The determination, ignited by their mutual promise, transformed into a tangible focus. Bit by bit, it was etched onto every answer-filled test paper in a steady advance toward the final goal.
The bell signaling the end of evening self-study was like a stone tossed into a lake of thick concentration, shattering the classroom's tranquility in an instant.
"Time to switch seats! Switch seats!"
An uproar surged like a tidal wave.
The chaotic scrape of desks and chairs instantly filled the air.
Shen Yuan slowly put down his pen and let out a long breath. The intense state of concentration, in which he felt fused with the test paper, shattered abruptly, as if his spine had been ripped out.
A powerful, delayed wave of exhaustion washed over him in an instant.
He felt as if he had just been pulled from deep water. His vision blurred for a moment, and a distinct ache radiated from the back of his neck and shoulders.
