The road was unkind to those who walked it alone. Elaris had known the journey would be difficult, but she had underestimated just how far the world stretched beyond the gilded walls of the Astren estate.
By dawn, the cold had stiffened her fingers, and hunger gnawed at her stomach. She had ridden horses across her family's lands, dined on the finest meals, and slept beneath embroidered silk—now, she had only the clothes on her back and the sparse coins in her pouch.
She pressed on.
Her destination was the city of Elindor, home to the great magic tower. The tower was not simply a place of study—it was a fortress of arcane mastery, where only the most brilliant minds could earn a place. If she wanted to prove herself, she would have to pass the entrance trials.
By the time the city came into view, the sun was high in the sky, its golden light gleaming off Elindor's towering spires. The sight of it sent a thrill through her, washing away her exhaustion. Here, she would begin anew.
Elaris stepped through the city gates.
The magic tower loomed in the heart of Elindor, its dark stone walls gleaming with ancient runes that pulsed faintly with energy. Elaris had heard stories of this place—of its scholars, its duels, and the rigorous trials that determined who was worthy of entering its sacred halls. Now, she stood at its threshold, determined to claim a place among the most brilliant minds in the world.
The entrance courtyard was already crowded. Dozens of hopefuls, each eager to prove themselves, whispered and exchanged nervous glances. Some wore fine robes embroidered with magical sigils, likely noble-born like herself. Others were commoners with little more than raw talent and ambition. Elaris knew she would have to outshine them all.
A sharp voice broke through the murmurs. "All applicants, form a line!"
A robed figure emerged from the tower's massive doors, their face hidden beneath a deep hood. "The first trial begins now. If you cannot grasp the essence of magic, you do not belong here."
Elaris took a deep breath. She had never formally studied magic, but she had read about it, felt its presence in the air, in the world around her. She stepped forward, ready to face whatever lay ahead.
Failure was not an option.