The clash with the Gnawlings ended quicker than Oliver expected. Jason's group handled the brunt of it, with Daniel easily cutting down anything that tried to slip past. Amy's magic bolts pierced through their jerking bodies, while Alice's holy light incinerated the few that broke formation. By the time Shizuka's crackling lightning spell went off with a loud snap, there were barely any enemies left to fry.
Captain Samuel raised his gauntleted hand.
"Good. That's what I expect. Keep your heads steady. Next time, rotate the vanguard. Everyone needs battle experience."
His calm, steady tone was more effective than shouting. The students, who moments ago had been buzzing with excitement at their first "real" kill, quickly sobered up. The knights exchanged nods but kept silent. They had seen this countless times before—newcomers thrilled at crushing weak dungeon fodder, forgetting that deeper levels held far more dangerous things.
