Elius reached forward to take his ID, his fingers brushing against the still-warm plastic card when the old man raised a hand, halting him mid-motion.
"Wait," the old man asked, his tone lighter now, almost teasing. "You still want to take those ten subjects?"
Elius blinked. "No need," he said casually. "Just the fighting class, saving, and mission."
The old man's bushy eyebrows arched, but he didn't argue. "Three, huh? Streamlined and practical." He tapped the desk with a knuckle. "You can change them later anyway. Just let the administrative console know before the week's over."
Elius nodded, taking the ID and tucking it into his coat. He offered a short bow. "Thanks."
"Yeah," the old man muttered, leaning back into his chair with a creak. "Goodbye then… unless, well, it's the last time."
The words hit like a hidden spear.
Elius paused, halfway turned toward the door. He glanced back—but didn't reply. There was nothing to say.
He walked out in silence.
