The illusionary forest became silent as the serpent released its prey. Little Bull fell motionless to the ground, and a second later the formation announced the result.
'Defeat.'
The spectators released collective breaths and many hadn't realized how tense they had become. The assessment finally ended as the illusion dissolved and the forest disappeared. Little Bull's unconscious form reappeared within the assessment chamber.
A stimulating formation immediately activated around him as a jolt of lightning entered his body. Within moments, he opened his eyes.
"Did I win?" he asked groggily.
The question caused several disciples to laugh and the tension instantly disappeared. Yet while the younger disciples laughed, the elders were staring at the assessment records.
Their expressions remained serious, because they understood what had truly happened.
