"Congratulations on passing!"

In the dining area of Selena's manor, everyone crowded around the table, mugs in hand as they raised a toast.

Blue Dawn, alongside Selena, who had just returned from a business trip, was in attendance. A spread of food and drink decorated the table, ranging from steaming breads to roasted meat and vegetables. An aroma wafted through the air, causing Tyrus's mouth to water in anticipation.

The excitement hadn't worn off yet, and the fact that he was going to the academy kept running through his mind. Even now, it felt like a dream, and that at any moment, he'd wake up from. Dream or not, he'd relish in it as long as he could.

"Congratulations, Tyrus," Grant said, a wide smile on his face. "You should be proud. Becoming a student of the academy is no easy feat. Most cannot, and have to settle with attending the lesser institutes or abandoning their path altogether. You did well to come this far."

Reo patted him on the shoulder. "Now, I'm not saying I expected anything less of you, but I thought you'd be ranked second on the physical exam."

"How come?" Tyrus asked.

"You strike me as the type to become nervous at important events. Maybe you messed up with a verbal incantation, or you slipped in your own puddle of sweat."

"Well, I was nervous, but it kind of went away when it was time to show off what I could do. With so many people watching me, and it being an important time of my life, there was no way I could live with myself if I didn't give it my all."

Tyrus turned to Grant. "Also, I didn't expect to see your father there, Grant. Was he always an instructor?"

Reo and Fiona both whipped their heads around, their eyebrows raised. Grant rubbed his hair and said, "I was just as surprised as you guys are. My father only told me of the news just last week. It was by the request of His Majesty that he was recruited. Apparently, the headmaster had been looking for a new swordmanship instructor after Instructor Braun retired. My father has been a full-time royal knight for as long as I can remember, so it'll be a jarring experience to witness."

"That means we'll be seeing your old man at the academy a lot," Reo said, taking a sip from his mug. After a moment, his eyes grew large and he almost choked. "Wait, does that mean your father will be taking over our classes!? That hardworking fiend? I might have to skip a few more lessons..."

Grant smiled. "This is the time to rejoice, not complain. It's for the best that Father spreads his teachings to as many students as possible, so that there are more skilled swordsmen in the future. The world would be a better place if everyone adopted his attitude toward the improvement of of their temple: the body."

Reo's groans grew louder as Grant continued to drone on about his father's work ethic and the importance of maintaining a healthy body. Tyrus quietly observed the amusing scene until something in his peripheral vision caught his eye. He turned his head and saw Selena's unsettling smile directed towards him, accompanied by a wave beckoning him to join her at the front. Sitting beside her were Fiona and a scowling Igneal. Mentally preparing himself, Tyrus made his way over to them.

"We haven't seen each other in months and you look as if you want nothing to do with me," said Selena calmly.

Tyrus shook his head and replied, "How could I ever behave in such a manner, knowing that you have been kind enough to let me stay in your home and share your meals?"

"How odd. Since when did your words become honeyed? Where's the usual venom veiled through innocence? You sure have changed a lot the last time I've seen you."

"...I don't know what you're talking about," Tyrus said, taking a sip.

Were his emotions that obvious to Selena back then? Tyrus thought he did a pretty good job of holding back what he truly felt when it came to dealing with the nobles, but apparently, that wasn't the case.

"Ignore Aunt Selena," Fiona said cheerfully. "She's just messing around. What we should be focusing on is how you got first in the physical exams! Ever since we first met, I always knew you were special. It feels like it was just yesterday when you and I were fighting against those goblins all those months ago..."

Her eyes turned misty as she took a swig from her mug. She wiped her lips and said, "To think, that same kid who knew nothing about sorcery back then is the same boy that placed first among hundreds of applicants. Especially when it was against other nobles! Do you know how fortunate you are, Tyrus?"

"For instance; those who placed in the top three of either exam are granted a set of privilege that the other applicants won't experience. Not only do you receive funds from the academy to pay for any books or material, but you also have a greater chance of getting paired up with the higher-ranking instructors for classes. It's an easy way to improve your relationship with the instructors and receiving a mentorship for future professions."

Fiona then leaned closer and whispered, "I'm not supposed to tell you this, but the living quarters and facilities are drastically different between the top three and the rest of the applicants. You'll see what kind of system the academy runs on."

The branch leader chuckled and looked toward a moody Igneal. "I heard you placed first in the written exam and second in the physical. That is wonderful news to hear, dear nephew."

Igneal's body went stiff. "Yes, Aunt Selena, it's wonderful that a Lockhart went second on the physical exam. I am jumping for joy at such a commendable achievement."

"Sarcasm is not a cute look for you," Selena said. "Instead of moping like a toddler, be glad you've been accepted into a prestigious academy. Do you know just how many people would die to have the same opportunity as you right now?"

Igneal snorted and crossed his arm. "Who doesn't envy the life of a Lockhart? But that is besides the point. It is expected of me to place at the top. The academy is full of gossiping nobles, and I have a reputation to uphold. What would people think if a son of Family Head Lockhart performed poorly? I'd be considered lesser than my brother and sister!"

"You're putting too much emphasis on what others think. A man who overly concerns himself with appearances will constantly battle to uphold his dignity. It's a treacherous path, and before long, the facade will crumble, revealing his troubles."

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

"Here you go again with your lectures," Igneal grumbled. "What you say is utter nonsense. Status separates the strong from the weak, and the wealthy from the poor. If I do not uphold my family's honor, then I'd be a disgrace to the name—"

Selena sighed, rubbing her temple. "There's a fine line between confidence and arrogance, and you've crossed into the latter long ago. But... judging by your actions so far, you seem to be improving."

"What does that mean—"

The branch leader ignored him and smiled at Tyrus. "It seems we are getting off-track. I called you over here to congratulate your accomplishments. So far, you've proven to me that risking my profession and validity has been worth the trouble. The fact that you've made it this far is commendable. Stand proud of your efforts, Tyrus.

Tyrus face flushed, and he awkwardly said, "Thank you."

"Now," she began, rising from the head seat, "it's about time we stuff ourselves with food before it gets cold. This is a moment of celebration shared between you and Igneal. Eat well and prepare yourselves these next few days. Best to be in great health for the ceremony than to be sick when the time comes. As I'm sure Warden Nathero has stated, being late for the teleportation will not end well."

At her words, everyone sat down and began picking whatever dish fancied their taste. The clatter of cutlery and the loud chattering of voices filled the air.

Tyrus had never experienced a celebratory feast, let alone have a party held in his honor. It was a strange feeling, but a welcome one. Hearing the disciplined Grant talk about swordsmanship classes while the carefree Reo joked around with Fiona brought a sense of comfort.

Was this what it meant to have friends? To be able to talk openly and have a good time? If that was the case, Tyrus had never felt more thankful in his entire life. It was something he wished would remain unchanged, and he was willing to do whatever it took to ensure that it stayed that way. For the first time, Tyrus found himself almost grateful that he had been rejected and abandoned by the black tigers. It had given him the chance to meet a group whom he could truly call his friends.

Wow, now that I think about it, I haven't considered them friends this whole time. This feels... nice.

Tyrus stuck a spoonful of soup into his mouth as his thoughts lingered. Like Selena said, he'd have to prepare for his entrance to the academy. Fiona mentioned living quarters a while ago, so that meant he'd be living over there for the time being. A few sets of garments were needed.

Also, just how many in funds was he going to receive? If the academy was the most prestigious in Dharmere—and most likely swimming in wealth—surely it was no small amount. At least he didn't have to go out hunting in Wildwood to scrounge some up.

In that very moment, a sudden recollection brought Tyrus back to a promise he had made months ago. The intensity of the memory was so strong that he almost dropped his spoon. Tyrus grimaced at the kind of reaction awaiting him.

She's definitely going to be mad at me...

***

The following day came, and his suspicions were validated as he stood at the base of the Wildwood sanctuary. A spirit, crossing her arms while floating just above his head, gazed in the opposite direction.

"Are... you mad at me, Meadow?"

Meadow replied, still refusing to face Tyrus. "No, what makes you think that, Hero of Wildwood? I am simply observing Wildwoods' splendid looks."

"Well, for one, you're not facing me, and two, we haven't seen each other in months. You have every right to be angry about the promise I made to you. I have no excuse to make, and I hope you can forgive me."

While subtle, Tyrus could see the corner of Meadow's lips trembling. She bobbed her head around and groaned until she sighed and turned. "It's so easy to get swept up into your pace that I'm beginning to feel like a horrible spirit. I'm the one who should apologize for acting like this."

Tyrus raised his arm, signalling for Meadow to float closer. She inched closer and rested on top of his shoulder. "How about this? We both forgive each other. That way, we can be even, and neither has to take the blame."

Meadow beamed and said, "I could never be mad at our savior. It's a deal!"

"That's nice to hear. We'll get started soon, but first I need to greet Elder Treant. There's something I want to ask him."

Tyrus stepped foot into the Wildwood sanctuary. What used to be snow-capped ground and trees barren of leaves was a clearing that did not follow the laws of the surrounding area. The snow that covered the ground was no more, revealing blades of rich grass. The air was warm and carried the scent of blooming flowers.

Flying green dots—the earth spirits—zoomed through the air. Some flew by and waved, causing Tyrus to wave back. Rodents scurried through the grass while a few birds chirped happily from their nests. It was a scene that brought warmth and joy.

Tyrus walked past scurrying rodents seeking refuge from the cold and stopped just shy of Elder Treant. The gigantic tree's eyes were closed, as if asleep, but Tyrus knew better than that. He patiently waited as Elder Treant slowly opened his eyes. A set of blue eyes regarded him fondly.

"Hi, Elder Treant," Tyrus said with a bow.

"It is nice to see you in good health," Elder Treant rumbled. "Many moons have passed since our last conversation."

"Yeah, sorry about that. I was busy with important matters in the capital. As much as I hate to say it, but I won't be here for too long. I'll be attending an academy in two days, and I want to make sure I miss nothing important."

The Elder Treant let out a chuckle before speaking, "Savior, there is no need to worry about us spirits. It brings joy to this ancient treant to see that you haven't forgotten about us. Unlike you, who are blessed with the freedom to roam the land, we treants are bound to the confines of Wildwood, unable to venture beyond. We will surely miss your presence, and I have no doubt that the other spirits feel the same way."

"That's kind of sad, don't you think?"

"Sad it may be to you, but to us, it is a part of our life. We were born here, and here is where we remain."

"That only applies to the treants, not us fairies," Meadow chimed in. "Well, for us to leave, we'd need a constant source of mana to fuel us. It's why the majority of us spirits stay inside Wildwood and its surroundings. There's plentiful mana to be found here, allowing us to live freely. That is why that drake you vanquished all those months ago was so scary! The less life that radiates mana, the smaller the area of influence. For an area of influence to shrink, it must be destroyed, meaning—"

"You'll die," Tyrus finished.

"Yes, and it's worth mentioning that it takes a significant amount of time for a spirit to fully restore itself. Once that process is complete, we undergo a rebirth, with our memories from past lives completely erased. There's no guarantee that we will return to our original physical forms. It's possible that I could be reborn as a flower or even a leaf. The world beyond is a harsh environment for spirits who lack strength. We owe our thanks to Elder Treant and the treants for safeguarding us."

Tyrus thought about Meadow's words, and his chest felt heavy. To him, the thought of losing memories and returning to an unknown form was terrifying. A cruel punishment, if he had anything to say about it.

"Enough of the dreary talk, Meadow. Let us speak of the reason behind our savior's visit," said the Elder Treant, sensing the mood.

Tyrus nodded his head and said, "There's this cavern Meadow and I are going to check out. We weren't given the chance to explore it fully because of my absence."

"When you went to face the rock spiders," Elder Treant said. "With just one look, I can see that you've grown stronger. I can hardly recognize the boy that stood before me. Your future is bright, Savior."

Once again, his face flushed from the praise. There was only so much praise he could handle before his face went completely red.

"Anyway, I came here to inform you before we leave. If we do not come out by sunset, then send help," Tyrus said.

Elder Treant's eyes crinkled. "Of course. Be safe and may Mevena watch over you."

"We'll be fine!" Meadow shouted with her hands on her hips. "Come on, Savior. This time, I will not leave your side ever again."

Tyrus smiled as he turned in the cavern's direction. "I'll hold you to that. Now, hold on tight, Meadow. We have a long way to go."

The spirit clutched onto his collar as Tyrus sped out of the sanctuary and into the snow, careful not to step on any rodents or trip over any stray rocks.