Country: Aurivelle City: Auremont Alvara When Mrs. Alexia finished calling the names, she closed the file. “These are the selected designers,” she said, her voice steady as her gaze moved across the room. “The top ten who will represent this set in this year’s runway showcase.” “They worked hard to be here.” Her eyes shifted slightly, taking in the rest of the students. “And if your name was not called, it does not mean you are not talented,” she continued. “It simply means there is something these ten designers are doing differently…something you are not.” The room remained quiet, every word landing. “You will still receive startup funding to launch your brands,” she added. A ripple of relief passed through some parts of the hall. “But at the end of the runway showcase…” her

