Briar
The smell of sweat and fear filled my nostrils as I stood in line with the other 13-year-olds, waiting for our turn to be tested. My heart pounded so hard I was sure everyone could hear it.
"Briar Ranger," Alpha Aldric's voice boomed across the training field. "You're up."
I stepped forward on shaky legs, acutely aware of the whispers and snickers behind me. I could do this. I had to do this.
But as soon as the test began, it was clear I couldn't. My weak body betrayed me at every turn. I stumbled through the obstacle course, barely able to lift the weights, and finished dead last in the run. By the end, I was a sweaty, panting mess, fighting back tears of frustration and shame.
"Briar Ranger, you have ranked last in all physical assessments. Strength, speed, combat skills – al
