[ It makes his chest seize oddly, seeing Sylvain flustered and uncomfortable. Maybe he made a mistake asking him here, commanding it really. It could hurt the other’s careful presentation, and Basch didn’t think it was his place to meddle in that. Worse, there were eyes — and ears — everywhere in this hall. But it was too late now.

As to Sylvain’s protests, he kept his face entirely neutral, taking the paper out and sliding it face down to the other. ]

I blinded the names and had my TA assist me so that the grades would be entirely unbiased and fully vetted.

[ Still no change on his face, just watching Sylvain look over the exam. ]

It was the only perfect score.