Chapter 2380 Group Exam
The following day, Emery and all the other instructors gathered in the academy's grand hall for an urgent briefing regarding the highly anticipated group exam. Nôv(el)B\\jnn
This was always the most challenging test of the year, one that tested their resilience in life-or-death situations. Even Emery felt the tension rise as they waited, knowing all too well how the so-called "fair exams" often held unexpected dangers.
Headmaster Goldstein took the stage and faced the crowd. His expression was more somber than usual, and as he began to speak, the room fell silent.
"This year's group exam, the students will be joining the war effort... we will send them to the frontline."
A collective gasp echoed through the hall. The instructors exchanged alarmed glances, each fully aware of the escalating tensions surrounding the ongoing war, and many had deep reservations about exposing their students to such peril.
Sensing their concern, Headmaster Goldstein explains that the request comes directly from the alliance's Minister of War. It has become an open secret that the academy was established to bolster the alliance's military strength. Unfortunately, the number of young individuals willing to take up arms has dwindled significantly over the years, prompting the need for this year's exam.
Emery observed the headmaster, noting the subtle shift in his eyes—a silent disapproval. Goldstein may not have agreed with the decision, but his duty to the alliance bound him to follow through.
"You have five days to prepare your students. Please ensure they understand the gravity of their situation and adhere to the provided guidelines."
The briefing hall buzzed with tension as the details of the group exam materialized on the shimmering projection screens. [Group Exam]
Headmaster Goldstein is visibly unwilling to engage in a drawn-out debate. His Deputy, Grand Magus Aurora stepped forward, her demeanor a blend of elegance and authority. "I understand the gravity of your concerns, but remember that these young acolytes are not only here to hone their skills; they are to learn the responsibility they hold toward the alliance and to the many lives it protects"
Her words held a steady assurance that softened some of the furrowed brows around the room. Then, she added, with a request "Please, convey these messages carefully to their families and factions"
Many were uneasy about this year's exam, and Emery understood why. Yet, seeing the headmaster's reluctant stance and the Nephilim's open frustration reassured him that there wasn't some veiled plot to harm his hall. Despite the challenges, he felt relieved knowing he would be there beside his acolytes for their final academy experience, guiding them through the trials ahead.
When he returned to his hall and shared the news, the acolytes' excitement was palpable. The prospect of contributing to the war effort thrilled them—it would be a real opportunity to apply everything they'd trained for. The insectoid half-bloods, in particular, were unfazed by the idea of the battlefield; after all, thousands of their kind had already been deployed in similar conflicts. For them, this was almost a rite of passage.
Emery, however, didn't let their enthusiasm overshadow the reality of the dangers. He gathered them and delivered a stern warning about what they might face. He emphasized that no one would be pressured or treated differently for opting out, should they feel unprepared or uncertain.
But in the end, each of the fifty acolytes stepped forward, willing and eager to stand as one. Hall 6 would face the battlefield together, determined to prove their strength and resilience in the heat of real combat.
When it came time to select his second instructor for the exam, Emery's first thought was Magus Camila. Her military background having to follow Izta for many years and her expertise in technology—fields where he knew he could use support—made her an ideal candidate. Yet, as he mulled over his options, Klea gave him a single, knowing smile, the kind that spoke volumes.
"Yes..." Emery chuckled, "Klea, of course, I choose you."
With that settled, Emery's mind turned to the preparation ahead. He had five days to ensure his acolytes—and himself—were ready for anything the frontline might throw at them. As he thinks about the challenges and possibilities ahead, he feels it in his bones—something big is going to happen.
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