Chapter 21: The Instructor's Dilemma
The golden sun filtered through the academy's war room windows, where a long table divided by authority and experience hosted Eldoria's finest instructors. All eyes were on the middle seat—where former Division 3 Captain, Irina, sat quietly, arms crossed, her scarred eye half-closed in thought.
Around her, voices clashed like swords.
"We've already tested them in simulations and live missions," grumbled Instructor Kael, a former scout captain. "Do you want more of them to come back bloodied—or not at all?"
"They've grown," argued Instructor Doren, the magic division head. "Especially the three—Synoh, Lux, and Yuta. The pain they endured sharpened them. We owe it to them to prove they're ready."
More murmurs followed, names echoed around the room—Edward, Mina, even the support mages who once faltered.
"But what if another mistake happens?" snapped Kael. "Do we gamble their futures before the exam?"
The room quieted.
The vote was cast—five for the mission, five against.
And only one remained.
All eyes turned to Irina.
She closed her eyes for a moment. Her thoughts wandered—not to her injuries from the last war, but to the look in Synoh's eyes during the last strategy drill. Focused. Ruthless. Just like his mentor. And Lux's stance beside him, no longer shaken by guilt. Yuta too… despite the pain, he stood tall.
Irina finally opened her mouth.
"I vote yes."
Gasps. Kael stood halfway from his chair.
"They've earned the right to be tested. We'll prepare the mission ourselves. If they fall, it will be on my name."
She stood.
"Let the students show us… if they're truly ready to be a knight in this kingdom."