The Ranger (Book 1) by E.A. Whitehead Read Free Book Online Page A

obviously won the second event,” Eliza explained, “Peter won the third and Thomas won the fourth.”
    “And the events were?” Vincent asked, but before Eliza could answer the abbots had returned to their seats.
    “You had better go,” Eliza urged, “They’ll be starting soon.” Vincent got up quickly.
    “I appreciate your help, as always. Thank you,” he said before returning to the field to where the three other initiates stood.
    “Vincent!” Thomas exclaimed, sounding relieved. “Thank Sandora you’re alright. They told us you might not make it. ”
    “It’ll take more than a stick to the head to kill me,” Vincent said jokingly, “even if it is swung by a monster like Kai.” Vincent patted Kai’s arm, as he couldn’t reach his shoulder, and winked at him.
    Abbot Markov’s voice called the attention of the four initiates.
    “We can now begin the final challenge.” Abbot Markov addressed the crowd. “We congratulate all those who participated tonight, but especially you four, you all exceeded our expectations. However, tradition demands that a champion be named. Also, we must ensure that the eventual winner is capable of enduring the special placement. Therefore, the final challenge has been selected to ensure that only the best of you will remain. You will be pushed to the very limits of your mind, body, and spirit. The difficulty is such, that it would not be surprising if none of you succeeded in completing it.”
    The excitement was starting to fade from Vincent, replaced by a strange foreboding. He had been lucky with the first two events being skills that he had confidence in. There was no way he would be that lucky with this event. He glanced down the line to see how the others were reacting. Their uneasiness was painted on their faces. Vincent firmed his stance, determined to win.
    “There is one other warning I must give,” The Abbot continued. “The nature of this challenge is such that failure to complete it may result in death.” An astonished whisper shot through the crowd. “For this reason, we will give each of you the opportunity to withdraw now. If you choose to continue, there will be no turning back.” The murmur of the crowd increased, as did the foreboding that Vincent felt. “Those of you who wish to continue will please step forward.”
    The words rang through Vincent’s head. Fear gripped him as it never had before, freezing his feet in place as he tried to step forward. His mind started to whirl with all the reasons to just give up. Vincent shook his head, shaking the thoughts from his mind, and gritted his teeth. Exerting all of his will power, he forced himself forward. His feet slowly shifted as he moved forward.
    “Very well,” Abbot Markov said quietly, “if this is the path you have chosen to follow, then so be it. May the Goddess watch over the three of you. I commend you for your wisdom Kai.”
    Vincent looked down the line in shock; only Kai had not stepped forward.
    “The remaining three will advance to the final round; Kai, you may be seated.” The Abbot waited as Kai took his seat before continuing. “Due to the nature of the event you will each be required to compete individually. So, to be fair, the details will not be explained until it is your turn to compete. Thomas, you will be first, Peter and Vincent, you shall wait in the academy hall until you are called.”
    At a wave of Abbot Markov’s hand, one of the Valkyrie standing behind the abbots marched up to Vincent and Peter.
    “You will come with me,” she said bluntly from behind the lowered visor of her winged helmet. She had a light, musical voice that stood in stark contrast to the heavy plate-mail worn by all Valkyrie.
    She turned and marched off toward the entrance of the academy. Peter and Vincent followed. She stopped at the door, opened it and pointed down the stairs without saying a word. They obediently walked through the door and down the stairs. The Valkyrie remained outside