ACADEMY EXAM


    On the day of the Stars Academy’s entrance examinations, a diverse group of 16-year-olds gathered, each aspiring to secure a place within the esteemed institution. Thanks to Professor Alaric’s intervention, Ethan was permitted to participate, with the committee accepting the explanation that illness had delayed his application the previous year.


    The examination process was rigorous, designed to assess both innate magical abilities and intellectual acumen. Candidates faced a series of tests, including practical demonstrations of aura manipulation, theoretical knowledge assessments, and problem-solving scenarios.


    The Castle of Stars buzzed with anticipation as representatives from all the Great Houses assembled for the annual entrance examination. At the heart of the grand hall stood a colossal Moonstone, its surface shimmering with an ethereal glow. Elevated thrones encircled the chamber, occupied by dignitaries observing the aspirants lined up for their evaluations.


    Each candidate, upon hearing their name, approached the Moonstone and placed a hand upon its cool surface. The stone’s color shift indicated the House alignment, while its brightness reflected the individual’s aura strength. Acceptance into a House hinged on these manifestations, with representatives gauging both affinity and potential.


    Among the gathered youths, murmurs rippled through the ranks. Noble-born candidates, having trained from an early age and bolstered by fragments of Moonstone provided by affluent families, often regarded commoners with disdain. One such noble, noticing Ethan’s age and modest attire, sneered, “You don’t belong here, old man. This place is for the gifted, not for those who missed their chance.”


    Ethan, aware of the whispers and derision, maintained his composure. He recalled his mentor’s advice: “True strength lies not in birthright, but in one’s resolve and actions.” Drawing a deep breath, he awaited his turn, determined to let his abilities speak on his behalf.


    As the evaluations progressed, the hall bore witness to a spectrum of talents. Some candidates elicited mere flickers from the Moonstone, while others illuminated it with dazzling brilliance. The nobles observed with critical eyes, their judgments swift and often unforgiving.


    As the entrance examinations at the Castle of Stars progressed, a diverse array of candidates stepped forward to place their hands upon the Moonstone, each hoping to secure a place within one of the Great Houses.


    Introductions and Exam Results:


    The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    ? Liora Ravenscroft: A poised young woman from a noble lineage, Liora approached the Moonstone with confidence. Upon contact, the stone glowed a deep blue, signifying an affinity with the House of Aquarius. The brightness indicated a strong aura, eliciting nods of approval from the Aquarius representatives and proud smiles from her parents seated among the dignitaries.


    ? Gareth Ironwood: Hailing from a family renowned for their martial prowess, Gareth’s touch turned the Moonstone a fiery red, aligning him with the House of Aries. The stone’s moderate glow suggested potential, though not exceptional. His father, a stern-faced knight, maintained a neutral expression, masking any disappointment.


    ? Selene Moonshadow: A commoner with no known magical heritage, Selene nervously placed her hand on the stone. To her surprise and others’, it shimmered a gentle silver, indicating a connection to the House of Cancer. The subdued luminosity reflected a modest aura, but the Cancer representatives welcomed her warmly, recognizing her potential.


    Darius Stormwind: A scion of the influential Stormwind family, Darius approached the Moonstone with an air of confidence. Upon placing his hand on the stone, it radiated a vivid red hue, signifying alignment with the House of Aries. The stone’s intense brightness showcased his formidable aura, prompting murmurs of admiration from the audience. His father, Lord Cedric Stormwind, observed with a proud yet measured expression, acknowledging the expectations that accompanied such a display.


    Finally, Ethan’s name echoed through the chamber. Stepping forward amidst hushed whispers, he placed his hand upon the Moonstone. The stone responded with an unprecedented radiance, its hue shifting to a vibrant green, symbolizing a profound connection to the Virgo House. Gasps resonated among the spectators, the intensity of the light surpassing all prior displays.


    The noble who had mocked Ethan earlier now stared in disbelief, his smug expression replaced by astonishment. The Virgo House representatives conferred briefly before nodding in unison, signaling their unanimous acceptance of Ethan.


    Ethan withdrew his hand, the Moonstone’s glow gradually dimming. He bowed respectfully to the assembled Houses before returning to his place among the candidates. The hall buzzed with renewed murmurs, this time tinged with admiration and curiosity.


    In the aftermath of Ethan’s remarkable display during the entrance examination, Professor Alaric stood alongside a fellow Virgo instructor, his expression one of pride and anticipation. “He’s the one I’ve been telling you about,” Alaric remarked, his gaze fixed on Ethan.


    The decision to allow Ethan’s participation, despite his age, stemmed from Alaric’s advocacy. He had conveyed to the elder council that Ethan possessed the potential to elevate the Virgo House’s standing within the kingdom. “Ethan might be our chance to ascend in the hierarchy,” Alaric had asserted, emphasizing the transformative possibilities Ethan’s unique abilities could herald for their House.


    The hall buzzed with murmurs as representatives from other Houses discussed the unprecedented brilliance of the Moonstone during Ethan’s assessment. Traditionally, the Virgo House had been undervalued within the kingdom’s hierarchy, primarily due to its non-combatant focus on manufacturing tools, enchantments, and alchemy. This specialization often led to perceptions of lesser importance compared to the martial prowess esteemed by other Houses.


    Observing this, Darius Father Lord Cedric’s demeanor shifted subtly, his eyes reflecting surprise and a hint of dissatisfaction. This paternal reaction ignited a spark of jealousy and resentment within Darius, directing his ire toward Ethan.