The Imperial Shadow Academy gates loomed like black steel teeth. Tobias craned his neck, hands behind his head. "So this is it, huh? The place where they decide if you're a hero or a side character."
Selene rolled her eyes. "Just focus. We need to know where we stand."
Inside, the academy's evaluation hall buzzed with recruits. Rows of machines lined the walls: punch meters, agility sensors, mana resonance spheres.
An instructor barked, "Step forward. Show us what you've got."
Selene went first. She placed her hand on the sphere. A soft blue glow spread out. Numbers flickered on the screen: D-rank.
The examiner nodded. "Support-type. Healing affinity."
Selene exhaled in relief. Healing was quite valuable this days as it's quantity was relatively small.
Tobias slapped his cheeks dramatically. "Alright, brain, don't fail me now." He stepped onto the platform for cognitive evaluation.
The machine lit up, throwing puzzles, combat simulations, and scenario questions at him in rapid sequence. His fingers flew, his eyes darted, and before anyone realized, the screen flashed green.
C-rank. Strategic-type.
Tobias grinned. "Told you. Future CEO of Monster-Slaying Inc."
The instructor scribbled on his clipboard. "Your thinking speed is unusual. Keep training, and you'll be valuable."
Before Tobias could bask in his glory, a hush spread through the hall. A tall girl with sharp eyes and long auburn hair entered, flanked by two bodyguards.
"Gwen Leclerc," someone whispered. "The mayor's daughter."
She didn't hesitate. She strode to the punch meter, adjusted her gloves, and slammed her fist forward. The machine rattled, digits spiking into the B-rank zone. Gasps rippled through the recruits.
Immediately, two officials in black coats approached her. "Miss Leclerc, the upper division has been expecting you."
Tobias muttered under his breath, "Of course, royalty treatment…" But his eyes wandered downward, lingering too long.
Gwen's gaze snapped to him. "What are you staring at?"
"Uh—your form! Amazing form!" Tobias stammered, flashing a nervous smile.
She didn't buy it. She flicked her fingers, and her guards stepped forward. "Teach him some manners."
"Uh-oh."
The guards lunged, but Tobias's mind raced at full speed. He ducked one swing, sidestepped another, tripped the third with precision, and bolted toward the exit. "Selene, evacuation plan Delta!"
Selene sighed but followed, pushing past the confused recruits. The guards stumbled after them but couldn't keep up.
Outside the academy gates, Tobias bent over, hands on knees, panting. "Okay… new rule. No more talented girls. Too dangerous."
Selene shook her head, hiding a small laugh. "You're impossible."
For a moment, silence stretched between them.
"…It's been a long time since Alec," Tobias said quietly.
Selene's smile faded. "And Ramiel…"
They both stood there, remembering. The loss still stung, even after months.
But deep down, Selene pressed a hand to her chest. He's still out there. I know it.