The applause for Master Oren had scarcely faded before another figure stepped into the circle.
Unlike the silver-haired elder, this man carried the vigor of a seasoned warrior still in his prime.
Broad shoulders strained against the sleeves of his dark training robes, and old scars crossed both forearms like faded rivers carved by steel.
His beard was neatly trimmed, his hair tied high behind his head, and three black blessed lines rested proudly upon his weathered face.
He could not have seen more than forty-five years of life.
His eyes, however, they belonged to a hunter.
He bowed first to Principal Athenok, then to Hawk. "My name is Master Baelor Fenris."
His voice carried easily through the silent courtyard. "I instruct the academy in the Nine Beast Scriptures.
A murmur rippled among the students.
Even those unfamiliar with martial arts had heard whispers of that school.
