Chapter 77: Constellation Convergence Trial!
The morning sun spilled through the arena’s open roof like liquid gold. It painted everything in warm amber light—the polished stone seats, the nervous faces, the massive stage below.
Ren settled into his seat. The cold wood sent a shiver up his spine. On his left, Lia bounced her leg in a rapid rhythm. On his right, Mirabella checked her nails for the third time.
The arena hummed with the energy of a few thousand prospectives. Their whispers merged into a sound like ocean waves—rising, falling, never quite silent.
"Any idea what today’s trial will be?" Lia’s voice cracked slightly. Her knuckles were white as she gripped the seat’s edge.
Ren shook his head. The movement sent his silver hair falling across his eyes. "No clue."
CRACK!
The sound split the air like thunder. Every head snapped toward the center stage.
The old witch stood there, her gnarled wooden staff still vibrating from the impact. The sound echoed off the dome, bouncing back and forth until it died in the suddenly thick silence.
She looked exactly as she had yesterday. Her pointed hat defied all laws of physics, staying perfectly straight despite its two-foot height.
Her purple robes seemed to drink in the morning light, creating shadows where none should exist.
"Congratulations to all who survived yesterday’s trial." Her voice needed no amplification. It slithered into every ear, dry as autumn leaves. "You’ve proven you can handle pressure. But weaving sometimes isn’t just about individual strength."
She raised her staff. The crystal orb at its tip began to glow with an inner fire.