The winds howled as Akira mounted the Frostfire Phoenix, which had grown in size and power. Its once petite form now stretched large enough to carry Akira atop it with ease, its wings spreading wide and casting a shadow across the land. Akira felt a surge of pride as he adjusted his stance, gripping the Phoenix’s fiery feathers with one hand while the other waved to his subordinates below.

  Akira (commanding): "I will be spectating you all from above, so be on your best behavior! There are a few rules to this test—"

  The creatures below, now assembled and eager for their challenge, looked up at Akira. The Phoenix, despite its now grand size, hovered gracefully in the sky.

  Akira (announcing): "Rule number one: no killing under any circumstance. Rule number two: all fighting must take place within the forest. And rule number three: you all must take one of these badges before entering the forest. These badges will decide your points. Don’t worry, the points don’t really mean anything—they just represent bragging rights. So with that being said, choose your weapons, pick up your badge, and head in. You have one hour until the end of the test. Good luck to all of you."

  As Akira finished, he nudged the Phoenix gently with his knees. The great bird took flight, soaring high above the battlefield below. Akira surveyed the area, looking down on his subordinates as they picked up their weapons and badges, preparing for the test.

  Akira (musing to himself): "I should really give you a name... calling you 'Phoenix' is kind of confusing and, well, a little boring."

  The Phoenix, sensing Akira’s intent, shifted its head toward him.

  Akira (smiling): "What did my ancestors call you back then?"

  The Phoenix’s golden eyes shimmered, recalling the distant past.

  Phoenix (with a nostalgic tone): "Back then, they referred to me as Bennu."

  Akira (grinning): "Bennu, huh? I like it. From now on, I’ll call you Bennu."

  The Phoenix’s wings fluttered, its voice a mixture of surprise and respect.

  Bennu (softly): "T-thank you, Master Akira. I never thought I’d hear a mere mortal refer to me by that name again..."

  Akira chuckled at Bennu’s formal tone but soon grew serious as his eyes scanned the battlefield below.

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  Akira (focused): "Look down there, Bennu. That Lycanthrope—he chose the daggers. His magical energy isn’t anything too crazy, but his skills are no joke."

  Bennu (analyzing the scene): "Indeed. He’s quick and precise. The dagger’s a weapon built for agility, and he seems to have mastered it. It’s a good choice for him."

  Akira (nodding): "Exactly. And that’s what I’m looking for in this test. I need someone who can protect this village if I’m ever away. I won’t always be here to protect it."

  Bennu (gently): "But I’m here, Master Akira."

  Akira (smiling): "True, Bennu. But you’re bonded to me, so it’s not like I can go too far without you. Besides, I need you for fast travel."

  Bennu (with a hint of amusement): "True... That much is certainly clear."

  As Akira spoke with Bennu, they both heard a loud, earth-shaking boom in the distance. Akira’s eyes sharpened as he signaled Bennu to fly toward the sound. The Phoenix banked sharply, zooming through the skies, the wind rushing around them as they approached the source of the blast.

  From above, Akira could see the aftermath—a small crater formed in the earth, smoke rising from the center. His gaze narrowed as he spotted the source of the explosion—a female Lycanthrope wielding a sword. The weapon was glowing with an unusual light, and she was imbuing it with magic, a task that most would struggle to accomplish.

  Akira (in awe): "Wow... Isn’t imbuing magic within weapons a super tough skill to pull off?"

  Bennu (analyzing): "In theory, yes. But for monsters, it’s easier due to their natural affinity for magic. However, even with that, the Beastling race isn’t known for fighting. They’re evolved now, but they’re still brand new to this. So it’s surprising to see them already learning these advanced techniques."

  Akira (smirking): "Well, maybe they are quick learners. And that’s lucky for me because now I can teach them at a higher level."

  Bennu (with a hint of humor): "Just your luck, Master Akira."

  Akira chuckled, watching as the female Lycanthrope executed another attack, her blade crackling with energy. Despite her inexperience, the power she wielded was undeniable.

  As the test progressed, Akira continued to observe the various participants, noting standout individuals—those who displayed impressive skill, quick adaptation, and potential. There was the Lycanthrope with the sword, the one using daggers with incredible precision, and even a couple of Blood-Tinged Wolves who were testing their strength with warhammers and gauntlets.

  Akira (to Bennu): "This test isn’t just about strength. It’s about seeing who can adapt, who can learn quickly and master their weapons. That’s the kind of person I need to protect this village. It’s not just about power—it’s about skill, resilience, and teamwork."

  Bennu (wisely): "And you’re giving them the opportunity to prove that. A wise decision, Master Akira."

  Akira’s gaze remained focused as the participants moved through the forest, engaging in mock battles and testing their skills. He could feel the pulse of the battlefield—these creatures, once hesitant and unsure, were becoming warriors in their own right. And Akira, from above, was their watchful guide.

  The test was far from over, and Akira was ready to witness the evolution of these new warriors, each proving their worth and carving out their place within his growing army.