KON POV

“Please sign here, here and there.”

I completed my jog around the block just in time to find the mover already at my doorstep. Leading him into my new apartment, we began to transport the heavy packaged boxes inside. Given the limited belongings from my old place, the moving process was relatively light. Much of my old furniture was in dire need of repairs or simply too worn down to be salvaged, prompting the decision to invest in new pieces.

The sofa that Venti and Zack used to play on has finally given out. I'll be sure to hold them accountable for a replacement, even if it means pestering them for a couple of weeks. As for the rest, it's just the usual essentials: books, cabinets, drawers, TVs, tables, and so on.

Money is tight, so I was relieved to find an affordable mover willing to offer a discount. It was a stroke of luck that our schedules happened to coincide, making the moving process more manageable.

“Living alone at such a young age, how admirable.”

He gave me a head pat, which normally wouldn't be an issue since I've grown accustomed to it. I've learned to brush off these gestures to avoid causing friction. However, this time, I couldn't shake the feeling of a subtle, peculiar intention behind his actions.

His gaze dropped, lingering on my chest and thigh.

…….

I quickly bowed deeply before his hand could make contact with my cheek, expressing gratitude with a forced smile before bidding him farewell and retreating into my apartment. I couldn't shake the sensation of his eyes following me as I closed the door behind me.

As the door finally closed behind me, I released a heavy sigh. Here I was, in a new place, surrounded by unfamiliar surroundings, and already feeling uncomfortable after being leered at by that strange muscle dude. Not the best start, but I tried to focus on the positives.

During my jog, I encountered friendly individuals who generously shared their advice on affordable shopping spots. However, the encounter with the strange muscle dude served as a reminder that life isn't always sunshine and rainbows. For every welcoming face, there's bound to be a few hidden rotten eggs lurking beneath the surface.

Glancing down at my jogging attire, I noticed it was my old Physical Education Uniform, snugger than ever. The new one was set to arrive tomorrow, but for now, I had to stick to my daily routines. Nonetheless, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment knowing that I had finally outgrown my old uniforms. Yep, I’m still growing. Doesn’t matter how many people say otherwise, I will die on this hill.

Speaking of clothes, over half of my old wardrobe barely fits me anymore. Wearing my hoodies for a jog is out of the question; they're a hassle to wash anyway. Plus, I'll need to invest in some proper sports attire if I want to avoid looking like a kid jogging in a school uniform.

Sigh, money, money, money.

It always comes down to money. Back in the day, security issues were always handled by Gramps. If anything went wrong in his district, the dogs would automatically start running and chewing problems left and right.

Years of feeling secure under Gramps' protection have made me complacent. So, I guess there is no avoiding what’s coming next. I can't delay any longer, especially in this unfamiliar territory.

It's time for me to stop procrastinating and start focusing on the future. I can't afford to remain stagnant, especially when Zack and Venti have shared their visions and aspirations. If I want to stand alongside them, I must overcome the fear of my past and take proactive steps forward.

I opened a package to find a collection of books nestled inside, alongside a plain wooden box engraved with my name at the bottom. Taking it out, I easily slid off the lid as I opened it.

Inside the box were a pair of wheel cores. They emanated a comforting warmth, while the symbols engraved on them pulsated with a continuous glowing orange light, reminiscent of a beating heart.

Ignis Fatuus. A flame Arcanum.

A foolish fire that marks the start of my journey. I brought the wheel cores with me, settling onto my bed and assuming a meditative stance. Placing one core in front of my abdomen, I held it with both hands, feeling its gentle warmth. Allowing my mind to wander, I focused on syncing my breath with the pulsating glow of the Arcanum.

The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

Allowing the warmth to guide me, I closed my eyes and drifted into a state of tranquility. Emptying my mind of all thoughts, I reached the center of blankness. From there, I sought to locate my connection with the Arcanum.

For a while, I felt nothing, but I persisted, allowing myself to sink deeper and deeper until I heard a soft, distant call. It seemed to have been calling my name all along. Now, I felt remorseful.

"I'm sorry," I whispered, addressing the presence I had long ignored out of fear of what it might entail to step onto the other side. But now, I'm determined. If you'll have me, I'm ready to reach out and embrace whatever lies beyond.

The glowing pulse paused briefly before continuing, its rhythm now clearer. The calls felt more distinct as if beckoning me with greater clarity.

I see. I was half a heartbeat late.

I focused longer on tuning myself to the pulsing warmth it radiated before the calls grew louder, and I could finally see it for the first time in the darkness.

A tiny mote of orange spark appeared, confirming my affinity as Flame.

I allowed myself to float closer and closer to the spark, answering its call. When it was finally within reach, I accepted it, allowing it to merge into my being.

At that moment, a small ember ignited within my core, flickering softly in orange hues. It settled permanently, tethering itself to my prana circuit. Though I felt no immediate physical change, my senses dimmed as a rush of information flooded into my consciousness.

With this newfound connection comes a wealth of knowledge on using my heightened senses and intent awareness effectively.

I've learned to sense subtle changes in temperature and pressure, allowing me to feel the surrounding environment more keenly.

I can now detect the intentions of others more swiftly and from a greater distance.

Furthermore, I've gained the ability to mask my intentions more effectively, enhancing my already composed demeanor. It's as if the Arcanum is providing a tutorial on becoming a better poker player. However, I don’t plan on getting myself buried six feet under by cheating in a casino filled with veterans who can see through my tricks easily.

But for now, I'm content. I don't want to push my limits too soon and risk overloading my circuits. It'll take time to fully master this newfound knowledge before I can progress to the next stage.

Having connected myself to the Arcanum, there's no turning back. I will finally set foot onto a path, past the starting line, and delve into the realm of unknowns. From now on, I can expect many weird things to happen in the future. Weird things to me in particular.

Looking back, this Arcanum has been nothing but trouble.

When I was a kid, I didn't know any better. I stumbled upon it and used it to observe people without their knowledge. Long story short, I angered some individuals, and the orphanage nearly suffered the consequences. I never understood how I came to possess it, but I suspect it may have ties to Eastern nobility.

Whoever gave it to me knew me well enough to know I wouldn't discard it.

Then again, perhaps they wouldn't mind if I did.

Regardless, by entrusting it to me, they've left the decision in my hands.

I opened my eyes and gazed towards the window. Yep, the sky is still falling and I don’t see anything different. All of these presented choices, and yet for all the freedom that I was being given, I still couldn’t turn my eyes away and ignore the sky.

Defeated, I sighed. I couldn't even muster hatred towards those who left me with this burden. Though I wish I could, Venti always says I'm too soft. Well, if it comes to bite me in the ass, so be it. I'd rather sleep soundly at night knowing I made choices with the least regret.

Yet, despite the gloomy outlook, I found myself at peace. I had a sense that everything would be alright now that I had resolved to face forward.

KNOCK KNOCK!

“Oi Kon open up!”

“Open the door and welcome us to thy humble abode!”

“Coming! Stop banging on the door. If they come off, I will have you pay them.” I shouted.

With a smile, I carefully returned the Arcanum to its box and tucked it beneath the futon. Opening the door, I greeted Venti and Zack, both dressed casually. Knowing the academy's opening ceremony wasn't until the next day, I felt relieved, knowing I had plenty of time to unpack and make myself comfortable.

"Come on in, but don't get too cozy. If you break any more furniture, I'll rat you out to Momo," I joked as I welcomed them inside.

"It's all Venti's fault with his gambling addiction. You should get him to buy you a new sofa," Zack retorted.

"Says the guy who kicked a hole in it," Venti shot back.

These two were as rowdy as ever. Zack immediately zeroed in on the box of leftover food and snacks. How did he always know which box was which?

"I bought some meat and veggies for the hot pot later," Venti handed me the bag. "By the way, you reek of sweat."

"Oh, shoot," I muttered to myself as I realized I had just finished jogging and then went straight to meditate on my bed. I excused myself into the bathroom to take a quick shower, warning Venti and Zack to settle down in the meantime. I didn't want them to destroy my new apartment before I had even spent a year in it.

As I stepped into the shower, I could already hear them arguing near the packaged box of food and snacks.

Thankfully, the hot water was on, allowing me to enjoy the warmth washing over my tired body. However, I soon discovered that my soap and shampoo were running dangerously low.

Money, money, money.

I needed to restock more, but cutting into my SpeedGear budget would delay our team building with Venti and Zack. So, I decided to hold off on spending on luxuries until I finished getting my SpeedGear license and started working as an official courier.

I just hoped I didn't smell bad or something. And I better finish my shower soon; The hooting of those two monkeys is getting louder. One of them even yelled “Awooo” or something. What on earth were they up to?

Rushing out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around me, I stared at the chaos they had caused. My box of books had been dug out and scattered everywhere, and they were holding a bunch of my dirty magazines.

“Olala, Kon you little scamp. A Milf enjoyer are you?” Zack catcalled.

“Whoa…..you like this kind of stuff? D-don’t worry, I’m not judging! It’s healthy to be interested in this at your age, yup yup.” Venti blushed. What the heck is this virgin boy acting all embarrassed about?

I looked up to the window and let my mind wander again.

Yeah…..that thing about how everything is going to be alright from now on.

Can I take it back?