People in the room exchanged glances. No one spoke right away, but the doubt and fear were clear on their faces. Some of them let out soft breaths, trying to calm themselves before one of them finally spoke."We have always wanted to report the truth," Emma admitted softly. "That's why we became journalists, to deliver facts as they are, not a narrative shaped by others."Daniel held his chin with his hands. "But on the other hand, we also know the risks. The deeper we dig, the more threats appear."Sophia looked down at the table. "Back then, when we tried to expose certain things, we often received threats. Anonymous warnings, surveillance, even attempts to ruin our reputation."Eric let out a small laugh, but there was no humor in it. "When I think about it now, it feels like a miracle we're still alive. We survived too many things that should've been, impossible to escape."Callen suddenly let out a soft laugh."You survived not without a reason," he explained casually. "I have pe

Callen arrived at the pavilion with May, Ivy, and Lily. May stopped in front of a large wooden door with fine carvings."Mr. Callen, you can go in by yourself," she said. "Mrs. Ivy and Lily will wait in another room with me, I'll explain about life in the academy."Ivy nodded even though she still looked a bit worried. Lily held her hand, then looked at Callen. "Dad, be quick, okay!"Callen gave a short nod before stepping into the pavilion.Inside, the atmosphere was calm and felt different from outside. The pavilion was designed in a classic style, the floor was made of dark polished wood, and in the center, there was a low table with seat cushions around it. The windows were wide open facing the garden, and a gentle breeze came in carrying a soft herbal scent.At the end of the room, an old man sat on a cushion, his posture straight. His hair was pure white, his face filled with lines of age. Yet, his gaze was full of charisma that was hard to ignore.Reginald.Callen stepped close

Callen took a deep breath, then looked at Henrietta with firm resolve. "I agree. I'll do whatever it takes to enter the academy and become a soldier!"Henrietta didn't answer right away. She only looked at him for a moment, sensing the anger and hatred stirring inside the boy. But behind that, she also felt something else, something deeper and more dangerous."Alright," she finally said. "Then follow me."Without many words, she turned and walked into the city. Callen followed behind, his steps quick but controlled, as if he didn't want to lose that chance even a little.Not long after, they arrived at the Brixton Academy area. A large building stood tall, filled with an aura of discipline and strength that could be felt even from afar.There, a girl stood straight, then immediately saluted when she saw Henrietta. "Greetings, Supreme General," she said clearly.Henrietta gave a light nod. "Rosalin," she replied shortly.Rosalin then glanced at Callen. "Who is this child?" she asked, h

The next day, Callen came to an elegant restaurant in Avenfall. William was already sitting with Camila and Ivy at the table.As Callen approached, William stood up and greeted him politely."Callen, I've heard from Camila," William said while shaking his hand. "She said you have good intentions toward Ivy." He looked at him seriously. "As a father, I want to make sure my daughter is in the right hands."Callen nodded before sitting down. "My intention is clear. I like Ivy, and I want to build something serious with her."Ivy, who had been silent, lowered her head, but she stole glances at Callen from time to time. Her eyes quickly looked away every time he turned. The atmosphere at the table felt awkward but warm."Is that why you often came to our booth," Ivy finally asked in a soft voice. "I saw you a few times, but I never really knew why."Callen gave a small smile. "Yeah," he answered honestly. "I really came because of that."Ivy suddenly pretended to cough softly while coverin

"Callen!" someone shouted. "Hold on."But he couldn't respond. His body finally fell to the ground.The world around him faded. He couldn't see clearly, couldn't hear properly. Everything felt far and unclear.It was like he lost contact with the world. Until suddenly, his awareness returned little by little.Callen's vision slowly focused. In front of him, an old blond-haired man was bending down, his hands moving to treat his wounds. The man smiled casually, as if the situation around them wasn't urgent."Ah, you're finally awake," he said.Callen looked at him weakly."This treatment isn't just healing external wounds," Callen praised, his voice still hoarse. "You even repaired my energy flow and stabilized my core. This isn't a normal ability, not even for a military doctor. Who are you?"The man smiled wider. "I'm Ronan Parker, the best doctor in the Valdera Empire."Callen frowned, then he remembered something. "Weren't you banned from practicing a long time ago because you kept