Chapter 28: Rank Evaluation [4]
The force exerted by Zain's punch was not only concentrated at the surface but spread throughout the machine, including its screws and other delicate parts. The combination of his raw strength and the even distribution of force created an overwhelming pressure that exceeded the structural limits of the machine.
As a result, the screws and other components couldn't withstand the immense pressure, leading to their breakage.
That was the reason why the machine was pushed back slightly.
The evaluator, after noting down this observation, hurriedly approached Zain to conduct the final and most crucial test of the evaluation. This test held immense significance and would provide further insights into Zain's capabilities.
While the previous tests assessed his physical and internal power, which could be improved and developed over time, the final test was the crux of the evaluation. The assessment of the Star Seas was the cornerstone of the exam and held utmost importance.
The evaluator emphasized that the previous two tests could be disregarded if necessary, but the evaluation of Zain's Star Seas couldn't be canceled under any circumstances. It was a critical measure of his potential and held great significance in determining his true awakening.
Zain followed the man with anticipation as they approached a massive, fortified machine. The machine stood tall, emanating an air of importance and security.
Its metallic exterior gleamed under the ambient lighting, adding to the aura of mystery and significance.
With a swift motion, Zain placed his finger on the fingerprint scanner, and as his eye met the iris scanner, the vault's heavy doors slid open with a low rumble. The man stepped inside, revealing a vast interior space that could easily accommodate a car or even a van.
The vault was filled with an air of secrecy, and Zain couldn't help but feel a surge of curiosity and excitement as he prepared to enter the enigmatic depths of the machine. The moment held great weight, as he knew that whatever awaited him inside would play a crucial role in determining his fate.
Zain stepped into the vault, his senses immediately heightened as he experienced a chill that seemed to permeate the air. The temperature dropped noticeably, sending a shiver down his spine. The vault's interior was dimly lit, casting eerie shadows across the walls.
His eyes were drawn to a mesmerizing sight—an exquisite, faintly glowing purple crystal nestled in the center of the van. Its ethereal radiance pulsed gently, captivating his gaze.
"This is the final test... just place your hand and concentrate..."
The man's voice broke the silence, urging Zain to approach the crystalline marvel. He moved closer, his heart pounding with anticipation.
"This...?" Zain questioned, his voice filled with wonder and intrigue.
"Yes," the man responded, his voice carrying a hint of secrecy and anticipation. With a purposeful stride, he exited the vault and closed the door behind him, leaving Zain alone with the captivating crystal. A small speaker was placed within the vault, ensuring communication between them.
Zain's heart raced as he stood in the presence of this extraordinary artifact. The air in the chamber seemed to crackle with an otherworldly energy, heightening his senses. The weight of the moment settled upon him as he prepared himself for what lay ahead.
A voice resonated through the speaker, breaking the silence within the vault. "Can you hear me?" the man asked, his words filled with both reassurance and curiosity.
Zain nodded in response to the man's instructions and said "Yes," his determination shining in his eyes. He positioned himself in front of the radiant crystal, its pulsating energy drawing him closer.
"When I instruct you to do so, place the palm of your right hand upon the crystal..."
"3..."
"2..."
"1..."
"And place!" the man's voice echoed through the speaker, the anticipation palpable in his words.
With a surge of determination, he pressed his right hand firmly against the crystal's surface.
As his palm made contact with the pulsating crystal, an electric current of energy surged through his entire being. A kaleidoscope of colors danced before his eyes, as if the very essence of his awakened power was being unveiled.
The man's voice was a distant echo in the background, barely registering amidst the intensity of the moment. Zain's focus was honed on the surge of energy coursing through his veins, a symphony of power and possibility.
"..."
After Zain placed his hand on the crystal, a brilliant purple light engulfed the chamber, illuminating the space with its ethereal glow.
Outside the chamber, the man closely monitored the readings displayed on a sophisticated console, his eyes darting across the data with a mix of anticipation and excitement.
This pivotal test held the key to determining Zain's rank—a crucial factor that would shape his future path and possibilities.
As the seconds ticked by, the purple light pulsated with an otherworldly rhythm, reflecting the intricate dance of energies unfolding within Zain.
Outside the chamber, the man's eyes widened with awe as the console displayed a cascade of data, the numbers and symbols swirling in a mesmerizing dance of information.
The test was to measure a rank - S, A, B, C, D, E or F.
The chart here qualifies the strength of the angels:
Class S
Class A
Class B
Class C
Class D
Class E
Class F
Additionally, within each rank, the stars held significant meaning, symbolizing additional abilities, worth, and strength. It was a way to further differentiate the exceptional among the exceptional.
At the pinnacle of all ranks, stood Class S, with its radiant five stars, representing the epitome of power and mastery. These were the awe-inspiring individuals, revered as the strongest among the awakened, capable of rewriting the very fabric of reality with their immense abilities.
As the ranks continued to descend, the Class A awakened, with their respective star designations, displayed a remarkable strength that surpassed the expectations of many.
Their abilities were finely honed, their dedication evident in their every move, as they charted their path towards greatness.
Class B, C, D, and E awakened, with varying star ratings, formed the bedrock of the awakened society. Each individual, irrespective of the stars they bore, possessed unique talents and potential waiting to be unleashed.
These ranks, while not considered at the pinnacle, played an indispensable role in shaping the world around them, their contributions crucial in the grand tapestry of awakening.
Finally, at the lower end of the spectrum, resided the Class F awakened, marked by a solitary star. Though labeled as the weakest, they were not to be dismissed, for even among them lay hidden gems of potential waiting to be discovered and nurtured.
But Zain already knew his result.
"Uhh... okay, you can remove your hand," the man's voice echoed through the speakers, breaking Zain's momentary trance.
The man opened the door of the chamber, and Zain stepped out.
The Vice Leader and the unknown observer, who had been eagerly watching the proceedings, immediately noticed the shift in Evaluator's countenance. The vibrant enthusiasm that had radiated from him moments ago seemed to have evaporated, replaced by a tinge of disappointment and uncertainty.
'What happened to him? Until now he had an enthusiastic expression but all of a sudden his expression changed... did the result come badly?'
The Vice Leader couldn't help but be concerned, his mind racing with questions.
The unknown observer, his curiosity piqued by Zain's exceptional display of strength and potential in the earlier tests, couldn't help but contemplate the enigma that stood before him.
'But, if his other capabilities are that high, then he must possess the qualities of an A ranker,' the unknown observer mused.
The man swiftly printed out a hard copy of the results and sent the same to the Vice Master.
Shortly after, Zain was guided to a separate waiting room, a space filled with a diverse array of individuals, each adorned with a unique blend of emotions. As he entered the room, familiar faces caught his attention.
Among them, Zain observed a multitude of reactions. Some individuals were immersed in fervent prayer, their hands clasped tightly, their faces etched with hope and anxiety.
On the other hand, there were those who exuded an air of overconfidence, their demeanor suggesting an unwavering belief in their own abilities.
'Uhh... where do I sit?'
Zain found himself in a predicament. There were no vacant seats to be seen, leaving him momentarily perplexed about where he should settle.
'Should I stand...?'
Contemplating his options, Zain decided to retreat to a corner of the room. It seemed like a practical compromise.
"Pffft, look at him, I'm sure he is of the lowest rank out of all because of which he wasn't even provided any seats," murmured some of the test-takers, their words laced with thinly veiled mockery. The whispers floated through the room, reaching Zain's ears.
Though he heard their disparaging remarks, Zain remained unfazed. He maintained a calm and composed demeanor, his focus steadfast on the upcoming results.
After a wait of about 20-25 minutes, the room fell silent as one of the authorities entered, accompanied by the Vice Leader. A hush descended upon the test-takers, and one by one, they stood up, showing their respect and anticipation. Zain, who had been standing all along, remained composed among the gathering.
The Vice Leader extended his hand, gesturing to the official for the result paper. The official, taken aback by this unexpected turn of events, hesitated for a moment before reluctantly handing over the paper. The official, still taken aback by the Vice Leader's request, watched intently, curious to see the outcome.
"Alright, so the one who is the strongest out of all and has achieved an exceptional score in the test is..."
He savored the suspenseful silence for a few seconds, relishing the tension that filled the room.
Breaking the stillness, the Vice Leader's voice resounded with authority, his words carrying a hint of excitement.
"Is Harey Koros! He is evaluated as a 3 star A Class angel!!!"
A collective gasp swept through the room as the name echoed in their ears. Eyes widened with surprise, and murmurs of awe rippled through the crowd. Harey Koros, an A Class angel with three shining stars, defying expectations and revealing the extent of his power.
'Huh? Wasn't he B Class, 3 stars?' Zain couldn't help but question in his mind, bewildered by the announcement that had just been made.
As the realization sunk in, Zain's thoughts raced, trying to make sense of the situation. How could someone he had perceived as a B Class suddenly be declared a 3-star A Rank angel? The discrepancy puzzled him greatly.