Leon stepped out of the council chamber with slumped shoulders and a weary sigh. His feet were more heavier than when he had first walked through the doors. He could still hear the whispers about him in the corridors. His torn cloth swayed loosely, exposing the markings on his body. Unlike yesterday, it had only recently faded beneath his skin. He let out a bitter chuckle. At the very least, the council could have allowed him keep what little dignity he had left.He lowered his head and continued walking. Today’s ridicule felt different. He wouldn’t have cared much if it was directed to him. At least, he had endured much in the hands of the noble trainees and the instructors. But to think someone like Commander Gareth would be treated that way in the council made him feel hatred toward all of them in the chamber.He had watched the exchange that took place in disbelief. Commander Gareth is one of the kingdom’s best mage, and everyone knows he should have taken a seat amongst the seve