Capítulo 80: Ch 61 - Ascension Trials & Invitations (Part 2)
After a thorough discussion among the grandmasters regarding the outcome of the third trial, they reached a unanimous conclusion regarding Rina's abilities. It was determined that Rina possessed a single ability and did not acquire an elemental favor, unlike Mathew, who showcased both transmutation and an affinity for the earth element.
The grandmasters nodded in agreement, acknowledging the distinction between the two candidates. Rina held her dial card tightly, anticipation and curiosity evident in her eyes. The time had come for her to receive the invitations that would shape her future as a mage.
Grandmaster Gunther took the initiative and extended an invitation to Rina with his proposal. "I would like to extend an invitation to the Sapphire Citadel," he announced, flicking his wrist with a confident gesture.
Rina's dial card began to emit a radiant glow, signaling that she received his insignia.
Grandmaster Gunther proceeded to elaborate on the benefits of joining the Sapphire Citadel. "We can provide you with comprehensive training to harness the full potential of your remarkable ability. Within our ranks, we have mage instructors who possess similar abilities, and they will be instrumental in guiding you to unlock the true depths of your power."
Rina looked at the dial card and a smile appeared on her face.
"As a Grandmaster of Radiant Sanctum," Biswaq began, his voice exuding a calm and welcoming tone, "I would also like to extend an invitation to you. Our sanctum boasts a diverse community of students, each possessing unique and varied abilities. Within our hallowed halls, you will find a nurturing environment guided by experienced instructors who will not only help you explore the depths of your potential but also provide a sense of belonging and camaraderie among your fellow students."
Rina's dial card glows up once again receiving the insignia of Radiant Sanctum.
"Well," Grandmaster Pierre interjected, his voice carrying a resolute tone, "Iron, too, extends a heartfelt invitation. We understand the importance of nurturing your unique ability, and we are committed to providing you with the very best instructors who will guide you along your path. Rest assured, we will take care of all the expenses and resources necessary to ensure your growth and development."
As Rina's dial card continued to emit a radiant glow, it became evident that she had received three invitations, surpassing even Mathew's invitation count. The atmosphere grew even more charged with anticipation as we candidates listened to the grandmaster's invitation.
Just as we were processing the previous invitations, Grandmaster Ajax's voice resonated with a sense of authority and confidence, cutting through the air.
"I believe you should consider joining Ivory Tower," he declared, his tone unwavering. "While your current knives may seem diminutive, we at Ivory Tower specialize not only in honing your ability but also strengthening your physical prowess to endure any challenge. We possess a distinguished battalion of battle maidens, known as the strongest female warriors in the entire kingdom. Training alongside them will ensure that you become a fearsome warrior in your own right."
With a flick of his arm, Ajax sealed the invitation, and Rina's dial card now bore the insignia of Ivory Tower.
"In my visions, I perceive a vast untapped potential within you, one that can only be fully realized after joining the Mind's Eye," Messindra said, her voice resonating with a captivating allure.
"Your current ability may merely scratch the surface of your true power. What lies dormant within you is another skill, one that holds the key to unlocking your extraordinary capabilities. While it may take time to fully manifest, I believe that by joining the Mind's Eye, you can accelerate its awakening." saying so, Messindra flicked her wrist.
Immediately another insignia popped up on Rina's dial card.
The remaining grandmasters maintained their composed demeanor, their lack of interest evident as they remained seated at the back. They observed the proceedings in silence, showing no intention of extending an invitation to Rina.
Respecting the grandmasters' decisions, Rina humbly bowed her head, acknowledging their presence and the trials she had undergone. With a sense of determination and purpose, she gracefully made her way toward the other side of the chamber where Mathew was seated.
Another candidate was called forward, this time an elemental mage with a strong affinity for fire. Like Rina and Mathew before them, the candidate embarked on the trials with determination, facing each one head-on. Throughout the trials, they displayed remarkable diligence and composure, leaving an impression on the observing grandmasters.
However, it became apparent that the majority of the second-tier candidates fell short in comparison to Rina and Mathew. Particularly in the first and second trials, their performance was weaker. Their mana meridians were not as well-distributed, and their mana trees lacked density, resembling sparse leaves and small fruits like berries or apricots at best. It was clear that they were average candidates, lacking the exceptional potential of Rina and Mathew.
Despite their limitations, each candidate managed to secure at least one or two invitations consistently, a testament to their efforts and the recognition of their abilities.
The phantom mage called out the name "Hendrickson Bale," and with a proud exclamation, Hendrickson stepped forward, "It's show time."
There was a hint of concern among the other candidates.
"Oi, don't do anything stupid out there," I reminded him.
Fearing Hendrickson's enthusiasm which might lead to reckless behavior that could upset the grandmasters. However, the results of Hendrickson's performance left the grandmasters dumbfounded, utterly shocked by what they witnessed.
Hendrickson's meridians displayed remarkable health, particularly evident in his arms where the mana meridians fully covered them. During the second trial, his mana tree flourished, extending its branches and adorning itself with lush leaves that almost concealed it entirely. The most astounding aspect was the fruit that sprouted from the tree—a collection of large, ripe mana mangoes, each nearly the size of our heads.
The significance of this development couldn't be ignored. Not only did Hendrickson possess an abundance of mana, but his mana also possessed great potency. The growth of such high-quality mana mangoes was a testament to his exceptional talent.
In the third trial, the transformation of the exoskeleton unveiled even more astonishing revelations. One of the exoskeleton arms morphed into the grotesque limb of a Blazecrawler Salamander. It became evident that Hendrickson had not only gained tremendous power but also secured the favor of the fire element, granting him the ability to transform into a monstrous creature.
Hendrickson achieved a remarkable feat by receiving invitations from seven out of the nine royal academies. Even Grandmaster Hamanthra and Grandmaster Travis, renowned for their discerning tastes, extended invitations to him with enticing offers.
The only grandmasters who did not invite Hendrickson were Grandmaster Messindra and Grandmaster Casia. Messindra was only looking for psychic mages and Grandmaster Casia seemed to only extend invites to girls who had an affinity to using healing magic.
The sheer number of invites that Buffon Hendrickson received from the prestigious royal academies was undoubtedly impressive. Almost all the grandmasters were eager to claim him for their academy, which added to his allure and status.
However, just when we thought that Hendrickson's trial was the pinnacle of astonishment, Trisha Valencia's trial surpassed it by a mile.
Trisha's meridians were an absolute marvel, densely distributed throughout her entire body, making her the epitome of a healthy mage. During the second trial, the branches of her mana tree stretched beyond the confines of the arena, adorned with large, lush leaves measuring an impressive 15 centimeters in width. Furthermore, the branches bore massive mana fruits, each measuring a foot in diameter, scattered abundantly.
The grandmasters were left astounded by the spectacle that unfolded before their eyes.
During the third trial, the exoskeleton became enveloped in a barrage of thunder, crackling and sparking with electrifying energy. The thunderous display even struck fear into some of the noble retainers, causing them to back away, wary of the lightning's reach. Meanwhile, Trisha remained calm and composed, seemingly unaffected by the electrifying storm.
To our surprise, Grandmaster Biswaq addressed Trisha with a friendly smile, acknowledging the unexpected nature of her presence.
"Trisha Valencia, it is quite surprising to see you here. This trial was tailored to showcase the abilities of commoners, and a noble like yourself was not something we were anticipating. I'm certain it has also left the other candidates a bit surprised," Biswaq remarked.
"I am no longer a noble. Please treat me like the rest of them. I do not require any special treatment," Trisha responded humbly, bowing her head.
The disparity between commoners and nobles was starkly apparent. While we were aware of Trisha's noble background, witnessing the stark difference firsthand was truly eye-opening. It became clear that our trials were indeed adjusted to cater to the abilities of commoner candidates. It was no wonder that the nobles did not undergo the same ascension trials as us.
Trisha's exceptional talent was further affirmed as she received invitations from an astonishing eight out of the nine royal academies. The only academy that refrained from extending an invitation was Celestia's Mercy, led by Grandmaster Casia.
At this stage, all the 2nd tier candidates had successfully completed their trials. The remaining candidates now consisted of the last three of us: Jason, Marcia, and myself. We were the 1st tier candidates who had made it onto the exemplary candidate list.
Finally, my name was announced, "Benjamin Almond."
"About time they called my name," I whispered to myself, cracking my knuckles in anticipation.
"Good luck," Jason said, offering me words of encouragement. Marcia nervously peeked from behind Jason's shoulder, her eyes filled with a timid curiosity as she glanced at me.
"Well, see you on the other side," I muttered, making my way toward the stage.
PENSAMENTOS DOS CRIADORES 
HellerFeed
HellerFeed Thanks for reading as always!
Finally, the main character takes center stage after staying on the sidelines for so long.
To avoid hindering the story's pacing, I swiftly progressed through the events involving the other characters.
Can anyone guess what type of mage and ability will Benjamin gain? (:
Status de energia semanal
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