Elder War

The warm sunlight pouring through the stained glass windows of the Grandmaster's office cast fragmented patterns across the room as Kai and Alethea stepped inside. The air was heavy with anticipation, and the presence of Grandmaster Mahendra and Mayor Evan only deepened the tension. Mahendra sat behind his large desk, his sharp gaze trained on the two students, while Evan stood by the window, his hands clasped behind his back.

"Come in," said Mahendra, his voice calm but firm. "We have a lot to talk about."

Kai and Alethea looked at each other before stepping forward. They bowed respectfully, their young faces showing a mixture of confidence and uncertainty. Mahendra's expression softened slightly as he motioned for them to sit down. Mayor Evan turned around, his sharp gaze looking at Kai with an expression full of curiosity and admiration.

"Kai," he began, his tone direct yet respectful, "I have heard and seen evidence of your extraordinary actions. The dragon's defeat was no small feat, and it speaks volumes about your potential. Few would survive such an encounter, let alone win."

Kai gave a moment of deep, analytical gaze, the memory of his confrontation with Akhekh still vivid in his mind. "I… I didn't do it alone," he said, his voice full of confidence. "Alethea was with me when I fought him."

Evan's lips curled into a small, knowing smile. "Humility is admirable, but don't underestimate yourself. Your actions have saved many lives. That's why I'm here—to extend an invitation to you and Alethea."

Alethea raised an eyebrow, her interest piqued. "An invitation?" she asked, leaning forward slightly.

"Yes," Evan continued. "To join the military as an operations cadet while continuing my studies at the Legion Academy. Your abilities are exceptional, and the military would benefit greatly from your talents. With the right training and resources, you could be a vital asset in defending our battalion from threats far greater than that."

"Mayor Evan," the Grandmaster said, his tone measured but firm, "while your intentions may be noble, I must strongly reject this proposal. Kai and Alethea have shown talent, though it is too early to consider them top students, but they are not ready for the military—not yet. Their journey here is far from over, and putting them on the battlefield could do more harm than good."

Evan turned to Mahendra, his voice calm but firm. "I understand your concerns, Grandmaster, but the threat we face does not wait for preparedness. We need individuals like them—brave, capable, and proven in the face of danger."

Kai sat in silence, feeling the weight of their argument. Alethea, ever perceptive, broke the silence. "With respect, Grandmaster, perhaps we could find a compromise. Couldn't we train under the academy's guidance while assisting the military in low-level combat roles? That would give us experience without having to involve us in a full-scale war."

Evan nodded thoughtfully. "An interesting compromise. If you will agree to this idea, gradually transitioning as your skills develop."

Mahendra's eyes narrowed as he considered Alethea's suggestion. After a long pause, he sighed. "If such an arrangement ensures their continued safety and growth, I will allow it. However, let me make one thing clear; their education comes first. They are students of the Legion Academy, and their training here must remain their primary focus."

Evan bowed his head in agreement. "Of course."

Kai finally found his voice, looking at the two men. "If this is what has been decided, I will do my best. I will try to fulfill it, after all if this is our path to become soldiers, I will look forward for the sake of the country and the people I protect."

Alethea smiled reassuringly. "I will try to be the best in my position."

Mahendra's stern expression softened slightly as he looked at his students. "Very well. But remember, the path you have chosen will be more demanding than ever. You must remain vigilant."

Evan extended his hand toward Kai and Alethea, his smile warm and confident. "Welcome Soldiers. Together, we will face whatever challenges lie ahead."

With the decision made, the room seemed to exhale, the tension easing but not disappearing. For Kai and Alethea, the path ahead was more complicated, but their resolve had never been stronger.