NOVEL FROG Chapter 388: The Final Exams (pt. I)
"Fufufu!" ［Yuna］
A sweet and merry giggle rang out in the air, a smile so bright, it shadows even the sun itself. Her silver hair fluttered in the air as she skipped her steps, hopping from time to time like a little rabbit. The young lady was on cloud nine.
Yet the same couldn't be said for her beloved. He followed behind her, face painted with exhaustion and eyes without life or spirit. He held his head with one of his hands and heaved a lengthy sigh, then looking at the merry young lady.
"Yuna... You sure are cheerful. Are you that happy that your fiancé was cornered and accosted by Lord Darwin? It wasn't a nice experience, you know?" ［Grey］
"Hmph! Now you finally feel it! That's how it felt when you pushed me towards the aunts and ladies last time!" ［Yuna］
"During the commotion because of your cosmetic products...? That was already so long ago though...." ［Grey］
"It doesn't matter! You still left me!" ［Yuna］
And the reason why the young lady was so happy was none other than the fact that Grey got a taste of the hell she experienced. She loves him, but that doesn't mean she would help him all the time. Seeing him overwhelmed was quite refreshing.
Well, not that Grey would let it go either. As the demonic horns sprouted in his head, devilish thoughts filled his head and his hand moved before he could even think. His hand had pinched the young lady's cheeks, catching the latter off guard.
"O-O-Oww! That hurts! Why did you do that?!" ［Yuna］
"Hmm... I just felt like it... I guess..." ［Grey］
"Nng...! You...! You bully! You need to be hit! MNNGG!!!" ［Yuna］
Adorable as she was, Yuna also retaliated, lightly pounding Grey's back and shoulder with her closed fist. She was pouting and puffing her cheeks, Grey only chuckling to himself as she adored the cute retaliation of her fiancée.
It might look like they were fighting at first, but upon a closer inspection, one would easily realize that that was not the case. The idiot couple were simply flirting, all the while the other students were studying. They were gritting their teeth in envy.
They continued to walk and continued to chat, their soft yet merry voices ringing in the air. Before long, they finally arrived at Yuna's classroom, heading inside to greet a couple faces before the Final Exams starts.
"Kale, Edin, Alea. How's your studying going?" ［Grey］
"Ugh... It's terrible... I already memorized everything but I still feel like my mind will get blocked when the exams start...." ［Alea］
"Tell me about it... I don't even remember the last time I had a good rest... All these topics are already crammed inside my head. I feel like it's about to burst." ［Kale］
"Haah... I just want this day to end..." ［Edin］
It was just as he expected. Merusia may be another world, students would always hate exams. It's nor just a universal fact, it is already embedded in the laws of the universe, the students shivering at the word of an exam.
Surprisingly, Edin was not bragging about how much of a genius he is, sighing all the same as the others as he held the books and study materials in his hands. There are dark and heavy bags hanging below everyone's eyes.
Grey and Yuna wanted to help, but there was no such thing as a potion which could make one remember everything they studied. Even though Yuna has become a Legendary Alchemist, such a thing was still impossible. All they could do is cheer them up.
"I don't know if these'll help, but here's some cakes, cookies, and other sweets. Elena and I made them recently, so they're still fresh." ［Grey］
"Un! It's not much, but we hope you like it!" ［Yuna］
And cheer them up, they did. There wasn't just one or two, but over a dozen kinds of sweets displayed inside a lovely basket. Not only did they look tasty, they smelled like so as well. Just a single sniff and their appetites were aroused.
They took some samples and bit into the sweets, a surging rush of sweet and creamy goodness filling their mouths. It was just a single bite, but everyone felt extremely refreshed as if their mind and body was healed. Smiles were afloat in the air.
"Waah～! Thank you so much, Elena, Shin! You're our angels!" ［Alea］
"Hoo～! This makes me feel alive again. These aren't just ordinary sweets, are they? Did you put some recovery herbs in here?" ［Kale］
"Un! We sure did! You can't take exams while tired, after all!" ［Yuna］
"No wonder it feels so refreshing. Thanks, Shin, Elena! You're lifesavers!" ［Kale］
Everyone didn't eat too much nor too little, only enough to fill their stomachs. They only had a few bites, but they felt like they could take on the whole world. Flames of determination and motivation were lit ablaze in their fervent hearts.
DONNGGGG DONNGGGG DONNGGGG
But before they could even start chatting, the school bells already rang, everyone listening closely to its tunes as they stopped their hands. There are only a couple minutes before the written exams will finally start. It was time to get serious.
"Well, it looks like your exams are going to start already. We'll be taking our leave then. Good luck in your exams, everyone." ［Grey］
"Make sure to conquer the top ranks, okay?! Win it all for me!" ［Yuna］
"You bet! We'll make sure to get all perfect grades!" ［Alea］
"That's only natural. We're geniuses, after all." ［Edin］
It was only a few minutes but there was already a stark difference in their energy and enthusiasm, everyone smiling brightly. Even Edin has recovered and started bragging about how genius they were, much to Grey and Yuna's entertainment.
Grey and Yuna soon left and the room was soon quiet. Everybody continued to use the remaining time. Their eyes swam left and right, words, numbers, and all sorts of formulas cramming inside their minds. The Final Exams drew close and closer.
Each and every student soon headed to their homerooms for the written exams, and soon, the Professors came inside the rooms, thick stacks of papers in their hands. They were the written test questionnaires, the students' hearts beating mad.
"Everyone, get one and pass. Read the instructions carefully." ［Dorothy］
The questionnaires were soon passed along the columns, the sound of the papers flipping making a subtle orchestra in the air. The students soon heaved a lengthy inhale, their eyes gleaming with determination soon afterwards.
The students quickly wrote down their names, and soon, the answers to the problems and questions. All their pens moving left and right, scritches echoing in the air, the Professor's eyes peering through the whole class as she walked back and forth.
"Eyes on your papers. Don't make too much noise." ［Dorothy］
Kale, Alea, and Edin gave it their all into answering the questions and problems. They have spent several days studying all throughout the 2 weeks they were given, making sure they answer every question the best they can.
Unlike the examinations on Earth, there was only one written test in the Final Exams. It contains all problems and questions from all subjects, mixing and matching to test out whether the students actually learned something throughout the year.
"Make sure you read every question right." ［Dorothy］
Said Dorothy after passing through one of the students and scanning their work. It made the latter confused and anxious, once again going over the question whilst scratching his head. Oh, how fun the exams are (sarcastic).
The written exams were soon over, the students pouring out of their classrooms one after another, but there was no time to relax. After the written exams was PE, testing out their physical strength to see if they can survive in the wild.
"Is that all you can do?! Run faster or I'll fail you!"
"P-Professor! This is too much! I can't do it anymore!"
"Shut your traps! If you have the strength to talk, then run!"
Needless to say, it was hell for alchemists. Some were physically fit and active like the cadets in the Royal Academy, but most were pretty bad, running out of stamina before even reaching a quarter of the whole physical exam.
Edin was practically helpless, his limbs feeling like pasta as he ran his laps. He hasn't even made a tenth of the progress and he was already panting, feeling like his soul was leaving his body. He was dead last, weaker than even little children.
"What are you doing?! Do you want to fail the exams so badly?!"
"N-No, Sir!" ［Edin］
Well, all he needed was a little "motivation" and he started running again. If it weren't for the sweets Grey and Yuna made before, he might have already fainted from too much exhaustion. He could only cry in silence as he continued to run.
The nightmares soon passed and lunch break then arrived. With the physical exams now over, only 2 more portions of the Final Exams were left. There was the practical brewing and the research presentation on the final day.
The Practical brewing was split into 2 portions. Years 1, 2, and 3 will be participating in the afternoon of the 1st day, whilst Years 4 and 5 will be on the morning of the 2nd day. They are all given 1 hour and 30 minutes to do their best and impress everyone.
"Waah～... There's so many people today... There's even more last year..." ［Alea］
"The Royal Family is here too... This is making me feel nervous..." ［Edin］
"Ugh... I wanna throw up..." ［Kale］
With the public allowed to spectate, there were a lot of people in the examination area. It was just like the Grand Colosseum, the seats filled with a sea of people and a large number of brewing tables already displayed inside the area.
The Royal Family was present, but rather than them, the stars of the show were the young alchemists in the arena. They are to show off their skills and prove themselves that they are worthy to be students of Darius, feeling both pressure and excitement.
"Seems like you all made it." ［Grey］
And just as Kale, Alea, and Edin were admiring the ever so grand and noisy stadium, a familiar voice called out to them. They soon turned to their backs and saw a young man walking towards them. He was calm as can be, patrolling the examination area.
"Oh! Shin! What are you doing here? Are you actually a proctor?" ［Alea］
"Hmm... Not really...? I'm a special guest I guess...? Anyway, how did you do on your previous exams? It must have been easy for the three of you." ［Grey］
"Ugh... I don't even want to talk about it. The physical exams were terrible." ［Kale］
"Yeah... It feels like my muscles will be sore all week. Thankfully, we were given treatment after we finished. It was really unfair!" ［Alea］
Grey and the others chatted merrily, the three complaining about their ranting about their previous exams. The ones who were saying they would get perfect scores and reach the top ranks were now ranting out as they complained of their hardships.
The three of them reminded Grey of how he was during his past life, also always complaining about how difficult the exams were and how pointless some of the subjects were. Oh, how amusing and nostalgic it is.
And while they were talking, the three's eyes couldn't help but swim around the place. It seems like they were looking for somethingー or rather, someone, but just couldn't find her. It wasn't long before they started asking.
"Anyway... I don't see Elena around. Is she sick?" ［Edin］
"Ah, not really. She'll be here soon enoughー" ［Grey］
BOOOM BOOOM BOOOM TOOOT TOOOT TOOOT
Grey couldn't even finish his words, the sound of drums and trumpets echoing in the air. Important figures soon headed inside and the Academy's Professors made their entrance, taking their posts and lining up neatly.
It wasn't long before the Headmaster came out, two figures following after him. The whole stadium was filled with yells and cheers, everyone calling out their names and paying their respects. The Practical Brewing Portion is now about to start.
The Headmaster soon headed towards the stage, the other following suit. His eyes swam throughout the crowd, a subtle smile blooming on his face. He then grabbed the voice-enhancing magic tool and opened his mouth.
"My Dear Students and Guests. We have gathered here today for a special event to witness the growth of the future alchemists of our beloved Kingdom. This year has been a wonderful year like the years before it and I couldn't be any happier.
I give my gratitude for the Royal Family for gracing us with their presence and giving their forever strong support to our Darius Academy. This is the result of your grand contribution. The treasures of Foltriesse.
Now, my Dear Students. You may feel nervous right now, but I assure you that you'll be able to pass this exam with flying colors. You already made it this far, so you only need to trust yourselves. Nothing more that can stop you." ［Fran］
Like any other, the Headmaster's speech was sincere and lengthy, everyone listening word for word and nodding their heads along it. The students who were nervous were quickly calmed down, heaving sighs of relief as they continued listening,
"Towards a brighter future! All Hail Darius! Long Live Foltriesse!" ［Fran］
"""All Hail Darius!! Long Live Foltriesse!!"""
The Headmaster's speech was soon over, a loud cacophony of cheers and applause ringing out all over the place. Even the King and the Royal Family raised their hands and repeated his chants, raising their hands all the while. Everyone was now fired up.
"However, before we start, it is with a heavy heart that I announce that Grandmaster Lilliane is not be able to attend as a judge this time round. She has been ill and bedridden, so she couldn't come to Xeros for the time being." ［Fran］
The whole stadium was soon quiet, talks and gossip spreading like wildfire at the Headmaster's next words. The students had been wondering why they didn't see her there, and only with his explanation that they quickly understood.
"But, worry not! Though we may not be able to see Grandmaster Lilianne, we have invited a special guest to attend this year's Final Exams." ［Fran］
Said the Headmaster, sending the whole stadium abuzz even more. At the same time, he waved his hand and Yuna walked forward, presenting herself beside the Head,aster, puzzling looks painted over the students and guests.
"Hm? Isn't that the exchange student? What was her name again?"
"That's Miss Elena! I heard she's already a Tier-5 alchemist at the age of 18!"
"That's amazing, but why is she beside the Headmaster?"
Once again, the whole stadium was riddled with confusion and bewilderment, all the students wondering why "Elena" was standing beside the Headmaster and in such an important event as well. It wasn't long before all their questions were answered.
"Now, you might know her as the exchange student 'Elena' who has been with you for a whole month now. But actually... That was a lie." ［Fran］
"Eh? A lie?! What is the Headmaster talking about?!" ［Alea］
"Wait... Isn't she an exchange student? Is she actually a noble?" ［Kale］
Now, everyone was thrust into chaos, various speculations flying out in the air, and everyone debating about what the Headmaster was talking about. It was just as chaotic as they expected. Even the Professors were confused.
But perhaps what everyone was more curious and confused about was the fact that the Headmaster decided to reveal such a fact now of all times. It couldn't have been a simple coincidence, eyes even more puzzled. Grey was actually a bit entertained.
"First of all, her real name isn't Elena. She is Yuna, an elf hailing from Alfrione. You must have already heard of the heroine of Oiros who saved many kingdoms from ruin, and just recently, she is also a hero who defeated the Kobold Nest which had formed in the Lorinia Forest." ［Fran］
"Eh...? Why is the Headmaster talking about that all of the sudden?"
"Kobolds... Was that the time the Professors warned us not to enter the Forest?"
"Yuna... Yuna.. I think I've heard of that name before... Ah! Wait! Don't tell me!"
"That's right, my dear Guests and Students! The silver-haired and blue-eyed elf whose heroic tales have been sung throughout the continent! Please welcome the Heroine of Oiros, Her Highness, Archduchess Yuna!" ［Fran］
The Headmaster announced with a firm and fervent voice, a flood of shock following soon after. Everyone was greatly shocked by the revelation, gossip spreading like wildfire as everyone tried to take in the sudden yet important information.
There were only a few people who reacted differently. Amongst them was Grey who was trying to hold back his laughter. He knew Yuna would be introduced, but not in the way he did right now. Yuna was red from embarrassment.
"Many of you might not know this, but Her Highness is also an alchemist whose name is soon to be etched in history. Just last week, she had ranked up and reached a new height. You should have heard of the golden beam of light by now, no?" ［Fran］
"No way... Don't tell me..."
"You're kidding me right..."
"That very phenomenon was caused by none other than Her Highness herself! She had made a Legendary-Grade potion and achieved Tier-9 at the meager age of 18! Standing before you is the youngest Legendary Alchemist in history! Please give her a big round of applause!" ［Fran］
One revelation after another. But rather than a round of applause as he requested, there was only shock and surprise in the stadium, the people utterly baffled by the Headmaster's sudden and unprecedented announcement.
Meanwhile, Grey was dying, trying to hold back his laughter, not knowing whether he should help out his fiancée or not. The latter was now very embarrassed, wanting to just hide in a hole and bury her face forever. It was too unexpected.
"Th-Then... If Elena is Lady Yuna, then that means... Shin, you..." ［Alea］
"Ah, that... The name's Grey." ［Grey］
"G-Grey?! Y-You mean you're the Grim Reaper?!" ［Kale］
"Well, yeah... Many people have called me that, I guess?" ［Grey］
It didn't take too long before everyone also realized who Grey was, the young man very casual about it as if it wasn't a big deal. His admittance only served to fuel the people's confusion, everyone truly confused about what they should do.
"Y-Y-Your H-Highness... I-It's our greatest p-pleasure to meetー" ［Kale］
"Hahaha! What's with the stiffness and sudden formality? Just act casually just like you usually do. We're friends, aren't we?" ［Grey］
"Shinー I mean, Grey... How can you be so casual about this?" ［Alea］
"Well, it's amusing, is all. I'm still the same person, you know?" ［Grey］
Grey was laughing his heart out, but the same couldn't be said for Kale, Alea, and Edin. They were all very confused as to how to treat Grey, not knowing whether they should be proud or not for having such a famous and influential friend.
Thankfully, they were already used enough to one another that it didn't matter much anymore. Rather than feel betrayed, they simply felt like they had been pranked by their friends, not knowing how to react. They could only heave a lengthy sigh.
"Hmm... But since Elー I mean, Yuna is a Legendary Alchemist, should I get her signature later? It feels quite strange, though..." ［Edin］
"Don't worry too much about it. You'll get used to it sooner and later anyway. And rather than that, shouldn't you be more worried about your exams?" ［Grey］
"Haha... We've been so shocked, we already forgot to get nervous." ［Kale］
"That's right. This is even more effective than the sweets from earlier." ［Alea］
It was a surprise, but it was not without use. It was thanks to the sudden revelation of Grey and Yuna's identities that the trio is not as nervous as before. Rather, they felt much calmer, only thinking how absurd the whole situation was.
Their eyes soon lingered towards the Headmaster and the stage where Yuna was. The former still had something more to say, though everyone could already guess more or less what it would be about,
"Her Highness has very kindly accepted my request and is here today as a judge. She will be replacing Grandmaster Lilliane. I hope you all do your best." ［Fran］
CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP
It was a chaotic startー No, it was a very chaotic announcement overall. But after everyone has calmed down, the sound of applause rang all throughout the stadium, many people applauding and cheering for Yuna.
It was sudden and surprising, but it was a pleasant surprise which people couldn't help but be happy about. There were many admirers of her amongst the crowd, a number of people looking forward to seeing what she can do.
Not only was Yuna a powerful heroine in their eyes, now, she is also an incredible alchemist whose talent is unmatched. The students were very fired up, ready to give it their all and show Yuna what they could do.
"Headmaster... Was that really necessary?" ［Yuna］
"Hmm... Not really... I just thought it would be more effective that way. With this, there won't be anyone to question your legitimacy, correct?" ［Fran］
"You're right, but... Ugh... Why... Just why..." ［Yuna］
Yuna wanted to retort, she really does, but after all the embarrassment, she doesn't have any energy or motivation left to do so. It was only then that Yuna remembered that the Headmaster has a playful and mischievous side. He was like a grandfather who likes teasing his granddaughter.
The young lady didn't say anything anymore and just accepted her fate, going with the flow, only thinking of the Final Exams she was looking forward to cheer herself up. Her enthusiasm was just as amazing as she was.
It wasn't long before everyone settled down, some still stealing a couple glances at Yuna. The whole stadium awaits the Headmaster's signal and the 1st year students were already at their stations, readying their equipment, ingredients, and materials.
"Then... Without further ado! Let the brewing begin!!" ［Fran］
CHAPTER 388 END