Chapter 10 — Formation of the New Squad
A few weeks passed after the duel and the unexpected reconciliation with Edward.
The academy had taken notice — especially of Synoh and Lux.
Both of them had already completed a mission (even though it ended with heavy injuries), but their talent, spirit, and leadership potential couldn't be ignored.
One day, the instructor gathered them at the grand hall.
Among them stood Irina — a woman with silver hair tied in a tight braid, her sharp eyes scanning the students like a hawk.
Former Captain of Division 3, a woman who once led thousands into war and came back with barely her life.
Irina's stern voice echoed across the hall.
"Lux Alaric. Synoh Vindral. Step forward."
They did, standing straight.
"From this day," she said, "you will both lead a squad under the Academy's special training program."
Gasps echoed around the hall.
Irina continued, her gaze firm.
"Lux Alaric, you are assigned as Squad Captain. Synoh Vindral, you are his Vice-Captain. Your performance will determine your future qualifications for military or knight leadership."
Synoh and Lux exchanged a firm nod — no hesitation.
Irina pulled out a parchment and slammed it on the table.
"Your first special mission: Clear and Secure the Abandoned Fort of Greythorn."
The students whispered among themselves.
Irina's voice cut through the murmurs.
"Greythorn Fort was once a vital checkpoint between the human and demi-human territories. Now abandoned, it has become a haven for rogue monsters and illegal traders. Your mission — secure it. Set up a temporary base, investigate for any signs of illegal activity, and survive for three days until extraction."
A tough mission — survival, investigation, and battle.
"You will take ten members, including yourselves," Irina said.
Squad Members:
Lux Alaric (Captain)
Synoh Vindral (Vice-Captain)
Edward Crestfallen
Yuta Goldmane
Mina Arrowind
Emily Heartwell (a healing mage)
Marcus Redthorn (a heavy swordsman)
Claire Windwell (Scout and Wind Magic User)
Hugo Sternblade (Heavy Shield Defender)
Lira Mooncrest (Support Mage) (Buffs and Light Heals)
Irina's sharp gaze softened for a moment.
"This will not be easy. Some of you might think you're strong... but this mission isn't about showing off your power. It's about leadership, teamwork, and survival."
Synoh clenched his fists in excitement.
Lux looked determined.
Edward grinned wickedly. "Tch. About time something fun happened."
Yuta smirked, cracking his knuckles. "Let's see what you got, Captain."
Mina rolled her eyes. "Ugh... babysitting mission?"
Emily just smiled gently, supporting everyone.
The squad had formed — a rough, imperfect group, but full of potential.
Irina ended her speech with a heavy final line:
"Remember — a leader's worth is not judged by strength alone... but by how many they bring back alive."
The weight of those words lingered.
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End of Chapter 10