Adam's gaze didn't waver. He looked at the upperclassman, his expression unreadable.
Then, in a calm voice—
"What's your name?"
The upperclassman raised a brow, clearly amused.
Adam's next words were just as indifferent.
"And what rank are you on the academy's leaderboard?"
For a moment, there was silence.
Then—
The upperclassman let out a short chuckle.
"You've got some nerve," he said, shaking his head. "I like that."
His crimson eyes gleamed as he crossed his arms.
"The name's Xeran." His voice carried a quiet confidence. "Ranked 14th in the entire academy."
A slight smirk tugged at his lips.
"And you, freshman?" He tilted his head. "You think you can just ask about rankings like it means nothing?"
Adam didn't answer.
Xeran took another step forward.
"I get it." His voice was smooth, almost lazy. "You're the big deal right now. Everyone's talking about you. That flawless win against Krozak?" He whistled lowly. "Impressive."
Then—his gaze darkened slightly.
