The firm step toward the center of the arena betrayed the weight of a new purpose. As he approached the entrance, an object emitted a blue glow, automatically reading the bronze token's frequency. A slight vibration ran through his body, followed by a soft and melodious voice:
— You have been assigned to the Fire zone.
A discreet smile appeared on his lips, bringing back memories of the old days when flames were one of his specialties. While advancing to the designated area, his eyes caught the movement of the other participants being distributed across the other zones.
The magnitude of the arena was dazzling, a work of modern architecture with architraves decorated with magic symbols that seemed to pulse in synchronization with the energy contained in the place.
In each elemental sector, instructions were reinforced by the staff. In the Fire Zone, the focus fell on the ability to channel mana with stability and precision; normally it would be impossible for an adventurer to summon nature elements unless they are in the Expansion Ring, but the arena carries artifacts that facilitate this initial manifestation.
Above the center, a large magic hologram projected the rankings in real time, while individual projections over each competitor indicated their proficiency. According to the highlighted rules, only those with the highest scores would receive rewards, needing to reach at least 70% in internal manipulation and 50% in elemental zones.
All of that was observed with fascination. Wars had become chapters in history books, and seeing magic converted into entertainment was an impressive testament to the evolution of society.
The first results began to appear on the central panel; some glowed intensely, while others revealed clear difficulties in maintaining form.
Despite the bustle, personal tests had not yet begun. The moment was one of observation and learning, a way to honor the centuries of confinement by appreciating every detail of that new world. When his turn finally came, the calm of someone who had already witnessed the birth of magic itself took control.
Moving it slowly, he felt every fiber of his new body strengthen. There was no desire to attract attention or arouse suspicion; therefore, he stuck to the basics, performing precise movements as if he were in a silent rehearsal. All around, the effort of others was visible in sweaty faces and shouts of concentration, but for the ancient master, the process was natural.
With closed eyelids, he let the mana flow.
The surrounding arena disappeared, giving way to a private universe of internal lights and shadows. Spotlights, holograms, and technological sensors captured every wave of energy released, but none of that mattered. At that moment, only the sorcerer and the primordial flow existed, that which gave life to everything and everyone.
Upon opening his eyes, the projection above his head indicated a solid 72% internal manipulation. The result brought satisfaction; it was a respectable score, yet common enough not to raise questions.
A sigh escaped as his gaze sought the overall ranking. At the top, familiar names shone in the spotlight: Marcus and Cordelia Sylvaris.
The irony of the situation provoked a restrained laugh; fate seemed determined to cross their paths again. It would be necessary to double his caution not to be recognized under the watchful eyes of that family.
The diversity among the competitors also drew attention. Elves and dwarves mixed with humans of various nationalities, something unthinkable in his original era.
The society had not only evolved technically but had also become more inclusive, uniting races in an honorable competition.
Rumors about a young sorcerer from Aquarius and a skilled elf spread through the stands, but interest now turned entirely to the elemental trial. With determination and the precision that always characterized him, the white-haired youth prepared for the manifestation of the flames.
Ignoring the spectators' speculations about his mysterious identity, he concentrated on the next step.