Chapter 19: Strange Charm
He hated all that nonsense that came with politics and had absolutely no interests in the factions and their conflicts. Those in the light faction would do nothing but constantly try to claim more and more power for themselves, no matter what it took and no matter how dark the means they had to use to get it. anything could be done to seize more power in a place like Imperial academy, there were no eternal allies or enemies, only eternal benefits and if you were no longer useful or got in the way of their benefits, you would be disposed of.
As for Omega academy, Drake had nothing against the military; it's just that he was not in the mood for those long term commitments. If he went to omega and didn't end up joining the military people would start looking at him like he was some kind ungrateful traitor, so he couldn't go there. From where he stood, Alpha academy was starting to look like the best choice for him. You can train there under some of the best conditions in the empire and graduate while still retaining your freedom? That was right up his alley.
Seeing Drake pondering in silence, Anna decided it was time and said, "I have a proposal for you!"
Drake's curiosity was instantly stoked, and she had his attention. "I'm listening."
"I want to invite you to join Obsidian Palace and enter Alpha academy." She hastily added when she saw noticed a slight change in his expression." Before you say anything, I want you to hear me out first."
He nodded for her to continue. 'Let's see what she's selling.' He thought.
"You will only be joining us as an honorary member. In exchange, you will receive Obsidian Palace's full support getting a salary at the end of every month and a membership discount on every purchase you make in any branch of the palace. As an honorary member you don't have any particular responsibilities or obligations and you don't necessarily have to wear our name on you wherever you go. You can also choose whether or not you want to carry out any mission given by the palace."
"All I hear is benefits, but what's the catch? What do you have to gain from this?"
"Obsidian Palace will not force you to do anything against your will. After you graduate you must do three things for Obsidian Palace as long as it does not go against your conscience and protect the palace from outside threats for five years. Once your five years is up, our contract with you will become null and you can leave if you so wish. If you choose to remain with us though, then we can sign a new contract after going over our terms."