In a mansion that looked more like a castle, a young boy grimaced as he swallowed a bitter medicine—the same one he took every day without fail.
"Onix, now that you've taken your medicine, please cast the spell twice. After that, we'll move on to physical training," said his uncle, Emanoel Clairus.
"Understood."
At just 10 years old, Onix Clairus began training despite the risks. Though it was usually discouraged for children his age, the family had made its intentions clear—Onix had no other choice. If he couldn't develop his core during these formative years, he would never catch up to his siblings.
"Uahhh..."
Onix gagged, his face pale as the bitter concoction fought its way back up.
"Onix, you can't vomit the medicine. It's essential for your safety in this practice."
"I'm sorry, Uncle Emanoel."
Emanoel sighed, rubbing his temple as if Onix's existence alone gave him a headache.
"I'll request more from the maids, but keep in mind that it's a costly medicine. You can't afford to waste it."
"Yes, sir. I understand."
His uncle's words were a familiar mantra by now, a reminder of his position in the family—one without talent, without favor, and far down the line of succession.
"Remember, Onix: you aren't like your brothers. They are talented, and you... are not. You have no natural advantages. The only path left for you is to gain power—by any means available."
"Yes, Uncle Emanoel," Onix whispered, more to himself than to his uncle.
Emanoel trained him a few times a week, just enough to fulfill his obligation. And to mitigate the dangers of expanding Onix's unstable core, the family provided elixirs—but even those were given begrudgingly. Accidents were common among children in this practice, but the elixirs reduced the risk—at least, theoretically.
"Go to your room now and review this week's lessons."
"Yes, sir."
After hours of grueling physical training, Onix dragged his tired body back to his room. As he walked through the mansion's grand halls, the maids greeted him politely, though always from a distance. Respectful yet cold. He was, after all, a son of the house, even if he held little value to the family.
When Onix reached his door, he hesitated. Through the thick wood, he heard voices from inside—maids who hadn't yet finished cleaning.
"Is it true? Is young Onix being sent to the secondary residence?"
"Yes. His performance has disappointed the patriarch. They're planning to remove him from the main house."
"Poor child... It's so cruel, isn't it? I heard he wasn't even supposed to be undergoing this training."
"Yes, but that's just how things work here. If you're not at the top, you're discarded. With so many of his siblings excelling, there's no room for failure."
"I heard his older sister reached Silver 1 by the time she was eighteen. I can't imagine how hard it must be for young Onix."
"Yes... it's as if all the talent in the family skipped him entirely."
Talent. Always about talent.
The same word, the same judgment, over and over again.
Onix clenched his fists, a flicker of frustration rising within him. He pushed the door open, and the two maids straightened immediately, bowing as they noticed him.
"Good afternoon, young master. Your training ended earlier than we expected. We were just finishing the cleaning."
"It's good enough. You can leave."
"Yes, sir."
The maids hurriedly gathered their things and left the room, closing the door behind them.
Left alone, Onix sat down on the edge of his bed, his thoughts swirling in a familiar storm.
I wasn't born with talent. I never had a chance at succession. They've already removed me from the main line. And marriage? Forget it. No one from the family branches would ever consider me—talent breeds talent, and I have none.
If I want to remain a Clairus... If I want to make my parents proud... I only have one path left.
War.
That's my only way forward. If I gain recognition on the battlefield, maybe... just maybe, I'll still have some use to them even though I'm just a puppet for them to use, I can still bring honor to my family in the war.
The bitter thought settled in his mind like a stone. Every day, Onix trained and studied. Even though it wasn't recommended at his age, he cast spells three times a week to expand his core. The only support his family offered came in the form of those wretched elixirs, just enough to prevent an accident.
It had been three years since Onix last saw his parents. His mother refused to meet with him, saying she didn't have the time. His father was even more direct: You aren't valuable enough to warrant my attention.
Onix's siblings, by contrast, were lauded for their early achievements. In noble families like his, developing a magical affinity before the age of ten was seen as a mark of brilliance. His sister, the prodigy, had manifested her affinity at just eight years old. Compared to them, Onix was a failure—a child without promise.
The only family member who paid him any attention was his uncle, Emanoel. But even that was an obligation, a chore rather than care.
And so Onix pushed himself harder, casting spells every day, even without elixirs, desperate to force his core to grow. The dangerous training paid off—by eleven, he was on the verge of reaching Bronze 2. For the first time in his life, his uncle offered a rare word of praise.
"Well... it seems the training is starting to bear fruit."
For the first time, Onix felt something close to happiness. The smallest flicker of pride.
But it was short-lived.
Driven by that fleeting praise, Onix intensified his training again. He cast spells beyond his limit, pushing himself harder than ever—until the accident happened.
"AHHHHHHH!"
A scream tore from his throat, sharp and desperate.
Maids rushed to the training yard, finding Onix writhing on the ground, tears streaming down his face as pain wracked his body.
It had only been a matter of time. Overusing magic at such a young age had finally shattered his core.
Thanks to the family's resources, they were able to save his ability to use magic. But the damage was done—his core would never reach higher levels. He was permanently stunted, destined to remain limited for the rest of his life.
Another door slammed shut in his face.
Is this... what it means to live without talent?
He lay on the cold ground, clutching his chest as tears mixed with the dirt beneath him.
Now... I am nothing.
Just a puppet with broken strings.
A puppet... that can't even be used anymore.
"AHH!"
Panting, Onix stares at the ceiling of his room at Asteris Academy, his body drenched in sweat.
Again, that damn dream...
He groggily gets up, slips into a simple outfit, and heads toward the academy's training grounds. The sky above is a blanket of stars, the stillness of 3 a.m. wrapping the campus in silence. At Asteris, the training grounds remain open around the clock, giving students the freedom to train whenever they desire. Upon arrival, Onix begins launching fire spells of varying intensities.
That man said that it isn't enough to just pour more magic into the spell. Even for fire magic, where simple adding more mana can increase the destructive force, it's not enough. For me, simple will never be enough.
After casting several spells, Onix slumps to the ground, panting heavily.
"My core still hasn't fully recovered from yesterday's training... I really don't recover as fast as the others because of this damage."
"Training at this hour? Well, I guess in your case I can understand the desperation."
"Hmm?"
Onix turns toward the familiar voice. Standing there is a boy with gray hair and red eyes—almost identical to Onix's face, but older and colder.
"Brother Csezar..."
Csezar stares at him with disdain, prompting Onix to immediately bow in greeting.
"You're still trying, Onix? We warned you not to enroll here, but Father granted permission anyway—just to get rid of you."
"I'll prove my worth here."
"You won't. You'll just disgrace the family name. Sure, you probably impressed a few people with your current rank, but how long do you think that will last? You used every elixir at your disposal to reach Bronze 2 despite your broken core. From this point on, it's impossible for you."
"I'll find a way—"
"Don't interrupt me, you worthless brat."
"Sorry, brother."
"Do you know what's going to happen next? Your classmates will surpass you soon. Then, they'll laugh at you. And when that happens, you'll drag the Clairus name down with you. Give up, Onix. Accept that you're nothing but a failure. This is how the world works—some are born with talent, and some aren't. You don't have the right to walk the Clairus path."
Talent... The path... Again. Another path taken from me. I'll lose it all again, with no place left to go.
What is your goal?
Onix remembers the question that Yukiko had asked every student.
Why are you here? To train for seven years, just to die in a stupid war?
A stupid war... If only he knew how much I crave that stupid reason. If only he knew what I would give for the chance to die in that war—as a Clairus.
"Please... let me continue trying, brother Csezar. I beg you."
Onix lowers his head to the ground, pleading.
"This pathetic groveling of yours—it's revolting."
Csezar steps forward and kicks Onix in the stomach, sending him sprawling five meters away. Gasping for breath, Onix coughs up blood onto the dirt.
"A Silver 3's kick could kill a Bronze 2 with ease. Do you know how much I had to hold back not to end you just now?"
Onix curls on the ground, clutching his sides, struggling to breathe.
"If I killed you here, it would solve everything. Uncle Emanoel could smooth things over, and Father would probably thank me. It'd spare our family the shame of your existence. And you... you'd finally get what you've been begging for—you'd die as a Clairus. Wouldn't that be perfect, Onix?"
To die as a Clairus... Isn't that what I wanted? To die with the name intact, even if I am abandoned, without purpose, without a future? At least, I could die as one of them.
"What's this? You won't even fight back?" Csezar sneers. "You're disgusting."
He raises his hand, conjuring a fire spell. A brilliant sphere of flame forms, far hotter and more menacing than anything Onix could muster. Even from five meters away, the searing heat scorches his skin.
"At least I'll kill you with something worthy," Csezar mutters. "Even though you're a disgrace, the blood of our family still flows in your veins. So, I'll grant you the honor of dying by a powerful spell."
So this is the level of talent I'll never reach... This is what someone blessed by birth can do?
"Goodbye, little brother."
The sphere hurtles toward Onix, the air around it warping with heat. As it approaches, Onix prepares for the inevitable impact—until a wall of water materializes between him and the fireball. The spell crashes into the barrier, dissipating in a cloud of steam.
Amid the mist, a figure steps forward, silhouetted against the moonlight.
"Hey, isn't it a bit late for fratricide?"
In front of Onix is Yukiko, fanning himself casually, unbothered by the heavy steam that still lingered in the air.
"What are you doing here?" Onix gasped, barely able to get the words out.
"I should be asking you the same thing, young man. At this hour, children should be sleeping. You're still growing, you know? At this rate, you'll never become as tall and charming as your teacher."
Onix's lungs burned, but the indignation in his mind flared. This man... He couldn't even complain properly without air in his chest.
"Are you the new teacher everyone's trying to remove?" Csezar's voice cut through, sharp and contemptuous.
Yukiko turned lazily toward the older brother. "Hmm? Looks like I'm already getting famous. But if you're hoping for me as a teacher, sorry, kid—I don't teach arrogant brats... Wait, no, my class is already full of arrogant brats... So yeah, I don't teach older arrogant brats. That's it. And I definitely don't like the kind that tries to kill their own brother at 4 a.m. Really, shouldn't you be sleeping?"
"Why the hell would I want someone like you teaching me?" Csezar scoffed, his sneer deepening.
"Oh, are you in denial now? How adorable." Yukiko smirked, looking far too amused for Csezar's liking.
Csezar's expression twisted in disgust. "Watch your tongue, commoner. You may be a teacher, but you should know your place before a Clairus. This is a family matter. Keep out."
"He's right," Onix wheezed weakly. "This isn't your place…"
Yukiko glanced back at him, unbothered. "You who can't even stand up should stay quiet." His voice turned light, as if addressing a petulant child. "These noble families... so annoying."
Csezar's hand twitched as another sphere of fire started forming.
"Control your tongue, commoner. Get out of the way of a Clairus."
"Oh, you talk big for a kid." Yukiko tilted his head, examining him with a lazy, bemused look. "Is this how the Clairus raise their children? How boastful for an 18-year-old brat who hasn't even reached Gold yet."
The fire in Csezar's hand doubled in size, burning brighter, almost blinding.
"I'll make you pay for insulting the Clairus! I'll show you the difference between a lowborn and someone destined to walk a great path!"
The searing heat of the fireball shimmered in the air, making it hard to breathe.
"Destined to walk a great path?" Yukiko repeated with a slow blink. "And who exactly decided that your path is so grand, brat? From where I'm standing, it doesn't look all that interesting."
"Ah?" Csezar faltered.
Who decided? Onix's mind raced, captivated by the teacher's words. Doesn't look interesting?
"It was the heavens!" Csezar shouted. "I was born a Clairus! We are destined for greatness! Now, disappear!"
Yukiko gave a half-sigh, waving the steam out of his face. "This heat is annoying. You know how much mana you're wasting on that heat show? Put out that matchstick already."
Before Csezar could cast the spell, the enormous fireball in his hand flickered... and vanished. The overwhelming heat dissipated in an instant, leaving nothing but a puff of steam.
"What—"
"Ah, now we can talk comfortably," Yukiko said with a grin.
"What happened? My spell... failed? Impossible!" Csezar's eyes widened with disbelief.
"Impossible? Don't the great Clairus never fail? Ha-ha-ha!" Yukiko chuckled.
"You bastard—this time I won't miss!" Csezar thrust out his hand, preparing to summon another spell. Nothing happened. His hand trembled in confusion.
"Why... why isn't it working? I still have mana... So why?!"
"Maybe because you're not destined to use it?" Yukiko said, voice calm and mocking.
"What did you say?!"
Before Csezar could react, Yukiko appeared in front of him in an instant. The slap came out of nowhere—slow, deliberate—but when it landed, Csezar's entire body was flung backward like a ragdoll. He smashed into a stone wall with a sickening thud, blood spraying from his mouth as he struggled not to lose consciousness.
"Is this the greatness of the Clairus?" Yukiko murmured with a laugh.
"You... cretin..."
Csezar groaned, barely lifting his hand, trying in vain to cast another spell. Nothing came.
Yukiko appeared in front of him again, crouching down to meet his gaze.
"From up here, you don't look that great."
"AHHHH!"
Csezar tried to stand, but his legs gave out, forcing him to kneel in front of Yukiko, his head barely reaching the man's waist.
"Oh, much better." Yukiko grinned. "This position suits you. Maybe the Clairus were destined to kneel like this."
"You—!"
Before he could finish, another slap sent him flying across the field, landing beside Onix with a painful crash. Onix lay still, frozen in disbelief as Yukiko casually appeared between them again. He knelt, grabbing Csezar by the hair, lifting the boy's battered face to meet his gaze.
"You still conscious?" Yukiko asked with a bored expression.
Csezar blinked weakly through swollen eyes, blood dribbling down his chin.
"Ah, good. You're still with us." Yukiko smiled, not kindly. "Let me make one thing clear before you pass out: I don't care about your name, your blood, or your family. As for that so-called greatness you keep yapping about?" Yukiko's grin widened. "I couldn't care less."
Csezar slumped unconscious, and Yukiko let his head drop unceremoniously to the ground. He turned toward Onix.
"You doing okay? It's late. You should head back to your room."
"How..." Onix whispered, still stunned.
Yukiko gave a light shrug. "I'm a teacher, kid. I've got to be tougher than brats like him, even if they're almost my age..."
"Why?"
"Hmm?" Yukiko tilted his head.
"Why did you help me?"
"Why wouldn't I?"
Onix blinked, confused. "What... What do you gain?"
"There you go again, thinking everything has a price." Yukiko shook his head. "You're stuck in that mindset, huh? Always asking yourself, What am I worth?"
Onix didn't answer, too overwhelmed by exhaustion and confusion. A light rain began to fall, the droplets cold against his skin.
"I know your family drilled that worldview into you," Yukiko continued. "But people aren't objects, Onix."
"Hmm?"
"I once knew someone who believed every life—every life—was priceless. Even the lives of her enemies." Yukiko smiled wistfully. "Don't ever put a price on yourself. Don't reduce people to that. It's a stupid way to live." He glanced down at Onix. "You want to know why I saved you? Simple. You're my student. That's all the reason I need."
Onix stared at the man, the rain soaking through his clothes. Yukiko, somehow, remained perfectly dry, as if the raindrops avoided him.
Finally, after several moments of silence, Onix whispered, "So... what should I do?"
Yukiko gave a soft laugh. "That's for you to decide."
"What is my purpose?"
"That's something you'll have to find."
"If you had let him kill me, if I had died, everything would have been easier, everything would have... been better."
"Perhaps, but I didn't, and that was something I decided."
"On your whim... on a caprice, now I'm obligated to live, what gave you the right to decide if I die or live?!"
Onix was frustrated. He didn't want to scream like that at this man who had just saved him, but he didn't know what to do. He didn't know which direction to go. I've never been this confused before.
"Yes, it was a whim of mine. I'm a very selfish person, you know?"
"Hmm?"
"I decided that you would live, period. And even after saving your life, I decided that I will not give you a purpose—that you will have to decide it for yourself. But Onix, it doesn't have to be today or tomorrow. Don't forget that you're just a child."
Yukiko placed his hand on Onix's head.
"Why? Why waste your time with me?"
"Hmm? Why? I already told you—I am your teacher."
"It can't be... I'm not worth anything! You're wasting your time by saving someone like me..."
"Know that I already have four extremely cute disciples. Do you really think I would waste my time here while I could be spending it with them? Don't insult my intelligence. I decide very well where and how to spend my time!"
"I..."
"Roxy, can you take care of the brat over there?"
"Yes, you really did damage to him... well, I appreciate that you didn't kill him, at least."
Roxy emerged from the rain and walked over to Csezar, lifting him off the ground.
"Thanks!"
"Don't thank me. Go to Maria's room later—you'll need to explain this."
"Ok."
Roxy disappeared, and Onix couldn't bring himself to say anything.
"Go back to your room and rest, Onix."
"You told me not to put something as simple as a value on myself, but we all put values on each other, don't we? Do you think... I have any value?"
"Again, this talk of value... but if you want to evaluate yourself, then yes, of course, you have value. A 13-year-old boy who was able to get to Bronze 2 with a damaged core obviously has value."
"Hmm?"
"The time, effort, sweat, and tears you had to dedicate to achieve this already prove your worth as a mage."
"How do you know about my condition?"
"I have good eyes."
"Good eyes... but then you know, you know I won't be able to go far as a mage..."
"Why not?"
"Hmm? Because I am damaged. According to my uncle, I will never be able to reach Silver."
"And who is he to decide that?"
"What..."
Again, that phrase...
"If it was his core being damaged, then he could decide whatever he wants. But it's your core we're talking about here—you decide whether to make it to Silver or not."
Onix stared at Yukiko, unable to respond.
"Do you remember what I promised you all on the first day of class?"
"On the first day?"
Onix recalled Yukiko's most eccentric statement.
But if you want to reach the peak of magic, if you want to know the natural world and the secrets that compose it, regardless of your upbringing, blood that runs in your veins, or surname, I will guide you! And at the end of these seven years, I will make you touch Gold!
"Did you think I was kidding?"
"It cannot be..."
"I was talking to every single one of you, with or without a damaged core."
That's...
"Go to your room and think about how you are going to follow your path from now on."
Yukiko vanished, leaving Onix alone. He rose slowly and headed toward the dorms.
What should I do...
"If you had let him kill me, if I had died, everything would have been easier, everything would have... been better."
"Perhaps, but I didn't, and that was something I decided."
"On your whim... on a caprice, now I'm obligated to live! What gave you the right to decide if I die or live?!"
Onix was frustrated. He didn't want to scream like that at this man who had just saved him, but he didn't know what to do, didn't know which direction to go—he had never been so confused.
"Yes, it was a whim of mine. I'm a very selfish person, you know?"
"Hmm?"
"I decided that you would live, period, and even after saving your life, I decided that I will not give you a purpose—you will have to decide that for yourself. But Onix, it doesn't have to be today or tomorrow. Don't forget that you're just a child."
Yukiko then placed his hand on Onix's head.
"Why? Why waste your time with me?"
"Hmm? Why? I already told you that I am your teacher."
"It can't be... I'm not worth anything! You're wasting your time by saving someone like me..."
"Know that I already have four extremely cute disciples. Do you really think I would waste my time here while I could be spending it with them? Don't insult my intelligence. I decide very well where and how to spend my time!"
"I..."
"Roxy, can you take care of the brat over there?"
"Yes, you really did some damage to him... well, I appreciate that you didn't kill him, at least."
Roxy emerged from the rain and headed toward Csezar, picking him up from the ground.
"Thanks!"
"Don't thank me. Go to Maria's room later—you'll need to explain this."
"Ok."
Roxy disappeared, and Onix was left speechless.
"Go back to your room and rest, Onix."
"You told me not to put something as simple as a value on myself, but we all put values on each other, won't we? Do you think… I have any value?"
"Again, this talk of value... but if you want to evaluate yourself, then yes. Of course, you have value. A 13-year-old boy who managed to reach Bronze 2 with a damaged core obviously has value."
"Hmm?"
"The time, effort, sweat, and tears you had to dedicate to achieve this already prove your worth as a mage."
"How do you know about my condition?"
"I have good eyes."
Good eyes... but then you know, you know I won't be able to go far as a mage...
"Why not?"
"Hmm? Because I am damaged. According to my uncle, I will never be able to reach Silver."
"And who is he to decide that?"
What...
Again, that phrase...
"If it was his core being damaged, then he could decide whatever he wants. But it's your core that we're talking about here. You decide whether to make it to Silver or not."
Onix stared at Yukiko, unable to speak.
"Do you remember what I promised you all on the first day of class?"
"On the first day?"
Onix recalled Yukiko's most eccentric statement:
"If you wish to reach the pinnacle of magic, to uncover the secrets of the natural world... I will guide you. Regardless of your birth, your family, or your noble titles. And I promise you this—by the end of these seven years, I will make you touch Gold."
"Did you think I was kidding?"
"It cannot be..."
"I was talking to every single one of you, with or without a damaged core."
"That's..."
"Go to your room and think about how you are going to follow your path from now on."
Yukiko disappeared soon after, and Onix got up, heading toward the dorms.
What should I do...
In the boardroom of the Asteris academy, Maria Rosenfold sits silently in her chair. Across the room, Roxy Clairus lounges on one of the available sofas, her expression calm.
"He really does whatever he wants," Maria remarks.
"Yes," Roxy responds without a hint of emotion.
"What do you think the Clairus reaction will be?"
"It won't be pretty."
"Ah, all this could have been avoided if he just..."
"Goodnight!"
Yukiko enters the room with his usual smile, completely unfazed by the tension in the air.
"I see you still don't knock on doors," Maria says dryly.
"This is basically a second house, Maria. I don't need to knock to enter my house."
"Do not play with me..."
Ignoring her tone, Yukiko calmly starts brewing some tea, his movements relaxed.
"Did you really have to put the boy in a coma?" Maria asks, narrowing her eyes.
"I didn't mean to exaggerate," Yukiko shrugs. "But he irritated me a little... Roxy, the Clairus need to train their descendants better. A Silver 3 shouldn't be this fragile."
"Don't complain to me. I don't care about them," Roxy says indifferently.
"Roxy, how long until someone comes here to complain?"
"It won't take long, Maria."
Right on cue, they hear hurried footsteps echoing down the hall outside the boardroom.
"See? He's already here."
A moment later, there's a sharp knock on the door.
"Ah... you can come in," Maria calls.
A gray-haired man enters the room, his expression stern.
"Principal Rosenfold, I am here regarding the events—"
He pauses, noticing Yukiko cheerfully arranging tea cups. His jaw tightens.
"The events surrounding the conflict between Onix and Csezar, and the meddling of Professor Yukiko."
"I suspected you would come, Professor Emanoel," Maria says smoothly. "How is Csezar?"
"Very injured, Director Rosenfold, but our family is providing the best treatment available."
"I see. I assume you have complaints to raise?"
"Yes," Emanoel says sharply. "Professor Yukiko's actions are unacceptable. I don't know what trick he used to incapacitate Csezar, but his intent was clearly to kill. I demand disciplinary action—no responsible teacher should behave this way."
Meanwhile, Yukiko finishes handing out tea, his relaxed demeanor only further irritating Emanoel.
"What do you have to say, Yukiko?" Maria asks, her voice even.
"Hmm? I don't know what qualifies as acceptable behavior for teachers since I just started," Yukiko replies lightly. "But there was no killing intent. I wouldn't kill a brat just because he annoyed me—it was simply a corrective measure."
"A corrective measure? Brat?! He is the third son of the Clairus family! Show some respect! What kind of 'correction' puts a boy into a coma?"
"I assume he never had a proper upbringing. He probably never heard 'no' in his life," Yukiko replies nonchalantly. "Considering how he treated his younger brother, I thought it was the most effective way. And, for the record, he's 18 years old. Mentally, he may still be a brat, but a Silver 3 mage attacking a Bronze 2—his own younger brother—with the intent to kill? And then attacking a teacher afterward? Honestly, I think he got off easy."
"You..." Emanoel glares, fuming.
"Oh, and tell him to thank me later," Yukiko adds with a grin. "I won't press any charges, even though he attacked me."
"How dare you! The Clairus family won't stand for this!" Emanoel snaps. Then, turning to Roxy, he demands, "Roxy, don't you have anything to say?"
Roxy, still lounging lazily on the sofa, shrugs. "Hmm? There really was no killing intent. If Yuki wanted him dead, Csezar would definitely be dead."
"That's it? You won't even defend your brother?"
Roxy lifts her gaze lazily toward him. "I could ask the same of you—why aren't you saying anything about Onix?"
"He's not the one in a coma!"
"No, but he could've been dead if it weren't for Yuki."
"Yuki? Are you joking? As a Clairus, it's your duty to defend the family name and its members!"
Roxy's expression shifts slightly, cold and uninterested. "Obligation? I've said countless times that I want nothing more to do with the family. I'm only here to clarify things for the director. Don't think for a second that I'll help you with anything."
Emanoel, seeing that this isn't going anywhere, bites his lip in frustration. "Kid, it's not over. I hope you're prepared—or you'd better give up this dispute and hand over your position soon. I was just thinking of teaching you a lesson in respect to Principal Rosenfold, but if you show up in that fight, I swear I'll take your life!"
"See you in a few days, Professor Emanoel." Yukiko's tone remained light, almost dismissive.
"Cretin..." Emanoel growled, then stormed out, heading toward his quarters. The tension in the room eased slightly as his presence faded, leaving only Maria, Roxy, and Yukiko behind.
"Roxy, can you cover Class 1 for a few days?" Yukiko asked casually, as if nothing significant had just transpired.
"You're leaving?" Roxy's brow furrowed.
"Yeah, I'll need to be away from the academy for a bit."
"You know I hate theory classes..."
"Do your best! Just focus on practical lessons or talk about the war. They'll eat that stuff up!"
"Fine, I can do that."
"Thanks a lot! Here, take these letters—there's a training regimen for the girls." Yukiko sighed. "It's a shame I have to leave right after getting four unbelievably cute disciples."
Maria tilted her head. "Disciples?"
"Oh, right! You don't know yet, Maria!" Yukiko beamed. "Four girls asked me to train them personally yesterday!"
Maria narrowed her eyes in suspicion. "Four? And they're all girls?"
"Yep! And they're ridiculously cute! One of them is Mia."
"Mia?!" Maria exclaimed.
"Yep!" Yukiko grinned.
Maria's expression darkened. "What is that girl thinking? And listen to me—don't you dare lay a single finger on her."
"Maria!" Yukiko shot her a scandalized look. "What do you take me for? Do you think I'm some kind of sick person? I'm treating them like my dear daughters!"
"That's already a little disturbing," Maria muttered, rubbing her temples.
Roxy cut in, eyeing him skeptically. "Where are you going?"
"Unfortunately, it's confidential," Yukiko said, his smile never fading. "But I'll tell you everything when I get back!"
"Just don't take too long," Roxy warned.
"Understood!"
At that moment, the door opened without warning, and Camila stepped into the room.
"Director Maria, good morning—" she paused, startled by the three people already present. "Oh! Sorry, Director, I didn't expect a meeting this early."
Maria let out an exasperated sigh. "Even you aren't knocking anymore, Camila? Has the sun risen yet?"
"Good morning, Camila!" Yukiko called cheerfully. "Come, sit down! I'll make you some tea."
"Thanks..." Camila took a seat, still processing the atmosphere in the room.
Yukiko busied himself with the tea, speaking casually as he worked. "By the way, Camila, I got four disciples yesterday!"
"Four?! That's incredible, Yuki! And all in one day? That's awesome!"
"Yuki?" Roxy arched an eyebrow at Camila's overly familiar tone.
"Yep! Four very promising students. And they're also adorably cute!" Yukiko said, placing a tea cup in front of her.
"Congratulations!" Camila smiled.
"Thanks!" Yukiko clasped both of her hands in gratitude, his face glowing with joy.
Is it getting... hot in here? Camila wondered, her smile faltering as she felt a heavy, murderous gaze boring into her. Slowly, she turned to face the source—the expressionless girl sitting across from her.
Her face looks completely emotionless... but I can feel it. She wants to kill me.
"Well!" Yukiko straightened up. "I need to go now. Roxy, I'm counting on you! See you all later."
And with that, Yukiko vanished into thin air, leaving nothing behind but the faintest shimmer of displaced air.
"He just... disappeared?" Camila blinked in disbelief.
Maria sighed heavily. "He has a habit of doing things his way. Don't mind it."
"I see..."
Then, the magic communicator on Maria's desk began to buzz.
"Ahh... The day is going to be long."
In the classroom of Class 1, the students were chatting, waiting for their teacher. Rumors about the events of dawn had already spread, filling the room with tension and curiosity. As Onix stepped through the door, every conversation halted. All eyes turned toward him, their gazes filled with questions that hung heavy in the air. But before anyone could voice them, the door swung open, and Roxy walked in, striding to the center of the room with her usual calm demeanor.
"Good morning, everyone. Professor Yukiko will be away for a few days due to a personal matter, so I'll be filling in for him," she announced in a no-nonsense tone.
Immediately, Mia shot her hand into the air.
"Is Professor Yuki okay, Professor Roxy? With the rumors going around... If he needs help dealing with any backlash, I'd be happy to—"
"He's fine, Mia. Don't worry about him," Roxy replied, cutting off the concern with a reassuring yet firm response.
At that moment, Muher Iris raised his hand with a smirk playing on his lips. "His dispute with Professor Clairus is coming up in a few days. Do you really think he'll come back, Professor Roxy?"
Mia's eyes narrowed, her hand slamming onto her desk. "What do you mean by that?"
Muher leaned back casually, pretending innocence. "It's no big deal, Miss Rosenfold. I was just considering his position. After the last incident... Well, wouldn't it be safer for him to disappear? For his own good, of course."
"Muher—" Mia began, her voice filled with sharp intent.
"He will return," Roxy stated flatly, her gaze locking onto Muher. The weight of her words was enough to silence not only Muher but the entire class. "I give you my word on that."
The sheer certainty in her voice left even the most skeptical students dumbfounded.
"If no one has any more questions," Roxy continued smoothly, "I'll begin the lesson."
Without waiting for further interruption, she moved to the teaching tools at the front of the room and started her class, her presence effortlessly shifting the mood in the room from restless gossip to quiet focus.
During the theoretical class, Roxy steered the discussion toward topics she was more comfortable with—war and the empire. For many students aiming for military success, having an experienced teacher who had served on the battlefield was thrilling. This was especially true since their previous teacher, Yukiko, had dismissed war as foolish and pointless.
"Professor Roxy, what was the hardest battle you participated in?" one student asked eagerly.
"Hmm..." Roxy pondered for a moment. "If I had to choose, it would be an operation against the army led by General Helton Hermmanes. He was a Holder, and his forces were packed with powerful Gold and Silver rank mages."
"A Holder?"
The entire class stiffened at the mention of such a high-ranking mage. Yukiko's recent class on higher-ranked mages had left them intrigued and hungry for more knowledge.
"Yes, though I never faced him personally," Roxy continued. "It was a grueling battle. When things escalated to a dangerous level, both sides withdrew."
"Withdrew?" someone repeated in disbelief.
"Yes. When a fight grows too large, it's usually halted before either side can deploy their strongest mages to finish the battle. A Holder is a valuable asset, but the risk of exposing their location means that the empire could quickly dispatch a Manipulator to eliminate them and retreat. Higher-rank mages rarely participate in prolonged battles—they move swiftly, with precision."
"Even in wars between Rulers or Saints?" a student asked eagerly.
"Do you really think a war on that scale is possible?" Roxy smiled at the thought.
"Why wouldn't it be?"
"Firstly, neither side has enough Rulers to form an army, let alone Saints."
"That makes sense..."
"Rulers typically command armies from a distance," Roxy explained. "Their role is to counter powerful enemy mages and prevent heavy casualties. Saints, on the other hand, are so rare and powerful that they often avoid battle altogether. They're allowed to live peacefully in neutral territories, only stepping in during crisis situations when summoned by the emperor."
"So... they're like secret weapons?" one student asked, awestruck.
"You could say that," Roxy answered with a small smile.
"Amazing!" The students' eyes sparkled with excitement, captivated by the idea of these legendary beings. Seeing their eagerness, Roxy decided to elaborate.
"In the army, we often say that the presence of a Saint on the battlefield is a bad omen."
"Why is that?"
"Saints only appear when there's no other solution, and their power is absolutely necessary. Just imagine how terrible a situation must be for only a Saint to resolve it. Doesn't that sound terrifying?"
The students shuddered. "Yeah... that would be terrifying."
"Most of the time, the fighting is handled by lower-ranked mages—those who don't have much training."
Roxy paused for a moment, as if recalling memories from her years in battle.
"Professor Roxy, if the Saints are so powerful, why not end the war with a single attack? Why not gather a group of mages at that level and conquer large territories?" Muher Iris asked, his question fueled by practical curiosity.
From the Levimus empire's perspective, it seemed logical—treat their enemies in the Leviathan empire like mere insects, crush them in one overwhelming assault, and take everything.
"That same logic applies to the enemy," Roxy pointed out. "There's a deeper reason why balance is maintained, even during war."
"A reason?" Muher echoed, now even more curious.
"Yes. Although our nations are at war, the conflict is limited to designated battle zones. Notice that after decades of war, the major cities of both empires remain untouched—never conquered, not even attacked."
The students exchanged glances, realizing the truth in her words.
"This restraint is the result of an unwritten agreement between the nations," Roxy continued.
"An unwritten agreement?"
"Yes. In the Leviathan empire, there is the emperor and three protectors. These powerful individuals are scattered throughout their territory, and no nation dares approach their domains. These protectors answer to no one—not even their emperor. Their very presence is enough to deter large-scale conflicts, ensuring that wars remain contained."
"Three protectors?"
"Yes. And the Levimus empire has its own protectors too—ones that everyone here should know." Roxy paused meaningfully, prompting the students to respond.
"The Five Sages of Levimus," one student answered.
"Exactly." Roxy nodded. "Sages are mages who have completely transcended human limitations. Even time itself bends to their presence, slowing so that they live for centuries. They are the ones who maintain order in the world, even in times of war. Because of them, cities like this one thrive, and most people live peaceful lives, far from battlefields, engaged in agriculture, trade, and crafts."
She folded her arms. "The Sages are the last line of defense for any nation. Their presence alone deters large-scale invasions because both empires know that an attack involving them could spiral into a conflict of catastrophic proportions."
"So... the Leviathan empire has three protectors. Does that mean we could defeat them since we have five Sages?" another student asked cautiously.
"No. Leviathan's emperor is also a Sage, which gives them four in total. Even though we technically have more, a direct war involving the Sages would be impossible to predict. The consequences could devastate both empires and possibly the world."
Roxy's voice grew somber. "We're talking about beings who are godlike in power. None of them would risk annihilation in such a war. They have no desire to destroy the lives within their domains. And since they are not beholden to the emperor's orders, they have no obligation to engage in unnecessary conflict."
She offered a small, reflective smile. "It's far more preferable for them to live in peace, pursuing their own interests, which conveniently aligns with the empire's goals."
"So, we're safe thanks to their simple existence?"
"Yes, that's how much their power means. The 5 Sages of the empire of Levimus, represented by the elders of the four great families and the emperor himself, are the foundation of the empire's existence. They are also the reason Levimus holds the largest territory in the world, as we are the nation with the highest number of Sages."
Hearing Roxy's explanation, pride visibly spreads across the faces of the noble children. The very concept of nobility is built upon the existence of these individuals; the four principal families of Levimus hold their status thanks to the protection of their elders.
"However..."
Roxy pauses mid-sentence, drawing the curiosity of the students.
However, the emperor is getting old. Even a Sage cannot defy the limits of time forever, and rumors suggest his health is deteriorating. If the emperor dies... He is the anchor holding the empire together. I can't begin to imagine the kind of power vacuum his death would leave—or the catastrophic consequences it could have on the balance of the world.
After a brief moment of contemplation, Roxy continues.
"It's too early for you all to worry about that. What matters is that you grow stronger. That's the best way you can contribute to the empire."
Though her tone is so monotone it sounds as if even Roxy herself doesn't believe the words, the children respond enthusiastically.
"Yes!"
The class progresses through a few more aspects of the war before drawing to a close.
"That's all for today. Please head over to the practical classes shed now."
As the students rise from their chairs, Roxy calls out:
"Mia, Rose, Elia, and Frederica. Stay behind for a moment—I have something to discuss."
Once the other students file out, the four girls gather near the door, waiting. Roxy approaches them, holding a small stack of letters.
"Professor Yuki asked me to deliver these to you."
"Hmm?"
Roxy hands each of the girls a letter.
"Since he'll be away for a few days, he prepared personal training plans for each of you. If you have any questions, you can ask me."
"Wow! It's so detailed... How did he know I struggle with area spells?"
"It's true—he even outlined the best times for me to practice!"
Roxy watches with a rare smile as the girls pore over their letters.
"He may act eccentric and give off the impression that he doesn't care, but he was definitely paying attention to each of you. He thought carefully about the best way to help you grow stronger."
When Roxy finishes speaking, the four girls exchange warm smiles. Rose clutches her letter gently, almost reverently, before speaking.
"Yes, we know. He really cares about us, doesn't he?"
"Yes."
"We'll follow the instructions in these letters, Professor Roxy. And please—let us know if there's any news from Professor Yukiko!"
"I will."
With that, the girls head toward the training shed, their steps lighter with purpose.
At the end of the training, after Roxy dismissed the students, the only one still present in the shed was Onix.
"You could have rested today. After all that, your reserves must be low, Mr. Onix."
"Yes, but I can't stand still. Soon they'll catch up to me. I have to get stronger, even if I... even if I can't go very far."
"I see."
"How is Csezar?"
"He will recover, but it will take a few days."
"Can I ask you something, Professor Clairus?"
"What is it?"
"What is your goal? Do you have one?"
"Why do you ask? Are you looking for one, just like he recommended?"
"You heard?"
"No, but I figured he'd say something like that to you."
"Got it, I just... I don't know what else I should do. When I was born, they told me I might inherit the house, but then they said it wouldn't be necessary since my brothers were more competent. Then, they said I would marry one of the daughters in the branches of the family, but after evaluating my ability as a mage, they forbade me from marrying within the family. Lastly, even my option to earn merit in the war has been taken away. I just... I don't know what else to do, what other choice I have."
"I'm sorry, but I can't help you choose your future, Onix."
"He said the same...?" Onix was stunned—this was the first time his older sister had addressed him by his first name informally.
"But I can give you some advice."
"What would it be?"
"You only told me about the orders your family gave you. Not once did you mention what you want. Those orders aren't choices you lost; they were orders you didn't carry out. Choices are things we decide for ourselves—they aren't made for us."
Onix listened to Roxy's words quietly, absorbing them fully.
"You asked about my goal, didn't you?"
"Yes..."
"I don't care about the Clairus. I was even about to abandon that name."
"What? Why?"
"Everything they ever demanded of me was excellence. I couldn't inherit the family because I was a woman—so in that, we are kind of similar. My only two options were to marry some idiot or become strong. I chose the second. When I succeeded, they suddenly treated me differently. They were proud to call me Clairus. They even invited me to events. I thought I'd feel fulfilled... after all, it was what I always wanted. But do you know what I felt in the end?"
"What?"
"Disgust."
"…?!"
"They treated me like trash my entire life because I was born a woman. Then, those same parents who didn't even want to see my face started parading me around at dinners, showing me off. How disgusting can they be? That's when I realized something. During the war, I saw many of my comrades longing to return home—terrified that they would die without ever seeing their families again. Meanwhile, all I wanted was to stay there, because the Clairus never gave me a place to return to."
"A place to return to..."
"So, I thought about abandoning the name. But in the end, it's useful for many things. A Clairus can enter many places without question. That's why I made a deal with our father. The name was beneficial for me, and my fame was beneficial for them. We agreed—no more relationships, no contact."
"That's why you never came back..."
"Yes. So, Onix, for a large part of my life, I lived without a purpose—without an objective. I just sought to become stronger. No... that's not entirely true. I was looking for something. I was looking for... a place I would long to return to."
"A place..."
Before he could finish, Onix was startled by the sight before him. Roxy—the woman he had always seen as the embodiment of coldness and discipline—was smiling. A genuine, beautiful smile.
"That's when I met him..."
"Him?"
"You asked about my goal, didn't you?"
"Yes..."
"My goal is to follow him—no matter the adversity. To stand by his side, because now... I finally have a place to return to. And one day, I want to be the same for him."
"Are you talking about Professor Yukiko?"
"Yes."
"Who... who is he, really?"
"You'll find out soon enough. But as for your goal, Onix—that's something only you can discover."
"He told me something..."
"Hmm?"
"He told me he could take me to Gold... even with my damaged core."
"Hmm? So, he said that."
"Yes... Isn't that crazy? Like it's even possible."
"If it's him... maybe it is."
"What?!"
"No, I misspoke."
"Ah... of course."
"If it's him... it is definitely possible."
"Hmm?"
Onix stared at Roxy, searching her face for any hint of a joke. But her expression was as serious as ever.
"Think about your future carefully, Onix. That's all I can say to help you. Good luck."
With that, Roxy left the shed, leaving behind a deeply thoughtful boy who needed to define his own destiny.
A couple of days after the events that led to the hospitalization of the student council president, the matter was beginning to cool down. The passage of time had dulled the initial shock, and anticipation for the upcoming event was shifting the students' focus.
"He certainly won't show up. There are only two days left until the duel—he must have run away and won't come back."
"I think so too."
Some students in Class 1 gossiped among themselves, speculating about the fight that would take place in two days. Meanwhile, a group of four students sat nearby, ready to intervene at any moment.
"He'll show up. Of course, he will!"
Rose was the first to break the silence, unable to hold back any longer.
"Hmm? Don't talk nonsense. You're just a commoner—don't meddle."
One of the boys stood up, glaring in her direction.
"Oh? She can't speak because she's a commoner? In that case, can I?" Mia chimed in, her voice sharp.
"Miss Rosenfold?!"
"Will you shut me up too?"
"N-No! No way, Miss Rosenfold!"
The boy quickly sat down, flustered. The other students, sensing the shift in atmosphere, changed the subject in an effort to avoid further conflict.
"Thank you, Mia," Rose said softly.
"Don't worry, Rose! But these rumors are really starting to annoy me. He could just show up and end all this."
"That would solve everything." Frederica said.
"Hmm, do you miss him, Frederica?"
"What?! Of course not! I-I mean, not like that! I don't not miss him, but... you know, not in that way!" Frederica stammered, her cheeks turning pink. "Aren't you the one who misses him, Mia?"
"Yes, I do. Very much." Mia replied without hesitation, a mischievous grin on her face.
"You really have no shame..." Frederica muttered, hiding her embarrassment.
"The match is in two days... will he really make it back in time?" Elia asked, her voice tinged with concern.
"He will. I know he will."
The other girls smiled at Rose's unwavering confidence. Over the past few days, the four of them had grown much closer, bonding through these moments of shared tension. Their friendship had led to situations like this more often than not—arguments teetering on the edge of conflict, only to be defused by Mia, who skillfully used her name and status to calm things down.
The day before the contest, Roxy wrapped up her class.
"Well, we'll finish here for today. Tomorrow, there will be no classes because of the event," she announced.
A student immediately raised his hand.
"Professor Roxy, will Professor Yukiko arrive on time?"
The question came from one of the non-noble students, who had grown to admire Yukiko over time.
"Yes, he will," Roxy answered decisively.
Her firm response caught the class by surprise again, but none dared to question it further.
"Well, that's it. You're dismissed."
The students began packing their belongings and calmly left the room.
Onix walked through the academy halls toward his dorm, his thoughts swirling.
Is he really going to show up? After all that, he wouldn't just disappear, right? He even said he'd take me to Gold... And—damn it—do I miss those ridiculous pranks? Wait... Do I miss him?
"It looks like the little mouse is scurrying back to his dorm."
Onix froze at the familiar voice. As he looked up, he was met with his brother's smug expression.
"Brother Csezar..."
"You look surprised. Without your protector, your confidence has disappeared, hasn't it?"
"Confidence?" Onix frowned.
"Yes. Walking freely around the academy after what happened to me—how confident can you be?"
Csezar stepped forward, closing the distance between them, but just as he was about to press further, a girl slipped between them.
"Onix! Professor Roxy asked us about a war from 400 years ago. Can you help us?" Rose said, blocking Csezar's path.
"Oh?" Csezar sneered. "Girl, what do you think you're doing? You're in my way!"
Before Csezar could push Rose aside, another voice chimed in.
"Apologies, Mr. Csezar, but Mr. Onix is excellent at history, so we thought we'd ask him for help."
Mia stepped forward. At the sight of her, Csezar hesitated—her family name carried too much weight to ignore. A moment later, Elia and Frederica joined Rose, standing behind Onix.
"Miss Rosenfold," Csezar said coolly, "I wasn't aware you knew my younger brother. However, I still need to speak with him. If you need his help, you'll have to wait."
Before anyone could respond, a stern voice cut through the tension.
"Csezar! I told you to leave him alone!"
"Uncle Emanoel!" Csezar flinched at the sight of his uncle.
"Go to your room and rest—you're not fully recovered yet."
"...Yes, sir."
Defeated, Csezar lowered his head, clenched his fists, and stalked off toward his room.
"Apologies for my nephew's behavior, Miss Rosenfold," Emanoel said, addressing Mia.
"Don't worry, Professor Clairus. It wasn't a big deal."
Emanoel gave a curt nod. "If you'll excuse me, I'll be leaving now. And rest assured, starting next week, you'll have a more competent teacher."
At his words, Mia's fists clenched in frustration, though she held her tongue. Confronting Emanoel now wouldn't be wise.
"We already have a competent teacher—and we're keeping him," Rose declared firmly.
"Rose, don't push him!" the other girls whispered anxiously, trying to pull her back. But Mia smiled, catching the spark of defiance in Rose's words.
"She's right, Sir Clairus," Mia added, stepping forward. "We already have a worthy teacher. Thank you, but we don't need another one."
Emanoel paused, clearly displeased, but masked it with a cold smile.
"Children know so little about the world. Once you attend my classes, you'll change your mind."
With that, he turned and left. The group stood in silence, watching him disappear down the hall.
"I thought he'd be angrier..." Elia muttered.
"Yeah, he was surprisingly... restrained," A calm voice added.
"Hmm?" Rose turned around and found Yukiko standing behind them.
"Professor!" she exclaimed.
The girls gasped, startled by his sudden appearance.
"Yes?" Yukiko responded with a playful grin.
"When... When did you…" Frederica stammered, too flustered to complete her sentence.
"Just now. I was on my way to Maria's office when I came across this little encounter, so I decided to observe."
"Observe?! Why didn't you intervene?" Mia demanded.
"It's a teacher's job to teach independence. I wanted to see how you'd handle it."
"That's... exactly the kind of thing I'd expect from you," Mia sighed, shaking her head.
"You all did great helping your classmate. I'm proud of you," Yukiko said, beaming at them.
The girls blushed under his praise, their smiles growing.
"But... why did you help me?" Onix asked hesitantly, breaking the moment.
Rose answered without hesitation. "Professor Yuki helped you before, so it felt right to do the same. And besides, you're our classmate—it makes sense to help you."
After a brief silence, Onix gave a small nod. "I see. Thank you."
"You're welcome!" Rose grinned.
Frederica shifted nervously, then addressed Yukiko. "Professor, I'm sorry we didn't defend you like Rose and Mia did. We stayed quiet when Professor Clairus insulted you..."
"Yeah... we're sorry," Elia added, her voice filled with guilt.
"Don't worry about it," Yukiko said gently. "You two stayed calm and assessed the situation—it was smart. Provoking Emanoel wouldn't have been a good idea."
"So... you're saying Rose and I were impulsive?" Mia asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Absolutely. You should both be more careful—he's dangerous."
"You're the one who's about to fight him tomorrow... and isn't it supposed to be a duel to the death for putting his nephew in a coma?"
"The duel is over who gets to remain your teacher. The part where I put his nephew in a coma... well, that's just an extra reason for him to be upset."
For a moment, the girls stood in stunned silence, processing Yukiko's nonchalant attitude. Then, unable to hold it in any longer, they burst into laughter.
After chatting for a while—with Yukiko carefully avoiding giving any details about where he had been—the girls finally said their goodbyes and headed back to their rooms. It felt like they left a bit earlier than they wanted, perhaps sensing that Onix had something he needed to say to Yukiko.
"Want to go to the dorms, Onix? I could use something to drink," Yukiko asked casually.
"Hmm? Sure."
The two walked together through the academy's corridors, entering a part of the building Onix had never been to before. Eventually, Yukiko stopped at a door and stepped inside.
"Uh, what is this place?" Onix asked hesitantly.
"My room," Yukiko replied nonchalantly.
"Wait... is it okay for me to enter a professor's room?"
"If the professor invites you, I think it's fine." Yukiko grinned.
He gestured for Onix to make himself comfortable. Onix wandered over to a tea table surrounded by chairs and sofas, eventually settling into one of the chairs. The room was modest, comprising a small kitchen and two tables—one for tea, the other a dining table. Two more doors were visible: one likely led to the bathroom, the other to Yukiko's bedroom.
Yukiko prepared tea in silence, handing a cup to Onix before taking a seat on one of the sofas.
"Thanks..." Onix murmured, gripping the warm cup.
"So, what's on your mind?" Yukiko asked gently.
"..."
What do I want? At this point, I know what I want—I want to be his student. But if I tell him that, it won't be enough. I need a real goal, something worthy...
"If I say my goal is to become your student... that wouldn't be enough, right?" Onix asked hesitantly.
"Sorry, but it wouldn't be," Yukiko admitted. "I'd be happy, but it wouldn't meet my requirement."
Onix lowered his gaze, struggling to find the words to continue.
"Professor... what would you think of someone who never made a choice in their life? Someone who was always given paths to follow, only to have those paths taken away the moment they were deemed unworthy? Until, eventually... there were no more paths left?"
Yukiko didn't hesitate. "A puppet."
"Yeah... I think so too. I've always been a puppet."
"Didn't you choose to come to the academy yourself?" Yukiko asked.
"I thought so too... but no. It's all still according to my parents' wishes. They expect me to graduate, die in the war, or maybe get killed right here in the academy. That's why they didn't stop me from coming—and why they didn't punish my brother for trying to kill me. Even with my strings cut... I'm still dancing to their will." Onix's voice cracked. "It's ridiculous, right?"
"I wouldn't call it ridiculous," Yukiko said softly. "There's been a lot of effort on your part along the way, and I won't make light of that. But it's... tragic."
Onix gave a sad smile. "That's... a kind way of looking at it."
For a moment, silence settled between them. Onix's mind raced through every moment of his life, searching for answers he knew he wouldn't find.
"What is your goal, Onix?" Yukiko asked, his voice steady.
"..."
My goal? I already told you... I'm a puppet. I don't have a worthy goal like those girls. All I ever wanted was to be a useful puppet for my parents, even though I knew they didn't care about me. But I failed at even that. So now... I have nothing. Absolutely nothing...
"I don't have one," Onix whispered.
Yukiko's gaze never wavered as he watched the boy stare at the floor, defeated.
"I don't have one... I am lost… and that's why..." Onix's voice trembled. "That's why I want one. I want to find a purpose... a reason to go on... a reason to live. Would that... would that be enough?"
Seconds passed in silence, though to Onix it felt like an eternity. Yukiko took a calm sip of his tea, then gave his answer.
"That's enough."
"?!" Onix's eyes widened in disbelief.
"I said that's enough," Yukiko repeated, smiling warmly. "Teaching about life and the beauty of this world is part of a professor's job too, right? I'll help you find your goal. But don't expect me to give it to you—it will never happen. That's something you'll have to discover on your own. But I'll be there to support you along the way."
Onix felt a knot in his chest loosen. Tears welled up in his eyes. "Thank you..."
"Don't worry about it. Like I said, you don't have to decide today or tomorrow. You're still just a kid, Onix."
Yukiko placed a gentle hand on Onix's head. That small gesture of kindness broke the dam inside Onix. Tears spilled down his cheeks, and he began to cry freely—for the first time in his life, he had taken a step of his own.