Kidero defeated Arthur, but he wasn't happy at all with how the battle turned out.
He looked toward the audience and saw his parents watching him with eyes full of disapproval. His younger brother waved at him, but their mother gently lowered his hand.
— This battle was terrible… I should've won effortlessly like I said before the fight. I drained all my mana. I'm a disgrace to the family. Arthur got lucky that I wasn't at my best today — Kidero thought, trying to justify it to himself.
— Congratulations, Kidero. You did great in that battle — said Shirō.
— Truly, you were fantastic — said Sanzu.
— Do you think so? Well, it was nothing special for someone like me… the hero of Dirfazia's younger brother. He said I'll become a hero too and join the frontline to wipe out the Katlonios once and for all — said Kidero.
Meanwhile, Arthur regained consciousness in the infirmary.
— Well, look who woke up! Back in the infirmary again, Arthur. I told you not to overdo it. But people say your battle was amazing. Congratulations on second place — said the nurse with a warm smile.
— Th-thank you… I wanted to win first place, but I only lost because I didn't train hard enough — said Arthur, a bit embarrassed.
— For someone unaffected by Dirfazia's fortification barriers, you did incredibly well! — said the nurse.
— What? I'm not affected by the city's barriers? — asked Arthur, surprised.
— You didn't know? I found out during your examination. It seems that healing magic, protective wards, even spells cast at you… they're all weaker than normal. It's like your body rejects magic that comes from anywhere outside yourself — said the nurse.
— Seriously? So spells cast on me, even magic that requires contact like healing, doesn't work properly? — asked Arthur in shock.
— Exactly. I was surprised when Mia managed to heal you. I keep wondering how that was even possible — said the nurse.
— I'd like to know that too — said Arthur.
— You're fine now, and you're cleared to go. Don't be late for the Academy's annual celebration. Dress well — nobles and their children will be attending — said the nurse.
— I'll do my best — said Arthur.
— Where am I going to get an outfit? Should I try talking to Charles? — Arthur thought.
— Better not bother him… I won't go to the party. I'd rather stay in my cabin in peace — Arthur thought.
At the Magic Academy, students were accepted only at age 6, and only those turning 7 in the same year. That was always the rule. Because of that, the Academy always held its end-of-year party to celebrate birthdays and achievements all at once — since the training throughout the year was strict, they only had one major celebration.
Arthur reached his cabin, which now looked much better after he had cleaned and fixed it up himself. With all rooms taken, and Arthur being student number 121 — an unprecedented number due to the Academy's 120-student limit — the cabin had become his new home.
— Ahhhh — Arthur yawned as he entered his cabin.
He spotted a wrapped gift with a small note beside it.
— I won't be able to attend the party, but I'm happy about your performance in the battles. Congrats! I took the liberty of picking out clothes and shoes for you to wear tonight. Please behave — most of the students are noble children, and you can't show up in clothes that disrespect the event. Enjoy the party; it only happens once a year. — From your friend, Charles — Arthur read in his mind.
Arthur felt so happy that tears nearly fell. He hadn't expected Charles to write such kind and supportive words.
Some time later, Arthur dressed in what Charles had chosen for him — a dark linen tunic with subtle silver details and clean leather boots. Simple, yet carefully chosen.
As he headed to the party, he saw a grand red carpet stretching from the entrance of the Academy into the ballroom. Two finely dressed men were welcoming guests.
Arthur felt nervous as he stepped into the massive hall — beautifully decorated for the event. Soft music played, refined dishes he'd never seen before were lined up, and various perfume scents mingled in the air. He felt lost and unsure where to go.
— Look, Kidero, he actually showed up — said Sanzu.
— You came here just to ruin the party? You're beneath the lowest class and still want to stand out? You shouldn't have come. You should've left the Academy ages ago — said Kidero, eyes full of contempt.
— EVERYONE, LET'S BEGIN THE OPENING CEREMONY! — said the headmistress.
After the ceremony, where the names of the winners were announced, Arthur began to feel like leaving — the atmosphere was overwhelming. He felt unwanted.
Arthur left the ballroom and headed to the garden to rest. On his way, he overheard two nobles talking.
— What do you think, Lord Raiden? We could unite our families in the future, when our children grow up. Wouldn't that be wonderful?
— It's definitely an interesting idea. I think it would benefit both families. As dukes, it's quite appropriate. I accept your proposal, Lord Haru. We'll discuss this further another time.
Lord Raiden returned to the ballroom, while Lord Haru smiled proudly, pleased with his arrangement.
— This was the best decision I ever made. Just imagine uniting my family with the hero's — incredible! I'm sure my daughter Mia will be thrilled. I'll tell her later, since she's still young — Lord Haru said aloud.
— What? Unite the families… what does that even mean? — Arthur thought, puzzled.
— Hi Arthur! — said Mia.
— O-oh, hi Mia — said Arthur, startled and admiring how beautiful she looked.
— What do you think? Do I look nice? My mom did my makeup for tonight — said Mia with a bright smile and shining eyes.
— You really look beautiful, Mia — said Arthur.
— Thanks!
— Congratulations on second place. You made it so far. Honestly, I think you should've won… that sword broke out of nowhere. I still don't get why — said Mia.
— Maybe it had some kind of flaw… — said Arthur, trying to recall parts of the fight.
— Mia, your father mentioned something about uniting your families and joining the hero's bloodline. He said you'd be really happy about it. I don't really understand. Can you explain?
— My mom mentioned that once… I think when families unite, it means two members marry and spend the rest of their lives together. But she always tells me not to worry about those things. Says I should focus on learning magic. So I don't really care about that stuff — said Mia.
— Oh, I see… I think I understand — said Arthur.
They chatted for several minutes, and Arthur watched Mia's smile — gentle, bright, sincere.
— Even if everything changes tomorrow… I'll hold onto the memory of her smile tonight — Arthur thought.
Just then, Mia's father appeared.
— Who is this boy?
— He's my friend. His name is Arthur — said Mia.
— I told you not to talk to people I don't know — especially those who aren't nobles. Come on. Back to the party!
— Alright, Dad. See you later, Arthur. Good night — said Mia, sadly.
After that, Arthur no longer felt like staying.
— I guess I'll go back to my cabin and sleep. I don't know why… but I feel like this isn't my place — Arthur thought, walking beneath the quiet night sky.