Chapter 28: Echoes of Respect
The sun streamed gently through the academy's infirmary windows. Synoh lay propped up on a pillow, bandages wrapped tightly around his ribs. Though he winced with each breath, his eyes held a quiet strength.
He glanced at the small table beside him—another set of neatly wrapped homemade meals, left by girls from the class.
"They've been coming every day," Lux remarked from the corner with a teasing smirk. "Looks like you've built a fan club."
Synoh chuckled, slow and careful.
"They're just thankful."
But in his mind, Fel's voice echoed.
"It seems you've caught some attention, partner. Who knew humans admired broken bones?"
"They admire heart, not wounds," Synoh replied mentally with a small smile.
The door slid open.
Yuta entered, a confident grin on his face. "Guess who's gonna tame a beast for the final exam?"
Synoh raised an eyebrow. "You?"
"Damn right." Yuta leaned on the wall. "But Lux here says I'll die without help."
Lux rolled his eyes. "You will. That's why I'm coming with you."
Synoh laughed. "Just don't come back missing limbs."
Yuta grinned. "No promises."
The door opened again. Mina and Edward stepped in.
Mina, holding a bouquet of simple flowers, walked slowly to Synoh's bedside. Her eyes darted to the ground.
"T-Thank you… for protecting everyone," she whispered, cheeks red.
Synoh blinked. "Ah, um… I just did my job."
Mina quickly placed the flowers on his nightstand and stepped back, fidgeting.
Edward smirked at the scene before crossing his arms.
"You remind me of my uncle."
Synoh tilted his head. "Is that… a compliment?"
Edward nodded. "Maybe. He was the kind of guy who never backed down, even when outmatched. You've got that same fire."
Synoh offered a sheepish smile.
Edward continued, gaze steady.
"Maybe… you're more suited to become General than you think."
Synoh chuckled. "It's too early for that. Besides, aren't you the one who always acts like I'm a pain?"
With a rare smirk, Edward turned to leave.
"Push your luck again and I'll bury you under a mountain," he said casually.
Synoh snorted. "There's the Edward I know."
As the group exited, Synoh leaned back. The pain was still there, but so was the warmth—the acknowledgment, the growth, the camaraderie.
He looked out the window, thinking:
"I used to run from who I was. But now… maybe this is where I'm meant to stand."