"I certainly cannot fail now, not after Flanco has passed the trial," Gargus declared with fierce resolve.

  Inspired by Flanco's unexpected triumph, he was eager to prove himself next. Though Markon harbored a trace of concern, he urged Gargus to maintain his focus and not allow Flanco’s success to cloud his own performance.

  In terms of sheer physical might, even Markon acknowledged that Gargus surpassed all other candidates. With a palpable sense of urgency, Gargus made his way to the water source, prepared to absorb its energy and confront the challenge ahead.

  Markon understood that Gargus relied more on his brute strength than on strategic finesse. While Gargus wielded immense power, Markon knew that staying focused and making calculated moves was essential for success in the trial.

  As Gargus approached the towering tree, his determination was unmistakable.

  He fixed a steely gaze upon the primera and bellowed, "I shall seize you, vile creature, and you will come to bitterly regret the day you dared to cross my path!"

  The other candidates watched in astonishment at Gargus's display of aggression, though Markon and Flanco, well acquainted with him, were not surprised.

  Gargus activated his runes and charged forward with an unrelenting speed, mirroring Flanco's approach. Yet, there was a stark difference—Gargus exhibited no sign of fatigue or slowing. He expended his energy with effortless vigor.

  Most of the candidates had already resigned themselves to failure by this point, even Flanco and Jaykl having employed their own stratagems to pass the trial. But Gargus operated on an entirely different plane. The primera, for the first time appearing genuinely fearful, swung about in frantic attempts to evade him. Astraa noted a peculiar sight: the creature, usually so agile and enduring, was now cornered and utterly spent.

  As Gargus surged forward with his runes blazing, the earth seemed to tremble beneath his formidable strides. He closed the distance to the primera with remarkable swiftness. The wind howled past his ears as he fixated intently on his quarry.

  The primera, renowned for its nimbleness, darted through the trees in desperate evasion, swinging from branch to branch. Yet Gargus remained relentless in his pursuit, showing no signs of fatigue or diminishment.

  The other candidates, having surrendered to their own failures, watched in disbelief as Gargus pressed forward. The primera, was gradually losing ground. Gargus’s raw endurance and unyielding determination overwhelmed the creature, displaying a level of prowess that left all spectators in awe.

  Gargus’s sheer determination and raw power began to wear down the primera. The creature’s movements grew increasingly erratic and desperate, gasping for breath as its exhausted form struggled to keep pace with Gargus’s relentless pursuit.

  "Is that truly the extent of your speed?" Gargus jeered, his blistering speed unwavering.

  At long last, the primera, utterly spent and devoid of any remaining strength, succumbed to Gargus's relentless grasp.

  Even Skarsnay, observing this extraordinary feat of endurance, could not mask the flicker of admiration that crossed his features. Gargus had made good on his word, completing the trial with unquestionable success.

  Markon felt a surge of pride swell within him, while Flanco, overjoyed, shouted in triumph as Gargus strode toward them, a victor in every sense.

  Minosa, drawn to the spectacle, admired Gargus’s stamina and Flanco’s cleverness.

  Her curiosity about Markon’s abilities grew ever stronger. Unable to resist Markon’s charm, she playfully taunted, "So, Markon, can you surpass Gargus’s performance? "

  Markon, flashing a confident smile, replied, "Well, I shall strive not only to eclipse Gargus but to present a performance that will leave you utterly speechless."

  Astraa, feeling a sense of duty, interjected with a firm tone, "Minosa, let us not forget our purpose here. Our focus should remain on the trial, not on amusement."

  Flanco, chuckled and remarked, "Oh, Astraa, do not be such a killjoy. Allow Markon his moment to shine."

  Markon and Gargus joined in the laughter, teasing Astraa with playful jest. "Come on, Astraa, loosen up a bit. It is all in good fun," Markon said with a mischievous grin.

  Astraa, undeterred by their jests, stood her ground. "We are here for a reason, and it is not to entertain ourselves. We have a goal to achieve."

  Despite the lighthearted banter, the underlying tension was palpable. Each candidate understood that the trials were a serious test of their abilities and resolve. Astraa’s reminder brought their focus back to the task at hand, and the atmosphere shifted to one of earnest anticipation and determined resolve.

  "Alright, my friends, wish me luck, though I dare say I shan't need it," Markon quipped, his tone light but mocking.

  Minosa, unable to conceal her concern, replied, "Good luck, Markon." The worry in her voice did not escape the notice of Astraa.

  "Thank you, Minosa. Fear not, I shall return before you know it," Markon assured her with a wink, leaving her with a mix of emotions. She watched as he confidently strode towards the trial area, his determination evident.

  As Markon prepared for the trial, the atmosphere grew tense. The other candidates observed him closely, eager to witness his skills and hopeful for another impressive display. Markon took a deep breath, channeling his focus. He visualized his strategies and the techniques he had mastered, confident in his abilities. The moment had come to prove himself. He approached the trial with a calm and composed demeanor, absorbing the energy from the water and slowly advancing towards the tree.

  Minosa turned to Gargus, concern flickering in her eyes. "Do you think Markon's talents will suffice to catch the primera?"

  Gargus and Flanco could scarcely suppress their mirth. "The truth of the matter," Gargus began, his voice tinged with a note of admiration, "is that while I have cultivated my endurance and Flanco his sharp-witted cunning, we have done so for no other reason than to attempt—futile though it may be—to match the effortless prowess of Markon. His gifts are unparalleled, a natural facility to harness and wield energy unlike anything we have ever encountered."

  Flanco, with a smile, chimed in, "Patience, Minosa. In time, you shall see for yourself the full measure of Markon's talents."

  Astraa, having overheard their exchange, found herself irresistibly drawn into their words. A spark of curiosity flickered within her, as she pondered what it was that made Markon so extraordinary.

  As they awaited Markon's performance, anticipation and curiosity filled the air. The candidates, now hushed, watched intently, ready to witness what they hoped would be another remarkable display of skill and determination.

  As Markon swiftly absorbed the energy from the water source, Skarsnay's eyes widened in astonishment. The speed and finesse of Markon's energy absorption surpassed anything Skarsnay had ever witnessed—a level of mastery typically reserved for the most seasoned Eternals.

  With his energy reserves replenished, Markon positioned himself before the towering tree, his gaze fixed on the primera perched at its summit. He meticulously surveyed his surroundings, analyzing every detail with an intensity that was palpable. Astraa and Minosa watched with bated breath, each invested in their own way.

  Without a breath's deliberation, Markon hurled himself toward the towering tree with such preternatural grace that time itself seemed to bow before him. His figure became a streak of brilliance, a shimmering blur that transcended the very limitations of mortal flesh, as though he had dipped into some forgotten celestial reservoir of boundless speed.

  In an instant that mocked the fragile rules of this world, he scaled the immense tree, his movements a dance between the heavens and earth, swift as thought, swifter still than even the whisper of a heartbeat. And in that infinitesimal sliver of eternity, the primera—coveted and elusive—was seized within his grasp, as though the very tree itself had relinquished its prize to his will.

  The crowd, once frozen in disbelief, erupted with a force that shook the very earth beneath them. Their astonished cries merged into an overwhelming roar, a symphony of disbelief and awe that echoed like a tempest unleashed upon the clearing, an indelible hymn to the impossible feat they had just witnessed.

  Minosa stood in awe, her admiration for Markon growing with each passing moment. Astraa couldn't help but be impressed by his feat, recognizing the sheer skill and finesse he possessed. Even Flanco and Gargus, well aware of Markon's capabilities, were amazed at the ease with which he had cleared the trial.

  As Markon descended from the tree, a triumphant smile graced his face. He had proven his worth, leaving no doubt about his exceptional abilities. The candidates regarded him with newfound respect and admiration, acknowledging him as a formidable force to be reckoned with.

  Skarsnay's voice resonated through the clearing as he stepped forward, commanding the attention of all the candidates. With a swift ring of the bell in his hand, he interrupted the ongoing trial, causing a hush to fall over the crowd.

  "Attention, candidates!" Skarsnay's voice rang out with a commanding blend of authority and reverence. "Permit me a moment to commend the extraordinary feat accomplished by Markon. His performance this day has established a new benchmark—the swiftest ever recorded in the annals of the candidate selection here in Arela. Well done, Markon! Your remarkable exhibition of both skill and speed has not only secured your own triumph but has also stirred inspiration within your fellow candidates, who, though they strove valiantly, were unable to seize the primera."

  The candidates erupted in a chorus of applause and cheers, their admiration for Markon unmistakable. Standing tall and proud, Markon graciously accepted their accolades, a blend of humility and satisfaction etched upon his visage.

  Skarsnay continued, his voice imbued with encouragement. "Let this moment serve as a beacon for all of you. While Markon's achievement is extraordinary, let it inspire and motivate each and every one of you. May his success ignite within you a fervent desire to strive harder, push your limits, and seize every opportunity that comes your way."

  With these words, Skarsnay signaled the resumption of the trial.

  The final two candidates, Astraa and Minosa, spurred by Markon's remarkable performance, gathered their focus and determination. The air was thick with anticipation as they prepared to face the concluding challenge, each driven by the desire to leave their own indelible mark upon the selection process.

  Flanco and Gargus, still alive with the thrill of the moment, embraced Markon with genuine exuberance. "You were nothing short of extraordinary, Markon!" Flanco declared, his voice resonant with deep admiration. "Your swiftness and prowess left us trembling with awe."

  Gargus, with a playful grin dancing upon his lips, added, "For years I’ve sought to match your stride, yet it appears you will forever remain a step ahead. Bravo to you!"

  Unable to contain her own admiration, Minosa hurried to join them. "Words fail me, Markon. What I witnessed was nothing less than phenomenal. I had no inkling that your abilities could rival Astraa’s. You have truly astonished me."

  Markon, deeply moved by their encomiums, placed a reassuring hand upon Minosa’s shoulder. "Thank you, Minosa. Your praise means more to me than you know." His gaze then shifted to Astraa, curiosity piqued by her impending response. To his surprise, she approached, her face alight with a sincere smile.

  "Congratulations, Markon," Astraa’s voice carried an unexpected warmth. "Your performance was truly impressive. The swiftness and skill you displayed were remarkable."

  Markon, momentarily rendered speechless by Astraa's unanticipated compliment, found himself at a loss for words. When he finally spoke, his voice was imbued with a blend of wonder and gratitude. "Thank you, Astraa," he stammered, his usual assurance momentarily overshadowed. "I... I deeply appreciate your kind words."

  Flanco and Gargus exchanged glances, both astonished to witness their usually charming and flirtatious friend genuinely moved by the appreciation he received. The atmosphere shifted, a sense of camaraderie and respect settling among the group.

  Astraa was momentarily taken aback as Minosa seized her hand from behind, compelling her to pause. "Hold, Astraa," Minosa implored with earnestness. "Permit me to take the next turn. I can bear the weight of going last."

  Astraa pondered this request, weighing the merit in Minosa's proposition. With a weary sigh, she acquiesced, "Very well, Minosa. If you feel prepared, then proceed. I shall take the final turn." Her voice carried a trace of concern as she added, "But remember, you must demonstrate your true capabilities. I would not have you falter now."

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  Minosa, with a playful glint in her eye, arched an eyebrow and jested, "Is this your peculiar form of wishing me good fortune? Well, I appreciate the encouragement."

  Astraa's countenance softened, a gentle smile beginning to form. "Simply go forth and give your utmost effort," she advised, her tone a harmonious blend of earnestness and warmth.

  Minosa acknowledged Astraa’s support with a nod and proceeded towards the trial area. Astraa watched her friend with a mixture of anticipation and pride swelling within her. She knew Minosa possessed the potential to make a significant impact.

  As Minosa ascended the tree, her resolute spirit infused every motion with purpose. Though she was devoid of innate talent and physical might, she made up for these deficiencies with sheer persistence. Her runes, glowing with a vibrant energy, pulsed with every beat of her focused heart. Her singular aim was to capture the elusive primera. Her climb was deliberate and measured, a strategic ascent that sought to preserve her stamina. The primera, darting through the branches with its characteristic agility, continually tested her fortitude. Yet, Minosa remained undaunted, refusing to yield.

  The other candidates, spurred by the pressing urgency of the trial, increased their efforts. Yet Minosa remained resolute, understanding that her endurance was her most formidable asset. As the primera ascended higher, the branches thinned and lightened, making it ever more difficult for Minosa to follow.

  Astraa observed with mounting anxiety, troubled by the possibility that Minosa might not keep pace. But Minosa had crafted a daring strategy. She maneuvered the primera toward the summit, even if it meant cornering it amidst the precarious branches.

  Markon, Flanco, and Gargus watched, convinced she had overextended herself by allowing the creature to climb so high, unaware of the audacious plan she was about to execute.

  Minosa, undeterred by her limitations, possessed an unyielding strength of will and determination. Her eyes reflected a serene yet intense resolve, a testament to her unwavering focus. Though she lacked Gargus's raw strength and Flanco's quick-witted ingenuity, she counterbalanced these traits with a remarkable resilience and indomitable spirit. She confronted each challenge with a tenacity that defied the odds, pushing beyond her perceived limits to achieve what others deemed impossible.

  With a devilish grin, Minosa executed a daring leap toward the primera. A collective gasp rose from the onlookers, including Astraa, as she soared through the air, defying all expectations. Her outstretched arms grasped the elusive creature, and the two plummeted earthward. Branches snapped beneath them with a cacophonous crack as they fell, the impact bruising Minosa, yet she clung to the primera with unwavering resolve, shielding it from injury.

  The assembly erupted in astonishment as Minosa alighted upon the ground, her prize firmly in her grasp. She had not merely captured the primera but had displayed an extraordinary blend of tenacity and valor, earning the admiration and respect of all who had witnessed her audacious feat.

  Just as disaster seemed imminent, Minosa’s descent was miraculously arrested by a sturdier branch. Clinging tenaciously, she gently descended with the primera in hand. Upon reaching the ground, she triumphantly raised her free hand aloft in a gesture of victory.

  The boys rushed to her side, their exhilaration palpable. Their disbelief at what they had seen was evident in their fervent exclamations. Astraa, her emotions a tempest of anger and relief, chastised Minosa for her reckless daring but could not mask the pride she felt.

  Minosa had not only surpassed expectations but had also demonstrated her worth in a manner most unexpected.

  Gargus, still wrestling with the astonishment of Minosa’s daring feat, shook his head in incredulity. "I can scarcely fathom that you have truly accomplished it, Minosa. You possess the heart of a warrior, without a doubt. I am profoundly relieved to see you safe," he proclaimed, his voice thick with sincere admiration.

  Flanco, his spirits buoyed by Minosa’s spirited audacity, erupted into a hearty laugh. "You have kept us all in a state of suspense, Minosa. It is this very quality that distinguishes you from the rest," he remarked, giving her a genial pat upon the back.

  Markon, approached with a look of sincere respect. “Your bravery was nothing short of remarkable, Minosa. To risk everything for the capture of the primera was a bold and daring choice. I must confess, you have truly earned my esteem,” he said, his face alight with a warm and approving smile.

  Minosa’s cheeks flushed with a delicate hue at Markon’s heartfelt words. Her usual air of confidence softened, and she regarded him with a look of earnest gratitude.

  Astraa’s gaze lingered upon Minosa, still grappling with the full measure of her friend's daring feat. As the adrenaline and concern began to wane, they left behind a mix of exhaustion and profound admiration. With a gesture of quiet solidarity, Astraa reached out and placed a hand gently upon Minosa’s shoulder, her touch speaking volumes of unspoken understanding.

  Astraa, her voice softened with a touch of warmth, addressed Minosa, "Truly, Minosa, you had us all breathless. I have never witnessed such audacity in the trials before. Your daring was both frightening and awe-inspiring. I must admit, though it terrified me, I could not help but admire your courage."

  Minosa met Astraa’s gaze, a glimmer of gratitude in her eyes. "I could not let the chance slip away, Astraa. I knew the risk was great, but something within urged me to seize the moment. I needed to prove to myself that I could prevail, regardless of the dangers."

  Astraa nodded, her understanding deepening as she reflected on her friend’s resolve. She had long admired Minosa's determination, but the trial had illuminated it in a new, striking light. "You have indeed made an indelible impression, Minosa. Not only on us but also on Sir Skarsnay. Though he may not outwardly express it, I believe your boldness has even unsettled him."

  Minosa embraced Astraa with heartfelt sincerity, sensing her friend's concern. "Forgive me for causing you distress, Astraa. But you know me, always inclined to challenge the limits. I vow to be more prudent in the future," she said earnestly, her usual playful demeanor giving way to genuine care for her friend’s feelings.

  Skarsnay's stern gaze remained fixed upon Minosa, his voice imbued with a blend of disappointment and grudging admiration. "Minosa, your conduct was nothing short of reckless and imprudent. You imperiled not only your own life but also that of the primera. Under ordinary circumstances, disqualification would be the inevitable consequence. However, your steadfast determination and indomitable will to succeed have made a deep impression upon me. I shall permit this transgression to pass. Yet, be assured, such leniency will not be extended again."

  Minosa, her eyes lowered in remorse, responded with a voice heavy with regret. "I... I'm sorry, sir. I acted without forethought, driven solely by my desire to triumph. I never intended to cause distress or endanger myself. I am truly sorry."

  Skarsnay's piercing gaze did not waver, his silence laden with the weight of reprimand. "Your apology is noted, Minosa. But you must comprehend the gravity of your actions. This is no mere game; lives are at stake. Your determination is commendable, but it must be tempered with responsibility. Reflect before you act, and consider the consequences. This is your second chance. Do not squander it."

  Minosa nodded, her expression a mixture of humility and resolve. "I fully understand, sir. I will exercise greater caution and responsibility henceforth. You will not witness a recurrence of this recklessness. Thank you for granting me another chance."

  Skarsnay's gaze softened slightly, a flicker of belief in her potential breaking through his stern exterior.

  A brief silence hung in the air as Skarsnay held Minosa's gaze, his expression inscrutable. Then, without another word, he turned away and left, leaving Minosa standing there, suffused with a mixture of gratitude, determination, and a renewed sense of purpose.

  "Very well," Minosa remarked with a mischievous glint in her eye, "since everyone has had their say regarding my performance, let us now turn our attention to our final candidate."

  Her gaze fixed on Astraa. The boys, intrigued by the earlier praise bestowed upon Minosa, eagerly shifted their attention to Astraa, keen to witness her abilities firsthand.

  Flanco couldn't resist a jesting remark. "Ah, Astraa, the pressure is truly upon you now! Minosa has set quite the high bar. Show us what you possess!"

  Gargus, with a smirk, added, "Indeed, Astraa, we are all eagerly awaiting to be impressed. Do not disappoint us."

  Unperturbed, Astraa responded with a confident smirk of her own. "Worry not, for I shall ensure you witness a performance you will not soon forget."

  Markon leaned in, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

  Minosa, not to be outdone, offered her own playful challenge. "And remember, Astraa, you follow a tough act. Let us see if you can surpass my gravity-defying feat."

  Astraa raised an eyebrow, a competitive fire igniting in her gaze. "Challenge accepted, Minosa. Prepare to be amazed."

  With playful banter filling the air and anticipation mounting, Astraa felt a surge of energy coursing through her veins. It was her moment to shine, to prove herself before her friends and all those watching. The stage was set for Astraa to unveil her hidden talents, and she was resolute in her determination to leave a lasting impression.

  Astraa commanded the attention of all as she deftly gathered her long, jet-black hair into a sleek ponytail. Her eyes, gleaming with unwavering determination, lent an intensity to her already captivating presence. As she glided past the group, her effortless grace left Markon and the boys in silent awe.

  In that fleeting moment, they discerned that there was far more to Astraa than the flowing cascade of her hair. With her tresses secured, her lithe yet formidable physique became evident, revealing a form sculpted with the precision of an elite warrior. The simple white gown, a staple garment of Arela’s citizens, took on an otherworldly quality in her presence, further illuminating her radiant beauty.

  Astraa’s mere appearance was sufficient to enchant the assembly; her stunning features and almost divine allure held everyone in rapt attention. Though she usually preferred to remain in the background, evading notice, now, as she prepared to unveil her true prowess, her striking presence demanded acknowledgement, stirring curiosity about the power she harbored within.

  Standing before the majestic tree, a quiet resolve emanated from her. She directed her gaze towards the primera perched high amidst the branches and, with a soft whisper, confided to herself, "Here I stand, at long last taking the first step towards my goal."

  Her voice, rich with anticipation and steadfast resolve, was fueled by the fervor burning within her. As her eyes fell upon the primera, a gentle pang of empathy tugged at her heart. The creature had endured numerous trials, pushed to its very limits. Now, on the cusp of triumph, Astraa felt a deep sense of responsibility towards it. "Forgive me, little one," she murmured, her voice tinged with compassion, "You have faced many trials, but this will be the last. Please, endure just a little longer."

  With those murmured words, Astraa fortified her resolve, drawing deeply from her well of inner strength. She was acutely aware that the trial ahead would test her limits, demanding every ounce of her endurance and skill. Yet, bolstered by her unyielding determination and a fervent desire to succeed, she drew a steadying breath and prepared to embark upon her extraordinary journey.

  Her ascent of the tree was nothing short of mesmerizing. Each deliberate movement was executed with a fluid grace, as if she were a sylph moving through the air. Her elegance and agility held the gaze of all who watched. Markon, usually self-assured and composed, found himself spellbound by her seamless motion, unable to divert his gaze. Gargus and Flanco, known for their exuberant spirits, watched in rapt silence, utterly captivated by Astraa’s demonstration of prowess.

  Even the twins, who had themselves triumphed in their own trials, could not help but be astonished by Astraa's unmatched dexterity. They observed with keen interest, mentally cataloging her technique and fluidity.

  It was an ironic testament to her mastery, for her seamless ascent mirrored the very essence of the water from which she drew her strength.

  Meanwhile, the primera, perceiving Astraa’s pursuit, leapt into action with renewed vigor. Bounding from branch to branch with vigorous bursts, it extended its lead, glancing back with a sense of relief as the distance between them grew. Intent on safeguarding its retreat, the primera made its way to the highest, most fragile branches, aware that Astraa would find it a formidable challenge to follow.

  As the primera reached the zenith of the tree and vanished amidst the dense foliage, a wave of astonishment swept through the onlookers. Once more, the elusive creature had evaded capture, leaving the assembly in a state of bewilderment. Yet, what truly confounded them was Astraa’s sudden disappearance. It was as though she had melded with the very air, leaving behind a perplexed crowd eager to discern her whereabouts.

  Markon’s concern surged, compelling him to search desperately for Astraa. His instincts drew him toward the tree, where he stood ready to intervene and ensure her safety.

  Yet, Skarsnay’s stern admonition stilled his actions, underscoring the imperative of not interfering with another’s trial. Disheartened but dutiful, Markon reluctantly retreated, his eyes lingering wistfully on the tree where Astraa had vanished.

  Meanwhile, Minosa felt a pang of envy as she observed Markon’s unwavering attention on Astraa. She was unsettled by his evident fascination with another. Nevertheless, she set it all aside, reminding herself of their enduring friendship, and turned her gaze back to the unfolding trial.

  The silence that had enveloped the trial was abruptly shattered by a collective gasp as a shadow loomed over the primera. Though the sunlight obscured its form, the primera sensed the approach of an intruder. In a sudden burst of motion, a figure clad in flowing white robes hurtled towards it with extraordinary swiftness.

  In the span of a heartbeat, the primera found itself tenderly cradled in Astraa's embrace. There was no need for struggle or resistance; the creature sensed it was in the care of one it could trust.

  Foreseeing the primera’s likely refuge at the tree's summit, Astraa executed a daring maneuver. With a leap that defied gravity, she soared above the canopy, only to descend in a breathtaking display of skill and precision.

  As Astraa descended through the branches with an effortless grace, her hair cascading around her like a silken waterfall, the crowd began to grasp the enormity of her achievement. A subtle smile graced her lips, enhancing her already radiant beauty. The men, including Markon, stood in stunned silence, their admiration rendered almost mute by the spectacle before them.

  At last, Markon found his voice, though it was tinged with hesitance.

  "Congratulations, Astraa." Her nod of acknowledgment, accompanied by that enigmatic smile, left him utterly speechless.

  Bursting with pride for her friend, Minosa hurried to Astraa, enveloping her in a tight embrace. "You have rendered all the men speechless, yet you seem to regard it with such nonchalance," Minosa teased.

  Unaware of the profound impact she had made on those around her, Astraa responded with innocent simplicity, "What do you mean? I am merely behaving as I always do."

  Flanco and Gargus, humbled by their earlier mockery, extended their heartfelt apologies. "We had misjudged you," they confessed. "Your performance was nothing short of magnificent, and we are left bereft of words to adequately convey our admiration."

  Astraa responded with a gentle smile, "It's quite alright, think nothing of it." Her humility and grace only served to deepen the admiration of those present, symbolizing a rare blend of extraordinary talent and genuine modesty.

  Skarsnay's uncharacteristic display of joy transformed his typically stern countenance, infusing the atmosphere with a palpable sense of elation. His voice carried through the crowd with a resonant clarity:

  "This year has been exceptional, for not one but two candidates have shattered the record for the fastest capture of the primera. Indeed, Astraa, you have equaled Markon's remarkable feat. Well done, Astraa."

  A surge of pride welled up within Astraa as she absorbed Skarsnay's commendation. To receive such recognition from one so esteemed was an honor she would cherish deeply. Markon, too, felt a swell of pride, not for his own achievements, but for someone else entirely. His gaze remained fixed on Astraa, admiration shining brightly in his eyes.

  Ever perceptive, Minosa noticed the way Markon looked at Astraa. A restlessness flickered within her, a mix of jealousy and uncertainty. She wondered if the connection she had perceived between Markon and Astraa was deeper than she had initially realized. Pushing aside her own thoughts, she congratulated Astraa with genuine warmth and pride.

  Skarsnay's authoritative voice echoed across the assembly, commanding the attention of those candidates who had triumphed in the initial trial. With a grand flourish, he extended his heartfelt congratulations to each, extolling their virtues and urging them to steel themselves for the formidable challenges that lay ahead. Turning to those who had faltered, he spoke with a magnanimous spirit, his words imbued with the weight of ancient wisdom.

  "Train with unwavering diligence and return next year, stronger and more resolute. Let the trials of this year ignite an unquenchable fire within you," he exhorted. The candidates nodded fervently, the gravity of Skarsnay's guidance settling upon them, their spirits invigorated and their resolve fortified by his powerful words.