The grandeur of the Council's central facility was overwhelming as Elara stepped into the main training hall. The room was expansive, with high ceilings adorned with magical symbols and elaborate chandeliers casting a soft glow over the polished stone floors. Several practice areas were set up around the room, each dedicated to different aspects of Aether manipulation.
Seraphina led Elara, Milo, and Asha to a central desk where a tall, elderly man was waiting. His robes were richly embroidered, and he exuded an air of wisdom and authority. He looked up as they approached, his eyes twinkling with a mix of curiosity and appraisal.
"Welcome, Elara," the man said, his voice deep and resonant. "I am Master Alden, head of the Council's training division. I will be overseeing your initial assessment."
Elara gave a respectful nod. "Thank you for having me, Master Alden. I'm eager to begin."
Master Alden smiled, his gaze sweeping over Elara with an evaluative air. "Excellent. The assessment will determine your current level of proficiency with the Aether and help us design a personalized training program for you. Are you ready to begin?"
Elara nodded, her excitement palpable. "I'm ready."
Seraphina led Elara to a designated area of the training hall where various magical artifacts and instruments were set up. "We'll start with a series of practical tests to evaluate your control over the Aether. Each test will assess different aspects of your abilities."
Master Alden gestured to a series of crystal orbs positioned on pedestals around the room. "These orbs are enchanted to measure various Aetherial attributes. Your first task is to channel your Aether into the orbs and stabilize the energy flow. We'll begin with the basic control test."
Elara approached the first orb, taking a deep breath to center herself. She extended her hand, and a soft blue light began to emanate from her fingertips as she channeled her Aether. The orb responded, its glow intensifying as Elara focused on maintaining a steady stream of energy.
The orb's light fluctuated as Elara worked to stabilize the flow, but she quickly regained control. After a few moments, the orb's light steadied, and the glow became consistent.
Master Alden observed with keen interest. "Good. You've demonstrated solid control. Now, let's move on to the manipulation test. This orb will assess your ability to shape and direct Aether."
Elara moved to the next orb, which was larger and had a more intricate design. She extended her hand again, this time focusing on shaping the Aether into specific forms. The orb's light responded to her intentions, shifting and swirling into patterns as she guided it.
The test was challenging, as Elara had to maintain precision while also adjusting to the orb's reactions. After several minutes of concentration, she successfully formed a series of complex patterns and shapes with the Aether.
Master Alden nodded approvingly. "Impressive. Your ability to manipulate the Aether is quite advanced. Now, for the final test, we will assess your ability to harness and channel elemental Aether."
A small platform was set up in the center of the room, with four elemental symbols—fire, water, earth, and air—marked around its perimeter. Master Alden explained, "You will need to channel the Aether to activate each elemental symbol in turn. This will demonstrate your proficiency with elemental manipulation."
Elara stepped onto the platform and began with the fire symbol. She focused on channeling Aether to produce a small flame, carefully controlling its intensity and stability. The flame flickered to life, casting a warm glow over the platform.
Next, she moved to the water symbol, channeling Aether to create a sphere of water that floated above the platform. She guided the water with precision, ensuring it remained steady.
For the earth symbol, Elara focused on solidifying the Aether into a small mound of earth, shaping it into a stable form. Finally, she approached the air symbol, channeling Aether to create a gentle breeze that swirled around her.
The tests were demanding, but Elara managed to complete them with a high level of skill. She felt a sense of accomplishment as she finished the final test and looked to Master Alden for his evaluation.
Master Alden's expression was one of genuine admiration. "You've performed exceptionally well, Elara. Your control, manipulation, and elemental proficiency are all impressive. It is clear that you have a strong foundation and a natural talent for working with the Aether."
Seraphina smiled, her pride in Elara evident. "The results of this assessment will help us tailor a training program that will further develop your abilities and prepare you for more advanced challenges."
Elara felt a surge of excitement at the prospect of continuing her training. "I'm eager to start the program and learn more about the Aether. What comes next?"
Master Alden handed Elara a booklet containing information about the training program and schedule. "We'll begin with a series of structured lessons and practical exercises designed to build on your current skills. You'll also have access to the Council's library, where you can study ancient texts and magical artifacts."
Elara took the booklet, her anticipation growing. "Thank you, Master Alden. I'm looking forward to the journey ahead."
As they left the training hall, Elara, Milo, and Asha discussed the results of the assessment and the upcoming training. The excitement of embarking on this new phase of Elara's journey was palpable, and the possibilities seemed endless.