Then Elder Cael raised his right hand slowly.
Space behind him trembled. A moment later, dozens of enormous stone gates emerged from the air itself and settled above the platform. Each gate bore the carved image of a different weapon, and ancient martial intent seeped from every surface.
There was a sword gate sharp enough to make onlookers feel cut by sight alone. A spear gate stood tall and domineering like a battlefield general. A sabre gate radiated savage ferocity. There were gates for bows, daggers, staffs, hammers, axes, chains, and many other weapon paths.
The sight alone stirred the blood of the gathered disciples.
"The first trial," Elder Cael declared, "is the Weapon Master Trial."
A wave of anticipation spread through the younger generation.
"This is not a trial of brute force. It is a trial of perception, affinity, comprehension, and martial foundation."
He extended his hand toward the floating gates.
