First Legendary Dragon: Starting With The Limitless System novel Chapter 239

Chapter 239: New Test

Orion followed suit, settling comfortably into the chair beside her, casting a brief glance her way. She met his eyes for a fleeting moment, her expression enigmatic yet softly amused, seeing that no one other than him dared to sit close to her.

Arya gracefully took the seat on Orion’s other side, sitting elegantly, her posture perfect. Beside her, Emilia settled quietly, followed by Sylvia, Elias, Kale, Felira, and the others, each occupying their assigned seats calmly and with dignity.

The hall gradually filled as more students filtered inside, their faces tense, anxiety tangible in the air.

Whispers fluttered among the students, some speculating about the results, others nervously joking to lighten the tense mood.

Orion, relaxed in his chair, observed them with faint interest. He glanced at Arya, attempting to make a joke, "With how tense everyone is, you’d think we were here for executions instead of test results."

Arya smiled faintly, her expression remaining calm. "It’s understandable. For many, this is the moment that determines their future in the academy."

Before Orion could reply, the whispers abruptly hushed. Vice Dean Hargan and Vice Dean Elanora entered from opposite ends of the grand stage.

Hargan, stoic and commanding in his azure robes embroidered with thundercloud motifs, walked to the center, his mere presence instantly silencing any lingering chatter.

Beside him, Elanora moved with graceful poise, her emerald robes shimmering subtly under the hall’s enchanted lighting, a playful yet composed smile on her lips.

Hargan’s voice cut sharply through the stillness, resonating powerfully throughout the hall. "Welcome once again, students. Today, we gather to conclude your first significant trial—the formation of your Affinity Rune. However, before we announce the results, it is customary to recognize the students who demonstrated exceptional achievements within the Tower of Myths during the past month."

He swept his keen gaze over the assembled students, pausing meaningfully on Orion and the others at the front.

"The top ten students, unsurprisingly, showcased outstanding talent and perseverance. Orion Helstorm, Arya Stormrend, Nyss Blackwell, Emilia Ashborn, Sylvia Stormbolt, Garron Harrington, Felira Norwyn, and Kale Duskfield have all surpassed expectations, each reaching beyond the 40th floor—an accomplishment rarely seen in first-years."

A wave of murmurs rippled through the crowd, gazes filled with envy, admiration, and curiosity fixed upon Orion and his companions. Some students leaned forward eagerly, wishing fervently they could someday match their accomplishments.

Hargan continued, his voice steady, "Additionally, several other students also displayed commendable performances: Marcus Vale, Henry Dawnwing, and Tessa Silverbranch. Your diligence has not gone unnoticed. You have honored your family names."

Orion casually glanced toward Marcus and Henry seated a few rows behind, their previously nervous faces now beaming with pride and relief. He smiled faintly, pleased to see their progress.

Then Hargan paused, the atmosphere growing heavier as his expression darkened. His voice lowered, becoming heavy. "Unfortunately, not everyone was successful. Of the three hundred new students enrolled, fifteen failed to form their Affinity Runes within the allotted time." freёwebnoѵel.com

The atmosphere plummeted instantly, the room becoming unbearably tense. Orion’s lips twitched slightly in surprise.

’Only fifteen students had failed?’ Given the oppressive anxiety he’d felt earlier, he’d imagined a much greater number. ’It seems even a small number of failures can create an atmosphere as heavy as if someone had died,’ Orion mused inwardly.

Vice Dean Hargan exhaled quietly, then announced, "Though regrettable, fifteen failures out of three hundred marks a new record. This year’s cohort has demonstrated exceptional talent and determination—the lowest failure rate ever recorded in the history of Thunderpeak Royal Academy."

Immediately, joyous cheers and relieved laughter filled the hall, a stark contrast to the somber air from moments ago.

The students who passed exchanged jubilant embraces and animated congratulations. Meanwhile, those who had failed were quietly escorted out by academy staff, their heads bowed in defeat and shame.

Orion watched them depart with mild sympathy, acknowledging silently the harsh reality of the academy’s expectations.

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