[HI3] Protocol Stigmata

Chapter 15 - Exam Day

I woke up early, feeling a mix of nervousness and determination. This exam meant a lot—it was a chance to prove my progress, to show that I could stand among the Valkyries. I quickly got ready, ensuring I was well-prepared for the day ahead.

As I made my way to the exam venue, I noticed the bustling energy among the candidates. The air was charged with anticipation and anxiety.

I caught sight of familiar faces—Bronya, Mei, and Kiana, each of them offering encouraging nods and smiles as we exchanged glances.

The exam venue was filled with Valkyries, all with their own aspirations and goals. It was a grand stage, a place where we'd showcase our skills and knowledge.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves, and then stepped inside.

Remember what Bronya said... Focus.

As the exam began, we were directed to our seats, and the atmosphere was tense. The first part of the exam was a written test. Questions about the history of honkai eruptions, the battles that shaped our world, and the understanding of Valkyrie techniques filled the pages.

It wasn't hard.

After all, Bronya tortured my mind 100 times, I guess it really pays off.

Bronya, Mei, Kiana, and I were in the same room, but we couldn't communicate during the exam. The only sound was the scratching of pens on paper and occasional page flips. Despite the silence, the determination on everyone's faces was palpable.

After what felt like an eternity, the written exam came to an end. We exchanged glances, each of us hoping we'd done well. As we left the room to await the next phase, Mei nudged me subtly and offered a reassuring smile, while Kiana whispered something encouraging to Bronya.

"Let's hope for the best," I said, trying to stay positive.

Bronya nodded, her expression calm but focused. "Indeed. The practical exam awaits us."

I took a deep breath, readying myself for the next challenge, hoping my preparation would pay off.

"The practical exam awaits at the arena," Himeko's voice echoed through the room, signaling the next phase of the test.

We exchanged glances and nodded in unison. Following Himeko's instructions, we made our way to the arena, the tension in the air palpable. Instructors and teachers were already assembled, ready to oversee the practical exams.

Rita's presence near me felt both comforting and unsettling, Her smile exuded a casual confidence that made me instinctively wary.

Urgk... Rita Rossweisse

"How'd it go, Shin?" Her voice, cheery and casual, cut through the tense atmosphere.

"At first, I was feeling confident until I caught sight of you," I said, trying to sound nonchalant despite the underlying tension.

She chuckled a melodious sound that seemed to hold a hint of mischief. "Ah, don't worry. We're on the same side now. But for the moment, I'm here to put you to the test."

A playful wink punctuated her words as she turned away, her departure leaving a lingering sense of impending challenge.

Huh? For some reason, It's so cold behind me.

The air behind me suddenly turned even more icy, and I couldn't help but sense the brewing storm. Bronya's stare felt like frostbitten needles on my back.

"Hey, you recognize her, Shin?" Bronya's voice was chillier than usual.

"Oh, her? Well, I've just heard rumors," I responded, trying to play it cool.

"Rita Rossweisse, S-Rank Valkyrie... I'm still the best, though!" Kiana boasted, her arms crossed confidently.

"Kiana, we're not even close to her league," Mei retorted, trying to bring a dose of reality.

"Shin, explanations later..." Bronya's grip on my shoulder tightened, making me wince. "Understood?"

"Bronya-sama... It's... really, um, painful."

Bronya's grip tightened even more on my shoulder, and I winced. "We'll talk later... S-h-i-n."

"Yes, Ma'am!"

Yabai...

The arena bustled with anticipation as the examiner, Theresa Apocalypse, stepped forward, a commanding figure amidst the students' eager chatter. She raised the microphone, her poised demeanor projecting authority.

"Good day, everyone!" Theresa's voice echoed through the arena, drawing attention. "I am Theresa Apocalypse, your examiner for today's examination. Kindly make your way into the arena and prepare for the assessment."

Her words carried a subtle authority. Students began shuffling into the arena. Some of them are serious as they keep their gaze on other valkyries.

Uwah girls are scary. What's with the atmosphere all of the sudden?!

I dashed into the arena, joining the group of students, each taking positions within the vast space. Instructors stood around, monitoring the exam.

Theresa, spoke through the loudspeaker, "Everyone! Free For All combat mode begins now! Test your skills and remember, the goal is to demonstrate your tactical prowess and adaptability!"

As the signal rang out, chaos ensued. Valkyries scattered, some forming alliances while others fought alone. I spotted Rita engaged in a skirmish with another student, her movements elegant yet fierce. Mei displayed her precision, strategically positioning herself to fend off multiple opponents. Kiana, exuding confidence, took on adversaries with swift and bold maneuvers.

I moved cautiously, observing the chaos around me. The battleground was a flurry of clashes and strategic plays.

In the heat of the practical exam, a Valkyrie wielding a mace swung it fiercely, almost colliding with me. The weapon crashed into the ground, sending vibrations through the arena.

"Tch!" Her glare was unwavering as she readied for another strike.

As I drew my blade, I countered her aggressive swings. Meanwhile, another Valkyrie wielding a spear lunged at me, narrowly missing with her thrust.

"Hey, this feels a bit unfair, doesn't it? Two against one?" I questioned, taking a defensive stance.

"This is a free-for-all. No rules about teaming up," the mace-wielding Valkyrie retorted.

"Right! Get ready!" The spear-bearing Valkyrie readied for another attack.

With a sigh, I dashed forward, swiftly severing their weapons in half. "Well, you did say anything goes in a free-for-all."

The two valkyries were left stunned.

"How... How is he so quick?"

"He dismantled our weapons with ease! This guy is strong...!?"

Uwah, That just made me tired... Since when did I learn that?

In the midst of the chaotic arena, I felt a sudden surge of hostility behind me, prompting me to swiftly dash backward and spin around.

"Ara?~ You sensed me, Shin?"

"Rita... God, it's you."

"Indeed, your devoted maid."

"So, this is how it unfolds... Rita." I positioned myself, ready for whatever was coming.

"Fufu~ I'm pleased you grasped my intentions, Shin. That's what sets you apart."

A tense standoff ensued between us in the center of the bustling battlefield.

Prepare yourself, Shin~

[A/N: BRUH I FORGOT TO PUBLISH THIS?!]