Wren’s presence had an immediate effect as those in the audience fell silent.
"You have all done well to make it this far." Wren's deep voice rumbled through the amphitheater. "I want to commend you on your tenacity."
The initiates sat up straighter.
"There are those among you who have risen to the challenge, surpassing the limits you've placed on yourself and overcoming every obstacle." Wren paused, his attention shifting to where Harlow and Graydon sat. "Which is why theuhva nahas opened."
The initiates below stirred, their whispers breaking the silence. Even Devon was unable to hide his interest.
Below them, Wren held up his hands, demanding quiet. A hush fell as the initiates sat forward in their seats, anticipation electrifying the air.
"You know what an honor this is. The appointment of a formalseon’yerisn’t something we do lightly. Once you pass theuhva na,you will be acknowledged as a warrior and will gain Roake’s sponsorship to theadva kawhen it opens," Wren said. "We've been monitoring you since your arrival to determine who is ready and who still needs more time. The next few days will be your last chance to change our minds."
Kira sat back as the initiates erupted into chatter.
"A word of warning—I know passing this phase seems like a given with how far you’ve come, but I warn you, it's not easy. There is no shame in waiting until you're ready." Wren's eyes lingered on Kira.
She stared placidly back. He could warn all he liked, but if she had the opportunity, she was taking it.
"I caution you to know your limits," Wren continued. "The trial has claimed lives in the past. Once you are in its depths, not even we can easily save you should you stray."
The lights in the room dimmed as Wren stepped to the head of the stone table, touching it. A hologram formed above it, a planet and stars glittering as they came into focus.
"Now, let's begin the day's lessons."
Those around them rustled as they tapped the desks in front of them, bringing up holoscreens as they began to take notes.
It quickly became apparent why Wren was so revered by the initiates and why Rheya had seemed so interested at the prospect of an apprenticeship under him. He held a strategic mind, his observations of long-ago battles insightful and revealing.
The Tuann, it seemed, were no strangers to conflict. Their Houses showed a propensity for descending into war over what, to Kira, seemed like inconsequential matters.
"What have you learned from the engagement during the fourth feud between House Danai and House Asanth?" Wren asked, finished depicting a pitched space battle between the two Houses.
"Not to leave your supply bases unguarded?" Aeron said with a lilt in his voice, making his statement a question.
Wren nodded. "That is one conclusion. What else?"
The initiates looked at each other, none willing to volunteer their opinions. Wren was a harsh critic, more inclined to point out the fallacy of a comment than praise it.
His gaze found Kira's. She tensed, knowing what he was going to do before he did it. "Kira, you've been quiet."
Raider hid his snicker beside her. Blue's shoulders shook suspiciously on Kira's other side as she ducked her head, pretending to take notes on the tablet in front of her.
"Perhaps you have something to add," he said.
Kira was quiet for several seconds, her gaze lingering on the battle simulation that was still running. "I suppose you could also conclude that any decision you make needs to make sense in both the short and long-term. What might be advantageous today may lead to your defeat in the future. Long and short-term planning are necessary for the survival of any combat force."
Wren's face was expressionless, his gaze flat. After several seconds, he inclined his head. "Very good. Now, can we think of any other battles that demonstrate this concept?"
Rheya held her hand up. "I can."
Wren gestured for her to take his place. She stood and walked over to the stone table, spending several seconds fiddling with her wrist unit.
Her eyes met Kira's.
"This should be good," Raider muttered.
A hologram began to form over the table, a familiar planet and moon surrounded by an armada of ships.
