The Guardian arrived. An imposing woman, her vibrant red hair accentuated her good looks. A tight-fitting pair of blue leggings with a matching blue blouse. Her green eyes looked forward in boredom.
The entire village was lined up, ready to present their youths to her for judgement. Boris, the innkeeper, gripped Leo's shoulders tightly. "Do not make a sound. Do not meet her eyes," he hissed. "If you embarrass me in any way, I'll give you a beating so fierce you'll sleep standing to avoid the pain."
As the Guardian walked past the children, she smiled slightly. 'Another bunch of yokels' she thought to herself.
"The testing for talent will commence at dawn tomorrow, and end at sunset. Priority will be given to those who pay the advance fees. There will be no free testing."
The villagers faces were grim. Seventeen youths for testing, and few could afford the gold coin it cost to be tested. The village relied on the generosity of the previous Guardian, who allowed testing of anyone, but it seemed this woman was of a different sort.
--- That Evening ---
The Innkeeper bowed deeply to the Guardian. "My Lady, please consider this Inn as yours for your stay. If you have any needs, Leo shall be by your door waiting. You need only ask, and we shall provide."
She looked at Boris with cold eyes. "You may go," she spoke.
As Boris left the room, Leo bowed deeply, and followed behind. As he was about to shut the door, the woman spoke.
"Boy, come here."
Leo stopped for a moment, confused. He turned and reentered the room. "Yes, my lady?" he asked, taking his cues from Boris. "What do you need?"
"Save your gold coin. You have no talent." She let the statement drop, as if discussing the weather.
Leo stood completely frozen. "What..."
"The Blessing of the Gods is not for one such as you. You do not deserve it, you will never earn it, and you lack the talent to grasp it for yourself. You may go."
Leo shook as he stumbled from the room. Just like that, he had no future. With a glance backwards, Leo was decided. "If I can't become Blessed by your God, I'll have to find another." he said to himself.