As the weekend arrived, the campus was abuzz with a different energy. The rigorous testing of the week had ended, and students were eager to unwind. Our group of friends decided to meet at the study area, a cosy spot on campus known for its comfortable seating and relaxed atmosphere.
Gathered around a large table, they exchanged greetings and settled in. Despite the array of activities available to them, none seemed keen on spending their hard-earned NCK points just yet. The study area provided a perfect setting to relax and decompress after the intense week they had just endured.
The conversation naturally drifted to the most recent event that had caught everyone off guard: the sudden English test.
"I still can't believe they threw that at us," Soo-jin remarked, shaking her head. "But at least I feel good about my answers."
"Same here," Kang-dae chimed in. "I wasn't sure at first, but as I went through the questions, I realized it wasn't as bad as I feared."
"I think we all managed to handle it well. We put in the effort during our English classes, and it paid off," Hyun-ae nodded in agreement.
The collective relief among them was palpable. None of them fell into the category of students who felt they had performed poorly. This confidence in their answers provided a sense of calm, and they were less concerned about the impending results. The weight of the week's stress had lifted, replaced by a tentative optimism.
"So, what should we do now?" Joon-ho asked, glancing around the group. "We finally have some free time."
"We could play NexaRealm," suggested Sang-hee. "But honestly, I just want to relax and enjoy some downtime."
"We've been under so much pressure this week. Maybe we should just hang out and talk about anything other than testing and exams," Hana agreed, leaning back in her chair.
The group readily agreed. They began discussing various topics, from their favourite movies and music to plans and aspirations. The conversation flowed easily, with laughter and light-hearted banter filling the study area.
Jin-kyong brought up a funny incident from one of their past gaming sessions, prompting a round of shared memories and anecdotes. It was a welcome distraction from the high-stakes environment they had been immersed in all week.
Despite the lingering thoughts about the results, they found solace in each other's company. The bond they shared as friends and teammates provided a comforting sense of normalcy amid the competitive atmosphere of the selection process. They knew that whatever the outcome, they would face it together.
As the afternoon stretched on, the study area became a haven of relaxation and camaraderie. The stress of the testing week faded into the background, replaced by the warmth of friendship and shared experiences. For now, they could simply enjoy the moment, grateful for the brief respite before the next phase of their journey began.
In the dimly lit meeting room of NexaCorp Korea University, Director Hye-su sat at the head of the table, her expression composed yet expectant. Beside her was her ever-reliable secretary, Hae-won, ready to assist with any needs. Across the table sat the five main instructors: Seung-hyun for Fighters, Ji-woo for Marksmen, Min-ji for Roamers, Dong-soo for Assassins, and Hye-won for Mages.
Director Hye-su broke the silence, her voice steady.
"Have you all been able to narrow down the list to fifty players suitable for the next stage?"
With a collective nod, the instructors responded affirmatively. Ji-woo spoke up, her tone reflecting the consensus of the group.
"Yes, Director. We have identified the fifty players. The English test was particularly useful in making the final selections."
"Excellent. As you know, the theoretical and practical tests alone were not sufficient to differentiate the students. All of them are already among the best in Korea, but we need more to find those who truly stand out," the director's eyes gleamed with satisfaction.
"Exactly. While the theoretical and practical tests measured their immediate skills and adaptability, the English test revealed something deeper. It showed us who among them is truly dedicated to learning and improving," Min-ji leaned forward, adding to the discussion.
"That was precisely my intention with the English test. It wasn't just about their language proficiency. It was about identifying those who take their studies seriously. Those who strive to perfect themselves even in areas they might consider secondary," the director nodded, appreciating the insight.
"NexaRealm has been around for almost five years now. Most students are already familiar with the basics and even some advanced strategies. What sets the best apart is their continuous drive to learn and adapt. The English class was a perfect measure of this," Dong-soo, representing the Assassin course, spoke up.
"Those who focused on their English lessons demonstrated a commitment to their overall growth. This is a trait we need in the students who will represent Korea in the World NexaRealm Championship," Hye-won, the instructor for Mages, chimed in.
"Indeed. The students who excelled in the English test have shown they are not just resting on their laurels but are actively seeking to better themselves. This is the calibre of student we want moving forward," Director Hye-su leaned back, a thoughtful expression on her face.
"We've now got a strong list of fifty students who have proven themselves in multiple facets. We're confident that these fifty are ready for the next stage," Seung-hyun, the Fighter course instructor, nodded in agreement.
Hae-won took notes, ensuring that every detail of the discussion was recorded. Director Hye-su glanced around the table, her gaze lingering on each instructor.
"Thank you for your hard work and dedication in evaluating these students. We are on the right path to selecting the best representatives for our university."
The instructors exchanged satisfied glances. The process had been rigorous, but the results were promising. With the preliminary selections made, the next phase of training and evaluation would commence soon.
As the meeting concluded, Director Hye-su felt a sense of accomplishment. The unique approach they had taken with the English test had paid off, revealing the true potential of the students. She was confident that the fifty selected were not just skilled players but also dedicated learners who would bring honour to NexaCorp Korea University.
The meeting room gradually emptied as the instructors left, each carrying a renewed sense of purpose and responsibility. Director Hye-su remained seated, deep in thought. The testing phase had concluded successfully, and the fifty students who had been selected were now poised for the next stage of training. It was a significant milestone, but it was only the beginning.
Outside, the campus was abuzz with subdued excitement. The students, unaware of the exact outcomes, continued to speculate about their performance and the impending results. The tension that had gripped them during the testing had given way to a cautious optimism. They knew that only the best would be chosen, but they also understood that the selection process was fair and thorough.
In her office, Director Hye-su reviewed the final list of fifty students. Each name represented hours of dedication, rigorous training, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The English test had proven to be a decisive factor, highlighting those who were not only skilled in NexaRealm but also committed to their overall development.
Secretary Hae-won entered the office, carrying her tablet.
"Director, these cloud data are the profiles of the selected students. I've compiled their performance metrics from all three tests."
"Thank you, Hae-won. This will help us in planning the next stage of their training. We need to ensure that they are not only prepared for the World NexaRealm Championship but also embody the values we uphold," Director Hye-su glanced through the projected documents, nodding in approval.
"The instructors have already begun designing the next phase of the training. It will be more intensive and tailored to address the specific strengths and weaknesses of each student," Hae-won placed her tablet on the desk and took a seat.
"Excellent. We must leave no stone unturned in our preparation. The World NexaRealm Championship is a global stage, and our students must be ready to compete against the best from around the world," Director Hye-su said with determination.
Meanwhile, in the student study area, the group of eight friends continued their discussion. They had all received the notification to attend the main hall earlier in the week and had experienced the sudden English test. Now, they were eager to find out if they had made it to the next round.
"I'm glad we all felt confident about the English test," Soo-jin said, taking a sip of her coffee. "But it's nerve-wracking waiting for the final results."
"Yeah, it's like we're in a constant state of suspense," Hyun-ae added. "Even though the testing is over, it feels like the real challenge is just beginning."
"I guess that's why we're given these days off. To rest our bodies and minds before we dive into the next phase. But honestly, it's hard to relax with so much at stake," Joon-ho nodded in agreement.
"We just need to stay focused. The fact that we've come this far means we're among the best. We should trust in our training and our abilities," Kang-dae, who had been quietly listening, spoke up.
The group shared a moment of silent solidarity, each lost in their thoughts. They knew that the journey ahead would be even more demanding, but they were ready to face it together.
Back in her office, Director Hye-su finalized the plans for the next phase of testing. The students would undergo advanced simulations, strategic drills, and team-based challenges designed to push their limits and hone their skills. The goal was to prepare them for the complexities of the World NexaRealm Championship, where they would face not only formidable opponents but also the pressures of global competition.
As the weekend drew to a close, the campus of NexaCorp Korea University buzzed with anticipation. The students, instructors, and administrators were all united in their pursuit of excellence. The journey to the World NexaRealm Championship was a demanding one, but it was also a path that promised growth, achievement, and the chance to represent their country on the world stage.
With the selection of the top fifty students, the stage was set for the next chapter of their journey. The road ahead was challenging, but it was also filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and prove themselves. As the students prepared for the next phase of testing, they knew that they were one step closer to realizing their dreams and making their mark in the world of NexaRealm.