Disbelief warred with indignation. Was Celeestia truly casting me adrift on such a perilous mission? Had my efforts to help them, to save their commander, meant so little? Just when I thought things were looking up, fate, it seemed, had other plans.
Seeking clarification, I requested a private audience with Celeestia. It was during this tense exchange that the truth became agonizingly clear: there was no escaping this mission. It wasn't a request; it was an elegantly veiled order.
"Zephyr," she began, her voice laced with a subtle yet undeniable authority, "there's simply no alternative. You are, for all intents and purposes, a soldier in our army. Undertaking missions is an inherent part of your duty." Her eyes hardened. "Besides, you must honor your agreement. Or would you prefer your friends be expelled from our magic academy?"
