06. The first test
The test site was a large open area equipped with various building materials and tools. Aria's heart raced as she took in the scene, her nerves a mix of excitement and determination. She noticed the other participants, mainly noble children who seemed more confident. Aria couldn't help but feel a bit out of place among them, her simple clothes and humble background making her feel slightly self-conscious.
The test administrators gathered everyone and presented a deceptively simple question about building techniques. "Create a structure that can withstand significant weight without collapsing," the lead administrator instructed. The noble children, relying on their theoretical knowledge, began to fumble with their materials, unsure how to proceed practically.
To Aria's surprise, the only material provided was paper. The noble children looked even more puzzled, clearly doubting the possibility of constructing a strong structure with such a flimsy material.
Aria took a deep breath, recalling the practical lessons her father had taught her about weight distribution and support. She quickly sketched a design, visualizing the structure in her mind. Her father's voice echoed in her ears: "Remember, a strong foundation is the key to any stable structure."
"Begin," the lead administrator announced.
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Aria moved with purpose and confidence, constructing a stable base by folding the paper into triangular prisms. She knew that triangles were the strongest shape for distributing weight evenly. Carefully, she interlocked the prisms, forming a lattice framework. She added cross-bracing for additional stability, making sure each joint was secure.
When the time was up, the administrators began testing each structure by adding weights incrementally. The noble children's attempts buckled and fell, unable to withstand the pressure. Aria held her breath as the lead administrator approached her creation with a set of metal weights.
With a nod, the administrator placed the first weight on her structure. It held firm, the triangular prisms distributing the load evenly. The administrator added another weight, then another, and still the structure stood strong. Aria exhaled in relief, a smile breaking across her face.
"Excellent work, Miss Bennett," the lead administrator said, nodding in approval. He then took out a large stamp and pressed it onto the side of her structure, leaving a bold, red "PASS" mark. The other administrators murmured in agreement, clearly impressed.
Aria looked over and was taken aback to see Ethan among the administrators. Her eyes widened in surprise. How had she not noticed this before? Ethan, catching her gaze, gave her a small, encouraging nod. His dark green eyes sparkled with admiration, and his smile was full of genuine respect. She felt a warm flush of pride and a flutter of that strange, delightful tickle in her chest again.
“This was the first test,” the lead administrator continued, addressing all the participants. “The final test will be a one-on-three interview where you will present your ideas and answer questions from a panel of experts.”
Aria felt a mixture of relief and anticipation. She had passed the first test, but the final interview loomed ahead, a more daunting challenge.