The Original Author's Perspective-Chapter 20 - : The First Fracture

The academy's next event—the Midyear Evaluation—loomed ahead. It was an unofficial trial where each student was tested on their progress, but the real stakes were much higher. The rankings were scrutinized by the higher-ups, and those who ranked low faced the risk of being expelled.

I had no intention of ranking low. If anything, I wanted to avoid attention. But Ilya and Reynard were both top-tier, and somehow, by the twisted design of this world, I found myself assigned to their evaluation group.

The day arrived, and the atmosphere was tense. The entire academy gathered in the central courtyard, where the evaluation would take place. At the center stood an enormous arena, designed for sparring and combat trials, the cold stone walls towering over us like a reminder of the harsh realities of this world.

I stood apart, away from the others, watching as students demonstrated their combat prowess. The usual weaponry—swords, bows, and magic—was on full display. But I knew my gun, my unique weapon, would set me apart.

Visit fгee𝑤ebɳoveɭ.cøm for the best novel reading experi𝒆nce.

Ilya stepped forward, her movements fluid and precise, demonstrating an unearthly calm that belied her age. Reynard followed, his sword glinting in the sunlight, his stance arrogant but calculated. When it came time for me, I took my place in the center of the arena.

My eyes narrowed. I wasn't here to prove anything to anyone. I was here to survive.

As the evaluation began, my instincts took over. Time slowed. My heartbeat steadied.

I fired.

A single shot. A clean hit.

The target shattered in the distance, and the arena fell silent.

For a moment, I thought I had made a mistake. But then I saw the expressions on the faces of my classmates. Confusion. Awe. Fear.

I wasn't just another student anymore. I was something else. Something dangerous.