The Marksman [The Talent of Three: Book 1]

2 ••• History of the Choosing

Eryx nods. "The History of the Choosing..." She writes it out on the board. "This is what you will soon be embarking on, so listen carefully."

The students sit up, rapt and curious.

"It soon became clear Talents were forgetting how to interact with those if other Talents. So the Choosing was invented. The Choosing brought together three children of three talents.

"These children would learn how to live together, interact with each other, have peaceful conversation, and learn other fundamental skills.

"Over time, the need for something more physically and mentally demanding became apparent. Through this, the Quests were developed." Eryx pauses as the whole class draws a breath. "But before we get into that, I shall explain the Choosing."

The group of students collectively sink down in their seats.

"Oh, relax. You'll hear about the Quests soon enough," Eryx admonishes. "The Choosing is quite simple. We go by year. All of your names will be in the same bucket; all of you have equal chances of getting a good group. It is exactly the same for all other Talents.

"A name will be drawn from the bucket for the Archers. Redding, Atheris, Ninia, Callow or anyone of you could be drawn. Let's say Callow is drawn."

Callow swells with pride.

"Then another randomly selected Talent will draw. Say the Military draws and a kid named...Anthony is drawn. Then the Artists draw and a kid named Addy is picked. It's all random. A game of chance," Eryx explains.

"How do we know those groups will be good for the Quest?" Ninia asks.

"We don't," Eryx says simply. But for the simple answer, her tone was grave.