On the high table, the middle-aged man in a black uniform looked down at the cadets seated below. Four golden stars gleamed on each epaulette, while a flaming red heart was displayed on the collar tabs. He was clean-shaven, with a sharp jawline, pale skin flushed with a faint redness, and long, reddish-white hair flowing behind his neck. A powerful aura seemed to radiate from him, pressing upon all around.
"Fire Dragon," Eleanor whispered under her breath.
Two protectors stood to his right and three officials to his left. His piercing gaze swept across the entire dining hall, and for a moment it seemed as though everyone forgot how to breathe.
Then the man spoke. His voice boomed and echoed through the hall. "I am General Maximilian Veers, commanding officer of the Academy's security force. I will be overseeing your discipline this term. I am also the officer in charge of this dining hall. We shall be seeing one another a lot."
