The training area was silent, the dim lighting casting elongated shadows across the floor. Astron stood at the starting point, feeling the weight of Kennet's gaze on him. Today was the day of the first-stage examination, a test to prove his mastery over the basics of stealth and presence suppression.
"Ready, Astron?" Kennet's voice cut through the silence, calm yet commanding.
Astron nodded, his focus sharpening. This was the culmination of weeks of intense training, and he was determined to succeed. Kennet moved to a control panel, activating the intricate wards and sensors scattered throughout the obstacle course.
"Remember," Kennet said, his eyes fixed on Astron, "this is about more than just physical agility. You must blend with your surroundings, making your presence indistinguishable from the environment. Move slowly and deliberately, maintaining your mana flow in harmony with the ambient energy."
