The students from the Hero Academy cried out for joy, while those from the Gifted Institute fell silent.
“Good going, first-year! You’re a real king!”
“I can’t believe you beat all three of them! That was so cool!”
“Thank you for preserving the honor of the Hero Academy! Thank you!”
“That’s our Noir! I knew you could do it!”
The last one was probably Emma. I found her in the crowd and waved. Next, I got rid of the Mental Fortitude Reduction I’d put on Mira.
I’d spent several thousand LP during the tournament, but I still had plenty to spare. Situations like this were probably why Olivia wanted me to earn so much.
“I got rid of that skill I gave you, by the way,” I told Mira.
“Thanks. I’ll tell my dad to give you a discount when the shop opens.”
“I appreciate it.”
Ms. Elena announced the Hero Academy’s victory to the crowd. I’d never heard cheering so loud. She also announced that they’d be collecting votes for the overall winner.
“Why even bother?” Mira cut in. “Noir obviously won.”
“I think so too, but rules are rules.”
“Well, it’s stupid if you ask me. Also, why are you crying, Mr. Torche?”
“Perhaps you will understand when you’re older…”
I had no idea what he was talking about, but it must’ve been rough. Maybe his salary was going to be docked or something? That would suck.
When all the votes were counted, Ms. Elena returned to the center of the area.
“I will announce the results for the Award of Excellence. The votes are as follows: Fing Barabbas, 5 votes; Liddy Locun, 1 vote; Noir Stardia, 1,123 votes! Which means the Award of Excellence goes to: Noir Stardia!”
“Who the hell voted for the other candidates?” Mira grumbled amid the earsplitting cheers. “Relatives? Fans?”
More likely just people who hate me.
Next, the teachers from the Gifted Institute gave Mr. Torche a box, and he brought it over to me.
“Now the Gifted Institute will present Noir with his prize!” Ms. Elena shouted. “Come forward!”
“Yes, ma’am!”
I was really excited. There was a good chance this would be an S-Grade enchanted item! I stepped forward and…