Chapter 16. Whispers of the Hunt

Anastasia POV

"The last participant to arrive, with less than 3 minutes remaining," the elder declares, his voice cold, devoid of any emotion of contentment or disdain. "And the only one to capture a deer."

I drop the dead animal at my feet and look at the other participants. Some brought rabbits, sheep, and lambs. I noticed that, indeed, I was the only one to capture a large and difficult animal. The elder walks around me with a cold gaze, scrutinizing the animal from top to bottom, as well as me. He carries a black tablet and makes precise notes; each touch on the screen seems to seal my fate in this trial.

"Congratulations to those of you who completed the trial. Now, the council will deliberate and discuss your performance. The results will be delivered tomorrow after breakfast. You are dismissed now," the elder declares, his voice echoing in the field now silent from the participants. His words are final, and the elder soon leaves