The class monitor's expression turned stern as he spoke. “Don’t you think you owe an apology for spreading lies about someone?” “Slander? What slander?” Judith retorted, her tone self-righteous. Unaware of the public announcement, she continued boldly, “Can you prove that Liza isn’t involved with that old man? If you can’t, then she’s clearly a mistress! Why are you defending a woman who sells herself for money? Are you hoping she’ll find you a sugar daddy after graduation?” Her words were cutting and offensive, angering the students of Class 3 instantly. “Judith, shut your mouth!” “What nonsense are you saying? Don’t think that just because you’re a woman, I won’t call you out!” “Have you even checked the university’s announcement board? They’ve already issued a warning against Serena. Why are you still acting so smug?”The announcement confirmed Liza’s innocence and made it clear that the rumors had been fabricated by Serena. Judith’s smug demeanor faltered. “What? Serena got a warning? That can’t be true!” she exclaimed, her eyes widening in disbelief. “Why not?” the class monitor shot back, sneering. “You and Serena are the ones at fault here. You’re just jealous of Master Ruby co!” Master Ruby co’s name lit up the conversation, drawing respectful silence from the students around. She was a legendary figure in the world of fashion design—a beacon of inspiration for aspiring designers. Everyone present remembered the iconic moment from the international fashion competition when Master Ruby co won the top design award. Her work captivated the global stage and earned her a reputation as a trailblazer in the industry. Her achievements proved that with talent and relentless effort, success on the international stage was within reach. For many, she symbolized hope and determination, encouraging them to pursue their dreams in design. The students of Class 3 rallied behind their class monitor, their determination evident in their eyes. Their unwavering support moved Liza deeply. For the first time, she realized the importance of her role as a teacher. Li City University was renowned nationwide, an institution that thousands aspired to attend. It attracted some of the brightest students from across the country. Yet, it was also a haven for the wealthy elite, who sent their children there to maintain their family status. To accommodate these dynamics, the university unofficially divided its students into two groups: the ordinary students and the affluent ones. Class 3 fell squarely into the latter category. Most students in Class 3 came from influential families. They were often disinterested in academics, neglecting their studies and skipping classes frequently. Their lack of effort was evident in their consistently poor performance during final exams. Compared to the students in Class 3, Serena had always been considered more composed and diligent. Despite coming from a prominent family, she didn't display the arrogance or irresponsibility associated with wealth. She was part of the regular student group, where her earnest approach to academics earned her the admiration of many, especially among male students, who saw her as a model of grace and intelligence. Judith snapped back to reality and sneered at the students of Class 3 surrounding her. “Calling her ‘Teacher’ like she’s someone special. What spell has Liza cast on you all that you act like her loyal servants? What can she even do for you? Will she help you pass your exams or breeze through your specialization courses?” Judith’s arrogance wasn’t baseless. She was recognized as one of the university’s top talents, often sharing the top three rankings with Serena in every exam. Her sharp words struck a nerve with the students in Class 3. For the first time, their usual nonchalance was replaced by a pang of guilt—they felt their lack of effort had dragged Liza down.Seeing their hesitation, Judith grew bolder. “Look at you—a group of privileged second-generation heirs who’ve already been discarded by your families. Do you think your parents expect anything from you? They sent you to Li City University just to save face. Not one of you is competent enough to inherit your family businesses. You’ve all been written off a long time ago!” The words didn’t seem to bother students from other classes—they were truths often spoken in hushed tones. But for Class 3, Judith’s remarks cut deep. It was true. Most of them had been pushed into this elite institution not because of their achievements but to fulfill their parents’ societal obligations. Whether due to poor academic performance or a lack of ambition, their families viewed them as disappointments. Some even had to feign modesty to avoid standing out. But who was Judith to judge them? The class monitor’s face darkened as his frustration grew. “Judith, you’ve crossed the line. Watch your mouth!” Ignoring his warning, Judith smirked, confident in her ability to provoke them. “What? Did I say something untrue? And what about Liza? Does it even matter if she’s not a mistress? She’s just a nobody who clawed her way up from the countryside. If that old man in the luxury car isn’t her lover, then she’s probably the mistress of someone else!” Her gaze swept over the students, dripping with disdain. “And all of you? Society’s rejects, defending her so fiercely? No wonder—you’re just like her! Vermin clinging to scraps and pretending you belong. It’s pathetic!” Her mocking laughter filled the air. “Let me guess. Are you so triggered now that you’re thinking of hitting me? Go ahead! Class 3 would love to make headlines again. ‘Can’t handle the truth, so they resort to violence.’ That’s exactly what people expect from losers like you!” Her words enraged the students further, but they held back, their fists clenched and tempers boiling. Judith’s smugness only fueled the fire, but something deeper stirred among them—a determination to prove her wrong.