Over a month had passed since Mevis’s abrupt departure.

The academy assigned Noa a new instructor.
Just like before, the teacher was a one-on-one mentor with a distinct personality—cold, stern, and commanding, much like Mevis. It was as if the academy deliberately chose someone similar, perhaps to provoke Noa’s dislike for that type of instructor.

The new teacher was equally skilled, yet they were not Mevis.

Despite the change, Noa dedicated herself fully to her training. Her discipline remained unwavering, as if she believed Mevis might be watching her from the shadows.

She caused no trouble for the new instructor and never questioned the academy’s decision to replace Mevis.

Day after day, Noa maintained her strict routine: eating, sleeping, spending time with her sisters, and training—relentlessly.

Her gaze, however, had grown quieter, more distant. Only in the company of her sisters did the faintest trace of a smile appear.