Just when everyone believed the announcements were concluded, Harry's voice resonated through the hall, adding an unexpected twist to the proceedings. "But don't worry," he declared, capturing the attention of the entire assembly. "For those who were not qualified, you get a chance to compete against those who were and take their place. And for those who think they should be higher on the ranking list, you can challenge those ranked higher than you, but not too far. Only those in the top 10 can challenge the 1st position."
The revelation stirred a ripple of emotions among the students and their parents. Those who found themselves ranked near the thousands experienced a mix of surprise and fluster, while those who narrowly missed the mark saw a glimmer of hope in the unexpected opportunity presented by Harry's announcement.
Cedric, however, remained unfazed. Having read the novel, he was aware that this special segment existed, often shrouded in secrecy as past participants did not ever talk about this part as to keep the surprise. Not even his parents had divulged this additional layer of the examination.
In response to Harry's announcement, a murmur of discussions erupted among the participants. The prospect of a second chance, a shot at redemption for those who initially fell short, infused the atmosphere with renewed determination and eagerness.
Harry, seizing the moment, continued with a speech that addressed the newfound opportunities. "Remember, the journey towards mastery is filled with twists and turns. This chance to compete and challenge is not just about proving yourselves to others but discovering your own potential. Embrace the uncertainty, for it is in these moments that true growth occurs."
The hall, now buzzing with a renewed sense of purpose, became a space where ambitions were rekindled, and aspirations soared. The potential for individuals to challenge their current standings or vie for a coveted spot in the academy injected an element of excitement into the air.
As participants absorbed the implications of this unexpected turn, Harry added a final piece of guidance. "To those who choose to challenge, remember the importance of sportsmanship and respect. This is an opportunity for growth and camaraderie, not just rivalry. Strive for excellence, but do so with integrity."
With these words, Harry concluded the announcements, leaving the students and their parents to contemplate the unfolding developments. The academy, with its intricate selection process and opportunities for self-improvement, stood as a bastion of growth and potential for those aspiring to become warriors and magicians within its mystical realms. The journey had only just begun, and the twists and turns promised a thrilling adventure ahead for the participants.
As Harry's announcement settled over the assembly, the top ten examinees fixated their gaze on Cedric. Securing the coveted first position not only promised prestige but also carried tremendous rewards to be unveiled during the upcoming ceremony for the first-year students. The individual ranked first would also assume the leadership role for their class, adding an extra layer of incentive. The air in the hall buzzed with heightened self-confidence, as each participant, fueled by their martial or magical prowess, viewed this opportunity as a chance to assert dominance.
Recognizing the brewing tension and the eagerness among the top ten, Harry interjected with another crucial piece of information. "The 1st position can only be challenged once so if the previous 1st stays at his rank after the duel he can't be challenged anymore." The weight of these words added considerable pressure to the top-ranking participants. Challenging the first position was not just an opportunity but a calculated risk, as a failed attempt would eliminate the chance for the other challengers to vie for the top spot again.
Within this charged atmosphere, Gred Ruth, the 10th ranked examinee and a beastman of the Bear tribe known for strength and resilience, boldly stepped forward. "We can't let anyone go first. I'll do it." His declaration set the stage for an internal clash within the top ten. However, Alex, dismissive and assertive, snorted, "How can the lowest rank even have the courage to say this? For me, you are the 'anyone.'"
Gred, undeterred, prepared to defend his position when Hana, the 6th ranked who was a mermaid in human form, intervened with a charming voice. "How about you let me fight him? Pleeease." Hundo, the 5th ranked dwarf, seemingly susceptible to Hana's charm effect, quickly consented, saying, "Yes, you can fight him if you want to."
The unexpected twist continued as Heyna, the 4th ranked Beastwoman from the tiger tribe, expressed her disdain for Hundo's decision with a swift hit to the back of his head. "Pathetic! How could you rank this high with your weak mind?" Hundo retorted, "My body is strong; don't hit me."
The 7th and 8th ranks, Raya and Amelia, who had previously crossed paths with Cedric in the forest, entered the conversation. Cedric, puzzled by their lower-than-expected rankings, suspected that personal issues might have influenced their standings as they did not show that they were gold rank and they probably used an artifact to make sulpress them back to the silver rank .
Meanwhile, the twins and Elma, did nkt use their gold rank prowess and were also in silver rank, held positions in the top 20. Their decision to remain outside the top ten raised questions and added an air of mystery to the unfolding narrative within the academy.
As the dialogue among the top examinees continued, Cedric found himself at the epicenter of an intricate web of challenges, personal dynamics, and the pursuit of excellence. The academy, a microcosm of ambition and rivalry, unfolded with each participant holding a unique story waiting to be unraveled within the mystical realms they sought to master.