"Master John, I've brought the people. Here they are."
"Alright, you should all know me, but I don't know you yet. So, introduce yourselves in detail. Help me get to know you better and make my judgment."
Hearing this, the three of them looked at each other, clearly not understanding John's intentions, and no one spoke up immediately.
Seeing this, Elowen frowned and said displeasedly, "What are you waiting for? Introduce yourselves as Master John requested. Is that so hard?"
"Well... I'll go first then. Hello, Master John, my name is Alice. I'm 191 years old and currently part of the Elven King's guard. I previously worked as a scout."
"Very good, Alice. You're courageous. Now, answer this question: what is your dream?"
"My... dream?"
"Yes, your lifelong wish. Just say what's in your heart, no need to hold back."
"My dream is to one day become as powerful as Lady Elaria, to take up the mission of the King from the current Elven King, and to protect the Elven tribe!"
"Not bad, I like your honesty. But have you considered what else is needed to become the Elven King besides slogans?
Time, effort, and even your entire future must be devoted to this family. It's not just about shouting empty slogans. Are you sure you're ready for that?
Alice, look into my eyes! Answer me! Are you ready?"
Under John's scrutinizing gaze, Alice's face turned pale, and her previously confident demeanor disappeared completely. She looked at John, trembling, unable to speak.
Seeing this, John had already made his judgment.
After taking a deep breath, he said in a serious tone, "I'm sorry if I scared you. That wasn't my intention. I just needed to confirm if you're the right candidate. But now, it seems you are not suitable."
"Is this the assessment? What is this? You're not testing strength or leadership, but instead scaring a girl? What kind of test is this?"
Before Alice could speak, a male elf behind her immediately stepped forward to confront John. Hearing this, John turned towards the voice and sized him up, then said disapprovingly, "Didn't your parents teach you to introduce yourself before speaking?"
"I! I am Eden! A member of Elowen's personal guard, and I used to be part of the elite squad! My dream is..."
"Stop. Just answer my question. No one cares about your damn dreams."
John raised his hand to cut Eden off, causing Eden's face to darken.
"I know you are a hero who saved the Elven tribe, but you cannot insult me like this!"
"Insult you? No, no, no, you misunderstand. I wouldn't waste my breath insulting an idiot like you. Tell me, who allowed you to speak without my permission?
Now, only one person was left. Could he make it?
With this in mind, Elowen instinctively looked at the last person.
If there was anyone Elowen had the highest hopes for before bringing them to meet John, it was this last candidate, Cleveland.
"Well, you're the last one. Do you have anything to say?"
"Master John, permission to introduce myself!"
"Go ahead. But I hope you're smarter than these two idiots. An original introduction often makes a good impression."
"Understood, Master John. Cleveland, personal guard of the Elven King!"
With that, Cleveland stepped back into line.
John was momentarily taken aback, then smiled and said, "And then? Is that all?"
"Yes, that's all. I believe a short and powerful introduction is better than meaningless boasting!"
"Indeed. Hmm... Let me think, Cleveland, what should I have you do? Alright, come here right now and punch me with all your strength. Don't hold back."
"Yes, Master John!"
Without a moment's hesitation, Cleveland walked straight up and threw a punch aimed directly at John's face.
Seeing this, even Elowen gasped instinctively, wanting to stop Cleveland. But he caught a glimpse of Elaria's smile out of the corner of his eye.
"Elaria is... smiling?"
But why?
Elowen was puzzled. Before he could say anything, Cleveland's fist had already been caught by John, firmly held in place.
"Good strength, but your speed is lacking. In certain situations, if your speed is fast enough, your strength can approach infinity. You need to work on your agility. Your talent is promising; with proper training, you could be a real gem. Cleveland, you pass."
"Understood! Thank you, Master John, for your guidance!"
At that moment, Elowen finally understood John's intentions, feeling warmth in his heart.
"Master John..."
"You get it now? Good, I'm glad I didn't waste my time offending people. Eden is a good seedling. With proper cultivation, he can become a pillar of support in the future. As for the other two, they are unqualified in every sense."