Chapter Eleven: Endurance(final trial)
The morning sun peeked over the horizon, casting a warm glow on the world as Lucien prepared himself for the final test of the academy assessment—the Test of Endurance. He had come a way since his journey began, and now, with determination burning in his eyes, he was ready to face this last challenge.
Arriving at the designated location with his fellow candidates, Lucien couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. The air crackled with anticipation as the students gathered around, awaiting instructions.
The examiner stepped forward, a stern expression on their face. "Welcome, young aspirants, to the Test of Endurance," the examiner announced, their voice echoing with authority. "In this trial, you will be tested on your ability to withstand physical strain and mental exhaustion. Your task is to carry boulders, and with each passing interval, an additional boulder will be added to your load. The one who lasts the longest shall be declared the winner."
A hush fell over the crowd as the participants took in the gravity of the task before them. The sheer weight and mental toll of carrying multiple boulders for an extended period seemed almost insurmountable.
Lucien steeled his mind, knowing that this would be sure to test his limits. He took a deep breath, centering himself in the present moment. The examiner motioned towards the boulders piled nearby, and the participants eagerly stepped forward, each one choosing a starting stone.
As the test commenced, the students hoisted their boulders onto their backs, the weight pressing heavily upon them. Lucien's muscles strained, but he held his ground, determination etched on his face.
Time ticked by, and after ten minutes, the examiner signaled for another boulder to be added to each participant's load. The strain increased, but Lucien refused to let it break his resolve. He dug deep within himself, summoning every ounce of strength and mental fortitude, it was this type of training he did as daily quest, he thought he could surely pass on top.
Minutes turned into an hour, and the participants' faces contorted with the effort. Beads of sweat dripped down their brows, their bodies trembling under the immense weight. But Lucien held on, his mind locked in a state of unwavering determination.
However, as the hours wore on, fatigue began to take its toll. The weight of the boulders bore down on Lucien's weary body, his muscles protesting against the strain. The pain was excruciating, and his vision blurred, but he refused to let go.
Despite his incredible endurance, after enduring for an hour, Lucien was forced to relinquish the boulders. The pain was too much to bear, and his body demanded respite even with his regeneration ability it was too much, having felt like he was holding the weight of a mountain he dropped it. He felt a mix of disappointment and pride, knowing that he had given his all but fallen short of victory.
As the test concluded, Lucien watched with awe and admiration as two participants, Jacob and Janet, managed to surpass his endurance. They held on for over two hours, their determination and strength surpassing all expectations. Jacob and Janet had been behind Lucien in the previous tests, but their exceptional endurance had secured their places at the top.
Curiosity piqued, Lucien approached Jacob and Janet, his earlier disappointment forgotten. He discovered that they were siblings, and their kind and genuine nature made it easy for Lucien to befriend them. They had recognized his potential and were eager to be acquainted with one another.
As the trials concluded, Lucien and his newfound friends began their journey back home. They shared stories and laughter along the way, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment. It became evident that Jacob and Janet hailed from a privileged background, evident from the black flying limo that arrived to pick them up.
Before parting ways, Jacob and Janet exchanged contact details with Lucien, assuring him that they would keep in touch. Lucien bid them farewell, feeling a sense of warmth from their kindness and hospitality.
Returning home, Lucien couldn't contain his excitement as he shared the details of the grueling trial with his stepmother, Josephine. She beamed with pride, her eyes shining with joy at his achievements. In celebration of his resilience, Josephine prepared a feast from the left over ingredients Lucien bought before he left, filling their home with laughter and love, in truth she had been missing him dearly but just hid it behind a smile making Lucien assume there was nothing to worry about.
As the evening drew to a close, Lucien reflected on the Test of Endurance and the trials he had faced. While he had not emerged as the victor, he had pushed himself to his limits and discovered the strength within him, he knew he had potential he just needed to work on it. It was a testament to his growth and a reminder that his journey toward greatness was far from over.
With renewed determination, Lucien closed his eyes, his mind filled with visions of a future where he stood as an equal with his siblings etching his name in history. The trials had tested his physical strength, mental fortitude, and endurance, preparing him for the challenges that lay ahead.
As the night wrapped its comforting embrace around him, Lucien drifted into a deep slumber, his heart filled with hope and the knowledge that he was one step closer to achieving his dreams.