Aether's Stunning Announcement

Aether sat in his room, staring at the wall, contemplating the war that has just transpired. There was a knock at the door. "Enter."

William Mercury walked in, his coat flowing behind him. "You wanted to see me sir?"

"Yes," Aether rose to his feet, and turned to him. "And there's no need to call me sir all the time William, we're past that."

"You're right sir," said William. He smiled at his remark. "But old habits die hard."

Aether grinned as well. "Anyways, I have some important business to discuss with you.  The ordeal with the Legion Under the Black Sun had me thinking.  Dragon Slayers, like us, we need to protect the weak, just as we've always preached.  But I've been so busy with the guild lately that I can never act upon my beliefs."

"Where are you going with this Aether?" William asked, his tone more serious than before.

"I received an offer from the Magic Council to become a Rune Knight Captain, and I intend to take.  I'll be leading a squadron of Dragon Slayers, whose goal is to patrol Ishgar and dismantle dark guilds. Protect the weak as we've always said."

William was stunned. He looked at Aether, surprised. "But you love this guild.  You practically built it yourself.  Who will lead us?" William stopped for a second. "Do you intend to turn over the guild master position to Miriam permanently?"

"No," interjected Aether. "Although her tenor as guild master was adequate during my time captured by the Bellona Alliance, she's a bit too soft.  Likewise, Theia is too eager to please.  Sykushi has not yet fully mastered his power, and Kyshira more so follows his lead. Which leads me to my best option to take over the mantle of guild master.  You William."

William was shocked. He couldn't speak.

"Ordinarily the teacher passes on their role to the student," chuckled Aether. "But right now, we'll have to make an exception."

"Are you sure about this?" asked William.

"Yes, I've never been more sure."

William sighed. "Alright, I'll accept this title.  But I still expect to see you again."

"Of course, don't you always keep in contact with your students?" Aether smiled, and William smiled back. "I'll be making the announcement soon."

"You'll be missed Aether."

"I know."