Stars of Adras

Chapter 5

Before you stood a majestic dome-like structure, its architecture imposing yet inviting. The entrance, flanked by towering pillars adorned with intricate carvings, beckoned visitors with an air of grandeur. A multitude of people milled about, their voices mingling in a cacophony of anticipation, while the warm sunlight streamed through the transparent panels of the dome, casting ethereal patterns on the marble floor.

As Claye guided you inside, the murmurs of the crowd seemed to intensify, and you couldn't shake the feeling of being under scrutiny. Your palms grew clammy, and you reflexively wiped them on your pants, hoping to dispel the nerves that fluttered in your stomach like trapped butterflies.

The guide led me to a figure standing near the entrance, her presence commanding attention. She was a vision of strength, clad in resplendent armor that gleamed under the sunlight, her blonde hair cascading in golden waves around her shoulders. Her piercing turquoise eyes bore into me as she assessed my arrival, a subtle furrow in her brow betraying her scrutiny.

"Is she the last one?" she inquired, her voice cutting through the buzz of activity around me.

Claye nodded respectfully, his demeanor deferential in the presence of this formidable woman. She returned his nod with a curt acknowledgment, her gaze never leaving me. 

Under Neia Valro's command, the bustling throng of people fell into a hushed silence, their attention captured by her formidable presence. Her voice reverberated through the vast expanse of the dome, commanding respect and obedience.

"I am Neia Valro," she proclaimed, her words carrying the weight of authority. "Second in command to the king and leading General of the Adrainian army."

As her introduction echoed, the crowd shifted, their murmurs of anticipation mingling with an undercurrent of tension.

"Now," Neia continued, her tone firm yet expectant, "I trust you have all prepared yourselves for this year's exam."

Her words sparked a flurry of whispers among the gathered participants, a blend of excitement and apprehension swirling through the air.

"This exam will be a test of skill," Neia declared, her gaze sweeping across the assembled multitude. "The first part will challenge your intellect and teamwork. You will navigate through fields, solve puzzles, and face elimination challenges."

As the parameters of the exam were laid out, a surge of anticipation gripped the room, mingled with a palpable sense of uncertainty.

"In the coming days, you will have the chance to prepare for the second part," Neia announced, her voice steady and commanding. "You have two days to do so. Remember, the results for all parts will be posted at the end of the exam."

A smile played upon Neia's lips, a glimmer of excitement dancing in her turquoise eyes as the crowd erupted into a flurry of whispered conversations.

Amidst the buzz of anticipation,  I was alone amongst the crowd, not knowing what else to busy myself with. 

As Neia Valro unveiled the panel of judges for the exam, a buzz of anticipation swept through the crowd, swirling around you like a whirlwind of emotions. Excitement, curiosity, and wariness mingled within you, each sentiment amplified by the collective energy of the assembled participants.

"This year's judges for the exam will be Prince Alix himself, myself, and Alea Mora, the goddess of mind and fear," Neia announced, her words reverberating through the expansive hall, punctuated by a chorus of whispers that rippled through the throng.

The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as all eyes turned toward the doorway, where a rumbling heralded the arrival of the distinguished judges. Stepping into view were two figures of striking beauty, each commanding attention in their own right.