The strain of the test was too great for some. And one student acted upon his inability to endure such stress. Without a word or sound, he left the room, leaving the class wondering if they will lose yet another of their number.
But they were fortunate, and in half an hour, the intercom made another announcement:
"Please excuse this interruption, but another student has asked to be replaced. Fortunately, we have found a replacement. He should arrive shortly. Also, all teachers should now examine the student’s tests to see gauge how much more time they will need for testing. That will be all.”
Mr. Shoals was not sleeping as well as before - he was obviously anxious about the status of his job. Awake and shaking like a kid before his first basketball game, he stood up and followed the intercom's directions.
In the midst of Mr. Shoals examination, Armlx walked in through the door, bringing in a curiously cold draft – another sign of what was yet to come.