After I Torched Alive, My Alpha Went crazy novel Chapter 175

"Trying to win over the judges with fake alliances, Grace? Don't bother. You won't pass."

I glanced at her and replied evenly, "Let's see how well your twenty years of practice compare to my commoner instincts."

Her glare deepened, but I turned my attention back to the examiners as the first question was asked.

The conversations were intense. Questions ranged from history to strategy, from etiquette to moral dilemmas.

Each answer felt like walking a tightrope. The judges weren't just looking for knowledge; they were testing my ability to think under pressure, to adapt, and to maintain grace even when the questions became pointed.

Odette asked her own question, her tone sharp but her expression neutral. I answered carefully, and for a moment, her lips twitched into what might have been approval.

Nova, on the other hand, seemed determined to derail me at every turn. She whispered biting remarks under her breath whenever she could, but I ignored her.

By the time the final round ended, my head was spinning. The afternoon had been a blur of questions, answers, and silent judgments.

As the sun began to set, the results were announced. I stood with Carlos, Cyrus in my arms, and Odette by my side.

"First place," the steward announced, "goes to Grace."

My breath caught, and I looked at Carlos, who grinned like a proud fool. "Second place," the steward continued, "goes to Nova."

The applause was polite, but Nova's face was anything but. She stormed over to me, her eyes blazing.

"How dare you!" she hissed. "You think one exam makes you worthy? I've spent my entire life mastering the art of etiquette and court behavior, and you, what are you? A commoner!"

I smiled calmly, shifting Cyrus to my other arm. "That may be true, Nova, but it seems I've managed to beat you regardless. Perhaps you should spend less time sneering and more time studying."

Her face turned crimson, and she stormed off without another word.

Carlos chuckled beside me. "Remind me never to get on your bad side." I rolled my eyes. "You already have."

As the crowd began to disperse, a messenger approached with a small box. "These are from Queen Luna," he said, bowing slightly before handing the box to me.

Inside were two items. The first was a delicate fan made of glittering gemstones.

Their polite smiles and carefully chosen words hinted at a newfound respect, or perhaps caution.

I could feel their eyes on me during meals, during meetings, and even in the gardens. Whispers followed me wherever I went, carrying both curiosity and wariness.

I had also moved into a much more gorgeous palace. The grandeur of my new living quarters was breathtaking.

The walls were adorned with golden patterns, and huge windows let in soft rays of sunlight that bathed the room in a warm glow.

The bed was draped in soft silks, and every piece of furniture seemed designed for royalty. After the exam, only three of the noble girls remained in the running, and I was among them.

The third girl, Estelle, was someone I hadn't gotten to know much before, but now, we were living together in this grand palace.

One afternoon, I was walking through the palace gardens when I overheard voices. As I approached, I found Nova towering over Estelle, her arms crossed and a smug look on her face.

"You really shouldn't be here, Estelle," Nova sneered. "A woman without a wolf has no place in this palace. You're nothing but a decoration."