And The Winner Is...

"... Jasmine Voss."

I sighed as polite applause spread through the room. It wasn't as if we hadn't expected this outcome but hearing it in person was a different thing altogether.

I joined in the polite clapping as Jasmine stood, a smile on her face. She was the perfect picture of graceful triumph and humility. That was Clarisse's training.

"Thank you." She said, her voice carrying just the right note of sincerity. "I am honored by your trust and will dedicate myself fully to ensuring Apex's continued success."

Based on her words, one would think this was the end of the fight but it definitely wasn't. Not if I had anything to say about it.

Jenny remained seated, keeping her expression calm as expected. We'd both known it was unlikely she'd win this round. But now, there was a… fire in her eyes that wasn't there before.

From the smile I could see on Clarisse's face, I could tell that I wasn't the only one that had noticed it.