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"Yeah, sure! Like I care! How did you even get permission from Mom?!" Alexander's voice echoed through the auditorium, sharp and uncharacteristically harsh.

Naza flinched at the sudden outburst. She had always admired Alexander—listening to his speeches, he was always energetic and showed kindness. She was reminded of one occurrence, how she tripped before him, 'He touched my hand,' Her cheeks warmed at the memory.

However, the lovely memory was interrupted as the auditorium, buzzing with excitement moments before, fell into a tense silence. All eyes turned toward the commotion. Sitting defiantly in the front row was a young girl with snow-white hair streaked with black stripes and piercing green eyes.

"She allowed it! And by the way, Alex, it's none of your business!" the girl retorted, her voice slicing through the hush.

Whispers rippled through the crowd as students exchanged puzzled glances. Naza realized this must be Alexander's younger sister, Janina. Casually addressing a noble with such defiance could lead to severe consequences. Only someone of close relation would dare—besides, there was also the obvious clue.

Before anyone could react further, a palpable tension filled the air. Alexander's usually warm demeanor shifted; a chilling aura emanated from him. The enchanted butterflies fluttering around the auditorium faltered, their delicate wings ceasing to beat as they drifted to the ground.

"Oh, I remember this age all too well," Alexander said, his tone icy. "All the pleading, the tantrums about wanting to see the fucking mouse and that autistic duck, me giving away half my savings so you could have a plastic tiara you'd toss aside after two days! I ate instant noodles for a whole month!"

Janina blinked, confusion grazing her expression. "What are you talking about?" she asked, genuinely baffled.

Naza felt the same bewilderment. 'What was he saying?' More impressively, Janina didn't even flinch under his oppressive aura, which made everyone else want to flee. 'She's not afraid of him at all,' Naza thought. 'Scary.'

Alexander seemed to catch himself, a flicker of embarrassment crossing his eyes. His expression softened slightly. "Never mind," he muttered, shaking his head. "If you want to attend this school, you'll follow the same rules as everyone else."

From behind him, a girl with gentle features approached, placing a calming hand on his shoulder—Sarah. The heart-shaped pupils and pastel green hair were a clear giveaway.

Alexander turned to her, his gaze softening as she gently caressed his shoulder, sliding down his arm, and took his hand. A subtle scent filled the air, barely perceptible to Naza but causing some students in the front rows to sniff audibly. 'Pheromones,' she realized—intimate ones shared between partners.

Naza's heart sank. There was an undeniable closeness between them. 'Oh...' she thought, feeling a pang of disappointment.

Other students reacted more visibly around her, making her raise an eyebrow, bewildered, 'They are... all crazy.'

A girl beside her began to sniffle. "Is Mr. Alexander... with Ms. Sarah?" she whispered, tears welling in her eyes.

"But... why?" another murmured, her voice filled with disappointment.

"Mr. Alexander... how could you?" a boy moaned, clenching his fists. Others tried to hide their tears behind yawns or turned away to compose themselves. The atmosphere shifted dramatically from awe to heartbreak.

While she felt a slight sting, she quickly brushed it aside. She had always admired Alexander from afar, harboring a harmless crush. But seeing the depths of emotion around her, she realized that many held genuine hopes of catching his eye—dreams now seemingly shattered.

Before the murmurs could grow louder, Alexander stepped back onto the stage, his demeanor returning to that of the confident and inspiring leader they knew. Sarah stood beside him, proud and firm, along with a bunny-kin woman with glistering black hair and gracefulness in her bright blue eyes.

A resounding clap echoed through the auditorium. "Dear students," he began, his voice carrying warmth and authority. "Today marks the beginning of a new era—one that will be remembered throughout history!"

Naza felt a surge of excitement. Everyone's earlier frustration had vanished, replaced by Alexander's radiant energy that captivated everyone.

"This is the first public school in all of Moorgrel, perhaps even in the entire Mal-Gil Empire," Alexander declared, his eyes shining with conviction. "A place where everyone—regardless of status or race—can come together to learn and grow. Here, you are all equals, given the same opportunities to pursue knowledge, power, creativity, or simply to make lifelong friends—or even find your future spouse."

With a graceful wave of his hand, a shimmering illusion appeared behind him—a proud, whimsical bunny resembling the symbol on Naza's brooch. The bunny stood atop a hill, a book in its paw, gazing toward a rising sun.

"I want to see you thrive," Alexander continued. "I want to provide you with the same opportunities I had to help you become the best versions of yourselves. Whether you seek wisdom, strength, or moral growth, this school is here to guide you. Here, you can walk through life with your heads held high, never bowing down to bullies!"

He began to pace the stage, his gestures animated and passionate. The illusion behind him transformed, depicting scenes of students studying together, engaging in friendly duels, debates, and creating art.

"For our youngest pupils—the Bunnies—you will receive foundational education in combat, arts, ethics, literature, nature, and yes," he paused dramatically, a playful smile on his lips, "—even mana skills and spells!"

A collective gasp echoed through the auditorium. Naza's eyes widened. "Magic?" she whispered, scarcely believing it.

"I understand that many of you never dreamed you'd have the chance to learn magic," Alexander said, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. "But here, it is just a taste of what you will learn. Each of you has the potential to become a legendary warrior, a genius scholar, an archmage—or maybe something beyond our imagination. I want you to shape the world around you!"

The illusion shifted again, showing groups of young students—some with feline ears, others with scales or wings—all studying together, casting spells, sharing meals, and playing. Their faces glowed with determination and joy.

"But my vision extends beyond teaching you to become something," Alexander continued. "I don't aim to strengthen only the Leonandra household or Wolfsteeth. I envision a Moorgrel where everyone can live in harmony, prosperity, and without fear of what the future may bring."

The images behind him evolved, displaying various races—beast-kin, djinn with yellow and red skin, night elves, a myriad of nature-dwellers, and others—all united, their faces lit with happiness and mutual respect.

"It doesn't matter where you come from," he declared, his voice carrying hope and ambitions. "Fire-djinn, wind-djinn, scavengers, high-demons, nature-dwellers, night-elves—we have all faced hardships. We've been hunted, enslaved, and treated as less than beings. But I want us to rise above that, cast the mistrust behind us—to build friendships, unite our strengths, create a future where mutual respect is the norm, and have goodwill toward each other."

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His smile softened a hint of melancholy in his eyes. "You may not fully understand now what I mean, or perhaps you don't want to. But this is the future I wish for, and you should be the start of this."

Alexander's voice resonated with passion. "As such, this school will not tolerate any discrimination. This is a place of learning and growth for all. Together, we can achieve true progress—culturally, technologically, artistically—and stand side by side, shoulder to shoulder, against whatever may come, whatever enemies may want to hurt you, your friends or family."

Naza felt her heart swell with pride. His words ignited a fire within her—a desire to be part of this grand vision.

"I've studied our history," Alexander said, his tone firm, eyes blazing. "The petty infighting and divisions have held us back for too long. Here, in this school, status means nothing. Whether you're an orphan, the puppy of an artisan or noble, or even my own sister—you will be treated the same. Merit and effort are what matter here, not your blood."

The illusion changed once more, displaying the various empires' emblems—the roaring lion of the royal family, the floral crests of the noble houses under Duke Zarmanas, a humble mouse leaping between blades symbolizing Count Moorgrel, the fearsome insignias of the Guard households, the fiery mountains of the Eros Alliance, the Circle of Life of the Temple, the blood-stained claws of the High-Demon empire, and the Helping Paw symbol—all blending into one harmonious emblem, representing a blurry word.

"This is a place where you can become truly free," he emphasized. "Free to learn, grow, and become your best selves without the shackles of prejudice or privilege. No one will force a path on you, no restrictions on your dreams, and no one will force you to follow the footsteps of your ancestors—here, we will support you to become whatever you envisioned to be!"

The blurriness became clearer, showing the word A.I.R. School glowing softly behind him.

"Welcome to the A.I.R. School," Alexander announced, his voice and expression filled with genuine happiness. "Named in honor of my first teacher, Anastasia I. Ramputt, who stands here as your headmistress. Remember the words inscribed at the entrance: 'Knowledge is our greatest weapon.' Use it wisely—for the betterment of Moorgrel, all who call it home, and our friends."

He smiled warmly like the sun breaking through clouds. "With that, I conclude my speech and hand things over to Anastasia."

After a moment of dead silence, the auditorium erupted into applause. Naza clapped vigorously, her eyes shining with determination. She felt inspired and ready to embrace this opportunity and be part of something greater. 'I want to follow you,' she thought fervently, her cheeks blushing.

Anastasia stepped forward, causing the applause to subside gradually. She was poised, and her clear eyes twinkled with kindness and warm strictness. "Thank you, Mr. Alexander, for that stirring and inspiring speech," she began.

After a few more words, she suddenly stopped, gazing over the students and noting the thoughtful expressions on many faces. "I can see that my best student has given you all much to ponder. Perhaps it's best if we let those thoughts settle," she chuckled softly.

A ripple of laughter spread through the crowd, easing the lingering tension. Alexander raised an eyebrow at Anastasia's light-heartedness, a small smile tugging at his lips.

"Well then," Anastasia continued with a playful grin, "I won't keep you long. You'll find enchanted boards in the entrance hall displaying your homeroom assignments on your way out. Simply speak your name, and your information will appear. Your homeroom is a class where you'll receive important updates and begin your journey here at A.I.R. School."

Her aura suddenly changed into playfulness and arrogance, as if she had become another person. She smiled widely, "Welcome to a new chapter of your lives. Make the most of it!"

With that, the assembly was dismissed. Students began to rise, conversations buzzing around Naza.

However, Naza was still sitting, observing Alexander approach Janina again. His expression was firm but not unkind. "So," he said, "have you made your decision? Because you heard me—no special treatment for you."

Janina crossed her arms, glaring at him. "It's unfair. I just wanted to attend the classes I like."

Alexander shrugged, smirking, "I'd prefer not to be sent off fighting battles against crazed racists, but here we are—doing things we'd rather not." His stance shifted, his voice firmer, "Life isn't always about doing what we like, Nina. If you want to be part of this school, you must commit fully. No special treatment."

She huffed, "You're just being difficult." Janina clenched her fists, "It's your fault! Why did..." She stopped herself, glancing around at the attentive ears nearby. Lowering her voice, "Damn it! I just want to expand my horizons!"

"Yeah? And how will you do that if you don't understand how others feel? How will you expand your horizon," Alexander made air quotes, "if you don't do homework, learn for tests, or have any responsibilities?"

"But," She looked back at the crowd and then at Alexander, biting her lip, "You know why!"

Alexander's eyes narrowed. "Careful, Nina. I've had too much to deal with these past weeks, and now you're arguing? How about, for once, you try doing something you don't want to do?"

She glared at him, frustration and anger tangible, "Alex..."

Sarah stepped forward, her presence calm yet commanding. "Nina, you are our youngest, and maybe because of Alex, you never felt any pressure, never being forced to study, go through grueling training, or experience the dread of failure."

Her eyes focused intensely on Janina, making her flinch slightly, "After Alex was born, Mother only focused on him, understanding that he would become the heir all along, but if you want to grow, you must make sacrifices."

The auditorium suddenly became eerily silent. All the students who were half-listening to their conversation while acting as if leaving stopped, their expressions in disbelief and joy. Although this news was something they expected, hearing it made them hopeful of a better future.

'Alexander will become the new Lord,' Naza couldn't help but feel extreme joy. 'Yes! With him...'

However, their discussion continued, and no student was able to look away from their future Lord and Lady. But they didn't understand a single word that followed Sarah. "Your shadows move very," she smirked, "irregularly, and I see some little rat hiding in the crowd, so you are safe, but Alex is right. This is his school and his rules. You will either attend as a student or not. I agree with him fully. If he says that there are no special privileges for even us, then so be it."

Janina looked at them interchangeably, her voice full of frustration, "Are you like this because he lulled you with all the lovey-dovey romance?!"

Sarah suddenly blushed, turning her head, but Alexander stepped in before she tried to get a word out, "Mother, the responses of the Count and other Guard households, and so on, gave me the okay and their blessing to do how I see fit. As such, you either go home and do what you like without any pressure or grow here. There are no special privileges. Now, if you excuse us, I have other speeches to make and then a rendezvous."

"Alex!" she shouted as he turned to leave. He waved over his shoulder. "Good luck! I'll find out later what you decide and kick you out if you don't attend all classes."

As Alexander exited, with Sarah holding hands, the hall buzzed with whispers. Naza found the exchange intriguing, but something else caught her attention.

Janina glanced as they left, her resolve wavering. "Fine," she muttered. "I'll do it your way," suddenly, her voice became louder, yelling as if she wanted Alexander to hear it, "but I will not enjoy it!"

With that, he and Sarah exited the auditorium, their hands brushing together as they walked away. Naza watched them go, a mixture of admiration and a twinge of envy stirring within her.

Yet, her mind focused on someone else, wanting her to leave the auditorium quickly, 'She is like the others.' She could barely hold back her repulsiveness when Janina glanced at them, degrading and arrogant but undeserved.

'Okay, let's focus on finding the homeroom first.' With mixed emotions, Naza took a deep breath and joined the other students as they walked toward the entrance hall.

Arriving, crowds had already formed around the magical boards. Each student stepped up, spoke their name, and watched as their information appeared.

Looking for a free one, she soon found one. Stepping up, she hesitated before speaking her name. "Naza," she said softly.

The board shimmered, and glowing letters appeared:

Name: Naza

Class: 1-C

Next Class: Homeroom

Classroom: 2.10

Teacher: Ms. Shell

"Room 2.10, huh?" she mused, feeling a flutter of anticipation.

Navigating the corridors, her previous thoughts all disappeared. As she navigated the corridors, she admired the intricate designs and magical touches throughout the school. Enchanted paintings moved subtly, and soft music emanated from the walls when one began humming, responding to their tune.

'This place is incredible,' she thought. It's like a dream. 'A place where I can become someone, where my efforts truly matter.'

Before Alexander, she already thought of becoming whatever was necessary to survive. Now, though, she had choices, support, and someone who believed in her, 'I'll do my best!' Her spirit was burning with newfound motivation.

Her footsteps echoed as she reached the door to her classroom. Taking a deep breath, she pushed it open.

"Huh?" she blurted out.

Sitting by the window in the fourth row was none other than Janina. 'Great,' Naza sighed inwardly. 'Of all the classrooms...'

Scanning the room, she realized there was only one seat left—right in front of Janina. 'I hate my life,' she thought, her shoulders slumping slightly.