The weeks following Alex's promotion brought changes beyond mere title. His quarters were relocated to the eastern wing of Éclair's headquarters—spaces traditionally reserved for officers of distinguished status. His training responsibilities expanded to include supervision of elite squads and tactical assessment of combat methodologies. His presence was requested at strategic planning sessions previously closed to those below senior rank.
Yet beneath this outward advancement, disquiet lingered.
Alex stood at the window of his new quarters, watching rain streak against glass as evening settled across the capital. Twenty-six days had passed since his unprecedented achievement. Four days remained until the recognition ball—the formal ceremony that would establish his swordmaster status before assembled nobility from across the continent.
~Your thinking grows circular,~ Pride observed within their shared consciousness. ~Repetitive consideration yields no new insight.~
