The Vanguard Honors Program was set to represent Marington in the high-stakes Gauntlet.
If they won.
It would be a massive achievement for the entire class.
Dropping a new student into the mix now.
Just meant someone getting a free ride on their hard work.
It felt like a rich kid trying to pad their resume.
Even though they didn't want to doubt Marington's integrity.
Everyone stared critically at the door.
A girl in a standard uniform walked in lazily, a single canvas bag slung over her shoulder.
The first thing they noticed was her face.
Even without makeup, she was devastatingly gorgeous.
Then they noticed her aura—cool, relaxed, and carrying a quiet dominance.
She actually gave off a bit of an intimidating vibe.
"Please introduce yourself to the class," Mr. Ashwell said, stepping aside.
He had only been informed about this transfer at the last minute.
Honestly, when he got the notice, he was completely lost.
Dropping a student into Marington was one thing, assuming they had some sort of outstanding talent.
But dropping them directly into his elite class was another.
He heard she hadn't even taken the standard entrance exams.
He didn't even have a basic academic file on her.
He had no idea what her name was or what she was good at.
But since the administration had ordered it.
He figured...
This girl must be some sort of hidden prodigy.
"I'm Serena Lancaster."
A wave of quiet laughter rippled through the room.
Serena's expression remained perfectly calm. "The Chancellor made the decision. Take it up with him if you have a problem."
She turned back to Mr. Ashwell.
Her eyes were cold and unbothered.
Mr. Ashwell felt a sudden, inexplicable intimidation and quickly tried to smooth things over. "Well, Serena hasn't won awards yet, but she has great potential!"
"She... she is pursuing a dual degree in Computer Science and Herbal Medicine."
It was the only piece of information he actually knew. He pointed to an empty desk by the window. "You can sit there for now."
Serena nodded. "Thank you."
Her tone was cool but polite.
She walked over, tossed her canvas bag into the desk, and sat down.
But Mr. Ashwell's words had sent the class into an uproar.
"A dual degree in Computer Science and Herbal Medicine? Is she out of her mind?"

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