We left the room and it was a market stall. A boy was lost and crying, the smells of bread, fish, and spices filled my nostrils. He pulled on my cloak and was wanting something to eat.
The answer seemed obvious was to feed him, but I was thinking this was too easy of a test, and there was no logical way to ask questions so we simply walked around.
I had no Shields with me so, I was not sure if I needed them to buy the food and we could sit. However, before I took anything one of the market women gave me seven Gnaggins for both of us to eat overlooking a city.
The boy, like the men from before, did not speak but the food seemed real. I was not sure what test this was supposed to prove as we were just eating.
I decided to take him to the washing wall to have his clothes washed, his stench was quite strong and so I got directions to the washing wall, and he and his clothes got a full washing.
After his clothes were washed and dried in the wind I decided to hike with him around the hills and go fishing. I thought the spiritual lesson or trial would begin when we fished.
A soft breeze came through the bay and flipped his bangs back a little, reminding me of myself only five years ago. We got a few fish and then brought them back to the market to give to the fish monger for a good sale.
Suddenly, someone grabbed him and took the boy to the cliff, I was not sure what to do. He held a weapon against him. Without thinking without any hesitation, I simply said, "Take me instead, this boy has done nothing wrong!" I screamed the words until I thought my voice was no more.
Everything started disappearing and I forgot this was a trial. I was shaking, neigh on forgetting this was a test of my faith and moral character.
My heart thudded in my chest and I felt like I could not move. Comforter came over, and held me, and took me to the waters of Restoration.
After a while I felt more calm and Comforter ushered me to bed after I had some soup. I was not sure what that test was supposed to prove, but the trials were getting more and more in depth.
Though there were others in the Monastery I never saw anyone else.
"You will not see others. This is a trial of your character and faith, we are testing your mettle and soul, not others in this place. You will not die here, but those that leave The Realm and The Author of Life need to know you are strong enough to help villages to be free from Darkness. The evil that is moving through the world must be stopped, but those that are chosen must be equipped." Comforter said looking at me with grave seriousness but her words were kind.
Comforter ensured I was fast asleep before leaving my room. My body was fatigued and my heart was heavy. I was praying to the Author of Life that I would pass. I was not certain what He was looking for and I was hoping I was enough then I remembered the Cross was enough.
I fell asleep and dreamt of my father and the familiar faces of home.