But Lyra was done yet, as she continued speaking.
"Oh, and before I forget."
Her tone softened slightly.
"I have arranged for Ryn to accompany you."
Arthur blinked once, though his expression remained calm.
"You may possess strength comparable to his," she said, "but guidance is still necessary."
There was no insult in her words. Only certainty.
Arthur accepted it without resistance. "I'll rely on him."
Lyra seemed satisfied.
She turned away slightly, signaling that the evaluation had ended.
Arthur bowed respectfully and began to leave the training hall. The watchers parted for him, whispering quietly as he passed. Some looked at him with admiration, others with doubt, and a few with unease.
His footsteps were steady.
Yet before he could reach the exit..
"Arthur."
He stopped.
Her voice was sharp now.
He turned back to face her.
The commander's expression had changed completely. All traces of casual conversation had vanished. What remained was strict authority.
