True God In Another World (Tensura x Tbate)

Chapter 61 - Tension Rising

Arthur Leywin POV

Ri's hand trembled as he knocked twice on the director's imposing oak door. The polished wood gleamed under the hallway's soft lighting, making the intricate carvings of magical creatures dance before their eyes.

Not even a second passed before Principal Goodsky's soft voice floated through. "Yes, come in."

As Claire pushed the door open, I noticed her shoulders tense. The morning light flooding the room momentarily blinded us, streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows that offered a breathtaking view of the academy grounds. As our eyes adjusted, I saw Claire freeze mid-step, her breath catching audibly. Following her gaze, my own heart skipped a beat as I understood why.

The director sat behind a massive desk of deep mahogany, its surface covered in neat stacks of parchment and glowing magical artifacts. She was facing two familiar figures, her classic wizard-conjuring robes shimmering with subtle enchantments. She'd removed her pointy hat, revealing her silver hair tied in an elegant bun, and she gave us a friendly smile that didn't quite hide the concern in her eyes.

Big sis Alea, and Bairon Wykes turned to us, their signature white outfits with a red ribbon running across their chest adding to their elegance and strength. The light glinted off their badges, marking them as Lances - the elite of the elite. My mind raced, trying to piece together why they were here.

Claire's grip on my arm tightened, her fingers digging into my skin. I could feel her practically vibrating with emotion as she whispered, her voice a mix of awe and disbelief, "I-It's the lance Bairon and the lance Alea! In person!"

Gently, I pried her hands off me, giving her an understanding smile. When I looked up, I caught Alea's eye. She gave us a sweet smile and a little wave, which only seemed to make Claire more starstruck.

"Oh my gosh, oh my gosh," Claire muttered under her breath, her face flushing a deep red. "They're even more impressive in person!"

The director cleared her throat, drawing attention back to her. "These three students are members of the Disciplinary Committee. And some of the most promising mages this generation has to offer," she said, her tone proud as she introduced us, though her words were more directed at Lance Bairon.

Bairon's piercing gaze swept over us, his expression unreadable. I felt a bead of sweat trickle down my back under his scrutiny.

Claire fidgeted beside me, her hands twisting the hem of her shirt. "Um..." she started, her voice barely above a whisper. She took a deep breath, squared her shoulders, and tried again. "It's nice to meet you, sir, ma'am! M-my dream is to one day become a lance!"

Alea's smile widened at Claire's words, her eyes softening with encouragement. "That's a noble goal," she said, her voice melodious and kind. "Keep working hard, and who knows? We might be colleagues someday."

Claire's eyes widened, and I could practically see stars in them. "R-really? You think so?" she stammered, her voice cracking with emotion.

Bairon, however, seemed unimpressed. He turned to the director, his voice curt. "As I was saying, please make the appropriate measures as soon as possible. We can't afford any... distractions."

The tension in the room thickened at his words, and I found myself wondering what exactly they had been discussing before we arrived.

The director nodded with a smile and dismissed the two Lances. As they prepared to leave, Claire's excitement turned to panic. She looked like she wanted to say more but couldn't find the words. Alea paused as she passed us, placing a gentle hand on Claire's shoulder. "I will be rooting for you," she said softly.