Reinhart appraised Willow for a few moments. "So, just Willow. Very good."
The knight held out one of his hands, and Willow remained still and calm because he knew already that every one of his movements was being scrutinized — both by Reinhart and the audience. He had already seen other candidates fail without a second chance, exposed and humiliated in front of the crowd. He knew that his next move couldn't show even a trace of hesitation.
"I'm going to touch your shoulder, just for a moment to assess you."
Willow simply nodded, without looking away, giving himself over to whatever this test was going to be. As soon as Reinhart's hand moved in his direction, the voices in the crowd rose.
"That kid's going to hit the floor in a second."
"He certainly won't pass. There's no way they'll let him."
"Look at him! He looks too peaceful to be a guard."
