As soon as Gabby and Clara stepped out of the infirmary, the hallway buzzed with quiet murmurs. A few students who had also passed the trial turned to watch them.
Their eyes followed Clara with admiration. Some even smiled or nodded in respect. She had proven herself during the trial, and her name was already spreading among the freshmen.
But when their eyes shifted to Gabby, the mood changed.
Whispers turned sharp. Faces twisted with disgust or disbelief. Some students scoffed, others looked away entirely. To them, Gabby didn't belong beside someone like Clara. He was the quiet one, the one who didn't look like much and a useless partner who got carried to pass the trial. And yet, he had ranked third.
A towering figure suddenly stepped into their path.
He was six feet four inches tall, with a low fade haircut and a body built like a fortress—bulky, muscular, and intimidating. He walked straight toward them with heavy steps and a cold glare.
