Chapter 17: Graduation
**Narrator:** "As the echoes of the academy's final battle faded away, Synoh emerged as the crowned champion, securing his position as the best student in the knight academy. With this honor came the opportunity to join the prestigious knight division, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his journey."
**Narrator:** As the day of graduation arrived, the academy buzzed with excitement and anticipation. Students adorned in their finest attire gathered in the grand hall, ready to bid farewell to their alma mater and embark on the next chapter of their lives.
**Narrator:** Synoh and Lux stood tall at the forefront, their achievements celebrated by their peers and mentors alike. Irina, their mentor and guide, beamed with pride as she addressed the graduating class, her words filled with hope and encouragement for the future.
**Irina:** "Today, we honor the achievements of two remarkable individuals, Synoh and Lux. Your dedication, perseverance, and unwavering spirit have set you apart as the best knights in the academy. As you step into the knight division, know that the challenges you face will be great, but so too will be the rewards. I have every confidence that you will rise to the occasion and reach even greater heights."
**Narrator:** Irina's words resonated with the graduating students, filling them with a sense of purpose and determination. Yet, amidst the celebration, a somber moment unfolded as Yuta, Emily, and Marcus approached their mentor with a confession.
**Yuta:** "Irina, we have something to tell you. We've decided to forego the path of knighthood and pursue a different journey."
**Emily:** "We hope you can understand our decision. It wasn't an easy choice, but we feel called to explore the world beyond the academy's walls."
**Marcus:** "We promise to make you proud, even if our paths diverge from those of knights."
**Irina:** "At first, I admit, I was taken aback. But I understand that each of you has your own dreams and aspirations. If this is what you truly desire, then I support your decision wholeheartedly. Remember, greatness comes in many forms, and I have no doubt that you will find success in whatever path you choose."
**Narrator:** Edward, observing the exchange from a distance, felt a tug at his heartstrings. His own aspirations lay not in the path of knighthood, but in the pursuit of nobility and prestige.
**Edward:** "Irina, I too have made a decision. I no longer wish to pursue knighthood. Instead, I want to focus on becoming a respected and honorable noble, worthy of my family's legacy."
**Irina:** "Edward, your determination and ambition are commendable. Follow your heart, and may you find fulfillment in your endeavors."
**Narrator:** As the ceremony drew to a close, Synoh and Lux found a moment alone amidst the festivities. Their friendship, forged through countless trials and challenges, had weathered the test of time.
**Synoh:** "Lux, our journey together has been nothing short of extraordinary. From rivals to comrades, we've shared victories and defeats, laughter and tears."
**Lux:** "Indeed, Synoh. Our bond transcends the confines of the academy. No matter where our paths may lead, know that you will always have a friend in me."
**Narrator:** With a shared understanding and a renewed sense of camaraderie, Synoh and Lux embraced the future that awaited them, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead with unwavering resolve and unbreakable friendship.