"If this goes on and on… we'll be forced to take drastic action. Something must be done."
A heavy silence followed.
His eyes then turned sharply toward one person in the room.
"Yulia, where were you when our students were in danger?" he asked.
Professor Yulia sat stiffly in her chair. Her shoulders trembled slightly as she stood up and bowed her head.
"I… I failed in my duty as their guide," she said quietly.
"I take full responsibility. If needed, I'm willing to resign. I deserve to be expelled from this position."
A murmur spread across the room.
The Head of the Department raised his hand.
"There's no need for that, Yulia," he said firmly.
"We are all responsible. None of us predicted this attack. Don't blame yourself alone."
Another professor, older and dressed in deep blue robes, leaned forward.
"Regardless, we must report this to the Royal Government," he said.
"This is no longer an internal matter. The academy's reputation is at risk."
