After reaching the clearing, the group remained where they were, rain still falling steadily over their bowed heads and soaked cloaks, each of them too focused on breathing to care about the cold seeping into their bones. Chests rose and fell hard, some faster than others, boots planted in wet earth as they tried to steady trembling legs. No one spoke at first. There was only the sound of rain striking leaves, the dull thud of water hitting mud, and the uneven rhythm of exhausted breaths.
It was several minutes later when Sir Kaelen emerged from between the trees, his presence calm and composed despite the storm. His cloak barely stirred as he approached, eyes sweeping over the group with quiet scrutiny. "Well done," he said at last, his voice firm but not unkind. "You've completed the trial."
