As Benji led his students toward the designated training grounds, the tension between them grew thick. The anticipation of the trials was palpable, each of them lost in their own thoughts.They arrived at a wide-open area within the academy, where large, stone platforms hovered just above the ground. Several instructors stood in a line, each overseeing a different section of the trials. Their eyes were sharp, observing every student that walked past with critical intent. Overhead, the sky had darkened slightly, clouds drifting across the horizon, adding to the sense of impending challenge."Alright," Benji began, turning to face his students, "this is where the real work begins. Each of you will be tested on your core abilities, your strengths, and how well you control your power. The individual challenges have been designed specifically for each of you. Focus, adapt, and above all, don't let your emotions cloud your judgment."John cracked his knuckles, flames briefly flickering along his forearms. "So we just take the platform and go all out?""Not exactly," Benji replied, smirking slightly. "This isn't just about how much power you can unleash. It's about control. You'll need to demonstrate finesse, precision, and adaptability."Alex frowned slightly, glancing at the stone platforms. He had never excelled at energy manipulation, and he knew his trial wouldn't play to his strengths. His hands flexed at his sides, the tension clear in his broad shoulders."Alex," Benji said, his voice softer now. "Don't let the trial get in your head. Remember, it's not just about energy. Your strength lies in other areas."Alex nodded, though his jaw was still clenched. "Yeah. I'll do my best."Benji gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder before stepping back. "Alright, you all have your assignments. Head to your platforms."The students broke off, each one approaching the section assigned to them. John was the first to take his place on a raised platform made of smooth stone, while Anne headed toward a series of intricate pillars that seemed to shift in the breeze, challenging her agility and balance. Alex stepped up to a platform that was eerily still. And finally, Gordon walked confidently toward a section where sparks of energy crackled in the air.The instructor overseeing John's trial called out, "John, this trial will test your ability to manipulate flame with precision. No outbursts, no wild firestorms. You'll be tasked with controlling a small flame in various delicate situations. You'll need to guide it, shape it, and extinguish it without overextending your power."John grinned, flames flickering along his fingers. "Small flame? This'll be a breeze."A candlelight appeared in the center of his platform, flickering gently. John extended his hand, the fire immediately responding to his will. He was about to smirk in triumph when the flame suddenly split into dozens of tiny sparks, each one darting in a different direction."Stay focused," the instructor warned. "You need to keep every flame under control."John's brow furrowed in concentration. He summoned all his focus, guiding the flames back into one cohesive unit. It wasn't easy, and beads of sweat started to form on his forehead. The tiny flames flickered, resisting his command, but slowly, John began to pull them together, forming a controlled orb of fire. The energy within him surged, but he kept his emotions in check. The instructor gave a subtle nod of approval."Not bad," John muttered under his breath, clearly enjoying the challenge more than he'd expected.Meanwhile, Anne's trial had begun. She was tasked with weaving through the shifting pillars, which moved unpredictably, testing both her agility and her ability to read the air currents. Her movements were fluid, her light steps barely touching the ground as she gracefully dodged the pillars. Her focus was intense, her every motion precise as she weaved in and out of the obstacles."Come on, Anne," she whispered to herself, dodging a particularly fast-moving pillar. Her breath was steady, her eyes sharp as she anticipated each shift in the wind. A final leap brought her safely to the other side, where she landed with barely a sound.The instructor overseeing her trial gave her a nod. "Well done, Anne. Excellent control of your agility and awareness."Alex stood at his platform, his trial more physical than energy-based. The instructor handed him a large stone slab and pointed to a stack of similar ones. "Your trial is to move these slabs, using only your physical strength and minimal energy manipulation. Show us how well you can channel your strength without relying on pure force."Alex nodded, gripping the stone with both hands. His muscles tensed as he lifted the slab, careful not to over-exert himself. It was heavy, but his physical prowess gave him the edge. Slowly, he began stacking the slabs, each one added with precision. His brow furrowed as he focused on maintaining his balance, not letting his natural strength overpower the delicate task."Easy enough," Alex muttered, his face set in concentration. As the pile grew taller, the task became more difficult, requiring a steady hand and a careful eye. But Alex remained focused, his strength controlled and deliberate.At the far end, Gordon faced a unique challenge—one that tested his ability to control energy without letting his temper flare. Sparks of raw energy flickered in the air around him, and the task was to shape the chaotic bursts into stable forms.Gordon grinned as he approached the swirling energy, his fingers crackling with excitement. "Finally, something worth my time."But as he began to manipulate the energy, it resisted him, flaring wildly whenever his focus wavered. He clenched his fists, his frustration growing as the energy fought against his will."Focus, Gordon," the instructor warned. "This isn't a battle of strength. It's about finesse."Gordon growled under his breath, forcing himself to take a deep breath. Slowly, he extended his hands, concentrating on the wild sparks. His breathing steadied, and, inch by inch, he began to mold the energy into a solid form. It wasn't easy, and his impatience nearly got the better of him several times, but eventually, he succeeded, forming a shimmering sphere of energy in his hands.Finally, the students made it out, exhaustion clearly etched onto their faces. But this was just the first test.