Aptitude can be seen as talents, but it's not that simple. You can call aptitude talents, but you can't call talents aptitude.
The concept of aptitudes is a major research project all over the world.
Yet, we know close to nothing about it. The only thing people understand is that aptitude is like a blessing — something you're born with, and not everyone has it.
People possess different kinds of aptitude, and there are varying levels of aptitudes.
That's why it can be measured by magic.
Aptitudes are substantially different from talents.
"The first test will be a battle against one of our students from the academy," the sponsor continued.
"The second test will measure your mana sensitivity, and the third test will be the magic to determine if you possess an aptitude."
As the sponsor announced the upcoming tests, a hushed murmur swept through the assembled crowd. The idea of facing an academy student in battle and undergoing magical examinations stirred a mixture of excitement and nervousness among the villagers.
Still processing the revelation about the tests, I couldn't help but feel a knot of anxiety tightening in my stomach. Battle? Magic? These were realms beyond my everyday life in the village.
The sponsor's voice resonated through the square, breaking through the restless whispers. "The first test will be a battle against one of our students from the academy, but don't worry, she will try not to hurt you. It's a chance for us to assess your combat skills and see if you possess the potential and a sense for battle."
A hushed tension settled over the crowd as the village elder stepped forward, his presence commanding attention. "All the tests will be held on the podium and will be done in succession. Please step forward if you are willing to take the test."
The sponsor continued, "The second test will measure your mana sensitivity. We will assess your connection to magical energies. And finally, the third test will determine if you possess a genuine aptitude, a gift from the gods that will directly let you become a student at our academy."
As the details of the tests unfolded, I glanced around, observing the varied reactions of my fellow villagers. Some faces reflected determination, while others betrayed apprehension. The weight of the moment hung in the air, and I just couldn't shake the feeling that my life, no, my future was on the line here.
The village elder, sensing the mix of emotions, raised his voice once more. "Fear not, my youngsters. Some may not be destined, but I'm sure there are people in our village who are chosen."
The sponsor, with an encouraging nod, added, "This is a chance for each one of you to prove your potential. Regardless of the outcome, remember that your efforts will not go unnoticed. Now, prepare yourselves. The tests will begin shortly."
As the village square buzzed with a blend of anticipation and unease, I found myself standing at the threshold of a journey that could alter the course of my life — and the fate of my family.
Should I try taking the test? Or should I directly go for a job?
As doubt began to close in on me, a voice echoed in my ear.
"Hohohoho, a commoner like you should not even try to take the test. I can see that you are not even worth a speck of dust!"
As I turned around, I saw a breathtakingly beautiful lady. She had long platinum blonde hair, big beautiful ruby eyes, and skin as white as snow.
Beautiful.
These words were reflected in my mind.
'Stunning.'
I had never seen such beauty in my life. But in contrast to her appearance, her words were even harsher.
"Go away; you are standing in my way. I have to test the people here."
Undeterred by her dismissive tone, I squared my shoulders and tried to resist her beauty.
"Why don't you just walk around me? Besides, everyone, including me here, is a commoner, so who would you even test?"
My response elicited a flicker of annoyance on the beautiful girl's elegant features. Her eyes, like two fiery rubies, glared at me with a mixture of irritation and amusement.
"Commoners giving me orders now? How amusing," she scoffed, her tone dripping with condescension.
Despite the tension, I tried holding my ground, determined to make my point. "Hey, I had my doubts, but thanks to you, I want to take the tests now, and you're not the only one with the authority here."
The village square buzzed with a low murmur as onlookers observed the exchange between the commoner and the academy beauty. The girl, however, was not accustomed to defiance.
Prospan, the sponsor, intervened once again. "Enough, Isabella. Let him proceed. The tests are for everyone willing to participate."
Isabella shot one last disdainful look at me before reluctantly stepping aside. As I moved forward, I could feel the weight of Isabella's gaze, but I pressed on, determined to prove the beauty wrong.