Chapter 17 · Prove the frame wrong

"Prove the frame wrong."

"With what? My stunning personality?"

"You have five minutes before the dean seals the result. Use them."

The instructor raised both hands. "The result is already clear. Summon Tess Wren has no measurable ability. She is a failed ritual product."

The room exploded with whispers.

Tess looked at him through the white light. "Product?"

"That is the legal term."

"Try it again."

"You were purchased by the crown to become a hero. You have no stats, no registered affinity, and no working core. You are a failed product."

The word hit a nerve she had not known was exposed.

The contract mark burned harder.

Tess raised her hand. "You said the frame measures growth potential."

The instructor blinked. "It does."

"Then show mine."

"There is nothing to show."

"You are the one who said that. I am asking the machine."

"The machine has answered."

"No, it has panicked. There is a difference."

Someone in the back laughed. It was a nervous laugh, quickly cut off.

The instructor's face went red. "The academy does not tolerate insolence."

"The academy also does not tolerate broken equipment, right?"

"You will not—"

"Run the growth test.