The next morning, the candidates had gathered early in Principal Wilson’s office to await the third stage of the evaluation.

As usual, Beren was trying to strike up conversation with Isha—but as usual, Isha responded with cold indifference.

To this, Leon could only think: Brother Beren, you’ve set your sights on the wrong woman. She’s a firm believer in never marrying.

Not long after, Principal Wilson entered with two academy staff members.

The staff were carrying something heavy, completely concealed beneath an opaque black cloth. Leon and the others couldn’t make out what it was.

"All right, place it here. Thank you both for your work."

With that, the two bowed, set the object down, and left.