Expectation

As I mulled over that, the orb began to swirl again. After a moment, a glowing word appeared across its surface.

I squinted.

Novice.

A few gasps rippled through the crowd.

"What?! Novice? Then there's no hope for him."

"Another failure."

"I really thought he'd be at least 'Advance' based on that bulky build."

More and more voices joined in.

I was just as surprised. With how intimidating Blackburn looked, I honestly expected a top-tier result.

So… he was all talk, huh?

The orb swirled one final time before settling. A final word shimmered into view:

B-Rank.

A wave of mixed reactions echoed around the hall.

"Hmph. Not bad."

"Well, at least he's B-rank."

"Guess it could've been worse."

B-rank, huh?

Not amazing, but not terrible either.

The crowd offered a polite round of applause.

So, B-rank was still considered respectable, even if the class was only Novice.