"Okay, class. Attention."
Instructor Samantha entered, her posture straight, expression unreadable. Her usual strictness was still there, but there was a heaviness in her voice — a rare softness that wasn't often seen from her.
Everyone straightened in their seats.
"I know everyone's feeling down after what happened," she began, her eyes scanning the room. "And I understand. It wasn't easy — for any of us."
Her tone was calm, but firm. "However, you can't stay like this forever. You're knights. You're mages. You're soldiers in training. And the truth is…" she paused, letting her words sink in, "this is what the real world looks like."
No one spoke. A few students shifted uncomfortably.
"Demons aren't bedtime stories. They're real. They're ruthless. And they're only one of many things you'll face after graduation."
