DEMONSTRATIONS OF SKILL
Gwyn and Adrienne sat together in Class Ten's spacious room, their table strewn with parchment and quills as they focused on their midterm exams. The atmosphere was filled with the scratching of quills, the occasional sigh or mumble, and the gentle flow of sand through the large hourglass at the front.
Their high elf professor, his salt-and-pepper hair in a man bun, exuded an air of cool sophistication. He paced the room, watching the students with keen eyes while tapping his elegant fingers against his robe.
As Gwyn checked her answers on the exam she had finished some time ago, her mind wandered. Adrienne and Gwyn climbed the ranks together, diligently honing their skills and knowledge across their studies. Relieved to reach Class Thirteen, they focused on further advancement, progressing to Classes Twelve, Eleven, and finally Ten through hard work and dedication.
Along the way, they had only made a handful of friends which as a result fostered an even stronger relationship between the two of them. Through all of this, they had been steadfast in continuing their study sessions with Roslyn, Lorrena, and Roslyn’s classmate, Salla–student extraordinaire.
Gwyn recalled that early in the year, it seemed Lorrena might have been demoted to Class Eleven. However, after a notable study session where Salla assisted Lorrena, the two quickly became friends, and the telv scholar-in-training helped devise a new study plan for Gwyn's attendant.
The outcome was impressive. Lorrena advanced to Class Nine, just two weeks before Gwyn reached Class Ten. It was Lorrena's first promotion since the year started, and she was immensely proud. Gwyn couldn't have been happier for her.
Gwyn’s best friend, on the other hand, was quite possibly the most amazing hype girl ever. Roslyn loved to share in Gwyn’s triumphs, always supporting her closest friend through thick and thin, and celebrating every single Class Up–as Gwyn called them. The nearly inseparable pair continued to spend every weekend together, as they had promised so long ago, and Gwyn couldn’t wait until she reached the same class as the Tiloral Heiress.
Gwyn observed Adrienne, the other half of the Rising Duo, concentrating on her exam with a furrowed brow and pursed lips. The girls, along with their friends, had dedicated many hours to studying together, quizzing each other, and reviewing notes until they were confident in their knowledge. With the hourglass sand running out, marking the exam's end approaching, Gwyn hoped their perseverance and effort would yield results.
They had already done their exam for Art, which was surprisingly easy–just had to paint a piece based on the subject the teacher provided. The prompt for the exam was to create a painting inspired by a favorite memory or place, using the techniques and styles taught in class.
Next, the two friends would have their exam for Combat Foundations. The class was one of the more rigorous courses, and they knew they would need to be at the top of their game to pass the exam. The professor had already warned them that the exam would involve both theoretical knowledge and practical application of combat techniques.
After that, Gwyn had one last exam in her nobility class. She wasn’t looking forward to seeing the prince twice in one day.
Gwyn couldn’t help but feel a bit nervous about it all as the results of all of their exams would be combined which would dictate how far they would advance–or drop–in the rankings.
From there, they would once again move to the whole every two weeks business.
Once the final grains of sand fell down the hourglass, the professor instructed students to submit their exams. Gwyn and Adrienne exchanged reassuring smiles before rising and handing in their completed parchments at the front of the room. Relief swept over Gwyn, but she recognized that many challenges still lay ahead in the coming weeks.
As Gwyn gathered her things and made her way out of the classroom, she felt a gentle hand on her shoulder. She turned her head and looked at the paladin behind her who offered her a warm smile. “You did great, Gwyn. I saw how hard you worked and how focused you were during the exam. Remember, no matter the outcome, you've already accomplished so much. Keep believing in yourself, and you'll continue to soar,” Amari stated with pride, giving her shoulder a reassuring squeeze before falling back slightly into her usual position of protection. Gwyn felt a renewed sense of determination and gratitude, grateful for the unwavering support of those closest to her.
Adrienne led Gwyn through the crowded halls to meet up with their other friends before the group made their way toward the dining hall. As they walked, Roslyn turned to Gwyn and asked, “So, how did you find the exam? Did you manage to answer everything?”
Gwyn's face lit up with excitement as she exclaimed, “I'm feeling really good about that exam! I felt confident in most of my answers, so I can’t wait to see the results.” She lifted her hand and crossed her fingers. “But just in case, I'll cross my fingers for some extra luck. Let's hope for the best!”
Roslyn covered her mouth as she laughed. Adrienne leaned over and chimed in, “I think I did well too. There were a few tough questions, but I’m hopeful we did well.”
Lorrena playfully elbowed Salla. “How about you, future scholar? Still ranked number one?”
Salla laughed. “Oh, I don’t know, but I did my best. We all did, and that’s what matters.”
Roslyn snorted, her eyes going wide at the noise and covering her mouth. The girls giggled at her expense. She let out a breathy laugh and recovered. “Salla is definitely staying rank one. I would be surprised if she wasn’t.”
The group grabbed their food and sat down to eat. Over lunch, they continued their conversations, sharing their thoughts on the exams and discussing their plans for their final portions of the mid-terms.
Roslyn sipped some water before focusing on Gwyn and Adrienne. “Are you two nervous about the practical portion for Combat Foundations?”
Gwyn hesitated for a moment. “A little, I guess. I’ve been fighting the guards for weeks now, but this time it’s going to be graded.”
Her best friend shrugged. “So? Gwyn, I’ve seen you practice with paladins, and they’re much better fighters.”
“Yeah… but, it’s different,” she said without really believing it herself. She turned to Adrienne. “What about you? Are you ready?”
Adrienne nodded quickly. “I've been working on my techniques, but I know I need to keep practicing. I think this is where we’re going to get put into separate classes.”
Gwyn’s eyes widened but Salla interjected, “You two have been working hard, and I have no doubt you'll do great. Just remember to stay focused and trust your instincts. Look at the five of us, we’re all over the place in rank. What homeroom you’re in doesn’t affect us. We’ll still study together.”
The orkun healer smiled. “She’s right, Gwyn. We’ll still see each other in our electives, and outside of class.”
“I guess you’re right,” Gwyn said, her tone tinged with regret.
After finishing lunch, Gwyn and Adrienne readied themselves for their Combat Foundations course. With a determined expression, Adrienne patted Gwyn on the back. Gwyn smiled in return, and they headed off together.
✦ ✦ ✦
In the spacious girls changing room at the training area, Gwyn and Adrienne stood before their open cubbies, chatting about midterm exams while removing their school robes. They neatly folded and stored the robes before focusing on the training uniforms.
As she started getting dressed, Gwyn struggled with the fitted pants. “Ugh, I’m going to need another new pair of these. They’re starting to get too short,” Gwyn said in frustration as she managed to secure the pants around her waist.
The orkun girl chuckled. “That’s because you are freakishly tall.”
Gwyn’s eyes widened. “I am not! That’s mean!”
Adrienne laughed. “I’m just kidding! Seriously though, you’ve grown so much this year. But you’ll probably stop here soon.”
Gwyn was taken aback by Adrienne's joke and felt hurt by the comment. She looked down at herself and sighed. “If I’m going to take after my mom, probably not…” she muttered quietly, feeling tears start to prick at the corner of her eyes. “I’m not actually freakishly tall am I?” she asked Adrienne, her voice barely above a whisper.
Adrienne adjusted her pants and looked up at Gwyn, freezing when she saw her face. “I'm sorry, Gwyn. That was a poor attempt at a joke, and I didn't mean to hurt you,” Adrienne apologized sincerely. She reached over and intertwined her green hand into Gwyn's. “You are perfect just the way you are. In fact, you're beautiful. In orkun culture, we value height and consider it an attractive feature. For someone to grow faster than any orkun I know is… unique. I would love to have your height,” Adrienne admitted with a wistful smile. “I bet I'd have all the boys chasing after me back home.”
Gwyn rolled her eyes but couldn’t help but smile at Adrienne's attempt to lift her spirits. “Ew, boys. No, thank you,” she said with a scoff, forcing herself to maintain a straight face. “I've already had too many people try to marry me off to their sons. I don't think I'll ever marry,” she added, shaking her head.
“You’re a princess,” her friend said. “You can do whatever you want, Gwyn.”
Adrienne squeezed Gwyn's hand before grabbing their tunics. She tossed Gwyn's at her, eliciting a huff as she caught it. After quickly pulling it over her head, Gwyn smoothed out the fabric and grabbed her boots.
She sat down next to Adrienne and started pulling on her mid-calf leather boots one at a time, ensuring they were snug and properly laced. Once they were both satisfied with their footwear, they stood up and began to put on their armor.
As Gwyn put on her hardened leather breastplate, she noticed that it felt unusually tight around her chest. She frowned, trying to adjust it herself, but the fit didn't seem to improve. “Adrienne, could you give me a hand with this?” she asked, feeling a bit uncomfortable. “I think it shrunk.”
Adrienne walked over, a grin spreading across her face as she looked at Gwyn's predicament. “Looks like someone's finally starting to fill out their chest,” she giggled, teasing her friend good-naturedly.
Gwyn rolled her eyes, but couldn't help a slight blush creeping up her cheeks. “Yeah, yeah, just help me with the straps, please.”
Adrienne carefully adjusted the straps on Gwyn's breastplate, ensuring it fitted snugly but not too tight, allowing Gwyn the necessary mobility and protection during their upcoming combat training.
“There you go,” Adrienne said, patting Gwyn's shoulder reassuringly. “Good as new. Now let's get out there and show them what we're made of!”
Gwyn and Adrienne surveyed the training grounds, quickly locating the weapon racks. Gwyn chose her familiar saber, and Adrienne picked up her preferred mace. With the weapons secured to their waists, they exchanged determined and eager glances before joining the other students around Master Rygar. The stern instructor and his line of guardsmen and women behind him indicated the gravity of the upcoming examination.
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When all of the remaining students finally arrived, Master Rygar cleared his throat, capturing the attention of every student present. “Today, each of you will be tested on your practical combat skills,” he began, his deep voice resonating throughout the training grounds. “You will be paired with one of these guardsmen, who have kindly agreed to assist in our evaluation. They are experienced fighters, and I expect you to treat them with the respect they deserve.”
The students exchanged nervous glances as Master Rygar continued, “I will be observing your performance closely. Remember, this is not a competition, but an assessment of your abilities. I want to see your dedication, your focus, and your adaptability in the face of a skilled opponent.”
Gwyn felt her heart race at the prospect of sparring with one of the guardsmen, but she was also eager to prove herself. Master Rygar went on to explain the second half of the examination, the written theoretical.
The instructor then began calling out the names of the students and their guardsmen opponents, starting with Prince Aran, who stepped forward with a confident stride, eager to show off his skills. Gwyn listened carefully as one by one each student was called, waiting for her turn to be selected.
When the last guardsman stepped forward and another student’s name was called, Gwyn looked around nervously. Where is the last guard for me?
Master Rygar finally turned his attention to Gwyn. “As for you,” he said, his gaze piercing through her. “You will be sparring with me.”
Gwyn's eyes widened in surprise. She nodded, acknowledging the challenge, and resolved to give it her all. With the pairings complete, the students and guardsmen dispersed to their designated sparring circles, the air thick with anticipation and determination.
Master Rygar's voice cut through the silence that pervaded the area, signaling the start of the sparring matches. In an instant, the training grounds were filled with the sight and sound of students testing their skills against the experienced guards. Gwyn waited patiently as all of her classmates fought their assessors.
Her eyes were drawn to Adrienne, who was engaged in a fierce battle against a telv guardswoman. Both wielded maces and shields, their weapons striking and deflecting with impressive force. Despite the apparent disparity in their skill levels, Adrienne held her ground, her eyes focused and determined. Gwyn could see the progress her friend had made since they first began training together, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in Adrienne's accomplishments.
As she observed the various sparring matches, Gwyn couldn't help but compare herself to her classmates. She noted their strengths and weaknesses, analyzing their techniques and considering how she might fare against them. It was both an opportunity to learn from their successes and failures, as well as a way to mentally prepare herself for her own upcoming spar.
Prince Aran's match caught Gwyn's attention. The prince had been paired with a skilled guard, and it was clear that he was giving it his all to prove himself. His movements were swift and precise, his strikes strong and well-timed. It was evident that he had been training diligently, and Gwyn couldn't help but feel a spark of competitive spirit as she watched him.
Finally, after Master Rygar called the final spar to a halt, he turned to her. “Miss Reinhart, please step into the circle,” he said, before looking around at the students that were still catching their breaths. “The rest of you, use this as an opportunity to reflect on your own spar. When Miss Reinhart and I are done, you will go get cleaned up and then meet in the classroom.”
As Gwyn stepped into the sparring circle opposite Master Rygar, her heart was pounding with a mix of excitement and nervousness. She gripped her saber tightly, her knuckles turning white from the pressure. She had trained hard for this moment, and she was determined to prove herself.
Master Rygar took his position, a blunted training sword in hand. He was an imposing figure, his muscular frame towering over Gwyn, and his eyes narrowed with focus. He gave her a nod, signaling the start of their spar.
Gwyn took a deep breath and fell into a defensive stance, her eyes locked on her opponent. She knew that she couldn't afford to make any mistakes against someone as skilled as Master Rygar. As the instructor lunged forward with his first attack, Gwyn quickly sidestepped, barely evading the strike. She could feel the wind from the swing brush against her cheek, a stark reminder of the razor-thin margin for error.
Master Rygar didn't let up, seamlessly transitioning from one attack to the next. He was relentless, pushing Gwyn to the limits of her abilities. However, she managed to hold her ground, her agility, and quick reflexes allowing her to evade his onslaught. Each dodge and parry was accompanied by a surge of adrenaline, fueling her determination to keep going.
As the spar continued, Gwyn settled in and [Focused], the trait heightened her senses and sharpened the reflexes she needed to keep up. The world around her seemed to slow down, allowing her to better anticipate Master Rygar's movements and react accordingly. She could see the subtle shifts in his posture, the minute flexing of his muscles as he prepared to strike. This newfound clarity gave her the confidence to take the offensive, launching a series of quick jabs and slashes in an attempt to land a hit.
Master Rygar, however, was not easily caught off guard. He skillfully deflected Gwyn's attacks, countering with his own strikes that she narrowly managed to avoid. As the two combatants danced around the sparring circle, a crowd of students began to gather, drawn by the intensity of the battle. Their cheers and shouts of encouragement only served to spur Gwyn on, pushing her to dig deeper and find reserves of strength she didn't know she had.
Despite her best efforts, Gwyn was unable to land a hit on the seasoned instructor. Each time she thought she had found an opening, Master Rygar would expertly parry her strike or sidestep her attack. Meanwhile, he continued to tap her lightly with his training sword, demonstrating the various openings in her defenses. Each tap was a reminder of the gap in skill between them, but also a valuable lesson in the weaknesses she needed to address.
As the spar progressed, Gwyn's muscles began to ache from the constant movement, and her breath came in short, ragged gasps. Sweat poured down her face, stinging her eyes and making it difficult to focus. She knew that she couldn't keep up this pace for much longer, but she refused to give in. She was determined to make Master Rygar work for every inch of ground, to show him just how far she had come.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Master Rygar stepped back, signaling the end of the spar. Gwyn, breathing heavily and drenched in sweat, straightened up and looked at him expectantly, awaiting his assessment. The instructor regarded her for a moment, his expression unreadable.
“You are exceptional for your age,” he said at last, a hint of admiration in his voice. “Your agility and reflexes are impressive, and your ability to adapt under pressure is commendable. You didn't land a hit, but you made me work for it, and that in itself is an accomplishment.”
Gwyn felt a surge of pride at his words, her exhaustion momentarily forgotten.
Master Rygar continued, "You have a strong foundation to build upon, and I have no doubt that with continued training and dedication, you will become a formidable fighter. I look forward to seeing where your path takes you."
Gwyn bowed respectfully to her instructor, her cheeks flushed with both exertion and pride. He gave her a respectful dip of his head and moved to join the guardsmen.
As Gwyn exited the sparring circle, she was met with congratulatory pats on the back and words of encouragement from her classmates.
“That was amazing, Gwyn!” Adrienne said as the two rejoined.
The princess wiped the sweat off of her brow and smiled. “Thanks,” she said. “That was really tough.”
✦ ✦ ✦
After completing the theoretical portion of the Combat Foundations mid-terms, Gwyn and Adrienne quickly changed back into their school robes, feeling refreshed and ready to face the final class of the day, Responsibilities and Duties of the High Noble.
Upon entering the classroom, Gwyn spotted Roslyn already seated and preparing for the exam. Gwyn took a seat next to her friend, who gave her an encouraging smile, while Adrienne sat on the other side of her. The three of them exchanged a few words of support before the instructor entered the room, and signaled that it was time for the exam to begin.
As she prepared for her exam, Prince Aran entered the classroom with a haughty air, his nose turned up as if the room was beneath him. His eyes briefly met Gwyn's, and she could see the disdain he held for her. Without a word, he strode to the front of the room and took a seat, and quietly spoke to the students there.
She resisted the urge to roll her eyes at his behavior.
After the professor distributed the exams, the girls immediately set to work. The questions mainly covered laws, customs, and the roles and responsibilities of high nobles in society. Gwyn found herself breezing through the questions, rarely even needing to [Focus]. As she filled in the last answer, she glanced around the room to see how the others were faring.
Roslyn, seated beside Gwyn, seemed to be doing well. She had a focused expression on her face as she worked diligently through the questions. Moments after Gwyn completed her exam, Roslyn set her quill down with a satisfied smile, having finished as well. Prince Aran, seated at the front of the room, appeared to struggle with a few of the questions, his brow furrowing in concentration. After a few more minutes, he finally set his quill down, his expression one of frustration. Meanwhile, Adrienne was taking her time, methodically working through each question with a calm and steady pace. She was the last to finish, but when she did, she looked satisfied with her efforts.
As the professor collected the completed exams, and the students started packing their belongings to leave, he made an announcement to the class. “Attention, students. Please make your way to the auditorium immediately. There will be an important announcement that concerns everyone.” Curiosity piqued, Gwyn, Adrienne, and Roslyn exchanged glances before grabbing their bags and heading to the auditorium with all four paladins in tow, eager to find out what the announcement was all about.
✦ ✦ ✦
Gwyn, Roslyn, and Adrienne entered the auditorium, the large room already filling up with students. They found a row of seats in the middle, claiming them before the area became too crowded. Soon enough, Lorrena and Salla spotted them and made their way over, squeezing into the seats next to their friends. The group exchanged curious glances, wondering what the announcement could be about.
“I think I know what this is about,” Roslyn whispered as the three sat patiently.
Gwyn leaned closer to her friend and asked, “What’s that?”
“The magic course that we talked about,” she replied. “They’ve been working on it all year. Remember? They were going to start it after the midterms, and this comes right after the last examination. It makes sense.”
Gwyn nodded. “Oh, yeah. You’re probably right.”
As the last of the students filed in, a hush fell over the auditorium. Headmaster Ezrel, the stern-looking high elf that gave her an exemption to enter the Academy, stepped up to the podium at the front of the room. Her commanding presence demanded attention, and the room went silent as she began to speak. “Good afternoon, students. I appreciate your prompt attendance. I have an important announcement to share with you all.”
She paused for a moment, letting the anticipation build before continuing. “As you should be aware, due to the changes brought by the event known as the Flash, the Crown has decided that everyone must be tested for the ability to use magic. Over the first half of the school year, we have been developing a new department here at the Royal Academy in both the lower and upper schools to accommodate this mandate. The Church will be assisting us with the testing of students.”
The students began murmuring among themselves, curiosity and excitement filling the air. Headmaster Ezrel raised her hand for silence, and the room quieted down once again. “Those of you who are found to possess magical abilities will be placed in the appropriate class within our newly established Department of Magical Studies. The goal is to ensure that each student receives the education and training necessary to make the most of their talents. This examination will occur now. The Church has established four testing locations, please see the posted lists on the boards near the doors behind you.”
As one, all of the students turned their heads and noticed the series of boards with a huge list of papers. Large writing above each board seemed to designate which year and which class each list belonged to.
Headmaster Ezrel spoke over the building chatter of students. “Please form lines and look for your names and locations then proceed promptly. Thank you.”
As the Headmaster turned to leave, the students began to line up and check their designated lists. Roslyn gave Gwyn a quick hug, and rushed off with Salla to see where they would be going. Gwyn wished Lorrena luck and then Adrienne and Gwyn made their way to the list for Class Ten.
✦ ✦ ✦
Gwyn and Adrienne walked side by side, making their way to the testing area assigned to them. Adrienne spoke in hushed whispers filled with concern. Being a citizen of a foreign nation, she was worried about the requirement that she undergo the test.
“Do not worry, Miss Adrienne,” Amari said from behind them, causing the orkun girl to turn and look at the paladin.
“Why is that, Evocati Amari?” the Blighter asked, concern etched on her face. “I know my family would not be happy if I gave too much private information away.”
Amari smiled. “The Church is performing the test, which means the Umbral Seers are here. I have it on good authority that they take the privacy of each person very seriously. You will likely have to give some information away to the school, such as–generally–what type of magic you can perform. This will allow them to tailor classes for your growth. Everything else will be kept private by the seers and not revealed under any circumstances,” she explained.
The confidence of Gwyn’s paladin seemed to melt the tension that Adrienne held, as the girl’s shoulders sagged in relief.
“Thank you, Evocati,” Adrienne said. “That makes me feel better.”
Upon arriving at the testing location, the atmosphere became hushed as Gwyn and Adrienne approached the front, guided by the presence of the paladins. Their advancement drew the annoyance of some older students, which quickly dissipated upon noticing the two paladins.
As the girls stepped forward, a monk recognized Gwyn and eagerly welcomed her, “Honored One! My apologies, I mean First Mage! It's a pleasure to see you today. Your assignment has already been selected; please give me a moment.” Gwyn watched, puzzled, as the monk rushed off to consult with an unfamiliar professor. Nearby, another group of professors huddled together, whispering hurriedly amongst themselves, their eyes glued to Gwyn after hearing the monk address her as the First Mage.
After a brief exchange, the professor handed the monk a scroll from a stack on the table. The monk returned with an eager professor trailing him. “You'll be in the Advanced Class. Please make your way to the Hall of Magical Studies; they're eager to meet you, First Mage. As for your friend, she still needs to undergo the Ceremony.”
Gwyn stood there, even as she knew she shouldn’t be surprised, she couldn’t help but be a bit shocked. She turned to Adrienne, who was smiling at her and wished her luck.
“See you soon,” the healer said with a wink.