Rebecca's voice rang out once more, steady and strong, commanding the full attention of the hall.
"Starting from the fifth rank," she announced, pausing just long enough to let the anticipation build, "this cadet played a crucial role in protecting a group of cadets by using her talent to distract the demon, giving them the precious time they needed to escape."
A ripple of surprise and curiosity spread through the cadets.
"This cadet has shown bravery in the face of adversity. She held her ground when others would have fled. The cadet who has earned fifth place in this year's Selection Rankings is…"
Rebecca paused.
"…Eleanor Clarke."
The moment the name was spoken, the blurred fifth name on the list shimmered and cleared, revealing Eleanor Clarke for all to see.
The hall erupted in applause. Thunderous and unrestrained.
But none cheered louder than a small cluster near the back, the cadets of the Morningstar Orphanage, those who had grown up alongside her.
