Chapter 14: Preparation
The classroom buzzed with low conversation until the door opened.
Professor Trinity stood tall and composed at the center of the platform. Her chestnut brown hair was tied into a neat, high ponytail, a few loose strands framing her calm features. Her eyes, deep brown, swept across the students like a silent judge.
The room fell quiet instantly.
She unrolled a scroll on the desk with a crisp snap.
"Your first official trial will be held exactly one week from today."
The air grew heavier. Noah sat up a little straighter.
"You will be taken to a restricted zone just outside the academy walls. The area will be magically sealed, and movement will be fully monitored."
Several students exchanged glances.
"Each of you will be given one of these." She held up a thin silver bracelet for all to see. "One bracelet equals one point. If someone takes yours, you lose it. If you collect more, your score increases."
Tension rippled through the room.
"You’ll be competing against each other for a total of three hours. You can form teams, go solo—do whatever you want."