"They're one of the trainees?" Ymir asked, uncertainty and confusion plastered across her face.
"Yeah," I said.
"Who are they?" she asked.
"I can't tell you that yet," I replied.
"So what's your plan for dealing with them?" she asked.
"If they won't join us, then I'll have no choice but to replace them with loyal people," I said.
"Wait… you mean—?" she started.
"Yeah," I answered. "But that's a last resort. I'll try to convince them first. If they refuse, then they'll leave me with no choice."
"How ruthless of you," Ymir said. "But I like it."
"Hmm"
"What is it?" I asked.
"I didn't expect you to have this side," she said, looking at me. "You seem like a quiet, charismatic person."
"You'd be surprised," I replied.
"So what should I do first?" Ymir asked.
"For now, just do what you normally do and lay low," I said. "I'll call you when it's time to act."
"And how are you going to do it anyway?" she asked. "Convince them one by one? And if that fails, target them? There's one thing I've noticed as a shifter—"
She was about to continue, but I cut her off. "Don't worry about that. I already know everything."
She fell silent. After a moment, she spoke again.
"Alright. I'll follow your lead. Just promise me one thing."
"What is it?" I asked.
"All I want is Krista's safety," she said. "Promise me you'll help protect her."
"Don't worry," I replied. "Following my plan will ensure her safety."
Just then, a voice suddenly interrupted us.
"What are you two doing here?"
Both of us stopped and turned around.
Standing behind us was Commander Shadis, watching us closely.
"It's already late. Looks like you still have some energy left," he said with a smile.
"Uh… anyway, Commander, I should get going. I'm already feeling sleepy," I said quickly.
I subtly signaled Ymir with my eyes to leave. She understood immediately—just as expected from someone smart.
I just hope this baldy didn't hear our conversation earlier.
PoV: Shadis
Ever since I retired as commander of the Scout Regiment and became the head instructor here, I've enjoyed taking quiet strolls—especially at night—to get some fresh air.
Hmm? Who's that?
In the distance, I noticed two people sitting on a bench. Hmm… those two. From what I remember, they haven't interacted much at all. What could they be discussing? Hoh… so they're not tired from training, are they?
I don't know what you're up to, but I'll teach you two a lesson.
"What are you two doing here?"
They turned around, and I immediately recognized one of them. That boy… Leonardo. A genius among geniuses—no, more like a monster. Comparable to that one from the Scout Regiment.
And the other… Ymir, was it? I recognized her as well. Even though she isn't in the top ten, she's one of the more skilled trainees in this batch. This group has quite a few talented individuals.
I wanted to ask what they were talking about, but Leonardo immediately came up with an excuse on the spot and tried to leave, pulling Ymir along with him. In the end, I had no choice but to nod my head and let them go.