(Azaria 'Ziya' Point of View)
Everyone was gathered around the podium, and Aniyah and I slipped into the crowd. We'd grown used to these announcements by now, but the air was thick with anticipation. The Chief and Commander stood tall before us once again, commanding the attention of every warrior, trainee, and observer present. This time, it was the Chief who spoke.
"We appreciate everyone's effort in completing the course," his voice echoed, filling the space like a rolling storm. "Though you all passed the last exam, don't relax yet. The real test begins tomorrow. The one-on-one battles will commence tomorrow evening."
A collective murmur spread through the crowd. I felt a flicker of anxiety course through me, but I pushed it down. Aniyah and I exchanged glances. Her eyes were sharp with focus, her jaw clenched in determination.
