Chapter 70: A lost dream

The day after the conclusion of the second stage of the recruitment exams, the atmosphere in Kate's office was tense. Kate and the dull man sat opposite each other, their expressions serious. A chessboard lay between them, with only a few pieces left. Both were so engrossed in the game that the room felt stifling.

"Hmm," the dull man muttered, rubbing his hand as he scrutinized the board intently. After a moment, he moved a single piece. Kate watched him closely, then picked up a piece and placed it deliberately in another square.

"Checkmate," she announced with a smile.

"Nnrrgh, another loss!" he grumbled, frustration clear in his voice.

"Hmph… you're not cut out for a game like this. You left your king exposed and defenseless. In a game like this, only the king matters," Kate said, standing up and stretching. She walked over to the window, gazing out at the sky, which was painted in orange hues by the setting sun.