"The Grand First-Year Combat Festival."
Kent continued speaking in his calm, measured voice as his eyes slowly swept across the classroom.
The noisy lecture hall from earlier had become completely silent.
Every student's attention rested upon him.
"This festival... will be a one-on-one combat tournament."
He paused briefly, allowing his words to settle before continuing.
"Every first-year student will participate. The results of this tournament will determine your overall rankings."
Several students immediately exchanged surprised looks.
Kent folded one hand behind his back.
"Which also means..."
He calmly looked across the room.
"A student who performs exceptionally well during the tournament... will rank among the academy's best... even if that student doesn't possess outstanding academic results. Since it's the tournament results, we will be using it for the overall academic ranking."
A ripple of whispers spread across the classroom.
"So..."
Kent smiled faintly.
