Meanwhile, Auric was heading to the association with Maya and Stella. They had to sneak inside so that no one knew he was taking the test here.
"Welcome," the branch president said, welcoming him personally. He was a bulky, middle-aged man with a coiling mustache. "I've long heard about your accomplishments. To think that a genius like you is going to take the exam in this branch. Chief Lucas has briefed me about it."
Auric nodded and shook his hand firmly. "Thank you for accommodating me, President Bertram."
"No problem. I heard you want to upgrade all your qualifications to gold?"
"Yes. I've spent too much time outside, so it's time for me to finally focus on my other status. I wish to take all gold-grade exams except for the dark element."
