After the opening of the curtains, the group of professors from the Asteris Academy are presented to the students; at the center of the stage, a total of 9 chairs are positioned perfectly in a way that the chair of the director of the academy is positioned in the center, being on its left side 3 teachers and the vice principal and on the right side 4 other teachers. The Asteris Academy has way more than 7 teachers, but these 7 are the teachers responsible for each of the 7 magic classes present in the academy. Since the graduation time of the academy is 7 years, these teachers will be responsible for closely monitoring the development of each of the students in their class and indicating at the end of the year if they are ready to progress to the next class or not. These 7 are the most capable teachers in the entire academy, kingdom, and probably the entire world. The other academy teachers are on the right side of the stage, while on the left are some academy employees, specific instructors, and in a further region, the student council.

In front of the stage, the students, especially the younger ones, marvel at the sight of the academy's faculty; it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that all the teachers here are warriors powerful enough to face entire armies of combatants, many nations wouldn't be able, even with all they army, to face this group of professors if a confrontation were established, this is the maximum representation of the power of the academy of Asteris, one of the greatest pride of the empire. However, amid admiration, something starts to generate murmurs among the students, especially the older ones, not only among the students but also among the group teachers. At that moment, Rose, without understanding the reason for the murmurs, looks at Frederica and realizes that she has a confused look.

“Frederica, do you know what everyone is discussing?”

“The person sitting just to the right of the director, Miss Rose, do you recognize him?”

“Hmm? No, but I don't know any teachers either.”

“In the schedule they provided us, there were all the academy teachers, right? And not only that, but the 7 responsible teachers had a more detailed description of their achievements and even photos of their faces. Do you remember the person responsible for our class?”

“Yes, Emanoel Clairus, right?”

“Yes, but he is not among the responsible teachers.”

Trying to remember the face, Rose looks for it but doesn't find it among the 7 teachers in the middle of the stage.

“He's not in the center.”

“Yes, it would be one thing if he was absent, but all the chairs are occupied, and there is a man there who is not among the programming teachers we received, the younger man next to the director.”

Rose finally realizes the reason for the side conversations and looks at the unknown man, clearly much younger than the other professors, appearing to be in his yearly-20s, with a strong, honest, and charming face. At the same time, something else catches Rose's attention.

Since a young age, Rose was always able to observe certain sparkling spots around people; with time, she came to understand that these spots were mana particles. Around this man, it is as if these particles flickered and danced as if they were following the rhythm of his eyes, body, and breath as if he and his surroundings were one. Faced with this vision, only one word came to Rose's mind.

It's so harmonious...

One of the students sitting next to the student council on the left side of the stage gets up and goes to the microphone; in a second, the entire auditorium filled with side conversations becomes quiet.

“My name is Csezar Clairus. I am in the fifth year of the academy and find myself in the position of student council president. On behalf of the student council, to all students present, I welcome you to the Asteris Academy! You present here, in honor of your families and origins, are destined to become the greatest mages in history and win glory amid our war against the Leviathan empire!”

At that moment, the entire audience roared like a unity; screams of "Glory to the empire!" echoed everywhere.

“I turn the attention now to the absolute representative of the academy of Asteris, one of the most powerful mages in the history of our nation, the Saint mage nicknamed in the battlefield as Titania, director Maria Rosenfold!”

The applause and cheers echo even louder as the academy director stands up and walks to the microphone. Meanwhile, the student council president bows to her as a form of respect and moves back to his chair. Facing the student council members, it is possible to find a replica of the rose used as a brooch by the nobles, but in an enlarged size, the same size as a person and positioned in front of the council as a symbol of pride, in addition, most people on the stage used the rose on their arm, including the professors in the center, except for two people, the academy director and the mysterious man to the students.

“As Director of the Academy of Magic and Military Mastery of Asteris, I, Maria Rosenfold, welcome you to this occult arts learning environment. Here you will learn the most advanced magic and be trained to become the most powerful mages in the world. Don't measure your efforts, and always aim for the top!”

Unlike the previous speaker, the aura expelled by this woman was full of strength; an absolute power emanated from her. The image of the director on that stage represented absolute authority and power, even making some teachers swallow hard.

“So, this is a Saint Mage...”

Rose was completely amazed by that aura; it was different from everyone in this room. It was as if she were a completely different organism from them, an absolute being; if she just wished, they would all disappear in the blink of an eye, and even if she did it, the empire would hardly condemn a Saint Mage, they are absolute weapons in a war, and the presence of one of them in any kingdom is of inestimable value. It is through the number of high-caliber mages that a kingdom imposes its powers, and the woman present here is one of the pillars on which the empire is supported.

“As in every year, the 7 groups of students, starting from the first-year children until the seventh-year students, will receive a responsible teacher. This teacher will have the function of evaluating you during this year and, in the end, decide if you have the condition to progress. The Asteris Academy welcomes children from 13 years of age; at the end of the year, you will receive the evaluation of the responsible teacher and will be able to progress to the next class; being 7 the total number of classes, you will need at least 7 years to finish your studies in this academy, but don't think it will be easy, it's a tortuous path where many give up due to difficulties. However, I can guarantee you one thing, if you reach the end and graduate from this academy, your efforts will not be in vain; you will be among the most powerful mages in the empire. By tradition, now the 7 teachers responsible for the 7 classes will welcome and introduce themselves. Students, behold! These men and women are at the pinnacle of magic!"

After introducing herself and leaving the microphone, the director sits back down, and one of the responsible teachers gets up.

“Good morning, students. My name is...”

The teachers introduce themselves one by one, starting with the person responsible for class 7 and the others in descending order. Finally, the teacher of class 2 finishes and goes to his chair. At that moment, the focus of all the people is directed to the mysterious man who had not moved until now; during all the presentations, the students started to wait for this moment. However, who gets up is the director again, heading for the microphone.

“I wish for a moment of your attention; there was a last moment change in the faculty of the academy, and because of that, professor Emanoel Clairus will be replaced as a responsible professor; this decision was mine and mine alone. If there are any doubts or complaints, please address them to me. I guarantee the capacity of the substitute teacher for being an old acquaintance of mine.”

Then the director goes to her chair and sits down again. At that moment, everyone wonders who this man could be, an old acquaintance of a Saint Mage but someone apparently extremely young.

The man finally gets up and walks towards the microphone, standing in front of the entire academy. He looks at the students calmly and finally starts speaking.

“Good morning to all students and especially to the new students who will be in my class this year! How are you?”

Due to the relaxed presentation and the question at the end, all the people present are surprised and wordlessly at the man. After a few seconds without answers, he continues.

“I'll take the silence as an answer that you are fine! It's still too early not to be anyway, but if for some reason you're down, look for me; let’s have some tea and talk a little!”

Again, this series of comments leave everyone speechless. The simplicity and relaxation in the way this man speaks completely disagree with the previous speakers. However, after the shock of the confusion generated by his comments, some teachers begin to look at him with animosity, considering it a disrespect to the traditions of the academy and the behavior of a teacher.

“I haven't introduced myself yet. My name is Yukiko, with no last name. It’s a pleasure to meet you all!”

Again, absolute silence takes over everyone. However, this time, some comments started appearing.

“No last name?”

“Wait, isn't he noble?”

“Aren't slaves who don't have last names?”

Yukiko then continues.

“I came to become your teacher due to an agreement I made with Maria a few years ago, and I hope I can collaborate with everyone's growth!”

Everyone is perplexed again, especially by this man with no last name who just announced to everyone that he had become their teacher because of an agreement, but what surprised the most was the way he just addressed a Saint Mage by her first name.

“Oh, I almost forgot, you present here, of noble and not noble origin, are destined to become the greatest magicians in history and change the world, not through a path defined by outdated elderly, with an idiotic war, but with the path that you will build with your own hands!”

Next, Yukiko looks towards the student council, specifically at the blue rose in front of the students. He then points to the sculpture.

“Do not get caught up in idiotic ideas of superiority, or you will be limited by your arrogance.”

Yukiko then goes to his chair and sits down. Absolute silence takes over the place once more until the director finally gets up and goes to the microphone.

“We will then start the school year. Everyone to their classes, wait for your responsible teachers, dismissed!”

And so, it begins another year at the Asterius Academy.

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Rose enters the classroom and looks for a place to sit; right behind her, Frederica enters the room soon after.

“Frederica, do you know if there is a specific place for us to sit?”

“I believe it's a free option, Miss Rose. How about we sit further back next to the window?”

“Ok!”

Rose happily responds to Frederica's proposal; the question she had asked was with the hope that they could both sit next to each other.

The classroom has a half-moon shape, where in the center, the teacher could position himself, and as the rows were extended, the further back, the greater the height of the platforms and tables so that the students in front would not obstruct the view of the students in the back, in addition, each row had a large number of chairs, so that the students sat next to each other and shared the same space. Arriving near an empty region in the background, Frederica calls Rose.

“Miss Rose, what do you think about us sitting here?”

“Sure!”

“I don't think it would be a good idea.”

A voice catches their attention, and then they both look to the side and find a group of 5 girls, the same ones that were staring at them during the performance in the morning.

“We are planning to use all these chairs for the 5 of us and a few more friends who are about to arrive; please look elsewhere.”

Rose freezes for a moment but then immediately answers them.

“There's no one sitting here at the moment; besides, there are several chairs. I don't think there's a problem with sitting here, right?”

“What? Of course, there is a problem, even if some chairs may be vacant.”

Then another girl in the group joins the discussion.

“Yes, if you stay too close to us, we will have to smell the horrible scent of you. If you can, please sit on the other side of the room; this region further to the right, we will reserve for nobles.”

“What?!”

Rose immediately turns red.

Am I stinking? But I showered in the morning, wait, they've got to be kidding; I don't know about me, but I'm sure Frederica doesn't smell bad!

When Rose notices a smile forming in the girl’s group, she decides to finally complain.

“Listen here, we...”

“Understood, Miss Moscon! We will move to another location.”

“Oh?! You know me, that's great. I like well-trained commoners; give proper congratulations to your parents.”

“Of course, I will inform them of your kindness.”

Frederica takes Rose's arm and pulls her across the room, heading to the left side. Rose, without understanding anything, is just carried to a region with fewer people until Frederica finally stops.

“What do you think of here, Miss Rose? It is close to the window as we had talked.”

“Um, Frederica...why?”

“I'm sorry, Miss Rose, but as you are ignorant about how things work here, I hope you follow my selfish decisions. We must not irritate noble children.”

“But... the way she talked to you...”

Rose then feels Frederica squeezing her arm more tightly.

“Still, that's how things work here, I apologize for acting so rude to you, but if you answered in that situation, you would make them your enemies. After that, they would make a point of making your life here a hell.”

“I understand, Frederica. You did that to help me. Thank you, I almost made a decision that could harm me, even harming you in the process.”

“Don't worry; let’s sit down before other people show up.”

After sitting down, Rose notices how most of the students sitting in this region don't have brooches on their shoulders.

So, segregation happens up to that point? Do these people feel so good excluding others like that?

As Rose reflects on the events so far, the room continues to fill until all the chairs are filled. Around 30 students are in the room, and Rose notices that only 6 of them don't have the brooch on their shoulder, counting her and Frederica, that is, only 6 non-noble children in the class.

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Elsewhere in the academy, an argument rages in director Maria Rosenfold's office. The director finds herself sitting in her chair with her secretary right behind her, while two men sit on opposite couches with a tea table in front of them, one of the men, Yukiko, quietly prepares some tea, while the other argues with the headmistress.

“Principal Rosenfold, I ask you to reconsider your decision as to who is responsible for Class 1. We had agreed that I would be the responsible teacher this year, for something to be changed in this way is unprecedented and shames my reputation.”

“Sir Clairus, I apologize for the sudden change, but my decision is final. Mr. Yukiko will be responsible for class 1, as I had already said during the ceremony, I attest to his abilities and I guarantee his capability.”

“But this is unacceptable, even if you know him, we are talking about the children of the most influential families in the empire, having any teacher without history or achievements is an outrage!”

Ah… this is going to be tiring, I didn't think they would start complaining about Yuki so soon, and this guy with that annoying family... he's still trying to bring other families into the matter, not that the others won't complain, but he is only worried about his reputation for being replaced by some random teacher.

“I understand your complaint Sir Clairus, but my decision remains, let me deal with the complaints of the other families, including the Clairus family, if there is an official complaint of course.”

“But...”

At that moment Yukiko gets up abruptly, everyone directs their attention to him, including the secretary who was with her head down until now, since he has kept quiet until now, everyone awaits to see how this man will defend himself as the new responsible teacher.

“Well, it's finally time everyone, tea is ready, here is Mr. Clairus.”

The man calmly distributes cups of tea around the room, while veins start to bulge in the forehead of the professor who has been replaced.

“Here's Maria, yours is here Camila, I'll leave it on Maria's table since you're standing, they are great fresh leaves and they deal well with tiredness.”

“Ah, thank you very much, Mr. Yukiko, the smell is very pleasant, it is very considerate of you to remember my tiredness!”

“Of course, I would! I'm sure Maria makes you work like crazy, feel free if you want more, and you can call me just Yukiko, Miss Camila.”

“I could never Mr. Yukiko!”

“Please, we have close ages, I feel uncomfortable being called Sir or Mister by you.”

“I'll call you Professor Yukiko then!”

“All right!”

Camila calmly chats with Yukiko as she takes her cup of tea and drinks it without a care in the world.

“They are great leaves! What a divine fragrance, I already feel more willing!”

“That's great, here's a little more.”

“Oh, thank you so much!”

Camila calmly receives more tea in her cup while chatting unassumingly with Yukiko, when she finally realizes what she's doing, it's already too late, she immediately feels the director's scolding gaze stabbing her and Clairus' furious glare, she quickly puts the cup back on the table and apologizes.

“Forgiveness Director Maria, for my inelegant behavior!”

The annoyed headmistress signals the secretary to return to her original position. Professor Clairus, who until now was unresponsive to the events, finally returns to his train of thought, meanwhile, Yukiko returns to his position, sitting across from Clairus.

“This is still unacceptable Principal Rosenfold, I do not accept a less competent teacher than myself, he must demonstrate his value to me and the entire faculty!”

“Do you doubt my word, Professor Clairus?”

The moment these words leave Maria's mouth the atmosphere of the room changes completely, an ordinary person, without the ability to feel magic, might be able to feel only tension in the air, but for high caliber mages, like those present here, it was as if the whole color of the room changed, as if the entire environment were bent over by the dissatisfaction of the woman sitting in the director's chair.

It's as if all the mana particles are bending to her will, as if they feel her displeasure... it's hard to even breathe.

Camila contemplates the situation in the room as her vision blurs and her breathing becomes ragged.

So, this is a Saint...

At that moment Professor Clairus realizes that he has gone too far.

“It's not my intention to offend you, Director Rosenfold, I don't doubt your words.”

“When you doubt the capabilities that this man has, you doubt my word when I say that the same is more than capable.”

“That...”

Not knowing how to get around the situation and with sweat appearing on his face, Professor Clairus starts looking for a way out of this situation.

Should I apologize? But that would be admitting the capabilities of this commoner… what should I do?

A silence ensues in the room, as the tension between the two increases. Amid this environment, Camila begins to lose consciousness.

Hmm? Do I taste earth? Ah, it must be because of the director's affinity, amazing, how can she gather that many mana particles in one place? To the point where I can taste the earth in the air... my vision is darkening...

When Camila feels her legs giving out, she tries to hold on to something, but to no avail, she then starts to fall. At that moment Yukiko holds her by the shoulders and supports her.

“Okay, okay, that's enough Maria, Professor Clairus, don't forget there are more people in the room. Maria, control your magic, you'll end up killing the girl.”

Uh?! This man, wasn't he sitting across from me? When did he get to the secretary?

“Ah Camila, I'm sorry child, I forget that you are still very young.”

At that moment all the pressure in the environment disappears and little by little the natural colors of the room return. Yukiko then helps Camila sit on the couch next to him.

This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

“Ah...ah...ah, don't worry director Maria, I was just surprised.”

“Here, have a sip of tea and get some rest for... ah, she fainted.”

Camila, already unconscious, hangs her head on one of the arms of the sofa. Maria then gets up worried.

“She seems fine, she's just exhausted.”

After Yukiko's confirmation of Camila’s safety, Maria sits again.

“Professor Clairus.”

“Ah, yes?”

“I understand that you doubt my ability and that makes sense, but I'm competent enough.”

“Still...”

“However, I think your complaints are fair.”

“Hmm?”

“Even if you believe in Maria's words, and please say you do so as not to create an unpleasant situation, this earthy taste put an end to the enjoyment of my tea.”

At that moment Maria looks at him frustrated and a little guilty.

“So, the problem is the tea and not the girl almost dying, Yuki?”

“And Miss Camila's health of course.”

“Don't put my secretary's life after a cup of tea!”

“However, Mr. Clairus, I understand your objection, and even if you believe the director's word, many may not believe it, so we must resolve this situation.”

“Yes, I agree.”

Even though Clairus doesn't like how this man is controlling the argument, he agrees that something must be done, that is, him getting his position back.

“That way… Mr. Yukiko, I ask you to return my position as a resp-”

“A magical duel seems to me the best solution.”

“...”

Magic Duel, is a practice where magic practitioners in common agreement wage a dispute, which can be in search of an award, exhibition, and in many cases resolution of personal conflicts.

Ahh Yuki, you were looking for this from the beginning, weren't you?

At that moment, the room changes again, this time it is possible to feel an increase in temperature, the change is in much smaller proportions than before, being possible to notice only a slight increase in the temperature of the place, not being enough to cause any discomfort and even making the secretary's sleep a little more comfortable.

“Boy, I ask you not to make jokes... even though I am in the presence of Saint Maria, I cannot accept being played with my face like that without showing my teeth.”

“I'm not kidding Professor Clairus, I would never do that with you, I'm proposing that we solve our problem. I don't see a better alternative, so everything will be clarified.”

“Boy...”

“It could be at an event for the entire academy too, that way all students and teachers could witness and then there would be no more doubts.”

This boy… no, this Insolent Worm, who does he think he's talking to? A commoner like you, nameless, with NOTHING, how dare you! If the headmistress hadn't been in front of me, I would have killed him already, his life is so insignificant that his death wouldn't give me any problems, no one would face the Clairus family on account of the death of a worm! If that woman weren't here... yes, that must be the only reason you would address me like that, you must be confident that she will protect you, you bastard, I don't know what is her relationship with you, but I will not allow it!

“You offend me that way, kid, do you know who I am? My name is Emanoel Clairus, Gold Rank 1 fire mage, I stepped into the realm of Gold at just 35 years old, don't underestimate me, child!”

“For a duel of magic, it is necessary common agreement and the permission of a competent observer, can I understand that you do not accept the duel, Professor Clairus?”

“Boy!”

“That's enough!”

With the director's intervention, Clairus finally calms down, meanwhile, lying on the arm of the sofa.

What do I do?! I woke up a few seconds ago from the screams, but it doesn't seem like a good time to just open my eyes and say, “Good morning, everyone!! Camila is back!”. What should I do? Will Professor Yukiko be okay? Does he know how strong Professor Clairus is? Although Yukiko may look young, he may not look his true age, would he be a very powerful being close to his 100 years old just like the director? He said we were close in age but he could only be kidding because of his looks.

“How old are you, boy?”

“I'm 21 years old this year, why do you ask Professor Clairus?”

Ah..., is he younger than me? It doesn't hit well...

“Insolent!”

“I told you enough!”

Silence finally takes over the director's room.

“Yukiko, are you sure about the duel?”

“Yes.”

“Okay, so I permit the same to happen and make myself available as an observer.”

“Director! I don't know what can happen if I face this brat, I don't guarantee that I can contain myself. I don't want to displease you.”

“Then, any serious injury, or even if one of us dies, there will be no retaliation, being in common agreement Maria will also give her word.”

“Boy...”

“I agree, I, Maria Rosenfold, give my word.”

“... very well then, I accept the boy challenge, when?”

“In a month, I want to know my class first, know the academy.”

Is this boy playing with me? I will kill him with all my might!

“Very well, in exactly 30 days from today, it will be held at an event too, right? An event is held after the first month of class to hear opinions from students and discuss whether they have adapted to life at the academy, the duel will be on that day.”

“Very well, I agree.”

“I also agree.”

“It's decided then, please go back to your tasks and leave my room, I need to solve several things, you're even late for your class, Yukiko.”

“Understood, excuse me, Principal Rosenfold.”

Then Clairus leaves the place, leaving only three people in the room.

“Well, it's time to meet my dear students!”

“Is that what you wanted? Are you sure about it?”

“Yes, a month is enough to prepare myself for the repercussion, I even think that a month is the most I could keep things this way.”

“Yes, I think you're right. If that's your decision I won't argue further.”

“Thank you, Maria. I ask you to hold on during this month with the nobles and other teachers.”

“Ahh, this is going to be hell...”

“Ha-ha-ha, isn't it fun? It's been a while since we worked together!”

“I'm the one doing all the work...”

“Well, better finish that tea.”

“Do not change the subject...”

“Miss Camila, will you accept a little more?”

“Oh yes, of course!”

Camila gets up and picks up one of the cups on the table to pour the tea in.

Oh?! Shit, I got up without realizing it...

“Why were you pretending to sleep?”

Yukiko asks as he pours tea into her cup.

“Ah well, I didn't know how to just get up in that situation... sorry.”

“Don't worry, no problem.”

“Professor Yukiko... you are so kind...”

As her eyes water at being treated so well by someone, Camila remembers the other person in the room.

“Principal Maria, sorry...”

“Sorry Camila, I lost control for a moment, if it wasn't for Yuki, I could have hurt you.”

“Oh, don't worry director! I am great!”

“You should make her compensate for it, Camila, take the day off for example.”

“I could never ask that of director Maria! Although, it would be interesting...”

“Don’t give her ideas Yukiko, today was already busy and you delayed me in many ways, I need her to solve some issues for me.”

“Ha-ha, sorry Camila, it didn't work.”

At that moment the 3 smile together.

These two are interesting... I don't know what happened between them, but I can say that it was something that made them very close, who would this man be?

“Yukiko, your class started 30 minutes ago, I think you should go.”

“Serious?”

“Yes.”

“Ah, I'm going to start with a bad impression, I'm going then.”

“Good luck.”

“Good luck Professor Yukiko! Thanks for the tea!”

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

At that moment in class number 1, responsible for housing the first-year students.

“He's 30 minutes late...”

“Hey, you've got to be kidding.”

“Seriously that he hasn't shown up yet? Maybe he was replaced by Professor Clairus, that would be great!”

“Don't give us hope!”

Some students were talking about the delay of the responsible teacher, especially the noble students, for not knowing anything about this mysterious man, they were complaining and saying that they would look for the director if he continued without showing up.

“Frederica.”

“Yes?”

“Do you know who that man is?”

“No, I've never heard of him, Yukiko is a very unusual name too, I don't think he's from the region. And he still hasn't provided his last name, if he even has one, which makes it even more complicated.”

“I see, if you haven't even heard of him, then he really is a mysterious man.”

“You place too much value on my knowledge, Miss Rose.”

“Excuse me? I noticed you were talking about our unknown teacher, may I ask if you know any more details about him?”

A female voice comes from Rose's left side, as she was talking to Frederica, she turns around and comes across a girl with light blue hair and eyes of the same color, short stature, and extremely delicate demeanor.

“A fairy?”

Rose unconsciously addresses the girl, leaving her confused.

“Hmm?”

“Miss Rose, this is Miss Elia Kutz.”

“Oh, I am sorry, my name is Rose Stevans. It's a pleasure, Miss Elia.”

“Of course, the pleasure is mine, Miss Rose!”

“Do you two know each other, Frederica?”

“We saw each other a few times because of the relationship of our families, both work in commerce.”

“I see.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you again, Miss Frederica, how is your family?”

“A pleasure Miss Elia, they are fine, I hope your family is too!”

They are really polite, merchants' daughters are something else...

“What were you saying about the mystery teacher?”

Frederica remembers Elia about her first question.

“Oh, I just wanted to participate, to have more information about him.”

“I understand, you are welcome to participate, but we have nothing different than the information we received in the morning.”

“Hmm, I see...”

“Good morning, everyone!”

At that moment the whole class is startled by the spontaneous introduction, on the stage where the teacher in charge would perform was the man so discussed.

“When did he get there?”

“Hey, did anyone see him coming in?”

“No, I did not see him...”

The confused students begin to sit properly and the ones who were out of their chairs return to their seats. When everyone is perfectly seated.

“Finally, you guys take time to get organized, how long would you make me wait?”

“Look who's talking, you're more than 30 minutes late!”

The room screams as a group in outrage.

“True, we're even then.”

“As if it were the same thing!”

“Well, I'll introduce myself again.”

“Will he ignore us?”

“My name is Yukiko, you can call me whatever you prefer, I'll be the teacher responsible for class 1 this year, that is, for all of you, I hope I get along with everyone.”

At that moment Yukiko smiles at the whole class as he introduces himself in a relaxed way.

“What a beautiful person...”

“Miss Rose?”

“Hmm?”

Frederica and Elia are startled by Rose's comment, for being close to her, they were able to hear the compliment that came out of her lips.

“Miss Rose, he really is a charming man, but this kind of comment is somewhat spontaneous.”

“Ah no, that's not it!”

Rose turns red after the comment.

“It's because of his aura...”

“His aura?”

“Yes, I've always been very sensitive to mana particles, I can see them clearly in some situations. During the event, I had noticed something about him, but as he was so far away it was difficult to see in detail, now I can see clearly, it's like the particles are dancing around him as if he is one with the environment, it's so... beautiful.”

“I see...he makes a certain impression, I can't see these particles as you do, but he causes a feeling of admiration.”

During the girls' conversation, they notice that Yukiko is looking in their direction, more specifically, directly at Rose.

“The blonde water mage in the background, what's your name?”

“Oh, it's Rose sir, Rose Stevans.”

Frightened and thinking that she will be scolded due to talking, Rose responds quickly.

“You have good eyes, Rose.”

“Thanks?”

Yukiko continues to stare at her and smile until she finally turns red and looks down.

“Well, I introduced myself to you and I'm sure you have several doubts, as this class doesn't have a set deadline to end due to being the presentation class, we have as much time as we want, although you lost so much time to just sit down ...”

“WHAT?!”

“I will answer some of your questions now!”

Despite being frustrated by the teacher's comment, everyone starts to cheer up to finally be able to clear up some doubts about him.

“Then? Does anyone want to ask something?”

“I want!”

A girl raises her hand, it's the same girl from the group of 5 students who had removed Rose and Frederica from the place they were going to sit.

“What's your name, Miss Wind Mage?”

“Melina Moscon.”

“What's your question?”

“What's your full name? You only gave us your first name, both before in the event and now.”

“Please Miss Melina, don’t ask such personal questions, I'm embarrassed...”

Yukiko blushes slightly.

“How is that a very personal question?!”

Again, the whole class is outraged as if they were a choir.

“Somebody else?”

“He's going to just ignore her?!”

“Aren't you going to answer my question?”

“Maybe another day, Miss Melina.”

“I have a question!”

“What's your name, Miss Fire Mage?”

“Elia Kutz, sir!”

“What's your question?”

“What's your rank?”

The room becomes apprehensive at that moment, for this man to have replaced Professor Clasius, a very powerful mage, and in addition to being a personal friend of the director, a Saint mage, he can only be extremely powerful. Yukiko brings his hand to his face, at that moment it is possible to feel the tension in the air.

“I am embarrassed, Miss Elia, you are a very bold girl for asking that...”

With his hand on his face and visibly blushing, Yukiko shows an embarrassed face again.

“You're playing with our face!”

“No such personal questions please.”

“Hey! You'll only answer what you want, won't you?!”

“I have a question.”

Frederica is the one to raise her hand this time.

“What's your name, Miss Wind Mage?”

“Frederica Menston, sir.”

“What's your question, Frederica?”

“May I know your age?”

The entire class falls silent again, immediately realizing Frederica's intentions. A mage may have his strength roughly measured by his age, a mage who appears to be young but who is of a high age, determinedly has a high Rank, however, everyone immediately remembers the previous answers and concludes that he will not respond.

“21 years old.”

“Oh?!”

“Any more questions?”

“Like this? Are you going to act like everything is normal? How is a surname very personal, but your age is not?!”

Yukiko completely ignores the students' screams, but while some students complain, more experienced students present different expressions.

“Did he say 21?”

“He's younger than my brother...”

“Hey, how is it possible for a teacher in this academy to be 21 years old?”

Frederica is also visibly shaken.

“How is it possible?”

“Hmm, is it so strange that he is so young Frederica?”

“Quite strange, Miss Rose, a mage can usually have his strength measured by his age, there are teachers in this academy for example, that are over 100 years old, a 21-year-old being a teacher... that should be close to the age of a graduate.”

“I understand, it's true...”

During their discussions, Yukiko interrupts them again.

“Anyone else has a question?”

“I have one!”

A boy with gray hair and red eyes raises his hand.

“What's your name, Mr. fire mage?”

“Onix Clairus.”

Several students have their attention attracted by the boy's name.

“Is he a Clairus?”

“So, he's the youngest of the Clairus...”

“It was his uncle who lost the position of teacher responsible for this class.”

Yukiko then interrupts the side conversations.

“What would your question be, Mr. Onix?”

“How are you able to tell the elemental affinity of every student?”

“Hmm?!”

After a moment of astonishment, one by one, the students realize that from the beginning, this teacher asked the students' names but already knew their respective elements of affinity.

“Well, I may be from a little far, but I know the names of some traditional families of Asteris, like the Moscon and Clairus for example.”

“It doesn't make sense, you knew the elements even from other non-noble students, and although it's likely, a descendant of a family doesn't always develop a common affinity, I don't think you would risk making a mistake.”

“Well, I received the personal information from each of you, I ended up memorizing some people's information, my memory is very good, you know.”

“It also doesn't make sense, if that were the case, why ask our name? Not to mention that I don't think they provided our photos along with the affinity information.”

The entire class starts to understand Onix's point of view, it doesn't make sense for him to know everyone's affinity with just one look. Yukiko then starts laughing and answers Onix.

“You are an interesting boy.”

“Thank you, but I would like to have my answer, if possible.”

“All right, but first let me ask you something.”

Everyone is again captured by the presence of this man, now with a serious face he provides a completely different air than before.

“How can I have determined the affinities of each one of you?”

“Aren't you the one who should answer that?”

“It's a teacher's job to get the students to the answer, not hand it over effortlessly.”

The students then start talking to each other but do not come to any conclusions.

“What are affinities?”

After a few seconds, Yukiko again asks a question, breaking the side conversations.

“Affinity represents the type of magic the mage can use.”

Who answers the question first is Onix.

“This is such a poor definition, it wouldn’t be enough even for a test here in the academy, and is not enough to understand how I discovered the affinity of each one.”

“It is not enough?”

Onix starts to wonder what he means.

“Is it the element we can best identify in the environment?”

At that moment, Rose is the one to offer an answer, now receiving everyone's attention, which makes her blush.

“It's not the best definition, but it gives a direction.”

Everyone then begins to think about that meaning.

“Affinity is the ability to interact and influence the mana present in the world.”

Yukiko finally breaks the silence and delivers the answer he wanted.

“How so?”

“How can mana in the world be divided?”

He asks another question and Onix is again the one who answers.

“Mana can be divided and set into 4 composition elements and 2 opposites. The elements are fire, wind, earth, and water. The opposites being light and dark.”

“Again, a poor definition... but it is enough for the direction of my explanation. The question I ask you now is, why this definition you just give is slightly wrong?”

“How is wrong? That's the definition of all magic study books!”

“Not at all, not that way at least.”

“What do you mean?”

“The most correct traditional definition would be: Mana can be divided and manifest in 4 composition elements and 2 opposites. The elements are fire, wind, earth, and water. The opposites being light and dark.”

“How is this different?”

“Mana is not defined, there is no finite and fixed number of water and fire mana particles in the world. If that were the case, then how is it that on a rainy day, the presence of water element mana particles becomes greater and it becomes simpler for a mage to use water spells? Or on a sunny day the same for a fire mage?”

Everyone again goes into silence, it makes sense, if there were fixed particles of fire and water that are always the same, in climate changes these situations would not occur.

“Mana is not fixed, it manifests. A fire element mana particle can turn into a water type mana particle if the right conditions are met.”

“You may be right, but this is all theory and pretty definitions, how does that answer my original question?!”

“Imagine a person with a high affinity for a certain element, and who has a natural reserve in their body of mana of this type, what would the behavior of mana particles in the environment close to that individual be like? How would they manifest?”

“Oh, you mean...”

“Continue Onyx.”

“The mana particles of the environment have different affinities, but when they are close to a mage with an affinity for the fire element, for example, do these particles suffer influence and manifest as particles of the fire element?”

“Exactly.”

“Is it possible to see this? I can feel good when I'm in a region with many particles of the fire element, like near a volcano for example, but visualize them around a person?”

“It's possible, it's just not that simple. See, the more fragile your core is, the less influence you can exert on the environment, so it's quite complicated to determine the affinity of very weak people, for powerful mages however, it becomes very simple, although most powerful mages can hide it if they wish, so they don't expose their element or rank.”

“And how can we learn to do that?”

“You need to become one with the world, to the point where you can see or feel even the essence of nature and its composition.”

“Hmm, I don't know if I understand.”

“Don't worry, this is something quite advanced, don't put your focus on it, it's something that comes naturally after a lot of training and time. Although there are some exceptions, people with good eyes for example.”

At that moment Yukiko looks at Rose, who was in a trance, amazed at the explanations of the teacher.

“I see, and are you able to see that?”

“Yes.”

“I would like to ask your rank too.”

“Hmm?! Are you more curious about me?”

“Yes.”

Yukiko starts laughing again.

“You're an honest boy, I like that. Let me follow the same method then, what would a Rank be, Sir Onix?”

“For mages, it's a way to categorize them and compare them with other mages.”

“Perfect, as it's a human creation to categorize people, the book definition is enough. And how are these Ranks divided? Please, give me a complete definition.”

“Ok… the 6 great Ranks can be divided into: Intimus, Holder, Manipulator, Ruler, Saint, and Sage. Ranks follow an ascending order of power, with Intimus being the lowest Rank and Sage the highest. The meaning of the word Intimus comes from ancient languages and means "in the majority", it represents the first rank and the common rank for mages, however, it is not common in the general population.”

Onix stops to see if Yukiko is approving his answer and continues when the teacher gives his approval.

“Only 1% of the world population develops an affinity with mana and so with some element, 10% can feel some degree of mana, and the rest are not able to feel even a trace of any element, they are completely ignorant to magic. This 1% are classified in the first Rank and are the Intimus, that is, the majority that can use magic to some extent. Depending on the individual's talent, affinity, and effort, he can be classified over time to other Ranks.”

All students are impressed with Onix's detailed explanation, everyone there had some knowledge about the subject, after all, they were joining one of the largest magic academies in the world, however, few were confident in saying that they could explain as detailed as that.

“Very well, continue with the explanation, explain the Intimus Rank better to us.”

“Is it really necessary? Everyone here should have a good idea what this is all about.”

“I still want to hear it, but if you're not so willing... Miss Frederica, explain the Intimus Rank.”

“It's not that I'm not-”

“Yes sir!”

Frederica immediately interrupts Onix and begins her explanation.

“The Intimus Rank, unlike the others, is subdivided into other Sub-Ranks due to the large number of mages in that rank, in Levimus' empire we have the tradition of subdividing the Intimus Rank into 3 Sub-Ranks to better organize our armies, being them: Bronze, Silver and Gold. In turn, each of these Sub-Ranks is subdivided again into 3 other levels, for example, the Bronze Sub-Rank has Bronze 1, Bronze 2, and Bronze 3. Anyone born with the ability to interact with magic, that is, with some affinity, is automatically rated Bronze 3, the lowest rank.”

“Perfect, great explanation, Frederica.”

Again, the room is silent because of the excellent explanation, however, unlike the previous admiration when Onix had explained, a certain discomfort is visible among the noble students that start to talk with each other.

“Hmm, she is well trained.”

“It's the minimum for a commoner to be able to attend this place in our presence, I hope she doesn't get arrogant and forget her position, if she forgets we'll have to remember her-”

“Miss Moscon, do you have something to say?”

Yukiko interrupts Melina Moscon's comment before she can finish it.

“Hmm?! No, I have nothing to say…”

A little frustrated, she doesn't continue her comment.

“I see, then explain to us how and what the Intimus Rank and Sub-Ranks can classify.”

“Ah yes. The Bronze, Silver, and Gold Sub-Ranks classify each individual's inner mana core.”

“Give me more details.”

“Hmm... more? They tell us how powerful a mage is, a Gold Rank mage for example is as valuable as an army of about a thousand well-trained soldiers.”

“That's not exactly what I want. Very well, Miss Elia, explain more to us the concept of mana core and its relation to Ranks.”

Frustrated, Melina Moscon starts biting her nails out of embarrassment after failing to answer Yukiko's question.

“Yes sir, people born with magic affinity, those who correspond to about 1% of the population, as Mr. Clairus had explained, have in their essence a mana core, this core makes it possible to use magic, a person with an affinity for fire, for example, have in their mana core particles of the fire element in greater proportions, through training it is possible to purify this mana core and make it more pure and intense in mana particles of the fire element, with this purification it becomes possible to use more advanced spells and wield greater destructive power, with this the mage is reclassified within the Sub-Ranks, thus, a Bronze 3 mage has an impure mana core corrupted by several elements, which hinders him, due to his affinity being fire for example, the presence of water element mana particles in his core does nothing for him since he cannot use them, with training he can expand and purify his core, being able to use his mana more efficiently and far more powerful spells. A Gold Rank 1 mage for example possesses a core of absolute purity and is capable of performing spells of the highest degree and destructive power.”

“Very well, Miss Elia.”

Again, the feeling of discomfort fills the room, however, now no one makes any further comment, because of what happened earlier with the student Melina Moscon.

“You all put a lot of emphasis on words like power and destruction, but the advancement of ranks in a core is not just about that, I understand that the nation is at war so the focus tends to be destructive power, but what else does core advancement favor?”

After this question, the class becomes quiet again, until a student answers Yukiko's question.

“Life expectancy?”

“What's your name, earth mage?”

“Mia Rosenfold, sir.”

“Rosenfold? Are you from Maria's family then?”

“Oh, yes sir...”

Once again there is a surprise in the room, on account of Yukiko addressing a Saint mage with such informality.

“I understand! Continue your explanation, Miss Mia.”

“Yes! The development and purification of a core increase an individual's lifespan, it is not known for sure how much this can influence absolute numbers, but many experienced Gold Rank magic practitioners are over 100 years old and have excellent physical shape, even with old age. What is known is that the natural lifespan of the body is improved with core purification, because of this, the sooner a person can reach high Ranks, the longer their total lifespan will be, if a person for example reaches the Gold Rank at an advanced age, it still wouldn't have a significant increase in life expectation, as it was already close to the end of it.”

“Excellent explanation Miss Mia, to exemplify for everyone, let's take the director of this academy, Maria Rosenfold, she doesn't like to talk about her age, but... she is close to 100 years old.”

At that moment, all the students in the room were startled. The age of the academy director was not common knowledge, they knew that she was a very powerful mage, and therefore, her appearance would probably not reflect her age, however, it was of great surprise, after all an observer could say that from the looks of it, the director would be in her late 20s or early 30s.

“However, because of her talent in the world of magic, she was able to reach Gold Rak at just 22 years old and Saint Rank at 90 years old. Her life expectancy has been extended drastically, so I can assure you that she will be director of this academy for at least a few centuries...”

“22 years old?! Isn't that absurd?”

“Hey, by literature, didn't she reach Gold before Emperor Soltiem?”

“Yes, according to the books Emperor Soltiem reached Gold at the age of 25...”

Several side conversations start to spread around the room due to information that the students have just received.

“So, children? Isn't it wonderful? Being able to keep your youth and live for that long?”

All the girls and boys in the class started to nod, imagining how wonderful it would be to keep your youth for so long.

“Don't put ridiculous dreams in our heads.”

The one who interrupts the silence is a boy with white hair and blue eyes.

“What's your name, water mage?”

“Muher Iris.”

“What do you mean by ridiculous dreams, Mr. Muher?”

“First, you talk about Saint Maria with too much informality, have some respect. As if everyone here could reach that level, you are a teacher and you must know very well how difficult it is to simply touch the Gold Rank, even for the most talented mages, they take years to jump from Silver Rank 1 to Gold Rank 3, and I am not even counting the time it took them to reach Silver Rank. The vast majority of Gold Rank mages only reached that Rank at a high age, mages who reach Gold close to 50 years for example are already considered geniuses. Feeding impossible dreams, comparing ourselves to individuals like Saint Maria and the emperor, comparing ourselves to those heavenly beings is very irresponsible.”

Enraged, Muher realizes he was disrespecting the teacher, he bows in apology and becomes quiet. However, this information from him was enough to calm everyone's spirits and make them realize that things were not so simple.

“If that's the case, then why waste your time here?”

“Ah?!”

Yukiko's question surprises everyone, but when Muher and the other students were about to protest, the sight of all the students came across a man with a completely different expression. Yukiko without his usual playful smile stares at them, serious and fixed, the presence of this man captivates them deeply, as if they were looking at a completely different being.

“If not to reach the apex in the world of magic, why are you here?”

“Don't talk as if it's something so simple!”

Who explodes after that statement is Muher.

“Talking so simply about the height of magic, don't play with our faces! We may just be children in your eyes, but we went through many difficulties to get here, we are in a war against the Leviathan empire where many Gold Rank mages die every day, we are not here to play. Why am I here if not to reach the apex? I am here to fight for my people and destroy the Leviathan barbarians!”

Again, silence takes over the classroom, all students are silent, many here agree with all the words said by the 13-year-old boy, most kids here, especially those from noble families, are here to train and go to war.

“Destroy the barbarians of Leviathan, hum? With that goal sadly you're not going to reach the top.”

“What are you-”

“I'll make it very clear to you, I'm not here to train anyone for any stupid war and I'm sorry to inform you that I intend to be your teacher for the next 7 years. I have direct contact with the director, so I have certain privileges here and I intend to accompany you all during your years here.”

“What are you saying? Do you have any idea of the responsibility of our noble families…?”

“I don't care about your noble responsibility, I don't care about that ridiculous brooch that some of you wear on your shoulders or its meaning. It's a bad taste too, it doesn't even match the uniform.”

“How dare you-”

“If you want to train here for 7 years, become mediocre mages, and die in a stupid war, go ahead, there are several teachers here willing to train you for that purpose, but don't count on me.”

Yukiko doesn't let anyone else interrupt him and continues.

“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 7 years, I will make you touch Gold!”

“Hum?!”

“I give you all my word on that.”

With everyone unresponsive, Yukiko starts walking towards the classroom exit.

“That's enough for today, we'll meet tomorrow at the same time, don't forget that you have other classes besides mine starting tomorrow.”

Yukiko then leaves the classroom and all the students in it, all at a loss for words to describe his last statement.