"Listen carefully, because these are your instructions for the exam." Instructor Layla announced with a commanding voice that got their full focus.
She gestured toward the belts. "After I activate these, a spherical dome of hardened earth will surround each of you. Your task is simple: destroy the dome using only your lightning spells. Only your lightning spells... Don't even use your fist." she emphasized the last part and her gaze lingered on Kyle for a moment longer than necessary.
Kyle knew why he got the look. The memory of his infamous one-punch knockout during a sparring match was still fresh in everyone's minds.
The students nodded, some already strategizing in their heads.
"For every layer of earth you break, you'll earn points," Layla continued. "The first layer is worth 10 points. The second is worth 20. The third, 40. And so on. Each layer doubles in value."
A murmur of excitement rippled through the room.
