*Chapter 43: Exposed in the Maze*
In the days before the Gauntlet, whispers swirl: someone's spreading rumors about Nightwatch's secret missions and heroics. Students eye them with awe, suspicion, and jealousy. Silver Serpent Society fans the flames, hinting Nightwatch cheated to gain their powers.
The night before the trials, Lin Yu "accidentally" triggers a magical trap in the common hall, spilling enchanted projections for all to see—Nightwatch battling dark magic, rescuing Li Wei, and breaking academy rules. The crowd gasps; some cheer, others jeer.
The headmistress can't protect them now. She declares that the Gauntlet will decide: if Nightwatch wins fairly, their place at Jade Spirit is safe. Otherwise…expulsion.
Tensions run high—Li Wei and Xiulan comfort each other, Jin Ming and Mei Fen brace for stares, Yan stands protectively by Bao Yu.
Rivals taunt them at every turn: "Heroes, huh? You ready to fail in front of everyone?"
Despite fear, embarrassment, and anger, Nightwatch vows to face the Gauntlet together, showing who they really are.