Prana Chronicles: Sword of the Cosmos

The practical exam began with an electrifying atmosphere. Four virtual fields were set up, each designed to test the candidates' combat prowess. The instructors explained the rules: candidates would start at level one, facing a small number of half-human-tier Astroides. The challenge would increase with each level, with more numerous and powerful foes appearing. A candidate could surrender at any point, but failing to do so before being incapacitated would disqualify them.

As the candidates prepared, all eyes were on the most promising individuals. Among them were Yu, Callen, Blaze, BD, and a girl named Lyra—a knife-wielding prodigy with a calm demeanor and razor-sharp reflexes.

Callen and Yu: Rivals in the Spotlight

Callen and Yu were called first, stepping onto their respective fields simultaneously. The crowd buzzed with excitement. The two boys exchanged a glance, their rivalry evident.

"Don't embarrass yourself, Callen," Yu said with a smirk, gripping his wooden training sword.

Callen adjusted his katana, his expression cool but determined. "Worry about yourself, Yu. I'm not the one who needs a toy to fight."

The announcer signaled the start, and both fields activated.Yu's movements were swift and calculated. Using only his wooden sword, he dispatched the level one Astroides with precision, barely breaking a sweat. By level three, his speed and technique were drawing murmurs of approval from the crowd.Callen, on the other hand, exuded raw power and finesse. His katana sliced through his opponents with ease, his strikes perfectly timed. At level four, he activated his innate ability, amplifying the damage he dealt to living beings.

As the levels progressed, the intensity increased. By level six, both boys were visibly strained, but neither showed signs of backing down.

At level eight, the fields became battlegrounds. Yu faced eight Astroides, each faster and more resilient than the last. He gritted his teeth, his body aching, but his resolve unwavering.

Callen, meanwhile, used every ounce of his mana to keep up with the relentless assault. His katana flashed like lightning, but his reserves were depleting rapidly.

In the stands, the guild masters watched intently.

Eleanor, a striking woman with crimson hair and piercing green eyes, leaned forward. "Yu's technique is flawless. His growth potential is extraordinary."Seraphine, a graceful woman with silver hair and an icy demeanor, scoffed. "Callen has the edge. His innate ability makes him a natural leader on the battlefield."Magnus, the burly, bearded guild master, chuckled. "You two always argue. Why not recruit them both and save us the headache?"

Eleanor shot Seraphine a glare. "I'm just saying, raw talent like Yu's is rare."

Seraphine smirked. "And Callen's determination is unmatched. You can't teach that."

Magnus raised his hands in mock surrender. "Fine, fine. Let's see who impresses us more by the end."

Both Yu and Callen reached level nine, the ultimate test of their endurance and skill.

Yu's movements slowed, but his technique remained sharp. He relied on strategy, exploiting his opponents' weaknesses with precision. "I'm not losing to you, Callen," he muttered under his breath, eyes blazing.

Callen, on the other hand, was running on sheer willpower. His mana was depleted, but his strikes were fueled by his unyielding spirit. "You're good, Yu," he said through gritted teeth. "But I'm better."

In the end, Callen delivered the final blow to his last opponent, collapsing from exhaustion immediately after. Yu, though equally drained, finished his fight moments later, standing tall amidst the cheers of the crowd.

Watching from the sidelines, Blaze clenched his fists. He had witnessed Yu and Callen's performances, and their strength ignited a fire within him. "I can't let them get too far ahead," he thought. "I'll show them I'm just as strong."

When it was Blaze's turn, he stepped onto the field with renewed determination. The first few levels were a breeze. His axe tore through the Astroides with raw power, each swing creating shockwaves.

By level six, Blaze was visibly struggling, but he refused to back down. "If Yu and Callen can reach level nine, so can I," he thought, his grip tightening on his axe.

At level seven, Blaze activated his unique ability, Berserk Rage. His aura turned crimson, and his strength surged. The crowd gasped as he tore through seven Astroides with ferocity, his movements a blur of destruction.

Though he ultimately surrendered at level seven, Blaze's performance earned him the respect of the crowd and the judges.

BD's calm and methodical approach stood out. Choosing level six, he displayed incredible precision and control, defeating his opponents with minimal effort. His quiet confidence made him a mystery, intriguing both the crowd and the guild masters.

Lyra, with her short knife, was a whirlwind of agility and skill. Her movements were almost dance-like, each strike precise and lethal. She reached level eight before fainting, her performance leaving a lasting impression.

The Guild Masters' Verdict

As the candidates returned to the dorms, the guild masters gathered to discuss.

Eleanor crossed her arms. "Yu's adaptability is remarkable. He'll make an excellent hunter."

Seraphine raised an eyebrow. "Callen's sheer determination and innate ability make him the better choice."

Magnus laughed, slapping the table. "They're both outstanding. And don't forget Blaze—he's got the heart of a warrior."

Eleanor sighed. "Fine, Magnus. You win this round. But I'm keeping an eye on Lyra. That girl has potential."

Seraphine smirked. "Agreed. This batch is something special."

Magnus grinned. "Let's see how they fare in the next phase."

As the day ended, the candidates rested, their minds and bodies preparing for the challenges ahead. The practical exam had tested their limits, but it was only the beginning. The path to becoming an Astro Hunter was fraught with trials, but for these young prodigies, the journey had only just begun.