Lily's flawless coordination, her elemental control, and her instinctive decision to shield Ray with her own body despite the weight and danger.
And Raziel Phoenix—
Staying behind.
Bleeding.
Fighting until the very end.
Protecting his comrade when retreat would have been easy.
The injuries felt real. The pain was real.
Yet he never ran.
The staff member had never seen such a performance from first-time entrants, especially not from children with only one or two soul rings.
Alfred stepped forward, his voice flat but absolute. "From today onward, you five are a mini battle squadron. Ray is captain. Raziel Phoenix is vice-captain. We're leaving."
He turned and walked toward the elevator.
The five students exchanged stunned looks.
Mini squadron?
Barbara lowered his head, shame burning in his chest. His earlier pride and ambition had been completely crushed.
Compared to Ray's strength, Lily's sacrifice, and Raziel Phoenix's resolve, his own actions felt painfully lacking.
