Agreement

My gaze now turns to Director Emilia, whose expression is warm and welcoming. "I'm sure there's something you want to discuss with me," she said, "but first, have a seat."

Eizan calmly sat in Director Emilia's office. The soft scent of sandalwood filled the air, blending with the sunlight filtering through the large glass window behind her desk. On the desk, a steaming cup of tea added a touch of warmth to the serious conversation that was about to unfold.

"Eizan," Emilia began, her voice steady yet firm. "You've proven yourself to be an extraordinary fighter. Your strength surpasses that of many Knights in this division. I want to offer you a rare opportunity. You could immediately become a Tier Three Knight, with all the privileges and responsibilities that come with it."

Eizan frowned, not responding right away. He knew this offer would be tempting for most. Tier Three Knight was a prestigious rank, one that few managed to attain, especially with the kind of shortcut Emilia was offering.

But beneath the offer, Eizan sensed something off. An uneasy feeling began to creep into his mind. He recalled the long journey he had been on—the struggle to control his power, the search for his identity, and a vision greater than just becoming a tool in someone else's hands.

Emilia continued, "This position isn't just about power, Eizan. It's about influence, about the ability to make real changes. You could be part of something bigger, something that could alter the course of this world."

Eizan looked at Emilia sharply, trying to discern the intention behind her words. Deep down, he felt a strong urge to refuse—not because he disrespected the position, but because there was something more important to him—freedom.

"I understand, Director," Eizan finally said, his voice flat but filled with resolve. "But I can't accept your offer."

Emilia was taken aback by his response. "What do you mean? This is an opportunity that won't come again, Eizan."

Eizan nodded slowly, choosing his words carefully before speaking again. "I appreciate your offer, and I know that becoming a Tier Three Knight is a great honor. But I don't want to be anyone's subordinate, Director Emilia. It's not that I don't respect the position, but I have a different path to follow."

Emilia fell silent, looking at Eizan with a mix of disappointment and admiration. She knew Eizan wasn't someone easily swayed, but she hadn't expected him to turn down something so significant.

"A different path?" Emilia asked, her voice softer now, as if she wanted to understand what was truly in Eizan's heart.

Eizan sighed. "I want to determine my own fate. I don't want to be bound by rules or hierarchies that limit my freedom to choose. I believe I can achieve more without relying on titles or ranks."

Director Emilia offered a faint smile, finally understanding the reason behind Eizan's decision. She knew that behind this refusal lay a spirit that couldn't be chained. "Very well, Eizan. I respect your decision. But remember, this door will always be open for you if you ever change your mind."

Eizan nodded respectfully. "Thank you, Director. I'll always remember your offer."

With that, Eizan stood and left the office, feeling relieved for having followed his heart. To him, freedom was too high a price to trade for anything, even the most prestigious position. He chose to live his life on his own terms, without submitting to anyone else's rules.

---

In the main meeting room of Axeris Academy, the atmosphere was serious. The high ceilings and large windows gave the room a grand feeling, while the long table in the center was filled with members of the student council and academy officials. At the head of the table sat Sophia, the student council president known for her intelligence and wisdom. Her face remained calm, though a slight tension in her eyes reflected the weight of her responsibilities.

To Sophia's right sat the Vice Principal, Professor Lucien, an older man with white hair and sharp eyes. To her left was the student council secretary, Adrian, who was busy jotting down notes on every detail of the discussion. The other council members sat along the table, listening intently to every word spoken.

"This year's annual tournament will be very different from the previous ones," Professor Lucien began, his voice authoritative. "We're facing an unprecedented situation. This year, we have an overwhelming number of new participants, some of whom come from unusual backgrounds."

Sophia nodded slightly. She had already heard rumors about new participants possessing extraordinary powers, even stronger than most senior students. However, what worried her more was the inclusion of participants from outside the academy, allowed by direct order of the Supreme Council.

"We need to ensure that security and fairness are maintained," Lucien continued. "We can't let anyone, especially outsiders, compromise the integrity of this tournament."

Sophia took the lead in the discussion. "Professor, the student council has already designed a more rigorous selection process to ensure that only those truly worthy advance to the next rounds. Additionally, we are working closely with the Security Department to increase the number of monitors during the tournament."

Adrian added, "We're also drafting new procedures to handle any incidents that might occur, whether it's violence outside the arena or the excessive use of force during matches."

Professor Lucien nodded approvingly at the plans, though concern was still evident on his face. "However, one thing we must not overlook is the threat from within the academy itself. With so much power gathered in one place, we must be vigilant against those who might have hidden agendas."

Sophia understood Lucien's point. At Axeris Academy, it wasn't uncommon for some students to harbor grand ambitions or personal grudges, and this tournament could be an opportunity to act on those motives. As student council president, Sophia was used to dealing with conflicts among students, but this time, the stakes were higher.

"That's why I propose a thorough background check on every participant, both from inside and outside the academy," Sophia said firmly. "We should also consider placing special monitors around the main arena, tasked with keeping an eye on participants even outside of match times."

Professor Helena, an expert in strategy and security, nodded in agreement. "That's a good idea. I'll also assign some students from the Guardian Division to help with security. They can blend in with the participants, making it easier to monitor the situation without drawing too much attention."

The discussion continued, focusing on other technical details. Sophia kept noting every suggestion and concern raised, ensuring that all perspectives were heard. As president, she knew her responsibility wasn't just to ensure the tournament ran smoothly, but also that everyone involved felt safe and fairly treated.

In the midst of the meeting, the door to the conference room opened quietly, drawing everyone's attention. A middle-aged man in a long black robe entered, his face familiar to everyone present. It was Director Emilia.

"Apologies for my lateness," Emilia said with an authoritative yet friendly tone. "I had some urgent matters to attend to first."

Everyone in the room gave their respects, and Sophia nodded in acknowledgment. "We were just discussing the security measures for the tournament, Director Emilia. There are some critical points we need to consider, especially regarding participants from outside the academy."

Emilia took her seat at the end of the table, surveying the room with a discerning gaze. "I've heard your concerns, and I agree that we must take extra precautions to ensure safety. However, let's not forget that this tournament is also an opportunity for us to showcase the strength and excellence of Axeris Academy to the outside world."

"Exactly," Lucien agreed. "But we must also be mindful of the risks involved. This tournament will be under a lot of scrutiny, and any mistake could have significant repercussions on the academy's reputation."

Emilia nodded slowly, as if she fully understood. "I understand, and that's why I'm entrusting Sophia and the student council to oversee all the preparations. I'm confident you can handle any challenges that may arise."

Sophia felt the heavy burden on her shoulders, but she also knew this was her chance to prove her capabilities. She wasn't just representing the student council; she was representing the entire academy. With the trust placed in her by Director Emilia, she felt more motivated to ensure everything went perfectly.

"We'll do our best, Director," Sophia said with determination.

The meeting continued with more detailed discussions about the tournament schedule, locations, and other technical preparations. Sophia remained focused, ensuring that every decision was based on careful analysis and consideration of all parties involved.

As the meeting neared its end, Director Emilia brought up a more specific topic. "There's one more thing I want to mention," she said, drawing everyone's attention. "I've received reports about certain mysterious groups that might be interested in this tournament. These are organizations with a special interest in magical powers, and they might try to influence the outcome of the tournament."

Emilia's words echoed in the room, creating a deep silence. Sophia could feel the tension rising, but she remained calm. "Are there any specific precautions we should take?" Sophia asked, trying to gauge the situation.

Emilia nodded. "I'll be working with the Supreme Council and the Intelligence Division to monitor any suspicious activity. However, I also expect you, especially the student council members, to stay vigilant. This tournament could be an opportunity for those who wish to disrupt the academy's stability."

Sophia and the other student council members nodded in agreement, fully understanding the importance of maintaining security and stability during the tournament. They all realized that they were in the middle of a larger power play, and that every step they took could have significant consequences.

With the final decisions made, the meeting was adjourned. Sophia stood up, feeling both exhausted and energized. She knew that great challenges lay ahead, but she was ready