Introspection [5]

"We don't take spineless kids. See yourself out."

"A-Ah… yes."

The boy gave a stiff bow and hurried out, nearly tripping over his own feet. The door slammed shut behind him.

Inside a plain but imposing office, the recruitment process for the Bundesritter was underway. A long line of hopefuls had come and gone. Some had been accepted with cold nods, others were dismissed with brutal honesty.

"Next!"

The door creaked open, and a young woman stepped inside. 

The recruitment officer barely glanced up as his eyes scanned the document laid before him. He stopped at a particular section, and his brows knitted in irritation.

"...."

"Rejected. Nex—"

"I'm Karina Maeril."

The officer's eyes slowly rose to meet hers. "I know. I read your file."

"...."

Karina stood straight without a single trace of fear shown in her expression.