"Desist at once!"

Jerrod's bellow echoed through the halls. The guards at the main gate snapped to attention, suddenly aware of the King's presence.

Sindel was relieved for her husband's intervention. She feared that their daughter might do something unbecoming of a Princess - Kitana's hostility overpowering her courtly upbringing. Such things were far from her mind at the moment.

Words weren't enough to describe how much Kitana disliked the woman across from her. Of course, the disdain harbored by Tanya was mutual and intense.

Both backed away at Sindel's sudden interjection. This allowed her to relax her peace-making posture as she shuffled toward her husband. The Queen smiled at Jai despite the noticeable strain. He displayed a faint smirk, proud of his career and the work put into it.

If only Solomon could appreciate this accomplishment.

"What is the meaning of this bickering?" Jerrod questioned. "Kitana, Tanya; explain yourselves!"

"Why is she here?" Kitana demanded, quick to point an accusing finger at the yellow-clad Edenian. "Tanya is indefinitely forbidden to step foot on palace grounds."

Tanya crossed her arms. "Because that ban has finally ended. I'm returning to my obligation, a task you're barring me from."

Kitana's gaze narrowed. "Watch your tone with me."

"Maybe try not being hostile." Tanya refused to back down. "I'm not here to start trouble with you or anyone else."

"Your name's synonymous with trouble."

"Now, ladies. Act civil," Sindel intervened. "You both should know better."

They reluctantly ceased their actions as Tanya turned to the King and Queen with a respectful bow. "Your majesties."

Jai silently regarded one of the vainest women in all Edenia. He had become increasingly wary of Tanya's evolving behavior. No longer was she the misunderstood girl others perceived her to be. Before him now was a boastful, manipulative ambassador who rubbed other nobles the wrong way. Jai respected her newfound confidence though he wished she didn't demean fellow Edenians or political contemporaries. No one wanted to associate themselves with an individual filled with hubris and immaturity.

Especially when that person has eyes for you.

"Tanya," Jerrod started. "Though I'm generally pleased with your return, do not squander it by interrupting the peace of my day. Do I make myself clear?"

Gradually, the saffron garbed politician rose before nodding to show she understood the King wouldn't tolerate disturbances in his presence. "My apologies for my earlier actions against your daughter."

"That's Princess Kitana to you," the King commanded. "You'll address her in the same manner as my wife and I. Don't let this become a habit."

Tanya kept her tongue in cheek, lest she loses it because of another ill-timed retort. "As you wish."

She and Edenia's Princess never coexisted because of Kitana's popularity and intelligence. These were things Tanya had loathed. Regardless of her personal feelings, she must adhere and not risk another suspension period longer than the previous six-month ban.

Tanya's despondent body language changed instantly when her dark eyes fell upon Jai. Such an innocent facade made him uncomfortable as there was nothing virtuous about her intentions. Since they were children, Tanya had employed every underhand tactic to gain his attention. Jai kept a considerable distance away from her wolfish advances.

Vincent did everything he could as a single parent after his wife died of a mysterious disease. Tanya was a mere infant when Dee fell ill. Many citizens speculated if her death was correlated to their daughter's erratic behavior - a fair assessment.

"Hello there, Jai." Tanya's sultry voice rang as she circled her prey. "Or should I say, future Captain of the Knights?"

Jai dismissed her advances. "No result has taken place until tonight's gathering."

"Such modesty for a man of your stature is becoming mundane in this day and age."

That comment failed to go over well. Jai kept his composure, convinced the King or Queen wouldn't object if he showed any pretense of displeasure. Kitana silently wanted to see this harlot receive a dose of her own medicine.

"I see it as being humble. Never discount how lucky we are, Tanya. Others are not as fortunate," Jai cautioned.

His admonishment caused Tanya's eyes to roll in disinterest. "Sympathy never was a strong suit of mine. Peasants tend to forget they're where they are in life for a reason."

She ignored the royal family's hostile stares. "Don't tell me you feel an ounce of empathy for those less worthy."

Jai's arms crossed over his chest. "Your title has clouded your judgment. It isn't surprising with that shameful attitude."

"And here I thought becoming a Knight Officer wouldn't make you soft." Tanya scoffed. "I suppose those fogeys at the Academy have become sentimental in their old age." Her hand brushed a strand of lint attached to Jai's shirt, shifting upward against his arm. "Such a shame how limitless potential can be utterly misused thinking of others."

To the diplomat's mild surprise, Jai swatted her hand away in irritation. "What I choose to ponder on should not have any bearing on your behalf. You'd be wise to mind your business and not worry about what I concern myself with."

Another eerie smile donned Tanya's face. "Struck a nerve, have I? Maybe now you can show more personality than this faulty act. There's no need to hide the truth from me. Perhaps Rain can-"

"Do not finish that sentence," Jai ordered, his patience nearing the end of its rope. "Your beloved consort is an abomination to the crown. The fact you cater to his every whim is degrading."

Tanya regarded him with a stern glare. "Is that what you truly think of our Prince?"

"Not assume; it's what I know. Then again, I'm not surprised by the supposed affection of two heathens who take pleasure in belittling others."

Once again, a distrustful grin crept upon Tanya's mouth. She reached out and grazed the officer's cheek, lightly scratching his complexion.

"Rain may be handsome, but he pales compared to what I look for in a man. I prefer someone..." Her voice lowered to a whisper in Jai's ear. "Rough around the edges."

Jai caught Tanya's wrist in an iron grip with a speed and ferocity that shocked everyone. She failed to relinquish his tight grasp that restrained her blood flow, turning it into increasingly dark shades of red. A fruitless struggle ensued, the ruckus allowing Sindel and Jerrod an unnoticeable smirk.

Their daughter wished to share in their amusement but refrained from doing so. Surely, Jai did not want to deal with this rotten snake.

Kitana placed a hand on his shoulder. "Please release her, Jai. As much as this humors me, we must be on our way to the Academy."

Jai glared at Tanya and gave her wrist one last squeeze before releasing his grip. His hand left an imprint in her skin; nothing natural herbs couldn't heal. Tanya failed to hide her outrage at his offense.

There was no chance to voice her grievances as Jerrod insinuated himself between them. "Proceed to your meeting, Tanya. Don't let me hear you instigating more foolishness for the duration of your duties. Dismissed."

Deciding not to dig a deeper hole, Tanya did as instructed and turned on her heels. She looked over her shoulder and shot Kitana a dirty look.

"Say hello to dear Jade. I'll see that green wench at a later date."

Kitana ignored the snide comment. For now, it was enough for Tanya to vacate the area.

Jerrod motioned for a servant to retrieve an authorized excused note for his guest. The male aide returned with a scroll in hand and presented it to the King. "As promised, this seal will explain your absence to the Academy instructors should they question you."

Politely, Jai took the note and tucked it away in his bag. "My sincerest gratitude, my King."

Jerrod smiled. "We're looking forward to seeing you later tonight."

Jai felt a tug on his arm as Kitana whisked him away towards the exit. Her parents observed with a silent air of pride.

"Truly a marvel, isn't he?" Sindel inquired.

"Couldn't agree more, dear." Jerrod concurred. "You were correct in keeping him last, and he did not disappoint."

"Kiyana and Solomon did a marvelous job. I have no doubt Jai can develop into a fine leader." Sindel's eyes wandered to the adjacent hall. "Though I have a legitimate unease allowing Tanya back on palace grounds. I fear her behavior today will be an indication of future headaches."

Her husband's brows furrowed. "Tanya's pattern of misconduct is troubling, but I'll deal with her should it persist. Right now, we have urgent matters to address."

Edenia's King and Queen interlocked hands, walking in unison to their next order of business.

Wooded Forest:

Golden bands of light flooded the robust timber area thirty miles outside Edenia's capital. A soft breeze whisked through the grass and towering trees as its melody heralded the dawn. The damp earth's odor lingered from last night's storm on the forest floor. Various animals roamed the forest in a daily ritual akin to their human counterparts. Multitudes of birds glided in song and color from multiple branches, a chorus of chirps echoing amidst the peaceful environment. Squirrels scurried between the foliage in their search for acorns. Their ears were perked for signs of disruption.

It came in the form of footsteps.

Neither Jai nor Kitana endangered the animals on their trek to the Academy. The weight of Tanya's childish antics had worn on them as her altercation with Jai had left him in a foul mood. He preferred not to engage in those situations. As a rule, he only did so if the dilemma persisted. The Princess watched the way Jai carried himself. His pace was moderate as not to leave her lagging by a vast stretch on the beaten path. Wooden boards on the trail served as routes to various locations, their destination now a mile away.

Kitana's soft voice disrupted the lull. "Tanya hasn't changed."

"A gross understatement."

Jai's tone was anything but mellow. His visible discontent didn't faze Kitana. Her private thoughts were unimportant as she stayed close.

"I still can't fathom why my mother and father approved of her coming back so soon."

"It might have been for good behavior, but that's very unlikely."

Jai stopped as a baby fawn jumped in front of their path. Its eyes turned downward before pulling on a considerable grass bulk to chew on. It paid no heed to its gazing audience as it moved on.

A delicate hand landed on Jai's forearm. It was light enough that he didn't notice at first in Kitana's show of support.

"Don't let what happened earlier affect the rest of your day, Jai. Tanya's words are lies that don't reflect your true character."

The previous centuries never once eroded the pair's unwavering companionship. Jai always knew Kitana had grown to care for him protectively. So, her mild concern wasn't misplaced.

Jai showed a warm smile. "Thanks, Kitana. Glad to know you always have my back."

"And I always will."

Their walk into the plush ravine progressed, with the wildlife casting curious glances at the pair. Another ten minutes passed before Jai and Kitana reached the heart of the forest.

Awaiting them was nothing short of majestic.

The Knight Academy represented Edenia's will to fight and its everlasting resilience in the wake of adversity. Twelve facilities created a campus totaling fifteen square miles, ready to support the Kingdom if and when wartime commences. A stone wall four feet thick surrounded the outside perimeter.

Near the entrance was a wooden gate, the archer overseeing his post recognizing Jai and Kitana from afar.

"Princess Kitana has arrived! Lower the gate!"

Two soldiers began cranking their designated lever. The gears grinded and squeaked as the entryway lowered and hit the dirt with a ground-shaking thud. They found themselves greeted by a uniformed male Knight whose red badge attached to his breastplate stated he was an officer. Jai motioned for royalty to go first. This earned him a coy look from Kitana as she sauntered into the fortress.

"Welcome back to the Academy, Princess Kitana." Nassir politely bowed. "I trust you had a pleasant morning?"

"Not as pleasant as I would've liked," the blue garbed woman answered. "You may rise, Captain."

Doing so, Nassir noticed Jai. "You were accompanied by one of our very best, I see. I presume the meeting went well?"

Both nodded. Not too far from the trio, over forty men and women were training in unison, led by a lone demonstrator shouting instructions.

"Look who decided to visit," a velvet voice called out.

All three turned around. Heels clicked against the concrete walkway as a woman marched with a pervasive measure of confidence and spirit. Kitana couldn't help but smile while Nassir stood passive. Lost in the commotion, Jai failed to register any thought. It was impossible to stray away from this afforded sight.

Edenia's proud General strode effortlessly. Her flawless caramel complexion combined with a physique matched only by Kitana's. A vibrant green marred her entire: a revealing bikini-like top, loincloth, and sash between her legs, onyx leggings accentuating every curve. Fingerless gloves and arm guards accompanied black and emerald boots. Attached to her left waist was a gold badge that identified the Knights' leader. What was most captivating was the woman's waterfall hair bunched into a ponytail falling to the small of her back. A pair of piercing kelly eyes seamlessly matched her appearance and name.

Jade immersed herself within the small group as Nassir and Jai saluted their commanding officer. She reciprocated the action before facing her de facto sibling. "Good morning, your highness."

"No need for customs, Jade."

Kitana quietly noted Jai's longing glance after dropping his salute. "Hope I'm not intruding on the Knight's busy schedule."

"Today introduces a simple itinerary. Training for the newer recruits, school lectures around mid-day, and combat practice between our more advanced students. Nothing considered hectic."

The Princess nodded. "Duly noted. Mind if I shadow you to see these fresh faces?"

"By all means." Jade turned to Nassir. "Are all preparations ready for tonight?"

"I've notified all families of the banquet, and the attire required, General," her front-line supervisor reported. "I'll arrive at the capital an hour early to ensure everything is in place."

Jade replied, "Splendid work, Captain. You may return to your duties."

Rendering another salute, Nassir excused himself. He offered his fellow officer a congratulatory pat on the shoulder before leaving. Jai accepted the praise with a subtle nod and smile, his focus returning to each female as muteness filled the air.

Kitana sighed. She wished one of them would make a move instead of playing this useless cat and mouse game. Additionally, she wasn't afraid to take matters into her own hands if neither could find the courage.

"I'm sure you two have some things to discuss," Kitana said, turning from the training demonstration to her sister. "Come find me when you're ready, Jade."

The emerald woman nodded, leaving Kitana to examine the next generation of militia. So far, the future of Edenia's security looked promising but could use some refinement. Nothing that teaching couldn't tweak.

Jade and Jai openly stared at one another in comfortable silence. Various emotions were mixed between childhood friends. Working so close together did little to lessen the enormous degree of tension. Everyone suspected something was going on between each warrior - except themselves.

Jai ended the deafening stillness by clearing his throat. "Please forgive my lateness-"

"No," Jade unintentionally cut him off mid-sentence. "I mean... you have nothing to apologize for, Lieutenant. Excuse my lack of attentiveness. Am I to assume their private feedback was positive?"

A straightforward query.

Jade wasn't one to beat around the bush. She was far more than a pretty face with leadership qualities and a penchant for battle's thrilling appeal. Her blunt and direct methods were misunderstood by a few but revered by others. Those were the main reasons King Jerrod selected her as the third female General in Edenia's storied annals.

"They were quite satisfied with what I had to offer. I hope it's enough to warrant a promotion," Jai commented.

Reducing the distance between them, Jade kept her voice at a whisper. "I'd say you're more than deserving based on your performance over the past few months. Regardless of tonight's result, I'm very happy for you. The King and Queen's faith in your abilities is not of coincidence but honor. We haven't had a chance to catch up in quite some time. I want to change that this weekend over dinner."

Her proposal came as a mild astonishment. Yet, Jai was not opposed to such an invitation. He wouldn't dare turn down the chance to speak with her away from prying eyes. Who knows where this could lead.

'She'll never look at me that way. Though I shouldn't bypass her generosity,' Jai muttered internally, chastising himself for such thoughts. "If it's not too much trouble..."

Jade showed a dazzling smile. "Meet me here at sunset on Saturday, and we'll walk to my home."

She gave a playful wink to fluster him. "Don't be late."

Jai found himself in a stupor as Jade retreated to where Kitana stood. The woman who invaded his dreams and tugged his heartstrings had persuaded him to have dinner together - at her house no less. He couldn't linger for long after already being a half-hour late for the first of three classes.

Cursing inward, Jai sprinted to where the instruction took place.

Classroom:

"The definition of leadership has evolved in meaning and significance. Our ancestors protecting the motherland are no exception. Argus and Delia are the focal names we worship, but others deserve mention as helpers who ensure our protection. It's necessary to note all divinities share one quality; an oath of unwavering devotion towards Edenia."

This morning, Mariam's class consisted of twenty-five First Lieutenants attempting to join Edenia's upper echelon of warriors. Every cadet had to demonstrate their acumen in a rigorous curriculum and prove their mettle on the battlegrounds before the training instructors. These people transcended the rank and authority of their trainees. A sacred rule of respecting all regardless of status was a cooperative bind between both parties. No singular member was deemed more important to foster a united community.

Within the multitude of seats laid an empty desk, Mariam knowing who it belonged to. "Who can tell me the basic principle of leadership?"

Not one individual raised their hand, a regular pattern in this scheduled class's early stages. An audible sigh left Mariam at her students' lackluster eagerness, though her discontent vanished when the classroom door opened.

Jai had hastily changed into his uniform before entering with the scroll Jerrod gave him in hand. Instructors sought this item whenever an officer was late for a class or sparring session. Mariam stood as the most lenient, her soft-spoken personality sharply contrasting her male counterparts. She didn't mind as it came with the territory.

Wordlessly, Jai approached his mentor and presented the excused scroll. Mariam gently unfurled the paper, verifying his delay was legitimate after spotting him and Princess Kitana together.

"Thank you, Lieutenant." Mariam neatly rolled the document after finding no falseness. "Do you have your homework?"

She never worried whether Jai had her scheduled assignment completed on time with his unrivaled promptness. Her student pulled out three paper scraps etched with skillful penmanship. The homework fixated on how leaders must master followership at home and in war.

Mariam set his work on the pile situated at her desk corner. "You may sit. Turn to page 72 in your textbook."

Nodding, Jai made his way to his seat, well aware of the eyes on him. Yet the constant scrutiny never bothered him. He quietly sat down and lifted the desk cover to retrieve the morning lecture's reading material. While not a well-kept piece, Jai had maintained its palpable image.

Buried beneath the book were two neatly folded notes.

Jai glanced around to find who might have planted them, all eyes either on their written synopsis or the occupied chalkboard. He carefully plucked one of the anonymous notes before unfurling it.

'Safe to say you're a shoo-in for that promotion. We're meeting at the tavern for drinks after tonight's ceremony. You in?' - Samuel

Smiling, Jai turned left to see a fair-skinned male with auburn colored hair concentrating on the lesson. He took a moment to glance at his classmate. Jai pointed his thumb upward, confirming he'll join the group. The other note remained a mystery that drew more intrigue. Jai decided to store it in his pocket before flipping to the current page, grabbing some paper to jot down notes for studying later in the week.

Thoughts of what had transpired earlier crept into his mind, searching for an underlying intention for Jade to approach him in that manner. That wasn't to say Jai would complain about a free meal while chatting with a dear friend.

'Friend?' Jai repeated the word in his head.

He wasn't sure if that term best described their relationship as their careers had gone on divergent paths despite entering the Academy together. Jai inwardly admitted that adjusting to a stringent agenda wasn't easy.

Memories of their startling ascension came flooding back, Mariam's schooling going in one ear and out the other.

Circa 4500 years ago:

'Maybe I'm not cut out for this.'

Doubt registered in Jai's mind as he and 150 men and women gathered at the forest entryway. It was the finest selection of talent assembled. Every five years, a new class partook in numerous examinations. It was the chance to prove themselves worthy of joining the Edenia Knights. Over the previous four months, every aspiring Knight had undergone drastic changes in appearance and mannerisms. Such things were necessary to become part of Edenia's lethal fighting force. Physical exertion measured a mere fraction of what was expected in the line of duty.

King Jerrod kept his expectations straightforward: Have a decisive mindset and understand your "why."

Each recruit was supplied with basic necessities Training uniforms, sleeping quarters, three meals a day, sabbatical on the weekends, and adequate healthcare. It was a sensible exchange between parties.

Today was the final assessment to determine who graduated, earning either a Warrior Basic rank or commission into an officer before attending the Academy. The lucky few won't enjoy themselves for long. They would be granted only two recreational days before taking a three-hour boat voyage to the Knight's secretive compound. The prospect made Jai anxious. Although he held his own against all obstacles up to this point, the worst had yet to pass.

He gazed at the cross-legged crowd. They had been split into two groups by gender while awaiting further instruction. Most came from prestigious families and backgrounds. Competitive banter echoed as everyone used the last of their free time for the foreseeable future.

'It's too late to turn back and go home now,' Jai internalized.

That's why he took this chance; to prove himself worthy of serving.

Staying with his parents for most of his young adult life would not be wise. He did care for Kiyana and Solomon with every fiber in his being. They weren't perfect but loved their only child unconditionally.

Now was the time for Jai to stand on his own two feet.

He let his eyes wander toward the female group. Jai scanned the group for the woman responsible for convincing him to enlist. She wouldn't be hard to spot. They had spent more than enough time together before now.

Jai found her at the group's forefront.

Jade gave off a bored impression with her eyes alone. The chatter around her consisted of topics unrelated to anything imperative, mainly around boys. Such talk left her detached as she didn't engage much in it back at the palace. It was done only scarcely in the Princess's company. Jade felt immersed in the woods' familiar surroundings since they served as a second playground for her and Kitana away from the capital.

Their conversation leading up to this juncture took place three years ago. It was focused on life after finishing preparatory school as distinguished students. Jai honestly had no inkling or clue about what he should do for a living. Following Solomon into politics was out of the question. Working a regular job within the town didn't sound appealing either.

Meanwhile, Jade had more avenues at her disposal. She could become a teacher, work as a tactician under Queen Sindel, and many other outlets. Yet, she didn't want to venture too far from her companion and dismiss their friendship.

One night at a gathering inside the palace, Jade relayed to Jai about joining the Edenian Knights. He understood how much she honored her deceased father's sacrifice and supported her decision. It's what she said afterward that left him dismayed.

"You should join me. I don't want us to part, and this could be the opportunity you're looking for."

It was no secret Jade hoped to have him accompany her on this venture. Luckily for her, it didn't take much persuasion for Jai to accept but not without reservation. His father held nothing but disdain for the military, his reasons unknown despite courting Kiyana when she served.

Jai examined Jade's demeanor. 'Wonder if she even has butterflies. Probably not.'

His observation was one of reverence. He failed to hide a sense of awe whenever watching Jade from afar. She had exceeded all expectations by the end of three training weeks. Her skill, tenacity, and performance had received commending remarks from the Knights' cadres.

Other female recruits didn't share the same view.

They all saw Jade as a showoff who outperformed their best efforts to earn similar recognition. Most harbored envy within their hearts, but Jade paid them no mind. It wasn't her fault they couldn't keep up, after all.

"She has your focus, it seems."

Startled, Jai swung his head around to who caught him spacing out. His eyes fell upon a man around his age, sporting a wiry frame and a pale complexion.

Samuel and Jai's friendship rapidly blossomed during the initiation phase. In the ensuing days, Muhammed, Zane, and Titus would follow to form a quintet of tightly bonded friends.

Jai shrugged. "I wouldn't say that, per se."

"Sure, you obviously weren't admiring her." Samuel didn't buy the excuse.

"Whatever. Jade requested that I join her."

"I see. Why is that?"

Jai racked his brain for a plausible answer, knowing nothing about the Knights besides their sworn allegiance to safeguard Edenia. They prided themselves in professionalism as a pillar of excellence one should continually strive for.

"Still trying to figure that out. Part of me isn't sure if I'm even fit to become a soldier. I find myself sticking out like a sore thumb here," Jai responded. "It has more thrill than general labor, and Argus knows I refuse to involve myself in political affairs. Those meetings can bore one to tears."

Samuel gave a slight nod. "They sure can. Any idea how long you plan on serving?"

"Beats me. Probably long enough to find what I'm searching for."

His friend gave a cheeky elbow to Jai's ribs. "Don't search too hard. Your answer may be closer than you think."

"Trainees! Stand ready!" barked an authoritative voice.

Samuel unfolded his legs and snapped to his feet, grumbling under his breath. "There goes our day."

Everyone stood at attention side by side. No one dared to move a muscle. Jai saw two men and two women marching with purpose in his peripheral vision.

One of the males stood out from the rest.

The man towered over the vast majority with a black and silver armored uniform. He had a neatly trimmed goatee that coincided with his tan skin. His imposing presence loomed over everyone. An ivory badge above the left breastplate signified his authority. The aura surrounding this man led everyone to believe one thing...

This had to be Lennox, Captain of the Edenian Knights.

Lennox overlooked the assembly with both hands clasped behind his back. There were no dropouts because of injury or disciplinary issues – a first under his guidance. Pacing back and forth, Lennox scrutinized every face in attendance. The captain came to a stop in front of the two boys. The duo stared into the forest ahead as Lennox wordlessly gazed at Jai.

'Seems like I'm on his radar. Best to make a good first impression.'

Breaking eye contact, Captain Lennox spun around and continued his march.

"Men and women," he bellowed loud enough for all to hear. "Congratulations on reaching this plateau. You now stand at the threshold of becoming a warrior. Your decision to serve Edenia's Imperial army is commended with the highest honor."

He scanned for anyone not making eye contact, which no one dared to do.

"Should you surpass today's examination, you'll join our exclusive affiliation in protecting this land our Gods created."

Lennox paused as a mean smirk appeared. "I hope you're prepared for what lies ahead. We'll soon begin at the heart of the forest. Savor this last instance of freedom as rest will be a scarce commodity for those who make it. Dismissed."

Turning on his heels, Lennox vacated the area, followed by the triplet of officers. Both Jai and Samuel glanced at each other.

"This is it," Samuel said with an air of finality.

"You said it. Hope we make it out of here in one piece," Jai replied.

He glanced back at Jade, who seemed unfazed by what had just happened. Instead, a faint smirk was across her lips. Jai wasn't surprised as competition only boosted her passion and confidence. Whether it involved training, sports, or school, Jade strived to be the best. Compromise was never an option.

Samuel took note of his friend's stare. "At least one of us won't be distracted."

His comment fell on deaf ears. It wasn't hard for Jade to catch Jai staring in a trance, never feigning ignorance or looking elsewhere. Jai did well in the initial tests considering he was an exceptional athlete. However, lacking actual combat ability put him behind a steep learning curve. Any diversions during the elimination phase were detrimental, with no backup plan to fall back on.

The time to prove the doubters wrong was at hand.

"Lieutenant Jai?"

Jai's eyes flickered, his mind snapping back to reality as Mariam's question had gone unanswered. Now every set of eyes was fixed on him, wanting an explanation for his delayed response.

The past hour absorbing this lecture had disinterested Jai, but not solely due to the teaching subject. His mind had wandered elsewhere between Jade, the incident with Tanya, and other assorted issues.

"My apologies," Jai confessed. "Could you please repeat the question?"

Mariam's eyebrow raised slightly. "What is your understanding of leadership?"

"I view leadership in two ways. People with poor leadership skills rely more on demanding without putting in the work alongside those under them. Vice versa, leaders tend to use action and influence instead of words, a case of leading by example. Warriors are more inclined to follow someone pulling their own weight and not abusing their appointed authority."

"An excellent interpretation," Mariam lauded. "Moving on..."

Jai heaved a hushed breath, fortunate to give a tenable answer. He couldn't afford to space out again.

'Way too close for comfort.'

After another hour, a resounding gong chimed three times in the distance, signaling the class's end. Jai couldn't have asked for better timing. This morning had brought about eventful instances and nearly got him in trouble. Perhaps combat practice would help refocus his mind.

Everyone filtered out toward their next obligation, Jai reaching the exit with Samuel close behind.

"Lieutenant Jai, a moment of your time, please," Mariam called his name, prompting both boys to stop.

A bad feeling crept into Jai's heart. Not once did he ever become a distraction to any of the instructors. Yet there was always a first time for everything.

Samuel patted his shoulder. "I'll wait by the normal spot with the others."

He then disappeared out into the hallway.

Jai calmly approached the large desk as all of the class's homework stack occupied the desk's left corner. It would be graded later in the week, with Mariam attending the banquet tonight as an honored guest.

Mariam gestured to the seat in front of her. "Come, sit. You're not in trouble."

Jai let out a breath he didn't realize he had and did as she requested, setting his bag on the floor.

"I noticed you weren't particularly engaged as you normally are. Is all well?"

"Couldn't be any better, ma'am," Jai answered crisply. "Today has been quite eventful. I apologize as it's not becoming of me to do something like that."

Mariam merely smiled. "Your small infraction pales compared to what former students I've taught committed. Don't linger on easily correctable errors."

She regarded him momentarily. "Never did I think you would rise so quickly through the ranks. Advancement takes other officers more than double the time to reach this point."

"I try not to let that go to my head. It seemed only yesterday when I arrived here and questioned if I truly belonged."

"We all tend to ask ourselves how we fit into the grand scheme of things but miss out on the bigger picture. I speak from experience. Stop to smell the roses once in a while. Everyone is here only for a brief period."

"True."

"Anything else concerns you?"

Jai slowly shook his head. "Not at the moment."

"But you would tell me if that was the case, yes?"

Mariam's voice was firm in more or less an order disguised as a question.

"Without hesitation."

Mariam nodded. "Good. Always remember that my door's open. You may depart."

Jai stood up from his seat before bowing in respect. "My thanks."

He grabbed his bag and proceeded to the exit., but Mariam's voice halted him at the door.

"The General is quite the beauty, isn't she?"

Confusion knitted Jai's brows, unsure if he had heard her correctly. He turned around to find his teacher sporting a gentle smile, not one of ridicule. It was the first time he could remember seeing such a smirk.

"I'm afraid I don't follow."

"You may be able to fool everyone else, but you can't deceive me." Mariam stood up and began purging her chalkboard. "I've watched from afar as I've seen you become smitten with her. A friendship that hasn't diminished since your days in prep school."

Jai swallowed his surprise. His mind raced for a suitable answer, but none could be found. If not from physical force, Jai would've let his jaw plop unceremoniously onto the ground. How much did she actually know? Only Samuel and the others, possibly Kitana, perceived anything between him and Jade.

"I know more than you realize," Mariam continued before facing him. "The opportunity is there for the taking."

"But..." Jai's voice trailed off in doubt. "We're just friends, and she's my commanding officer."

"Who quite ironically feels the same. Though neither of you is willing to admit it aloud. Expressing yourself to someone you deeply care for is commendable and something that transcends social standing. You'll thank yourself later for doing so."

Mariam dismissively waved her hand. "Enough of my rambling. Go make the most of your day, Lieutenant. I will see you at the promotion ceremony."

All Jai could do was bow and exit, Mariam watching him leave until he was out of sight. She before turning to her desk. Her prized student was still in denial about the ordeal, but she had already spoken her peace. What she could hope was for everything to work out as she prepped for her next class.

'Here's hoping my advice spurs him on.'