As the mist finally lifted, the hall fell silent with ripe anticipation.
The relatively few nobles, who had seen their children still inside, wished to see their kin come out first.
Alas, even they knew it was a far-fetched dream, but what was wrong in expecting such a good outcome?
The disqualified participants were eager to see who emerged first, knowing firsthand how difficult it actually was.
Beneath the mist, the first figure to emerge from the thinning haze was Amael, his expression calm and victorious.
'Easy,' he thought, his expression portraying his feelings.
He had navigated the illusion with apparent ease, his strategic alliances and decisive actions paying off.
The crowd murmured in appreciation, but their focus quickly shifted back to the clearing area.
Followed by Amael were the group he helped and allied himself with.
