[AlexFili]

Sorry for the wait, but I think you'll find it will be worth it.

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Chapter 19: Trial by Fire

Rook awoke early the next morning. He slipped his blue cap onto his head and picked up his gun and equipment. The exam would be starting soon. Rook made his way down the long hallway, past the lunch hall and towards the large training room.

Rook gasped as he opened the door and saw a long line of Sligs. The blue caps were standing in a line, ready to take part in this year’s exam. Rook's paler skin and fangs set him apart from the other Sligs, but each Slig had their own individual marks. For some it was a change of skin-tone, for others it would be the bruises and cuts recieved from day to day life. Rook could recognize Queck from his stance anywhere. As Rook stood in line, the examination ceremony began. As the trumpets sounded, a black capped officer walked among the Sligs. “Baeny, Corbin, Ewen, Garlett, Henk, Lenza, Queck, Rook, Zzanto” The black capped officer crossed out each name on his list and then proceeded to explain the rules.

The black capped officer cleared his throat, “The rules of this exercise are simple. You must defeat one of your fellow competitors using the paintballs provided. Any Slig who is hit with the paintballs more than twice is eliminated from the competition and has failed. Anyone who manages to survive this test will be promoted to red cap status”

The Sligs moved their feet nervously. Rook was trying to remember Flek’s advice. ‘Keep calm’, he had said to Rook. ‘The combat arena is like a maze. When you find an opponent, you must open fire without warning. Once the first shot has been fired, they will be aware of your presence. After that, trust your instincts and dodge their attacks with your Dark Gift. I will be watching you. Good luck’