Hall

The Grand Hall was massive—larger than most noble estates I had seen in my past life. High ceilings, glowing chandeliers, and polished marble floors made it clear: this was where power was decided.

Students and professors bustled through the space, either discussing upcoming duels, ranking exams, or magical breakthroughs. The air was thick with ambition.

Damon, however, had different priorities.

"Damn, look at that food stand!" He pointed at a vendor selling meat skewers near the hall's entrance. "We need to eat."

I sighed. "We just got here."

"And? Starving warriors don't survive."

Before I could argue, something caught my eye—a large notice board near the center of the hall. It was covered in announcements, ranking updates, and upcoming events.

But one poster stood out.

━━━━━━━━━━━━━

NOW HIRING: NEW PROFESSOR!

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Ardent Academy is currently seeking a new faculty member.

Position: Combat and Strategy Instructor

Requirements: High-ranking combat experience or equivalent special skills

━━━━━━━━━━━━━

I narrowed my eyes. A professor position had just opened?

Damon, now munching on a skewer, glanced over my shoulder. "Huh. Think you should apply?"

I gave him a deadpan look. "I'm 23."

"So? Age is just a number."

"Tell that to the actual war veterans here."

He shrugged. "Alright, but this is interesting. Professors don't just 'disappear.' Either someone got fired, or…" He leaned in. "They were removed."

I didn't like the implications. If a high-level professor was suddenly gone, something big was happening inside the academy.

More importantly, this could be an opportunity.

A new professor meant a shift in power. It was the perfect time to gather information.

And I had a feeling this wasn't a coincidence.