Chapter 101: Shadows Under the Academy ( 1)
The next morning dawned unusually quiet in the Academy. Michael sat behind the desk in the newly refurbished Disciplinary Committee office, papers stacked like small towers to either side.
The smell of fresh ink clung to the room, mixing with the faint scent of polished wood.
For the first time since his appointment, he felt the real weight of authority pressing against his shoulders not the thrill of elections or debates, but the dull, relentless responsibility of order.
"Ugh," he muttered, rubbing his temple as he stared at the endless forms.
"Student conduct reports, violation slips, mana-use permits… this is more punishing than any dungeon."
Maria, seated opposite him, smirked over the rim of her teacup. "That's because you're trying to do it all at once, Michael. Paperwork requires patience. And neat handwriting."
He shot her a look. "Are you saying my handwriting isn't neat?"
