The academy's medical bay bustled with activity as students, faculty, and even a few reporters crowded around the victorious first-year team.
The white curtains that typically separated the treatment stalls had been pushed aside to accommodate the celebration, transforming the environment into something resembling a reception hall.
Francine Evalina Aureus moved through the crowd with practiced grace, her smile radiant as she acknowledged each person who approached her.
Despite not participating in the match herself, she was receiving nearly as much attention as the actual combatants—the mastermind behind the historic victory.
"Your strategy was brilliant," Professor Riggs Bourne told her, his weathered face creased with genuine admiration.
"Positioning Kaelen as your primary offensive force while keeping Elenore as flag-bearer... inspired choices."
"Thank you, Professor," Francine replied with perfectly calibrated modesty.
