Chapter 3: The Trial Begins
The Guild Arena of Velaria was alive with energy.
Carved from pale stone and ringed by enchanted braziers, it sat like a coliseum of the old world. Hundreds of spectators filled the stands—nobles, adventurers, students, merchants—all gathered for one reason:
The Combat Aptitude Trials.
For most, it was a chance to test their strength and earn beginner rank.
But for Mano, this was the doorway to something far greater.
He stood alone in the waiting chamber beneath the arena, tightening the straps of his light leather armor. Around him, others chatted nervously, adjusted weapons, or boasted about their training. None of them noticed him—until his name was called.
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"Next: Mano Ardent."
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The world fell quiet.
He stepped into the sunlight, onto the center platform. Whispers rippled through the crowd.
"Isn't he the kid who embarrassed Lord Malden's son?"
"He's not even from a noble house…"
"He's the one with the strange sword aura… I heard he trains alone every morning."
A tall Guild examiner stepped forward, armored in enchanted steel. His nameplate read: Instructor Calen – B-Rank Adventurer.
"Mano Ardent," Calen said with a deep voice. "You may choose your test opponent—wood puppet, iron guardian, or…" He smirked. "A live opponent of your level."
"I'll take the live opponent," Mano said calmly.
There were murmurs of surprise—and laughter.
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From the opposite gate, a muscular youth stepped out with a greatsword slung over his shoulder. "Name's Rovan. Hope you're ready to get flattened."
"Ready," Mano replied, eyes sharp.
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[System Active: Combat Mode Engaged]
Opponent Detected: Rovan – Level 10 Warrior
Class: Heavy Blade | Strength: High | Agility: Low
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The bell rang.
Rovan charged like a bull, sword raised high. Dust exploded under his boots.
Mano didn't move.
Not until the last moment.
Quick sidestep. Pivot. Slash.
The wooden sword in Mano's hand struck clean across Rovan's ribs.
Rovan stumbled, shocked.
"You—"
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[Activate Skill: Blade Resonance]
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Mano stepped in. The sword hummed with power, glowing faintly with blue light. His strike was faster—sharper—impossible to track.
WHAM!
Rovan's sword was knocked clean out of his hands. The follow-up strike stopped just inches from his throat.
The arena was dead silent.
Then—cheers. Roars. Shocked gasps.
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Instructor Calen stared at Mano, stunned.
"…Impressive. Very well. By Guild authority, Mano Ardent is granted Full Novice Rank—and due to his performance, eligible for early Class Awakening."
A silver flame ignited in front of Mano.
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[Class Awakening Available]
Choose Your Path:
1. Blade Disciple (Balanced)
2. Sword Dancer (Agility-focused)
3. Heavenly Blade Adept (Unique – Only for SSS Talent Holders)
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Mano didn't hesitate.
"Heavenly Blade Adept."
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Class Chosen: Heavenly Blade Adept
You are the chosen vessel of sword perfection. Your strikes channel divine precision and potential.
+3 Strength | +3 Agility | +2 Intelligence
New Skill Unlocked: Skycut Slash [Rare]
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Mano stepped down from the platform, silent, focused.
But as he walked through the crowd, someone blocked his path.
A girl in dark robes with piercing violet eyes.
"You're not from here," she said. "And that sword style… it's not of this world."
Mano's grip on his sword tightened.
"Who are you?"
She smiled faintly. "A warning, Mano Ardent. Power like yours never goes unnoticed. The real trials… begin now."
And like a shadow, she vanished into the crowd.