The remaining teams stood by the entrance of the Association building as Eagle paced before them.
Today was result day, and a tension hung in the air as everyone wondered whether they had passed or fallen short.
"Passing conditions were graded on three criteria," he announced, pulling up a holographic display, "Four points each, scaled by severity."
The screen flickered, revealing the metrics:
Hostage Status 4: Unharmed 3: Minor injuries 2: Moderate damage 1: Critical condition 0: Deceased
Team Condition 4: No casualties 3: Injured but functional 2: One member lost 1: Two members down 0: Total wipeout
Villain Status 4: Eliminated 3: Incapacitated 2: Contained 1: Briefly stalled 0: Unscathed
Results:
Team 3: 24 points (Hostage: 1, Team: 1, Villain: 4)
Team 6: 21 points (Hostage: 3, Team: 1, Villain: 4)
Team 1: 20 points (Hostage: 4, Team: 1, Villain: 1)
Team 9: 19 points (Hostage: 3, Team: 2, Villain: 2)
Eagle's gaze swept over to Team 4 and Team 5. The fact that they seemed to know they would be eliminated surprised him to see them smiling, a quiet acceptance in their eyes, "Remember, you try again next year. Or do something simple with your life. No one's forcing you to do this. I'll walk you guys off."
The two teams appeared relieved to be going home, and due to the time they'd spent together, they were most likely to stay in contact.
Soon after, a few instructors led the remaining teams to their next exam venue.
As they turned the corner, a woman dressed in a pop idol uniform waited for them, "Congratulations, survivors, for reaching the second-to-last exam in the Hero Association examination. Your next test is rather simple." She pointed to a black door emblazoned with the Association's golden emblem, its glow casting an inviting aura, "An interview."
Murmurs rippled through the room, a wave of surprise and nervous energy.
"Score over 25 points here, and you'll receive your hero licenses regardless of your performance in the final combat exam. This is the easiest round. No fighting. No life-or-death stakes." She twirled with a flourish, ending with a pose while forming a heart with her hands, "Just… charm."
A screen flickered on behind her, displaying a glamorous studio set aglow with bright lights and a cheering audience, "You'll be interviewed live by Glamourbabe, broadcasted nationwide to build public interest in your debut. There will be three voting systems appearing live, so try your best to sell yourselves: one for heroes across the world, a second for public acceptance, and finally, the Elders' approval rating." She continued, her voice lilting with excitement.
Her smile sharpened, "Since Team 3 has the most points, you're up first."
---
Gwin fidgeted with her mask, her fingers trembling with anticipation, "National television? We finally made it. A-list status already. I hope there's going to be a red carpet." She glanced over at Miles, who was nervously shaking, "What's up, best buddy?"
He turned to face her, his voice tight, "I hate being on camera. Just hoping no one at school—or worse, my dad—is watching this."
Arthur patted his back, "Just don't say anything stupid. Especially you, Gwin. Reminder: I've seen Miss Stacy's podcast, and she may act like a dumb cutie, but she's an expert at ambushing heroes with questions they're afraid of."
"Thanks for the compliment, lover boy," a melodic voice purred, dripping with charm.
The door swung open with a dramatic whoosh, revealing Glamourbabe in all her glory.
She wore a skimpy pink hero uniform that showcased her tights and most of her cleavage, "Hello, darlings! Ready to meet your adoring public?"
Arthur and Miles exchanged a glance, a silent understanding passing between them.
Glamourbabe noticed their stares and winked at them, causing Miles to flush with embarrassment and Arthur to let out a light giggle.
Gwin pinched both their ears, "Not now."
A producer's voice crackled over the intercom, urgent and crisp, "Places in five!"
Glamourbabe clapped her hands, "Time to make the world know your name."