Chapter 62: Assessment begins

The instructor's grin was a predator's, devoid of warmth despite the amusement glinting in his eyes. "This," he declared, his voice heavy with sadistic glee, "will be your first official assessment since joining this esteemed academy. Don't expect any kindness – I made this exam a nightmare, just like I promised." A wide, toothy smile stretched across his face, revealing far too many gleaming teeth. "And to make things even more 'special,'" he added, his voice dripping with mock sincerity, "I designed it myself."