The hall grew quieter the moment the first name was called.
Not complete silence, but the scattered murmurs faded until what remained was a tense hush filled with shallow breathing and restless shifting.
A young man stepped forward. He had broad shoulders, calloused hands, and eyes that were trying very hard not to show fear.
Two explorers stood beside the assessment machine, and one of them gestured calmly.
"Place your palm on the crystal and release your mana slowly."
The young man swallowed, nodded, and pressed his hand into the shallow indentation.
For a second, nothing happened.
Then a faint glow spread beneath his palm and the crystal hummed softly.
Without realizing it, many people leaned forward.
Arthur included.
The machine remained silent for several heartbeats, long enough for the man's jaw to tighten and long enough for several awakeners to squeeze their fists.
Then..
BEEP.
The sharp sound cut through the hall.
