Before the professor could speak…..
A sharp chime cut through the air.
Selene's earpiece flickered, and her expression shifted instantly. She leaned forward, her practiced poise returning as she addressed the camera.
"Apologies, Professor. We'll have to pause here." Her voice carried a hushed edge of excitement. "The Education Council has just confirmed—the public broadcast is beginning. In ten seconds."
The studio lights dimmed slightly, the backdrop screen flaring with bold white text.
[PUBLIC BROADCAST INITIATING – 00:10]
The numbers began to tick downward.
10… 9… 8…
Across Aurora, the effect was immediate.
7… 6… 5…
Professor Veylin's lips pressed into a thin line. His thoughts, heavy and unspoken, sank back beneath the calm surface of his expression. This was no longer the time for him to speak.
This was the time for the world to see.
4… 3… 2… 1…
The countdown dissolved into a radiant flash.
[LIVE FEED – EXAMINATION ARENA]
