章 85: Thunderclap

"Get ready, everyone."

Liam's voice drew the attention of the gathered mages. All eyes were on him, waiting for his every word. Only five mages would be chosen to pass the test, therefore each of them had to give their all.

"On the count of three."

"One…

The air around them started to shimmer as some of the mages began to summon their weapons.

"Two…

When beads of sweat dripped down the faces of some mages, Aizel could feel the tension in the air. Some were nervous, and others were whispering prayers under their breath.

"Three…

The mages dashed into the woodland as soon as the signal was given. Some took the straight path, while others turned right or left. 

Aizel darted forward as well, but unlike the others, he infused lightning into his steps, creating fuzzy afterimages of himself to appear as he accelerated.

Aizel closed his eyes and focused on his surroundings, using his mana sense to reach out.