The equipment preparation area was functional rather than grand—a large room filled with weapon racks, armor storage, medical supplies, and quiet spaces for mental preparation.
Bright claimed a bench near the center, beginning systematic check of his fused katana. The blade had served him through Clear Light's Eve, through the convoy journey, through countless smaller encounters. It deserved attention, maintenance,and respect.
Duncan settled nearby, his Bone Guard ability activating partially—defensive reflex that had become automatic, that maintained minimal protection even during rest.
"Sixty," Duncan said quietly, still processing his barely-passing score. "One point above failure."
"But you got that point," Bright replied. "You demonstrated enough knowledge. Proved you're educatable even if your foundation is weaker than those noble-trained candidates."
