"Cedric Drevayne."
The name hung in the vast, vertical chamber. Two platforms loomed above him, flanked by another two behind them. But it was the platform in the center that dominated the space—shaped like a massive arrowhead, pointed directly at the boy standing below.
Arthur held his head low. On his face, he sculpted a song of sorrow.
"You have received a score of 78 on the second Academy Qualifying Exam," the figure in the center stated.
Who is this administrator?
"It is an insufficient score to maintain your seat in the Honor Class."
Arthur kept his body rigid. Variables had diverted from the plan, but the goal remained within the realm of probability.
"The staff here offer you their condolences," the voice continued, devoid of warmth. "But know that the Academy does not provide special treatment to any student, regardless of circumstance."
In the corner, the righteous lion, Ordain, gnashed his teeth, vibrating with suppressed rage.
"However, as the Head Instructors and… witnesses…" The speaker's eyes flicked toward the lion, acknowledging Ordain's anger for a fleeting second. "…have pointed out, your studies have been deeply troubled. Ahem. By the loss of your brother. And we will take some accountability for that."
Arthur tried to blame them. He felt his blood boil now that he had a clear target, but he withdrew as if he were no more than a spectator in his own life.
Projecting the fault outward preserves my position. But what is the utility of avoiding responsibility if it compromises my cognitive integrity? Is the concept of guilt merely a fabricated restraint? Arthur reasoned.
Negative. The logical deduction stands firm. The blame rests entirely on my own miscalculations.
"The Education Board, that oversees The Academy, recognizes how this incident has affected you," the voice intoned. "We will, therefore, grant you an extension before judgment."
Would this leniency be extended if I were operating under my original designation? Unlikely.
"You will continue with your classes for the coming semester as usual. However, you must retake the Academy Qualifying Test and receive full marks in every category to retain your seat. You have been given more time than anyone else. We expect you to have put that incident behind you by that point. Just like the recent one, blessings will not be a subject of measurement; you must demonstrate tangible knowledge and proficiency."
The speaker leaned forward, the arrowhead platform casting a long shadow.
"Further requirements to continue this program include: Attendance in all classes. Unless you are physically injured, you may not miss, or be late, to any class."
"Completion of all assignments, receiving a 95 or above."
"And participation in therapy with your counselor during the evening. Every day."
A psychiatric evaluation? An inefficient expenditure of hours.
"That will be all."
The tall wooden doors shut with a careful precision that resulted in a boom of equal volume to a slammed door.