In the sacred hall of the grand round table, where the destiny of Aetherlight was shaped and the whispers of legends echoed, the Generals of the era gathered with their knight captains and vice captains.

Each General, a titan of their craft, a paragon of virtue or terror, their names etched into the annals of history and whispered in awe across the lands.

At the heart of this gathering stood Xacion White, the current hero, the chosen wielder of the holy sword Aetherion, a blade said to cleave through darkness itself. His presence alone was a beacon of hope, a living testament to the light that defied the encroaching shadows.

Beside him loomed Kalavan Valebrand, the stoic and unyielding Demon Hunter General, whose strategic brilliance and iron resolve had turned the tide of countless battles. His enemies trembled at his name, for he was the storm that broke their ranks and the silence that followed their demise.

There too stood Gawain Goldhart, the gallant and charismatic warrior, whose courage and charm inspired his troops to feats of valor. Known as Gawain the Gallant, his very presence on the battlefield was a rallying cry, a spark that ignited the hearts of his soldiers.

And then there was Lamorak Warbane, the relentless and merciless Dread Knight, a figure of nightmares to his foes. His blade, drenched in the blood of countless enemies, earned him the title The Dreadful Sword, a name that struck fear into the hearts of those who dared oppose him.

Among them shone Isolde Evergrace, the divine healer, blessed by the gods themselves. Revered as Saint Isolde, her touch mended wounds that should have been fatal, and her prayers summoned miracles that defied the natural order. She was the light in the darkest hours, a beacon of hope for the wounded and weary.

The grizzled veteran Gerald Hallowell, known as The Relentless Warrior, stood tall, his weathered face a map of battles fought and won. His experience was unmatched, his resolve unbreakable, and his presence a reminder that even in the face of despair, there were those who would never yield.

From the shadows emerged Halik Nightshade, the enigmatic Shadow of Aetherlight, a master of stealth and subterfuge. His movements were whispers, his strikes unseen, and his name spoken only in hushed tones. He was the blade in the dark, the unseen hand that toppled empires.

Percival Goldcrest, the noble and chivalrous 2nd Sword of Aetherlight, embodied the ideals of honor and duty. His loyalty was unshakable, his blade a symbol of justice, and his presence a reminder of the knightly virtues that bound them all.

The fiery Kay Dawnfire, known as The Fiery General, burned with a passion that ignited the spirits of her soldiers. Her determination was a wildfire, unstoppable and all-consuming, and her leadership a force that drove her troops to victory against insurmountable odds.

Sitting on his chair was Borris Stormveil, The Wise One, a colossus of wisdom and strength. His guidance was the compass that steered their course, his words a balm to the weary, and his presence a pillar of unyielding resolve.

Walking with Eclipse there was Althea Silvercrest, the Cunning Strategist, whose mind was a labyrinth of tactics and foresight. Calm and calculating, she was the architect of victories, her brilliance a blade that cut through chaos and brought order to the battlefield.

Finally, there was Sunshine Solaris, the radiant Sovereign Shield, whose very presence was a bastion of hope and courage. Her healing light uplifted her allies, her unwavering support a fortress against despair, and her name a hymn of resilience.

As the knight generals and captains gathered, the air itself seemed to tremble with anticipation. The weight of their combined legacies pressed upon the room, a tapestry of valor, fear, and unyielding resolve. And then, she entered—General Eclipse, the Sovereign Sword, a figure whose reputation preceded her like a storm on the horizon. Her presence was a challenge, a gauntlet thrown to the strongest among them, a silent dare to rise to her level.

Althea, standing beside her, noticed the subtle shift in Eclipse’s demeanor. The calm exterior that usually cloaked her now pulsed with a barely contained energy, an aura of excitement and determination that radiated like the full moon. It was clear that Eclipse relished this moment, this opportunity to shape the future of their knightly order, to carve a path through any obstacle that dared stand in her way.

Among the assembled generals, emotions swirled like a tempest. Some met Eclipse’s gaze head-on, their eyes steeled with determination, their spirits unyielding. Others faltered, their postures betraying unease under her piercing stare. The atmosphere crackled with a potent mix of respect, apprehension, and fierce competition, a crucible in which the future of their order would be forged.

“Cough, cough. Everyone, here are the documents for this year’s Aether Knight Trials,” Althea announced, her voice cutting through the room. With a flick of her finger, she summoned a gentle gust of wind, sending the papers gliding toward the generals and their men. Some caught them mid-air, while others sat and began studying the contents intently. “This year, we’ve decided to increase the trials from three to five,” she continued, her tone firm and deliberate. “This is to ensure that the quality of our knights remains uncompromised.” She paused, her sharp gaze sweeping across the room. “Let me explain the trials in detail.” As Althea began her explanation, the generals leaned in, their focus unwavering, each prepared to dissect the challenges that would shape the next generation of Aether Knights.

1. Trial of Endurance (Physical & Mental Fortitude)

Objective: Candidates must navigate a brutal obstacle course across rugged terrain while carrying weighted equipment.

They will face extreme weather conditions (enchanted simulations of heat, cold, and storms).

Magical traps and illusionary enemies will test their reflexes and adaptability.

The final stretch requires scaling a steep wall while resisting exhaustion.

Purpose: Tests stamina, willpower, and resilience under pressure.

2. Duel of Wits and Might (Combat & Strategy)

Objective: Candidates engage in one-on-one combat, where victory depends on more than just brute strength.

Fighters must balance physical prowess with tactical decision-making (e.g., choosing when to attack, retreat, or feint).

Each has limited magical resources, requiring strategic use.

An unexpected challenge (such as a sudden terrain shift or surprise opponent) will test their adaptability.

Purpose: Evaluates combat skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to exploit an opponent’s weaknesses.

3. The Labyrinth of Mind and Magic (Magical & Mental Fortitude)

Objective: Candidates must navigate a shifting labyrinth filled with magical puzzles and illusions.

The maze changes based on their choices, forcing them to think critically and adapt.

Some sections require solving riddles or deciphering ancient scripts to proceed.

Magical creatures may attack, requiring either magical defense or creative problem-solving to escape.

Purpose: Tests magical aptitude, intelligence, and composure under pressure.

4. The Battlefield Simulation (Strategy & Leadership)

Objective: Candidates take command of a small battalion in a large-scale simulated battle.

They must lead real knights or magical constructs as soldiers.

Unexpected challenges such as ambushes, supply shortages, and sudden reinforcements will test their adaptability.

Success is judged not only on victory but also on leadership, decision-making, and how well they protect their troops.

Purpose: Assesses leadership, tactical awareness, and the ability to stay composed under high-stakes conditions.

5. The Oathkeeper’s Test (Final Trial – All Skills Combined)

Objective: A comprehensive test that embodies every aspect of knighthood.

Candidates undertake a real mission, such as escorting a high-value target, retrieving an ancient relic, or defending a stronghold.

The trial includes physical combat, magical encounters, psychological pressure, and high-risk decision-making.

Their final performance determines if they are worthy of becoming an Aetherlight Knight.

Purpose: Ensures only the most capable and honorable warriors earn the title of knight.

Some nod in agreement, acknowledging the need to evaluate a candidate’s combat skill, knowledge, and social aptitude. A thorough assessment would ensure that the chosen knights embody the values and abilities required to represent the kingdom.

Others frowned; their brows furrowed in frustration. They saw the mind and magic component as an unnecessary hurdle, believing it distracted from pure martial skill. Yet, the trial had existed for years, long before their time, established by the previous generation of Generals.

Amid the differing opinions, a lone voice cuts through the tension.

"I propose we also assess the candidates’ loyalty and teamwork skills," suggests a veteran general.

"Oh, Sir Gawain! Yes, we should include that as well. We’ll make some adjustments to the trials," Althea replies. "If there are no objections to the exams I mentioned, we can move on to discussing how we will test their loyalty."

Sir Gawain nods, his weathered face creasing in thought. "Indeed. Loyalty is one of the hardest qualities to measure, yet it is essential. A knight must have unwavering dedication to their lord, kingdom, and the code of chivalry."

Murmurs of agreement ripple through the assembly, the weight of their responsibility settling upon them.

Althea, sensing the shift in mood, leans forward, her eyes meeting those of her peers. "Let’s be thorough. We should design trials that assess not just skill, but character as well. Only the most worthy should be selected."

"I have a proposal. I know exactly how to test their loyalty, fufu." Eclipse's tone was playful, but Althea couldn't shake the uneasy feeling creeping up on her. She had a suspicion of what Eclipse had in mind.

Eclipse continued, unfazed. "I will personally oversee the Trial of Loyalty. Leave it to me. I can't reveal the details just yet—after all, some of your protégés will be participating."

A hush fell over the gathering as her words sank in. The knight generals and captains exchanged glances, weighing the risks and benefits of entrusting such a crucial trial to the enigmatic Sovereign Sword. The murmurs of hesitation gradually gave way to nods of agreement. After all, Eclipse's knight captains and soldiers were unwaveringly loyal to her—so much so that they would gladly die for her.

Sir Gawain, ever the pragmatist, broke the silence. "General Eclipse, while we respect your confidence, are you certain this trial will not compromise the security of our kingdom or the integrity of the selection process?"

His question lingered in the air, challenging Eclipse to justify her unconventional approach. The tension in the room mounted as they awaited her response, knowing that the fate of the knightly selection hung in their decision.

"Of course," Eclipse replied smoothly. "Trust me, Gawain. Loyalty will be tested in the final trial, and I already have everything planned. To ensure transparency, I will reveal my methods to all of you before the trial begins. By then, the participants will already be in a secluded chamber, waiting for their turn."

Sir Gawain's brow furrowed as he considered her words. The promise of transparency offered some reassurance yet concerns remained. "That is a reasonable approach," he admitted. "However, we must also ensure that the trial is free from manipulation or coercion. How do you intend to safeguard against such risks, General Eclipse?"

Eclipse smirked. "We will install observation magic within the dungeons itself, along with magical observers in the sky allowing everyone to watch the trials unfold in real time. That way, no outside influence can interfere, and the trial will be fair and unquestionable."

“This year, we’ll be deploying ten times the number of magical observers compared to past years,” General Sunshine stated with confidence. As a key member of the Aether Knight Trials preparation committee, she continued, “The trials have expanded significantly and are no longer as simple as they once were when most took place in the Aetherlight Colosseum. As tradition dictates, only the third trial will still be held in the Aether Maze.”

The knights murmured with excitement. Witnessing all the trials firsthand, especially the newly added Trial of Loyalty under General Eclipse’s supervision, was a rare chance. Doubt quickly turned into eager anticipation—after all, it wasn’t every day that General Eclipse led such an event.

The room erupts with nods of approval and relieved murmurs as Eclipse’s proposal is met with enthusiasm. The use of observation magic to monitor the trial ensures transparency, easing the knights’ concerns.

"A brilliant solution, General Eclipse," Sir Gawain acknowledges, his skepticism giving way to admiration. "With the ability to observe everything firsthand, we can guarantee the Trial of Loyalty remains fair and effective."

As the discussion concludes, anticipation fills the air. Though unconventional, the upcoming trial promises to be both revealing and unforgettable. The knights were eager to witness the Sovereign Sword's methods firsthand,