Chapter 51: The Cafeteria, The Authority of the Tower

Karl and Celeste walked through the Third Floor's Square, paying no mind to the others who had arrived before them.

Several groups had gathered in the area, students who had also cleared the Third Floor, though it was unclear at what difficulty.

Two trios stood off to the side, talking among themselves while subtly observing Karl and Celeste, their gazes carrying a hint of evaluation.

It made sense: anyone who reached this stage so quickly had to be strong, and keeping an eye on potential competitors was just common sense.

There was no saying what kind of other "trials" or "quests" this academy would give them.

Karl did the same, his focus shifting to a lone figure standing near one of the square's stone benches.

Sylas Crowell.

The red-haired man fidgeted with his smartwatch, seemingly lost in thought.

But Karl knew better than to assume he wasn't paying attention.