Among the three great nations of the Spirit Continent, the Axet Republic was famed for its science and technology. It was also the only one not ruled by hereditary nobility—a true technological superpower.
Within its borders stood Synchron Academy, one of the republic's three great Duel Academies, dedicated to Synchro Summoning.
Fusion Academy's cultural courses regularly covered the basic knowledge of the Spirit Continent's nations. Whenever he had nothing better to do, Miles would also attend. History and geography of another world were endlessly fascinating to him.
Because the republic pursued technological progress, its environment was more reminiscent of Miles's modern world before crossing over, unlike Livorden or the Varian Empire, which leaned heavily toward sword-and-sorcery fantasy.
Of course, it wasn't full modern science.
Rather, it was a unique magitek system, combining magic with energy derived from a substance called "orbalite."
For example, the Magitek Trains spanning nearly the entire continent were a creation of the Axet Republic.
In such a nation of technological marvels, Synchron Academy naturally held one more thing Miles eagerly anticipated—
The D-Wheel.
If Synchron Academy had D-Wheels, then the iconic Riding Duels of the anime might actually exist here too.
What's that—you say riding while dueling is dangerous, requires a license?
Back when Miles finished watching 5D's, he was so excited he went out and got a motorcycle license right away. As long as it wasn't too different, controlling one would be no problem for him.
"Let's go, Aisha! To Synchron Academy!"
Like an elementary schooler before a field trip, Miles was far more enthusiastic about the exchange program than Aisha herself.
"I knew you'd be interested, Mr. Miles… sigh, fine, fine."
While Miles brimmed with anticipation, for Aisha the exchange program meant stepping out of her comfort zone. Even if it was just two weeks, being in a strange academy without familiar faces from Fusion Academy was bound to feel lonely.
Perhaps sensing this in her expression, Kaima's lips curved into a faint smile.
"Don't worry too much, Aisha Carlos. Exchange programs usually send four or five students together—you won't be alone."
"So it's not just me." Aisha's anxious toes finally relaxed a little. "Grandpa Raiden said only third-years are chosen. That means you'll be going too, senpai?"
"This year's situation is more complicated." Kaima stroked her chin in thought. "First, I definitely can't go—you understand why."
Though still a student, Kaima was already head of the Seth family. She rarely even appeared at the academy these days. Attending an overseas exchange was unrealistic.
She even worried whether she could spare time for the Spirit Sanctuary Ranking War three months later.
"Second, Deion Kaiser. Even as a third-year powerhouse, his royal status makes it inconvenient for him to attend an inter-academy exchange."
With that, two of the academy's three strongest third-years were ruled out.
"So only Irena-senpai remains? That's fine…"
Aisha thought about it. Irena was reliable—certainly better than going alone. The rest of the third-year picks would likely be chosen by Skill Credit ranking.
"Because this year is complicated, I made a suggestion to the Vice Principal."
Kaima's sharp eyes lingered on the Millennium Puzzle hanging at Aisha's chest, making both her and Miles shiver.
After a pause, Kaima continued.
"My suggestion was this: since they're already making an exception by sending a second-year like you, why not send only second-years this time?"
"All… all second-years?!"
"Don't forget, you're as strong as third-years. In certain circumstances."
Her emphasis made the meaning obvious—she was referring to the Millennium Puzzle's Miles.
Since Kaima knew of his existence, the duel during the Academy Festival where Ren Austin had fought Irena to a draw was clear enough. It hadn't really been Aisha, but Miles.
"With second-years facing third-years from other academies—don't you think that would make our academy shine even brighter if you win?"
Miles muttered, "Uphill battles, huh? Only Kaima could come up with something like this."
If second-years fought third-years and lost, it was no disgrace. That said, if they won, it was a double insult to the opponents.
Vice Principal Raiden added, "Of course, we can't send only second-years, or it would look like we aren't taking the program seriously. So I've decided Irena will lead the team, with Aisha, Ren, and Kevin making a four-person squad."
The Gray Witch Irena, one of the academy's twin pillars alongside Kaima, was a famed powerhouse. With her leading, Fusion Academy would demonstrate full commitment.
Compared to Kaima's sharp, extreme methods, Vice Principal Raiden's approach was smoother—leaving no room for criticism.
"The exchange program will begin next month. That gives you two weeks to prepare. Do your utmost, and bring honor to Fusion Academy!"
Though his words sounded righteous, Raiden's eyes gleamed with mischief—he longed to see the other academies flounder, and the shock on their faces when a Synchro Monster got fused away.
Who knew if the three academy heads were friends or rivals at this point?
"Alright, Grandpa. I'll do it."
"Good girl! And as your 'funds' for the journey, I'll prepare a big Skill Credit package for you before you depart!"
Fusion Academy would spare no expense for its emissaries. Though the system of credits created by the Three Sages was tightly regulated, Raiden had the authority to bend the rules.
Outfitting the students with Spells for a glorious showing was the academy's duty.
Leaving the office, Aisha and Miles found Kaima waiting—having resolved her own attendance issues with money.
"Um, long time no see, Kaima-senpai."
"Mm."
"…"
The silence between them as they walked side by side was awkward.
Their relationship wasn't unfamiliar, nor close. But they had once ridden dragons and commanded fleets, saved the nation together, and faced the Phantom Sacred Beasts.
The awkwardness came simply from Aisha not knowing how to handle Kaima's personality.
She admired Irena, who could talk so easily with her.
Never mind, silence was fine too.
Maybe Kaima, always looking weighed down, was busy with family concerns and had no interest in catching up.
"Whew—"
Reaching the end of the hall, Aisha exhaled deeply, relieved to survive the silent tension.
"Um, Kaima-senpai, I'll just head back to my room—mmph."
Just as she tried to excuse herself, Kaima pressed a pale finger against her lips.
"S-senpai?"
Blushing furiously, Aisha managed to mumble her confusion.
"Aisha Carlos."
Kaima's refined features drew close. Aisha's cheeks grew hotter, her toes curling against the floor as she could almost feel her breath.
Leaning to her ear, Kaima whispered, clearly to keep others from overhearing.
Albeit for a pure girl like Aisha, such domineering presence was overwhelming.
"Tonight…"
The warm breath brushed her ear, making her legs weak.
"Tonight? That's no good, senpai—I already like someone else!"
Even with her lips blocked, she still managed to declare her loyalty to Miles.
"There's no 'no good.' Who gave you permission to refuse?"
"Huh?!"
Too domineering—wasn't she even allowed to say no?!
"I'm taking you to dinner. Meet me at the gate in an hour."
"Dinner… that's it?"
"Hmph, that's it. Don't tell anyone—my identity's sensitive right now."
Leaving those words in a whisper, Kaima departed, leaving Aisha dazed.
She had blurted out "that's it" in disappointment when Kaima mentioned dinner, expecting something more dramatic.
However, thinking about it now—why would Kaima Seth invite her to dinner?
The reason?
The motive?
And what would happen after?
"Mr. Miles, can I ask you something?"
"Go ahead."
"Could this be… a trap banquet?"
"No. What would Kaima gain from luring you into one? You're not the main course."
...
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