The chief examiner slammed Hajin's inquiry docket onto the judicial bench while three senior evaluators watched him with open disapproval.
The appraisal rotunda smelled of stale ink, melting wax, and the suppressed agitation of six junior scribes.
"Contractor Hajin, your official record shows seven procedural infractions during the northern pass campaign," the chief examiner began.
"You failed to register auxiliary summons, bypassed quarantine protocols, and entered a classified sector without escort."
Hajin sat comfortably in the iron appraisal chair, resting his chin against his knuckles without showing the slightest concern.
His silver chain lay coiled neatly across his lap, its polished links catching the lamplight with a quiet gleam.
"If I waited for your quarantine paperwork, Commander Hans and three hundred spearmen would be monster fodder," he replied.
"I tend to prioritize saving lives over filling out requisition stamps in triplicate... wouldn't you agree?"
