The morning sun broke through the heavy, arched windows of the Grand Exhibition Hall, casting golden bars across the floor. The massive hall was constructed from reinforced obsidian to withstand high-level elemental discharges.
Tiered benches rose toward the ceiling, packed with craftsmen, senior apprentices, and influential figures. The ambient noise was a low murmur of anticipation.
Kale Ardentis stood near the platform, adjusting the cuffs of his dark grey robes. The gold trim along the collar signified his status as a certified Master candidate... a remarkable achievement for his age.
He could feel dozens of eyes boring into his back, some curious, others openly sceptical. Among the crowd, imperial observers sat near the front row. Rando sat quietly, his hood lowered, tracking Kale's movements with a steady, unreadable gaze.
