The murmurs grew louder this time, with curiosity replacing irritation almost instantly. Even the arrogant boy who had questioned her earlier leaned forward slightly.
Professor Sterling allowed the noise to ripple for a few seconds before continuing.
"Every year," she said calmly, "each department selects three freshmen to represent them in a school-wide elimination event."
Her fingers tapped lightly against the desk.
"The format is simple. Each department sends three of their best members to participate."
"If one member of your department's team is knocked out, your team continues with two. If another falls, one remains."
She paused deliberately.
"The event ends when a single freshman is left standing."
Silence settled over the classroom.
Aren could feel the murmurs between each other, even if they didn't talk to each other before.
"This is not a ceremonial showcase," she continued. "The final surviving freshman earns increased funding allocation for their department."
