The hallway outside the testing hall was quieter than usual, even though dozens of second-years were still milling about, comparing scores or arguing over how unfair the exam had been. Normally, Merlin would've blended into that noise, just another student in the crowd.
Not today.
People stared.
Whispered.
Stepped aside.
Sometimes respectfully. Sometimes fearfully. Sometimes resentfully.
That happened every time Merlin performed too well, but after the simulation escalation, and after the projection broadcast the #1 ranking, those reactions sharpened into something heavier. Like everyone could feel that something about C-12's exam wasn't normal.
Elara walked beside Merlin, steps quiet but presence steady. Nathan dragged along behind them with Adrian, Liliana, Ethan, Seraphina, and Dorian keeping loosely in their orbit, like the group had magnetized after the battle and couldn't separate just yet.
