The rebellion surged forward once more.
Unseen by most—but inevitable—the battlefield was already taking shape.
{Navy Headquarters}
The vast hall stood cold and silent.
High Dominion General Sol Vienna stood beside Virex De Montclair, her navy cloak fluttering gently.
Carved into its back, bold and merciless, were the words:
ABSOLUTE JUSTICE.
She glanced at him, her expression restrained.
"Why are you so harsh on Captain Otone?" Sol Vienna asked.
Virex didn't look at her. His voice remained calm, indifferent.
"He needs it. What do you expect me to say to a failure with no potential?"
Vienna let out a slow sigh.
"He's just nineteen. Don't put so much pressure on him."
Virex suddenly burst into laughter, sharp and echoing.
"That stone head of yours," he said mockingly, "never understands anything, does it?"
Vienna frowned slightly. "What are you talking about now?"
Virex finally turned toward her, eyes sharp.
"I have a simple question for you."
She raised a brow. "What is it, Mr. Virex?"
"Do you know how diamonds are made?"
Vienna blinked. "I… don't."
A grin crept across Virex's face.
"Diamonds," he said slowly, "are forged under unbearable pressure."
Vienna's eyes widened. "Huh? What do you mean?"
Virex's smile deepened, confident and cold.
"I know exactly what I'm doing. Don't interfere."
Vienna exhaled, looking away.
"As you say… Legendary Navy Soldier."
Virex laughed, a rare sound tinged with nostalgia.
"Don't remind me of my prime."
Vienna chuckled softly.
"You're right. My bad."
The hall fell silent once more.
Far away, the rebellion marched on—
and somewhere within that storm, a boy was being crushed into something far more dangerous than steel.