses.

For many of these cadets, it would be their first real encounter with the harshness of the world beyond Dawn. Tora only hoped they were ready.