The wind gusted strongly, causing some arcane pillars to sway.
Anchalee stood firm, pen of arcane energy in hand, tapping her blueprint.
> "Come on… my first magical creature,"
she murmured, placing the pillars with precision.
Lucas stepped closer.
> "Be careful… this pillar must withstand shear force, or…"
With a slight wave of his hand, a gust of wind nearly toppled it.
Anchalee flinched but adjusted it just in time.
The tension—and subtle attraction—between them became undeniable.
Their eyes met, a mix of challenge and closeness.
---
Noon — Harder Arcane Trial
The hologram announced:
> "Next stage: Two creatures and floating pillars."
Anchalee had to place two pillars simultaneously while fending off two magical creatures.
Lucas stood nearby, subtly adjusting some arcane forces, yet adding a teasing remark:
> "If you fail… I'll deduct your arcane points myself."
Anchalee gritted her teeth.
> "Go ahead… but you won't get points from me that easily."
They fought the magical creatures together.
Floating steel, glowing arcane lines, gusts of wind—chaos and precision intertwined.
And there were moments when their hands brushed over the same pillar.
Her heart raced… unexpectedly.
---
Afternoon — Close-Quarters Challenge
The hologram warned again:
> "Final trial of the morning: Build a small fortress."
Anchalee and Lucas had to construct the fortress together.
> "Are we competing, or working as a team?"
she asked.
"Both… this game rewards rivalry and cooperation,"
Lucas replied with a sly smile.
As their arcane pillars touched, the light reflected in their eyes.
Closeness, tension, and undeniable attraction surged.
The first day… had become a fierce magical construction battlefield
with racing hearts and challenges yet to come.