Chapter 45: The Winners
The rankings were in.
First place: Noah.
Second: Elijah.
Third: Sophie.
These three wouldn't just walk away with glory—they had earned the rare right to choose their own mentor and meet the Dean of Apex Academy. A privilege so coveted, most only dreamed of it. For many, this moment was the ultimate goal. For them—it was only the beginning.
The test was over. Spectators dispersed, their awe lingering in the air like static. Conversations bubbled with excitement, disbelief, even quiet jealousy. Life outside the arena resumed its pace, though the world itself felt subtly altered—plans rewritten, priorities shifted, all because of this one extraordinary event.
Noah now stood under the sunlight with his shadow finally returned to him… and his loyal beast, Neko, perched proudly on his shoulder. The feline's black fur shimmered faintly, like oil slick over velvet, and her purple eyes gleamed with contentment.
