The lamps flickered softly in one of the inn's rooms, casting warm shadows on the faces gathered inside.
Everyone from Heavenly Academy's main battle team sat together—some cross-legged on the floor, others perched against the walls or chairs. The air was quieter than usual. No sarcastic and loud jokes from Bheema. No small talk from Rael. No complaints from Qin. And no long discussions from Nuada. They just waited for what this instructor and their captain had to say, gathering them for a meeting.
It was Instructor Catherine who finally broke the silence.
"You all did incredibly well. Advancing to the knockout stages without losing any match isn't something just any academy does. Not to mention, our opponents aren't weak either," she began with a gentle but clear voice. "The Headmaster and your families will be proud. I want you all to take a moment to appreciate what you've achieved. Of course, there's a lot to do, too."
There was a moment of nods and soft sighs.
