Life and death were matters of fate; wealth and rank were another story.
Sometimes, it was that simple.
After graduation, the members of the Elite Camp would no longer be raw recruits under Zephyr's protection. They would be Marines capable of standing on their own.
No one would have any reason to protect them. Each would face danger and survive one brush with death after another.
Only those who lived could keep moving forward.
"Come on, Ain. Don't worry so much about them." Zephyr smiled reassuringly. "They're my students. I believe they can handle this much."
But you don't even have the courage to tell them, do you?
Ain looked deeply at Zephyr but kept the words to herself.
"Let's go. It's about time." Zephyr picked up the coat beside him and slipped it on. "Vegapunk's time is precious. We shouldn't keep him waiting."
Cigarette in his mouth, Zephyr smiled as he picked up his prosthetic arm. "I hope this thing called Smash lives up to my expectations."
"Fleet Admiral Sengoku thinks so highly of him. If he's the one making it, there shouldn't be a problem."
Ain answered softly and followed Zephyr out of the office.
"Hey, Simon, isn't Zephyr supposed to teach his regular class today? Why haven't we heard anything yet?"
Today was another ranking-match day for the Elite Camp, as well as the day Zephyr gave one-on-one lessons. The camp members had finished their daily training early and gathered to wait in the Courtyard's largest Garden.
But!
Simon looked up at the setting sun. As if remembering something, a trace of sorrow crossed his eyes. "I don't think Teacher Zephyr is coming."
"What?!"
"He's not coming?!"
"What are you talking about, Simon?"
Everyone stared at Simon in shock, unable to believe him.
Teacher Zephyr wasn't coming?