Chapter 61
Ella
The days after the mission passed in a blur of pain and exhaustion. My side throbbed with every movement, a constant reminder of the claw that had nearly ended me. Even the simple act of breathing sent sharp stabs through my ribs, making me wince. But despite the pain, there was an unshakable feeling in my stomach, a strange mixture of dread and anticipation.
Today was the day. The principal would announce who was moving up, who was staying put, and who was dropping down. The ranking system dictated everything here—your worth, your future, your survival. And after what had happened during the mission, I was sure I would be lucky to just hold my place.
We all stood in the open space outside the main hall, a sea of nervous energy. The air buzzed with whispered convers
