"The next step is arranging a fan meeting," Heath Zod announced, instructing the Black Queen to schedule a public appearance for Hulk, to help boost his popularity.
"What's next on the agenda?" he asked.
"Jessica Campbell is taking the Superhero Association test today," the Black Queen replied.
Jessica had decided to pursue a superhero career. Despite her lackluster academic performance, she had excelled in grueling superhero training, so Heath Zod approved her choice. Besides, none of the dozen subjects he'd set for her had panned out.
"Put on the live feed," Heath Zod said with interest.
The test site was packed with hopefuls, a huge dome-shaped arena spanning over 3,000 square meters. The Association had gathered 500 candidates for the primary F-rank test—a testament to its resources and power.
The dome's walls had five layers of high-performance plastic in a honeycomb structure, designed to absorb impacts and provide safety. This design, theoretically, could withstand dragon-level attacks.
"Please note: the assessment has five stages—written test, speed and endurance, jumping, strength, and destructive ability," announced a voice over the loudspeaker.
"Why no neural response or cell viability tests?" Heath Zod asked.
"Sir, those are more complex to assess. Basic reflex training suffices for F-rank. For B-rank heroes, nerve response is a priority since they must be able to dodge bullets or endure light firepower."
The written test finished quickly. Alongside personality assessments, questions covered various scenarios and required expert knowledge in emergency response, medicine, and physics—almost as challenging as a doctoral exam.
Next came the speed and endurance test. Candidates changed into provided athletic gear to prevent cheating. They had ten minutes to run at a minimum speed of 100 meters in seven seconds, sustained for the full time. Most participants failed, leaving only a third still competing.
"Marvel's really full of hidden talent," Heath Zod remarked.
Jessica, however, breezed through, leaving the testers impressed. Heroes like her had become rare, even as more applicants flocked to the Association since its founding.
As the weaker candidates were filtered out, the final test, destructive ability, was set to begin. The arena shifted, revealing separate areas for Physical and Non-Physical damage. Closed test rooms allowed candidates to perform without revealing sensitive abilities.
Jessica chose the physical test.
Two hours later, as other heroes struggled with basic fitness tests, the super-destructive phase began. This stage, intended for those with powerful abilities, could allow some to leap directly to S-rank, though few succeeded.
S-rank standards were high; even Spider-Gwen and Venom had only reached A-rank. Normally, the test involved attacking a target wall, assessing impact, collateral damage, and effects like poison, fire, or lightning. But today, the target was an actual S-rank hero: the Stone Man.
Since Tony Stark lacked the durability of gods and could be damaged in weaker suits, Heath Zod had chosen the Stone Man, who could judge a candidate's strength better than any instrument. Candidates would thus confront the stark difference between their skills and those of heroes at the top.
The Stone Man hadn't seen anyone particularly impressive so far. Jessica was no exception, but he was pleased enough to award her an A-rank rating.
And so, Jessica Campbell passed, officially joining the ranks as an A-rank hero.