Chapter 15: The Trial Begins
A soft chime echoed from the bronze pocket watch resting on the bedside table.
7:02 a.m.
Noah opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling for a few quiet seconds before rolling out of bed. Sunlight filtered through the window, casting golden streaks across the wooden floor of his dormitory room—private, clean, and comfortably spacious, like everything else reserved for Class 1 students.
Today was the day.
The trial.
He moved with calm precision. A cold splash of water to the face. A quick shower. A light breakfast—just enough to keep him focused. Then came the familiar ritual: securing the belt, checking the sheath, and reaching for Kagetsume, his dark-bladed katana with the navy hilt.
As he buckled the weapon into place, his eyes fell on a sealed envelope atop the desk.
A letter.
From his mother.
He unfolded it carefully, the paper still smelling faintly of herbal tea and old wood.
"I received your letter. Wonderful news, Noah.