The Asteris Academy has a stadium for hosting official disputes and demonstrations of practical combat, with enough capacity to accommodate the entire student body and faculty. On the day of the contest between Professor Yukiko and Professor Emanoel Clairus for the position of responsible professor, the stadium was packed to the brim.
"Girls, would you like to come with us?"
On their way to the stadium, Maria Rosenfold and Camila crossed paths with a group of four girls, all heading toward the same destination.
"Good morning, Director Rosenfold. Do you mean... to the stadium?" Rose asked cautiously.
"Yes, I have seats reserved for the board. It's much closer to the center of the event."
"Would it be okay for students to take those seats?" Elia asked hesitantly.
"Don't worry, Yukiko specifically asked me to invite you all."
The girls exchanged glances, nodding to one another in agreement.
"Understood. We'll join you," Rose answered.
"Wonderful."
After arriving at the stadium, they entered through a large door that led to a private viewing area. One wall of the room was completely open, offering a clear view of the stadium floor. The VIP section was furnished with comfortable leather chairs, an assortment of drinks, and plenty of space to relax. Inside, they found Roxy already seated, with Onix silently by her side.
"Hmm? Roxy, did you bring Onix?" Maria asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Yes. I arrived early and found him along the way, so I invited him, just as Yuki requested."
"Perfect, that makes things easier."
While Maria and Roxy spoke, the children greeted each other quietly, gathering in one corner of the room.
"Feel free to sit wherever you like," Maria said warmly.
The girls exchanged nervous looks, unsure how to act.
"Director Maria, I think they're feeling overwhelmed," Camila chimed in with a soft smile. "After all, the director of the academy and a Saint mage inviting them to sit in a VIP room... They probably don't know what to do."
The children shot Camila grateful looks.
Thank you, Miss Camila!
Maria chuckled. "I see. Just relax—there's no need for formality. It's only us here."
At her words, Mia was the first to plop down into a nearby chair. The others quickly followed her lead, settling into their seats. After a moment, Frederica leaned toward Camila, speaking just loud enough for the other children to hear but soft enough to avoid Maria's notice—or so she thought.
"Miss Camila, can I ask you something?"
"Of course."
Frederica hesitated before asking, "What's the relationship between Professor Yukiko and Principal Rosenfold? I don't understand how he's so close to a Saint mage."
Camila gave a sly smile. "Hmm, I can't say for sure... Maybe they're just good friends? Or... lovers?"
"Lovers?!"
Frederica, Rose, Elia, and Onix nearly leaped out of their seats in shock.
"Well, I can't say for certain," Camila continued, "but I'd say they're quite close."
Frederica mulled over the thought, brow furrowed. "He really is mysterious, being so close to a Saint—and Professor Roxy too. I wonder who he really is... He never tells us anything about himself."
"Don't worry," Maria's calm voice cut in from across the room. "Everything will become clear today."
Frederica stiffened. Wait—she was listening?
Camila gave a teasing smile. "Frederica, she's a Saint mage. Did you really think whispering would work?"
"What?!" Frederica exclaimed, panicking.
Maria remained seated, her expression serene.
"Principal Rosenfold, I—"
"There's no need to apologize," Maria said with a gentle wave of her hand. "It was rude of me to eavesdrop on a private conversation."
Mia, sensing an opportunity, leaned forward. "Director Maria, may I ask... When did you meet Professor Yuki?"
"Yuki...?"
"Yes."
Maria paused, her eyes lingering on the glass of wine in front of her before she poured herself a generous amount.
"It was on the battlefield, some years ago."
"Some years ago? But... isn't Professor Yuki only twenty-one?" Mia asked, confused.
The students shared her puzzlement. Typically, students graduated around the age of twenty before heading to war. Maria's timeline didn't make sense.
"Don't assume that everywhere is as comfortable as Asteris," Maria said quietly. "Here, children can live in peace until they turn thirteen and receive proper training until they reach adulthood. But the world beyond these walls is far more unforgiving."
"Oh..."
The harsh reality of children being sent to the battlefield settled over them. Even though it was officially outlawed, history had proven that, in times of crisis, even children were forced to fight. Rose thought back to the pain she had glimpsed in Yukiko's eyes during discussions about war. His aura had always carried a melancholy weight when these topics arose.
"Director Maria... Did Professor Yuki..." Mia began cautiously.
Maria interrupted her niece with a kind but firm tone. "If you have questions about his past, Mia, ask him directly."
"I understand..." Mia nodded, biting her lip.
After a brief silence, Rose spoke up. "Does he really have to do this, Director?"
"Hmm?" Maria turned to face her, curious.
"Couldn't he avoid this dispute?" Rose asked softly.
"Are you afraid he'll lose?"
"I don't know if that's exactly it, but... I feel like, no matter the outcome of this dispute, it's going to bring consequences for him."
"I see... You have good intuition. Your name is Rose, right?"
"Yes."
"He told me a lot about you, Rose."
"About me?"
"Yes, he's very proud of you. You wouldn't believe how much he talked about his first student—and not just you. He spoke about all of you."
All the children looked down, embarrassed, but with shy smiles spreading across their faces. A quiet delight lingered in the air.
"You can trust him."
"Hmm?"
"It's a teacher's duty to protect and support his students. That's the kind of teacher Yukiko wants to be. That's why he's ready to face whatever difficulties arise after today. All he would want from you is to believe in him. For some people, just knowing they are needed is enough. So depend on him, ask for his help, and learn from him."
Maria's expression softened for the first time, her usual composed demeanor melting away. For these five students, she allowed herself a rare display of vulnerability.
"Can I ask that of you all?"
Her words were gentle, yet carried the weight of a Saint mage making a heartfelt request. The children, with renewed determination, responded in unison:
"Yes!"
"I appreciate it."
Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of loud applause and cheers. The children and teachers turned their attention to the stadium, where one of the two enormous gates slowly opened.
Emanoel Clairus entered, and the crowd erupted into applause.
"He's really popular..." Camila murmured, raising an eyebrow.
"Well, he is a Gold 1 mage and a prodigy to have reached that rank by the age of fifty-five," Onix replied, his voice flat and devoid of admiration. "He earned several accolades during his service in the war."
Rose and the others exchanged uneasy glances as the weight of Emanoel's reputation sank in. Even Camila clenched her hands tightly in anxiety.
Elia hesitated, then asked nervously, "Is he really that powerful?"
"Emanoel of the Ashes," Roxy answered in a serious tone. "That's what they called him on the battlefield."
"Because of his hair?" Mia guessed.
"No," Roxy corrected. "Because of the aftermath of his magic. His area spells are devastating—his enemies were reduced to nothing but ashes. His mana reserves are enormous, and his control over fire magic is unmatched in his rank. Among the Clairus, his affinity with fire is enviable. He may very well be the most powerful Gold mage in this academy."
Rose swallowed hard. The thought of anyone going up against such a powerful adversary, especially Yukiko, filled her with dread.
"You'd better prepare a barrier, Maria," Roxy said quietly. "Things are about to heat up."
"I'll cast one the moment it starts," Maria replied calmly.
Camila leaned closer to Maria, her worry evident. "Director, if things get out of hand... will you intervene?"
"No. I promised I wouldn't."
Camila bit her lip. "I know other teachers usually step in if disputes go too far, but... I doubt any of them would side with Yuki."
Maria nodded in agreement. "Yes, they won't."
"Roxy..." Camila turned to her, hoping for reassurance. "Would you—could you—do anything to help him?"
Roxy shook her head. "I'm afraid I wouldn't stand a chance against a Gold 1 mage."
The atmosphere in the room grew heavier with tension.
"He's late," Maria muttered under her breath. "I swear, I'll buy him a watch."
"You already gave me one," came a familiar voice from the entrance. "But I don't like wearing it... it gives me anxiety..."
Everyone turned toward the door, where Yukiko was casually leaning against the wall, smiling.
"Good morning, everyone! How are you?"
"Professor!" the children called in unison.
"You're late," Maria said, her voice calm but carrying a hint of disapproval.
"I just lost track of time, that's all," Yukiko replied with a sheepish grin.
"You always say that," Roxy sighed, her exasperation clear.
"Don't be so harsh, Roxy..." Yukiko grinned before giving her a playful look. "And what's this I hear about you refusing to help if Emanoel tries to kill me?"
Roxy crossed her arms. "Deal with your own mess. You're the one who made Maria promise not to interfere."
Yukiko let out a mock sigh. "You two are particularly angry with me today..."
"Of course we are!" Roxy snapped. "We hate this decision of yours."
Maria stood, her gaze unwavering as she locked eyes with Yukiko. "Yuki... Are you absolutely sure about this? I'm giving you one last chance to back out."
Her words carried a gravity that silenced everyone in the room. Rose, attuned to the subtle shifts in auras, saw something in Maria's demeanor that others would miss—a profound sense of regret and sadness swirling beneath her usual calm exterior.
Yukiko smiled softly, but there was a firmness in his expression. "Don't worry, Maria. I've already made my decision. Stop looking so sad. It's not fitting for a Saint mage to wear her emotions so openly."
He turned toward the children, placing one hand on Rose's head and the other on Onix's. Both immediately blushed in embarrassment.
"Besides, I have something to protect now, don't I?" he said warmly. "I can't stay hidden forever. It's time to keep my promises."
His gaze moved across all of his students, filled with undeniable affection. Rose could see it clearly—his aura radiated a warmth so overwhelming it brought tears to her eyes.
Yukiko straightened and gave a small nod to Maria. "Take care of them for me."
"Understood," she replied quietly.
"Teacher!"
Rose's voice rang out just as Yukiko turned to leave.
"Hmm?"
What can I say? The director asked us to believe in him, so I will do it. I couldn't ask him not to go, and I can't help him either because I lack power. So, what can I do?
"Take care, please..."
Those are the only words Rose can muster, and they frustrate her deeply—because that's all she can do. But when she looks at Yukiko, that same warm smile greets her, full of reassurance.
"Of course! I'll be back soon."
And in the blink of an eye, Yukiko disappears.
In the middle of the stadium, where Professor Emanoel Clairus waits, Yukiko reappears like a sudden breeze, catching many in the audience off guard.
"So, you came. I was starting to think you wouldn't show up."
"Seriously? Well, I'm a man of my word, Professor Emanoel."
"Hmm."
In an instant, the air grows heavy with an overwhelming aura, rippling through the stadium. Up in the VIP room, Maria's steady voice resonates as she addresses the crowd.
"Good morning. I appreciate everyone's presence. We are gathered today for a magical duel between Professor Yukiko and Professor Emanoel Clairus to determine the instructor in charge of Class 1. I will act as the mediator for this contest, but, per the agreement between both participants, I will not intervene under any circumstances—even if one of them fights with the intent to kill."
Excitement explodes through the crowd. Cheers and murmurs ripple across the stands.
"And to think we get to witness a Gold Rank 1 in action! This is going to be incredible!"
"Yes, but sadly, he won't be able to go all out—his opponent isn't anywhere near his level."
"Still, I'm sure we'll get to see some impressive magic."
Maria's voice cuts through the noise.
"If both participants are ready, we may begin."
In the middle of the stadium, Emanoel Clairus studies Yukiko, who stands calmly, eyes fixed on the sky with a serene expression.
"I will give you one last chance, Yukiko. Kneel and ask forgiveness from the Clairus House. If you do so, I will show mercy and spare you, out of respect for Headmistress Rosenfold. I give you my word."
Yukiko's gaze remains skyward. "It's really a beautiful day... The sky is so incredibly blue."
"What are you talking abou—?"
"Professor Emanoel," Yukiko interrupts gently, still looking at the sky, "you spent years on the front lines for the empire, didn't you?"
"Yes. I'm proud to say I fought for decades in service to the empire."
"Pride... If you had to describe it, how would you define the battlefield?"
Emanoel straightens with conviction. "A place where only the strongest and noblest survive."
"I see. That definition suits you perfectly." Yukiko smiles faintly, but his gaze stays distant. "For me... it's just a sad and regretful place."
Emanoel narrows his eyes, a glint of disdain creeping into his expression. "So, you served in the war too, then? Just as I thought... you were probably a slave child, weren't you?"
Yukiko says nothing.
"That's why you don't even have a last name. A slave boy, thrown onto the battlefield to serve as a disposable shield." Emanoel lets out a chuckle, though it lacks warmth. "If that's the case, I'll grant you this—congratulations, boy. You survived against all odds. I respect that. Defending the empire, even as a slave, is commendable." His tone shifts, now carrying a cold finality. "But my respect ends here. You won't survive this fight. Give up. This is my final warning."
Inside the boardroom, the children shift restlessly, wondering what's going on outside.
"They've been talking for a while, but I can't hear anything from here," one of them murmurs.
"Professor Roxy, is Professor Yukiko a contact mage?" Onix asks, his voice thoughtful.
"Hmm? What makes you think that?" Roxy replies, drawing the attention of the other students.
"It's the only way I can imagine he managed to defeat my brother. For him to move that fast... I wondered if that could be the case."
"What's a contact mage?" Rose asks, unfamiliar with the term.
"It's a mage specialized in close combat," Roxy explains. "The term is commonly used on the battlefield."
"Melee combat? But don't mages usually cast spells from a distance?" Rose frowns.
"They do, but some spells enhance physical abilities—boosting strength, speed, and durability. Mages with large mana reserves often specialize in area attacks and large-scale spells, like Professor Emanoel. Others, usually those with smaller reserves, combine strengthening spells with martial arts. These are contact mages. It's more common among non-noble mages because of their lower mana capacity."
"That's amazing," Elia says, awe in her voice.
"So, do you think that's how he beat your brother?" Frederica asks Onix.
"It's the most logical answer. It doesn't explain why my brother couldn't cast any spells, but it accounts for Yukiko's speed—and how he beat Csezar in just two hits."
"It's an interesting conclusion," Roxy admits.
"But... some things still don't add up," Onix continues, his brow furrowing.
"Like what?" Roxy prompts.
"For Professor Yukiko to defeat my brother with only two strikes... even a contact mage would struggle with that. My brother would've tried to shield himself with magic. For Yukiko's attacks to break through so easily, he'd need to be at least two Ranks higher than Csezar. Three Ranks higher would make the most sense, but if that's the case..."
"That would mean Yukiko is Gold 3," Roxy finishes, saying exactly what Onix had been thinking.
"That... that would be unbelievable, right?" Camila interjects, disbelief flickering in her voice.
"A 21-year-old mage at Gold 3? That would be a first in recorded history," she continues. "Not even the emperor, not even Director Maria, achieved that. And Yukiko isn't even from one of the major houses."
"Yes, it sounds impossible." Onix's voice is measured, but there's a trace of frustration in it. "But the way he defeated my brother... and his confidence when he said he could take us to Gold within seven years... That's the only explanation that fits."
"Gold 3 at 21..." Camila trails off, unable to find the right words.
Maria, seated quietly until now, suddenly speaks up. "Assuming that's true... do you think he stands a chance?"
Onix lowers his gaze, annoyance flickering in his expression. "Even if he's Gold 3, it would still be difficult. My uncle is no ordinary Gold 1. A fight at this level is extremely complex."
"Let's believe in him," Rose says, breaking the silence with unexpected determination.
The others turn to her, startled by her conviction.
"Let's believe in him," she repeats firmly. "It's all we can do now."
"Yes," the others echo, their voices soft but resolute.
In the middle of the stadium, both Yukiko and Emanoel signal that they are ready to start.
"By my name, Maria Rosenfold, and my position of Saint mage, I recognize this dispute! Begin!"
"That was your decision, boy. Regret it in hell."
The moment those words leave Emanoel's lips, the entire stadium shifts. The pleasant air turns scorching—like stepping into an inferno. The audience shifts uncomfortably in their seats, some clutching at their collars, sweating profusely. A wave of oppressive heat washes over them, suffocating.
"Is this just the mana escaping while he prepares a spell?" Frederica whispers, her voice low, almost drowned out by the aura of power enveloping the field.
She shivers—not from cold but from fear. The raw force radiating from Emanoel weighs down on her, making it hard to breathe. In contrast, Yukiko stands motionless, as serene as a lone tree in a summer breeze.
"I'll end you quickly, boy. Hell Tornado."
A firestorm erupts, spiraling into a colossal inferno. The size of the tornado nearly eclipses the stadium's center, flames licking the air wildly. The crowd gasps in unison as Maria raises her hand, conjuring a barrier to shield the spectators from certain death. Without it, the blazing winds alone would reduce them to cinders.
"Professor!"
"Disappear, boy." Emanoel thrusts his hand forward, and the blazing vortex surges toward Yukiko, swallowing him whole.
Suddenly, Yukiko's calm voice echoes through the firestorm. "Water Wall."
A towering wall of water materializes. It's small—insignificant compared to the sheer size of the Tornado. And yet, when the water and fire collide, a deafening hiss fills the arena as steam explodes outward in massive plumes. The fire tornado writhes, twisting violently against the water wall, but the wall holds, unwavering. Steam blankets the stadium, so thick and hot that the protective barrier around the crowd glows under strain.
Moments later, the firestorm dissipates entirely. The once-roaring tornado fizzles into nothing but a memory, leaving Emanoel stunned, paralyzed by disbelief.
The same silence grips the crowd, except for Maria and Roxy, who exchange a knowing glance.
Emanoel stares at Yukiko, still standing unharmed amidst the steam. "How? What did you do?"
Yukiko shrugs, his expression nonchalant. "Hmm? A defensive spell. Haven't you studied that?"
"Cretin! That's not what I asked! Even though it's a defense spell, you shouldn't have been able to erase my Gold Rank 1 magic! And with a mere Water Wall? A Silver Rank spell?!"
"But Professor, the water element naturally has an advantage over fire," Yukiko replies, a playful grin forming on his lips.
"Kid, don't take me for a fool!" Emanoel roars, his composure slipping further. "A simple elemental advantage is not enough to extinguish my spell like that! Tell me—what did you do?!"
Yukiko sighs lightly, as if bored. "Why don't you try again? It'll be easier to understand if you watch closely this time."
"Bastard! Hell Tornado!"
The flames roar to life once more, even larger and more furious than before. The crowd braces under the sheer force of the heat. Yet, as soon as the tornado touches Yukiko, another wall of water materializes, calmly blocking the inferno. Steam erupts, just as before, and the tornado dies without resistance.
"Impossible! How?! To be able to neutralize my spell, what are you doing? Explain yourself!"
Emanoel's voice rises in desperation, his sanity slipping with each failed attempt.
"It's simple, Professor," Yukiko replies, his voice steady and firm. "I am just stronger than you."
"Do not underestimate me!"
Emanoel's fury boils over. He casts the same spell again, and again, each time hoping for a different result. But every Hell Tornado vanishes the same way—drowned by Yukiko's quiet Water Wall.
Sweat drips from Emanoel's brow as he prepares yet another incantation, desperation lining every syllable. "I will destroy you! Hell Tornado!"
Before the spell can take shape, Yukiko snaps his fingers.
"You're already starting to annoy me. That's enough."
"Oh?!"
Emanoel's spell fizzles into nothing mid-cast, the fire vanishing as if snuffed out by an invisible force. The Gold Rank 1 mage freezes, speechless.
"It's the same phenomenon that happened in the fight against my brother!"
"Hmm?"
Back in the director's room, Onix finally manages to speak, breaking free from the paralysis caused by the unfolding events.
Emanoel, still struggling with the realization, glances at Maria with suspicion.
"Director Rosenfold, is this your doing?"
"Hmm?"
"The mana particles in the environment... they aren't responding to me. It's as if my connection to them has been severed. This shouldn't be possible unless a Saint intervened."
His gaze sharpens, and the other teachers exchange troubled glances, slowly piecing the puzzle together.
"Do you really think I would break my word, Emanoel Clairus?" Maria replies coldly.
"I don't mean to offend, Director Rosenfold," Emanoel says, his voice strained with disbelief. "But there is no other explanation."
Maria sighs, her expression unwavering. "You and your colleagues are blinded by your pride. You fail to see what's right before your eyes."
"Hmm?"
"The one who extended his authority over the stadium, controlling every mana particle present... is standing right in front of you."
Emanoel spins around, locking eyes with Yukiko's serene smile.
"Impossible... this is madness. You're saying this boy is responsible?"
Onix, unable to comprehend the situation, turns toward Maria.
"What do you mean, Director? Extending authority?"
Maria addresses the question aloud, ensuring everyone in the stadium hears her words.
"Extending authority is an ability belonging to Saints. A Saint can shape nature according to their will by expanding their authority over a region. Within this region, all mana particles obey the Saint's control, rendering other mages powerless to interfere with them."
"A Saint..." Onix murmurs, struggling to grasp the implications.
"That's..."
"It can't be..." Rose and Camila whisper, their eyes widening as realization dawns.
"Are you telling me," Emanoel's voice cracks in disbelief, "that this boy is a Saint?"
The stadium falls into eerie silence, as if the weight of Emanoel's question had frozen the very air. Sweat drips down his forehead as the possibility of Yukiko being a Saint sends chills down his spine.
"This... this can't be. You..."
"I think you've misunderstood something, Professor Emanoel."
"Hmm?"
In an instant, the steam lingering in the stadium crystallizes, transforming into a snowfall that drifts gently across the arena. Ice surges upward, encasing Emanoel's body from the neck down. The temperature plummets sharply, shattering the glass windows around the stadium. A biting cold settles over the spectators, causing them to tremble despite Maria's protective barrier.
"Ice... You..."
Yukiko's calm voice pierces through the frozen air. "I believe this will make you a little calmer."
"Deviant..."
Camila's whisper draws Onix's attention.
"Miss Camila?"
"He's a deviant," she mutters, as if the pieces of a long-forgotten puzzle are finally falling into place.
"A deviant?" Rose asks, her voice filled with curiosity.
"Yes." Maria answers, her tone flat and without hesitation. She no longer sees any reason to hide the truth.
"Is he a Saint? A Deviant Saint?" Mia asks cautiously.
"No. He is not." Maria's response is sharp, extinguishing the thought before it can grow.
"You've made one crucial error, Professor Emanoel," Yukiko says, his voice cutting through the frozen silence.
"Ice... How..." Emanoel stammers, his breath visible in the cold air.
"You are correct that a Saint can manipulate mana particles by expanding their authority," Yukiko explains. "But such control is only possible by extending their authority over the entire region..."
Yukiko's gaze sharpens. "But tell me—did I extend my authority?"
"Oh?!" Emanoel gasps, the realization hitting him like a wave.
In the boardroom, Camila's voice wavers as she pieces together Yukiko's identity.
"An ice mage... a deviant... the legend of Serus..."
"The legend of Serus?" Onix repeats, puzzled.
"Yes. Three years ago, on the border between the empires of Levimus and Leviathan, a confrontation gave birth to a chilling legend. Leviathan amassed an army of 30,000 men, including 10,000 elite mages, preparing for war. But instead of an army, Levimus responded by sending... just one mage."
"One mage?" Onix whispers in disbelief.
"The battle lasted but a moment. The entire plain, along with every soldier, was frozen in an instant."
"Frozen?" Rose asks, her heart pounding.
"Even today, the region remains locked in ice, unaffected by the changing seasons or magical fire. The one responsible... There were whispers... rumors... but it can't be..."
In the stadium, Emanoel trembles, his mind racing to grasp the truth.
"Why are you here?" he demands, his voice a mix of anger and fear.
"A Saint cannot control mana particles with such precision without extending their authority," Yukiko replies. "But I didn't need to. You know what that means, don't you? In fact, many of the teachers here already know."
Yukiko's voice rises, addressing the entire stadium.
"My name is Yukiko. I am the fruit sown for years through your futile wars. And today, I will show every one of you—teachers and students alike—the pinnacle of the magical arts!"
The children in the boardroom turn toward Maria, their eyes pleading for answers.
"Director Maria... Who is he? Please, no more lies."
Maria closes her eyes, exhaling slowly. With nothing left to hide, she begins.
"I met Yukiko eight years ago."
"Eight years ago?" Onix echoes, stunned.
"Yes. At that time, he was 13 years old—your age. Yukiko served in an elite unit, tasked with neutralizing enemies of overwhelming power."
"A child... of our age?" Mia's voice trembles with disbelief.
"Thirteen-year-old Yukiko had already ascended to the rank of Saint," Maria continues. "He was one of our most formidable weapons."
The room falls into stunned silence.
"A Saint... at 13..."
Finally, Camila asks the question that lingers in everyone's mind.
"Are you saying he's really a Saint?"
"No. Not anymore."
"Not anymore?"
"Yukiko, no last name. Codename: Ice Emperor. He became a Saint at 13 and ascended to Sage at 18." Maria pauses, her voice softening. "The man in front of you, children, is the sixth Sage of the Levimus empire."
In the middle of the stadium, space and time distort, as if the fabric of reality itself is on the verge of tearing apart. The sounds of the world vanish, along with most bodily sensations, leaving the spectators stunned and adrift. At the center of this surreal deformation stands Yukiko, still and calm.
"Pay attention, academy students and mages of the empire," Yukiko's voice echoes, serene yet commanding. "This is the pinnacle of magic."
Raising his hand, he crosses his fingers in a gesture that, although strange to the onlookers, seems natural to him. A profound sensation overtakes the entire world, an overwhelming pressure that transcends comprehension.
"Authority Expansion – Complete Realm: Calm Ocean."
The world shatters.
The stadium vanishes, the ice evaporates, and every sound is extinguished. All that remains is darkness. But soon, light returns, revealing an endless, tranquil ocean. The spectators, frozen in place, find themselves surrounded by nothing but an undisturbed expanse of water beneath a clear blue sky.
Though their senses return slowly, they cannot move. No wind stirs, no scent reaches their noses, and their mana feels entirely disconnected. For a moment, it feels as if the entire world has dissolved into stillness. Yet, despite the surreal nature of this place, none feel fear—as if the realm itself holds no ill intent toward them.
Then, Yukiko's voice gently echoes across the tranquil expanse.
"Do not worry. This is my Realm. You are safe within it."
The reassuring tone eases their tension. Slowly, the children begin to observe their surroundings. The ocean stretches endlessly before them, free from any disturbance, as if frozen in eternal calm.
"Did you really have to go this far, Yuki?"
The children hear another voice—muffled, distant, yet unmistakable. Maria's familiar presence manifests within the ocean, seated comfortably on a luxurious chair, a wine glass delicately held in her hand. The sight of the headmistress enjoying a drink in the middle of the ocean is nothing short of surreal.
"I told you I wanted to make a grand impression, didn't I?" Yukiko replies, a playful grin forming on his face. "Besides, it's a rare opportunity for them. Few in the world ever experience the influence of a complete Realm."
"Yes, but this might have been a bit too much for the children," Maria remarks, though her expression remains light.
The children, along with Camila, Roxy, and the other teachers, can only watch in stunned silence as the two engage in their strange, casual exchange. These two beings, having transcended human limits, speak as if they are discussing the weather.
"Well, new experiences can be beneficial," Yukiko continues. "Even if they are a little frightening."
The students focus intently on Yukiko's words, eager to absorb whatever knowledge he imparts.
"What you are experiencing," Yukiko explains, "is the presence of my complete Realm."
Though they remain unable to move, the children and mages listen intently, savoring every word.
"A complete Realm is exactly what its name suggests. The key distinction between an Intimus and a Holder lies in the source of their mana. An Intimus mage draws exclusively from their internal mana core to cast spells. In contrast, a Holder taps into the ambient mana in the environment to enhance their magic. While this may seem like a minor difference, the power gap is immense. A mage with access to the limitless particles of environmental mana can achieve feats far beyond those limited to their core. Even a Gold Rank 1 mage is like a mere child in the presence of a Holder Rank mage.
Now, what distinguishes a Holder from the ranks beyond? It comes down to three things: intensity, capacity, and precision in manipulating environmental mana—or, to put it simply, the degree of influence or authority the mage exerts over nature. This difference in mastery is what separates the classes beyond Intimus."
Even though the children remain paralyzed, unable to move or react, Yukiko's words sink deep into their minds.
"And above all these classes, standing at the apex of magical mastery, are the Saint and Sage Ranks. A Saint can expand their authority, gaining control over the mana particles within a defined area. However, this control is inherently limited—an incomplete realm. But a Sage... a Sage completes that realm. A Sage can exert absolute authority over nature itself, molding the world to their will. That is what you are witnessing—a complete Realm."
Suddenly, the environment begins to distort once more. The ocean vanishes as if it had never existed, and one by one, the sensations of the real world return—sound, sight, taste, and smell. The stadium reappears around them, as though the entire experience had been nothing but a fleeting dream.
Yet no one dares to make a sound. They are all in the presence of a Sage.
"I believe the fight is over?" Maria's voice cuts through the silence, light and unbothered.
"Oh! I almost forgot!" Yukiko says with a laugh.
With a flick of his hand, the ice imprisoning Emanoel vanishes instantly, releasing him from his frozen cage.
"Alright, Professor Emanoel," Yukiko says with a bright smile. "Now that you're free, would you like to continue the fight?"
Emanoel, still trembling from the encounter, collapses to his knees. His once proud demeanor crumbles into desperation.
"Forgive me, Great Sage! Please, have mercy on this ignorant fool!"
He bows deeply, pressing his forehead against the cold ground. The sight of such a powerful mage humbling himself before Yukiko shocks the audience, but none dare question his actions.
After all, there is no escape for Emanoel. He cannot rely on his family name, nor can he hope to win. Even if Yukiko were to eliminate every Clairus present, not even the emperor would dare issue a reprimand. Such is the weight and influence of a Sage—an authority that even empires respect and fear.
"So, you relinquish your claim to the position of teacher?" Yukiko asks cheerfully.
"Of course! There is no one more worthy than you. I yield immediately and humbly beg for your forgiveness."
"I see," Yukiko responds, his smile playful but unreadable. "I'll think about it."
Yukiko looks at Emanoel with serious eyes. If he wanted, he could make Emanoel disappear without causing him a moment of pain. Or, if he preferred, he could inflict unimaginable suffering and keep him alive for a very long time. What punishment could a Sage deliver to a mere Gold-rank mage?
"Okay, all right then."
"Oh?"
"We're even. Just tell your family to stop bothering Onix. He's my disciple now."
"Yes! Understood, there will no longer be any form of disrespect toward him!"
"Great! Maria, we're done here."
"How boring... Alright, I declare the duel over with the victory of Professor Yukiko."
With Maria's declaration, the barrier surrounding the stadium dissolves. Yukiko walks toward the room where the children are waiting.
"Thank you for your mercy, Great Sage." Emanoel remains kneeling, while spectators slowly leave the stadium under Maria's direction, confused by the turn of events.
"Now, we shouldn't have any more trouble from the students' parents, right?" Yukiko asks Maria as he enters the room.
"Not from the parents," she replies, "but we'll be dealing with an entirely different set of problems now..."
"I'm counting on you, Director!" Yukiko responds cheerfully.
He then turns to the children and Camila, who are still seated, unsure of how to react.
"Surprised? Excited to have a Sage as your teacher? Not many people in the world can boast about that, you know?"
Yukiko's playful attempt falls flat. The children are too stunned to respond. Camila is the first to move—kneeling abruptly.
"Yuk—Sage Yukiko, forgive me for my lack of respect!"
"Hmm? What are you talking about, Camila?"
"I treated you so casually because we're close in age... I even made you serve me tea... and—" her voice drops, "...I drank from the same cup when you weren't looking, thinking it was like an indirect kiss. Please forgive my disrespect!"
"Indirect kiss...?"
Everyone in the room is dumbfounded by Camila's sudden confession.
"Camila."
Camila looks up, and Yukiko is kneeling right in front of her, their faces only inches apart.
"I told you to call me whatever you wanted, didn't I? We're close in age, so there's no need for that kind of respect. I just want us to keep having tea and chatting."
"Yuki..." Camila's voice trembles with emotion.
"The indirect kiss thing is... a bit odd, but don't worry about it."
"Sorry!" Camila blurts out, flustered.
"You're really something... Let's discuss this tea thing later." Maria interjects with a smirk.
"Forgiveness!" Camila pleads again, embarrassed.
"Hahaha!"
Mia suddenly bursts into laughter, clinging to her chair to keep from falling.
"Mia?" Rose asks, concerned.
"Did your realm mess with her head?" Roxy wonders aloud, and Yukiko answers with a touch of uncertainty.
"Hmm? I don't think so... at least, I hope not."
"No, that's not it!" Mia wipes a tear from her eye, still laughing. "It's just... We were all so worried about Yuki's safety, and it turns out—he's a Sage?! Really?"
Everyone stares at Mia, confused for a moment, until Yukiko joins in her laughter. Slowly, the tension in the room dissolves, and the children and Camila begin to smile too.
"Well, I'll continue being your teacher for now," Yukiko says. "I know you have lots of questions, but I need to take care of some things with Maria. I'll see you all in class tomorrow."
"Understood!" the children reply in unison, their voices bright with relief.
As the children leave, Rose lingers at the doorway, glancing back at Yukiko, who gives her a warm smile.
ASage... she thinks to herself before following the others out.
Once the children are gone, Maria addresses Yukiko, who has taken a seat in one of the empty chairs.
"Alright... So how are we going to handle this? How soon do you think the royal family will contact us?" Yukiko asks.
"Probably by tomorrow," Roxy answers, joining the conversation.
"Tomorrow? Don't they have anything better to do?" Yukiko sighs, rubbing his temples theatrically.
"I doubt there's anything more urgent than the sudden reappearance of a Sage who vanished without a trace." Maria replies with a weary tone.
Camila, still seated awkwardly, finally gathers the courage to speak.
"Vanished? You were... missing?"
"Hmm? Yes. I disappeared for a while without telling anyone, so technically, I'm a fugitive." Yukiko answers her without hesitation.
"Oh? But isn't that a serious problem?"
"Yes, dealing with the empire will be a headache..."
He presses a hand to his forehead, feigning a severe migraine.
"But for a mage affiliated with the empire to leave without reporting... isn't that considered desertion? Wouldn't that be a serious problem, Yuki?"
"Not really." Yukiko shrugs.
"What?" Camila looks even more confused.
Maria steps in. "Camila, who in the empire would dare pursue and accuse a Sage for desertion?"
"That... makes sense."
"The real problem," Maria continues, "is dealing with all the nobles now that you've resurfaced."
Roxy offers, "I could try to mitigate the Clairus family's reaction."
"There's no need," Maria waves her off. "You hate dealing with those people anyway."
"The real headache," Maria sighs, "is going to be all the questions about you. I kept telling people I had no idea where you were, and now—out of nowhere—you've reappeared here as a teacher."
"It was bound to happen eventually." Roxy comments.
"Sorry for the trouble." Yukiko says with a wry smile.
Maria and Roxy exchange glances, momentarily stunned by his rare apology.
"You apologizing... That's kind of terrifying," Maria jokes.
Roxy, however, places a hand over Yukiko's.
"We don't care about the difficulties. I've told you this so many times, Yuki—just... don't disappear again, okay?"
Maria exhales deeply. "Yeah, just don't vanish like that again."
"I won't," Yukiko promises, his voice soft and sincere.
Camila watches the scene, warmth spreading through her chest. This interaction, this connection between them—it's unlike anything she's ever seen before.
In front of a grand castle, a woman dressed in white robes steps into a carriage adorned with gold. Guards surround her, ensuring her safety.
"Princess Eris, please reconsider. Even with all these guards, I don't like the idea of such a risky journey."
"There's no time. We leave now—this is an order."
Eris climbs into the carriage, and it immediately sets off at high speed. As the landscape blurs past, only one thought occupies her mind.
We need to hurry. This time... I'll convince him.
Character Summaries
Yukiko - The Unorthodox Mage
Rank: SageElement: Water (Ice Deviant)Personality Traits: Playful, humorous, and often disrespectful towards authority.Background/Role: A powerful yet unconventional mage, Yukiko serves as both a mentor and protector to his students. His approach with them is lighthearted, but his wisdom and mastery of magic make him a cornerstone of their growth.Motivation: To honor a promise made to his late master and bring peace to a fractured world through understanding and unity.
Onix - The Determined Fire Mage
Rank: Bronze 2Element: FirePersonality Traits: Insecure, conflicted, but kind-hearted.Background/Role: A young mage with a troubled past, Onix is determined to prove himself and rise above his fears.Motivation: To overcome his insecurities and become worthy of his title as Yukiko's disciple.
Mia - The Strategic Earth Mage
Rank: Bronze 3Element: EarthPersonality Traits: Witty, humorous, loyal, and a great friend.Background/Role: The strategist of the group, Mia combines her sharp mind with her magical prowess to overcome challenges.Motivation: To lead her peers with her intellect and become a mage her family can be proud of, with the ultimate goal of supporting her aunt Maria, whom she deeply admires.
Frederica - The Sharp-Witted Wind Mage
Rank: Bronze 3Element: WindPersonality Traits: Quick thinker, cunning, intelligent, and sometimes vengeful.Background/Role: Often the voice of reason or mischief in the group, Frederica's analytical nature makes her a formidable ally.Motivation: To carve her place in the magical world and achieve vengeance against the person who humiliated her mother.
Rose - The Bright Mage
Rank: Bronze 3Element: WaterPersonality Traits: Kind, caring, and gentle.Background/Role: A quiet yet steadfast presence in the group, Rose focuses on defensive magic and healing. However, her immense latent power remains undisputed, hidden within her gentle demeanor.Motivation: To protect her friends and family, including her beloved father and mother.
Elia - The fairy mage
Rank: Bronze 3Element: FirePersonality Traits: Strong-willed, adaptable, and kind-hearted.Background/Role: Elia is unyielding in her resolve to grow stronger. She strives to prove her worth to a society that discriminates against her for being a commoner.Motivation: To defy societal expectations and make her loved ones proud.
Maria Rosenfold - The Saint
Rank: SaintElement: EarthPersonality Traits: Strict, competent, and immensely powerful.Background/Role: A figure of authority and influence, Maria serves as a mentor and guide for many.Motivation: To maintain balance and order while supporting those who seek peace. She is also devoted to helping Yukiko, no matter the path he chooses.
Camila - The Loyal Secretary
Rank: UnknownElement: UnknownPersonality Traits: Gentle and highly dependable, though often drawn into Yukiko's antics.Background/Role: Maria's assistant and confidante, Camila manages the logistics of her chaotic life, especially after Yukiko's arrival.Motivation: To support Maria in her efforts to improve the academy for commoners and foster equality.
Roxy Clairus - The Fierce Battle Mage
Rank: Gold 3Element: FirePersonality Traits: Serious, competent, and disciplined.Background/Role: A battle-hardened warrior and teacher, Roxy is deeply committed to her students and her magic.Motivation: To help and support Yukiko in his decisions, ready to do anything to stand by his side, much like Maria.