Chapter 139: From Aspirant To Asset!
The conclusion of the freshman entrance tests left the vast plaza of Astralis Academy’s Upper House buzzing with an energy that was part exhaustion, part relief, and part pure amazement.
The news of Daniel’s unprecedented performance and the Principal’s unique training arrangement spread like wildfire through the ranks of the surviving aspirants.
He was no longer just the record-breaker, he was now the Principal’s personal disciple, a title that carried an almost mythical weight.
As Director Sterling formally dismissed the assembly, instructing the students to find their newly assigned dormitories and prepare for the official commencement of their studies the following day, a subtle but significant social shift occurred.
The crowd, which had previously kept a wary distance from Daniel, now seemed to see him as a nexus of opportunity.
A swarm of hopeful aspirants, their faces a mixture of admiration and opportunistic ambition, began to converge on his position.
"Aspirant Vance! An honor! Perhaps we could discuss forming a study group?"
"Captain Vance! My family, the Ironwood Clan, would be most interested in sponsoring a talent of your... caliber..."
"Vance! My man! I’ve got this great idea for a multi-level marketing scheme involving slightly used monster parts, and with your reputation..."
Daniel sighed. He had hoped for a quiet moment to process everything, to absorb his gains, but it seemed his newfound fame came with an endless stream of unsolicited business proposals and awkward attempts at friendship.
Ayra, ever the blunt instrument, stepped forward, her S-Grade Crystal Gloves gleaming menacingly.