The morning sun spilled over Celestia, casting long shadows across the academy grounds. Most students were already in the courtyard, practicing, laughing, or recovering from the previous day's chaos. But I wasn't focused on them.
A summons had arrived—not in parchment, but a golden thread of magic that gently coiled around my wrist, tugging me toward the highest tower.
By the time I reached the Council Chamber, the doors were already open. Inside, the familiar figures of the Student Council awaited: Aeron and Eryx standing tall, Lyra leaning against the railing with folded arms, Mira floating in the center, and Selene seated as always, calm and regal.
"You're early," Selene said softly, her golden eyes observing me like a mirror reflecting unknown truths. "Good. Punctuality is… necessary."
I bowed slightly. "I received your summon, Lady Selene."
She inclined her head. "You have contributed during the recent attack. Small, controlled, precise. Enough to prevent harm. That… does not go unnoticed."
Aeron stepped forward, lances glinting. "Your abilities are unusual for your age, Haru. Control, judgment, restraint… these are qualities most of our students never master, even after years here."
Eryx added, smirking faintly, "We've discussed it. It's time we consider letting you into our circle—not fully, not yet—but as an observer. To see, to learn, and… to prepare."
Lyra's violet eyes narrowed, crossing her arms. "You mean… he gets access to Council matters while we, the elite, remain outside?"
"Correct," Selene said, voice steady, threads of light weaving faintly around her fingers. "His nature is exceptional. Half angel, half demon. He may be the balance—or the contradiction—that this academy will need."
Mira floated closer, gentle as ever. "And he's aware of the danger, of course. This isn't a reward—it's an observation role. He must act carefully."
I remained quiet, absorbing the weight of their words. A part of me wanted to protest, to refuse. Another part—the smaller, sharper part—knew this was the opportunity I couldn't ignore.
Selene's gaze met mine directly. "Your first duty is to watch. Learn the workings of the Council. Observe the threads of fate, the currents of power. One day, you may need to act decisively. Until then…" She gestured lightly. "Stay close, but invisible where possible."
I nodded slowly. "Understood."
Aeron stepped back, voice clipped. "We'll brief you on past threats, tactics, and ongoing intelligence. Do not overstep, but do not hesitate if the situation demands it."
Eryx smirked faintly. "You'll find that observation alone is… more challenging than it seems."
Lyra glanced at me, expression unreadable. "Haru… this doesn't change the fact that in Class A, you still have to earn your place."
Mira offered a small, reassuring smile. "But you're not alone. Not entirely."
Selene's golden eyes lingered on me for a heartbeat longer. "The threads are already weaving around you. Sit. Listen. Learn. And above all… survive."
I lowered myself onto the edge of a raised platform, feeling the invisible weight of the Council's gaze and the responsibility pressing down.
Half angel. Half demon. Dangerous. Unstable.
But now, officially, part of the Chosen Five's orbit.