"However," Raymond shifted his tone, "after some dispute above, the plan was rejected."
Dispute.
Duke chewed over the word in his mind.
A dispute worthy of the term used by a Demigod Mage probably wasn't just a simple argument.
"There are many reasons for the rejection." Raymond's tone was as calm as if he were talking about the weather. "Some feel that this group of young people represents the future of the Wizard Plane and shouldn't bear such high risks so early. Others believe there should be a preliminary selection to weed out those who lack basic combat abilities before conducting high-intensity practical assessments. And some feel—"
He paused.
"Some have backgrounds that run deep; if anything were to happen to them, it would be problematic to explain."
His words were so blunt that everyone present was momentarily taken aback.
Then, some awkwardly looked away, some lowered their heads, and some lightly coughed.
Duke's face remained expressionless.
