The Testing Novels & Stories

“You’re lying.” “It’s not wrong…it’s right here in black and white. It even tells you they do multiple tests before sending a result. They are a reputable lab with a strong history of accuracy.” Dane pulls up his precious sheets of paper, unfolds them, and holds them aloft for her to see. Brandishing them like a symbol.

The elder lifted the scroll slightly. “The Alpha tests will include mental assessment, strategic planning, leadership judgment, conflict resolution, alliance evaluation, and strength trial.” A murmur moved through the crowd at “strength trial.” Some people glanced at Ronan and Keiran’s physiques like they were already imagining blood. The elder continued without pause. “The Luna tests will include mental assessment, governance planning, resource management, crisis response, and strength trial.”

Final. “Begin compatibility testing.”

Elder Mordecai added, which was the most generous thing he had said since she walked into any room. Elder Asteria folded her hands. "The test will consist of three rounds. The first will assess your agility and endurance. The second will assess your strength." "And the third?" Cecilia asked. "We have not finalised it yet," Elder Harold said simply. She stared at him. "You have not decided on the third round of a test you are administering." "We were not certain you would agree," Shane said, without any apparent embarrassment. "We will have it confirmed by tomorrow morning."

"I agree. I have my own serious doubts about my test score. Since everyone is so interested, I formally request that the College Board launch a full investigation into my exam." The moment I said "full investigation," all the blood drained from Patricia's face, her composure shattering into pure, undiluted terror.

Glancing down at the test I burst into tears. It sure as shit was positive.

Valen thought to himself. "Welcome," the cold word brought him back to reality. Nothing was welcoming about that. "All of you here will be tested to show your strength and whether or not you will be worthy of being here. These tests comprise three major ones. The first one is the blood test, the second one is the test of war, and the third one is the Wolf Bane Test. This is also to let you know that you might not survive these tests to the end. You might lose your life if you can not withstand the pressure from these tests. If you end up dying, your body will either be disposed of or sent to your family... if we remember their names," the huge man with an eye patch announced.

Like it was stirring with anticipation, echoing a tension I couldn’t name. I ran my fingers along the edge of a stone, grounding myself. “They’re going to send tests,” I said aloud, to no one in particular. Nima’s voice drifted from the darkness. “What does that even mean? Tests of strength? Of character? Of faith?” “All of it,” I answered. “Or none of it. I don’t think it’s about passing or failing in the way we understand. I think it’s about being watched. Interpreted.” “Judged,” she said flatly.

Mom wiped her tears before saying, "A mother loves her children no matter what. If I hadn't been so angry at the time, how could I have—" I let out a chuckle, cutting her off. "Just tell me whether you're getting tested or not. I need to schedule the medical exam." Mom faltered, lowering her head. "I'll do it." "And you're okay with Samuel donating too?" I asked. Mom clutched her chest and replied in a trembling voice, "Yes."

Which meant there was only one thing left to do. The test.