Arin snapped out of her thoughts when she noticed the Crane brothers stepping forward to stand at the front. She frowned in confusion, wondering what was going on. She turned to her side to ask Roldar just that, only to realize he was no longer beside her.
A tall, striking male now stood in his place.
Arin cleared her throat. "Sorry… what's going on there?"
The male spared her a brief glance before answering. "The best students of the academy are about to demonstrate their abilities. You might want to pay attention."
Arin shifted her gaze back to the front just as the Emperor took his seat.
He continued speaking as though nothing had interrupted the flow.
"Watch and learn how your seniors do it… so that one day, you may stand where they stand. And show the juniors that come after you what you are capable of."
Before Arin could fully process his words, a voice spoke beside her.
"Watch closely."
