Chapter 353: Practical Exam

The last week soon came to an end, and today was the final exam—the practical portion of the Awakener's Training class.

We were all gathered at the Mission Hall, the large space buzzing with low murmurs and the occasional nervous laugh. The tension in the air was thick, but for me, it was a familiar, almost comforting feeling. 

Instructor Ardent stood at the front of the room, her sharp gaze sweeping over all of us. She always had this calm yet commanding presence, a mix of authority and wisdom that kept us all on edge. Today, she seemed more serious than usual, though there was a hint of something else behind her stern expression—a flicker of amusement.

"Alright, settle down," she called, her voice cutting through the noise.

The hall fell silent immediately, all eyes on her.