News of Marcus and Baldwin's injuries had already swept through the academy, and Zora's role in saving Marcus had elevated her reputation overnight. To many, she was no longer just a beautiful new special-enrolment student. She was a miracle-working physician.
Hearing those whispers, Clarissa's eyes darkened with resentment. A storm churned in her chest.
She told herself that Zora was simply putting on a show, using her reputation to intimidate her. There was no way this woman could really succeed at this stall. If Clarissa backed down now, she would become a laughingstock.
Grinding her teeth, she lifted her chin and sneered, "Fine. I accept."
The words burst out, sharp and decisive, but her heart pounded wildly. One hundred thousand gold coins and fifty demon crystals. If she won, the resources alone would be enough to support her cultivation for a long time.
A wave of excitement instantly swept through the crowd.
"Oho!"
"Now this is getting interesting!"
