John weaves his way through a throng bustling with an array of fantastical beings. A tall elf, ears pointed to the sky, is locked in a heated debate with a surly dwarf about the superior wine maker. Not far off, a petite fairy with delicate wings shares secrets with a statuesque and refined dark elf. Merfolk are scattered about as well, some sporting gills, others not. Amidst the pandemonium, John remains resolute in his mission to reach the front.


    Navigating the chaos, he overhears snippets of conversation about varying body levels. "Anything from 11 to 30% is deemed decent," one creature exclaims with a buzz of excitement. "But get this – last year, some kid hit an astonishing 50%!" The other responds with equal fervor, "Just a tick more, and they would''ve hailed him as a prodigy!"


    John finally manages to get a clear view of the queue for the talent tests, which snakes its way around the square. At the entrance, two individuals are stationed, tasked with using a magical barrier to screen for those who are 15 years old. Abruptly, the crowd erupts into laughter as an overly aged youngster attempts to bypass the barrier, only to collide with it. John, unfazed, simply shakes his head and continues to wait. Upon reaching the front, he confidently strides through the barrier, eager for his turn to be tested. The center of the square features a raised platform designated for testing, surrounded by a throng of people awaiting their chance, the atmosphere heavy with eager anticipation. John joins the line, observing as participant after participant approaches a luminous orb, their talents revealed for everyone to witness.


    John stands in line, a bundle of nerves churning in his gut. Despite his rigorous training, doubt creeps in. What if his efforts fall short? What if he becomes the subject of ridicule? Shaking off these thoughts, he centers himself on the present challenge. He''s aware of his capabilities, yet the unpredictable nature of the tests looms over him. The first contender, a half-orc boasting formidable muscles, steps forward, igniting hope in the onlookers for a stellar performance. The orb activates, displaying 51%—eliciting a mixed reaction of applause and letdown. It''s a decent score, albeit not extraordinary. Following is a Drow, whose enigmatic allure piques the crowd''s interest. The orb illuminates once more, announcing a score of 60%. A ripple of astonishment spreads among the spectators; it''s a commendable achievement. Subsequently, an unassuming human youth approaches. With no distinguishing traits to speak of, expectations are modest. Yet, the orb reveals a score of 53%—fairly good, all things considered. Preceding John, an elf with lustrous silver locks captivates the audience, who anticipate a high score due to their graceful demeanor. The orb confirms their suspicions, shining bright with an 80% score. A surge of exhilaration sweeps through the crowd; it''s a remarkable feat indeed.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    At last, John''s moment arrives. He advances toward the radiant orb and lays his hand upon it. His pulse races as he anticipates the outcome. Suddenly, the orb bursts into dazzling radiance, revealing the number 100%. A collective gasp sweeps the onlookers, swiftly morphing into a whirlwind of animated discussions. The crowd is abuzz with inquiries: "Who is this guy?", "Does anybody recognize him?", and "Which guild will make the first move to recruit him?" are the murmurs that fill the air. "No guild would pass up the chance," echoes a voice in response, reverberating across the square. Murmurs of "He''s a shoo-in for the academy" and "The academy would be out of their minds to reject him" weave through the crowd. "It would be sheer madness if he declined their offer," someone speculates. "Has anyone ever done that?" Amidst the commotion, a voice rings out, "I believe he''s the first to achieve a perfect score! The closest I''ve known was 90%, achieved by the academy''s founding dean!"


    John''s thoughts were racing, precisely the scenario he had hoped to avoid. The last thing he desired was to become the center of attention. His intention was merely to test his abilities. Suddenly, the crow resting on his shoulder soared into the air.


    A voice sliced through the noise. "Pardon me, young man. Would you mind taking off your hat so we can see who we''re addressing?" John paused, then with a slow motion, he reached up and removed his hat. A hush descended over the crowd as they observed John''s features: long, black hair and striking green eyes that glowed with an almost supernatural light. Yet, it wasn''t solely the color that captivated them. His irises bore a pattern resembling complex circuitry, emitting a subtle blue glow. Whispers of wonder spread amongst the onlookers.


    Murmurs of awe ripple through the crowd as someone whispers, "No wonder he has a perfect body cultivation score. Just look at that face; he''s flawless." Abruptly, a commanding voice cuts through the murmurs, "This young man''s talents surpass any ordinary guild''s needs! The Royal Academy extends an offer to him, irrespective of his spirit cultivation score." It''s clear to all; John is destined for the Royal Academy. Now, attention turns to the five contenders who have excelled in body cultivation, awaiting their spirit cultivation assessment. Grog the half-orc, Elara the Drow, Kael the human, and Anya the elf stands ready, their anticipation heightened by John''s exceptional performance.