The hearts of a thousand students beat wildly as soon as they heard that the results were about to be announced. Some examinees clutched their chests while others muttered prayers to the gods.
Bridget''s eyes glinted with a mischievous light as she observed the scene. "Remember, regardless of the results, you all have proven yourselves worthy of standing here. If you don''t make the cut, you mustn''t lose hope. This is just one step in your journey."
Clearing her throat, Bridget continued, "Now, I will begin announcing the results. As you know, there are three tiers: Beta ss, Alpha ss, and the… Special ss."
Of course, all of those present knew about these three tiers. The Beta ss was for the majority of students who did not reach the top 100 but demonstrated sufficient potential during the entrance exam.
They were at the bottom of the food chain and were usually nurtured to bepetent adventurers or mid-tier guild members with limited resources.
None of the examinees liked this ss.
Meanwhile, the Alpha ss. These students were usually several times more talented than the Beta ss students and even had ess to premium training facilities and perks. The goal of most of the students here was to enter this ss.
Then the Special ss! The Special ss represented the absolute cream of the crop, reserved for only 20 students who dominated the exam and showed unmatched skills, talents, and potential. They were treated like VIPs within the academy and the entire Vermilion Kingdom!
The way Bridget said "Special ss" sent shivers down their spines. Everyone wanted to be there, but only the best of the best could make it.
Bridget paused, letting the suspense build. The slight curve of her smile showed she knew exactly what she was doing. After allowing the examinees to fantasize enough, she said, "We''ll start with the Beta ss."
The courtyard felt like it collectively exhaled. At least they weren''t starting with the top; that would''ve been too cruel. The earlier they knew their fate, the better—or else they might just die from suspense.
"The following students will join the Beta ss," Bridget announced. "Mark Weaver."
A boy near the front staggered forward, disbelief written all over his face. His friends patted him on the back, whispering congrattions.
"Lina Craven."
A girl with short red hair gasped before quickly covering her mouth. She nearly stumbled over her own feet as she tried to look calm.
Bridget continued listing names—one after another, each apanied by a mixture of relief, tears, or silent frustration. Some clenched their fists because they hadn''t heard their names and were scared that they might''ve failed the exam—especially those who knew they hadn''t performed well.
The ones who felt they performed well were all filled with confidence. Since they didn''t make it into the Beta ss, that could only mean they made it to the Alpha ss.
"That concludes the Beta ss."
"And now," Bridget said in an excited voice, "we move on to the Alpha ss."
Fists of several students could be seen clenched, exposing their white knuckles. The courtyard froze. This was it. The ones who had stood out. The ones everyone would envy. The heartbeats of even the confident examinees elerated as well.
"Cyrus Vale."
A tall boy with a spear strapped to his back smirked, crossing his arms as if he''d known all along. A few jealous res were shot his way, but he ignored them.
Beside Nox, Serena was fidgeting with her hands, her face filled with anxiety. She hadn''t heard her name in therge batch, and the names of the Alpha ss were reaching the end as well. Tears almost threatened to spill from her eyes, but fortunately, at that moment, she heard her name.
"Serena Gordons."
"Phew." Serena exhaled deeply, a wave of relief washing over her.
Nox simply looked at her and smiled. Seeing howposed Nox and Nyx were, Serena couldn''t help but ask in a bewildered voice:
"How are you two this calm?"
"Because we know we''ll get into the Special ss?" Nox raised a brow as if he was stating the obvious, which was very clear for everyone to see—not knowing that his seemingly harmless words were earning him contemptuous looks from those behind.
"Ah, I thought as much. Anyway, I''m happy I made it through as well," Serena said and hugged Nox.
"I''m d you passed. I knew you would." Nox sighed as he hugged her back. Yes, this was what he had to deal with from time to time. What he didn''t know was that Serena was actually doing this because she had seen Zara looking at him, and this was a way to send a message .
Soon, the Alpha ss was rounded up as well, and it was time for the Special ss students. All the students looked up with anticipation.
"Those who qualify for the Special ss have demonstrated extraordinary skill, talent, or power. These students will receive privileges far above the Alpha and Beta sses."
Gasps rippled through the crowd.
"I will begin now."
Bridget unfurled a smaller parchment.
She didn''t call the names immediately. Instead, her gaze lingered on the paper for some time.
"The first name for the Special ss—"
A silence so deep fell that even breathing seemed loud.
"…Theo Fanum."
All eyes turned to the golden-armored boy.
Theo''s expression didn''t change. He remained stoic, as if he expected nothing less.
"Of course," someone muttered bitterly.
"He''s a monster," another whispered.
Bridget continued.
"Glen…"
"Zara Frostpire…"
"Kali Wren…"
"Ainsworth Vermilion…"
"Nyx Aegis Cromwell."
"… … … …"
"Why haven''t they called my name yet?" Nox narrowed his eyes when the 19th name was called. He was not the only confused one—even Nyx, Serena, and Zara were puzzled.
Although she hadn''t fought Nox, Zara was certain he was strong. A weakling could never give her chills. No matter what, he should be in the Alpha ss at least.
The examinees Nox had encountered were also confused. The blood-spike guy who was capable of frightening beasts should''ve been in the Special ss. They found it hard to believe that he hadn''t even passed the exams.