----------------------------------------

Prelude

"Willard?"

A young boy around the age of 14 looked up at a man next to him while there was another boy around his age in front of him. A scarred one, wearing ragged clothes and having old wounds on their arms and chest.

The boy in front of him was a new entry to the orphanage. Which is something the young boy was used to a lot. He had seen kids, and even babies for that matter, enter in with missing limbs, missing eyes and wounds just as bad as the scarred boy. So the young boy wasn't surprised.

The name he just called out wasn't the name of the man he was looking up to, however. The man the boy was looking up at was a bear-like man, with a huge muscular stature that towered over everyone and commanded dominance. But rather than fear, the aura that he spread was that of kindness.

Befit of the orphanage they were in.

It goes without saying that of course the young boy is Reggie Marshall and the bear-like man is Claude Marshall, the owner of the Blue Wings Orphanage.

"His name is Willard?"

The younger Reggie asked, curiously looking at the boy. He had to memorize a lot of names, so he had to make extra sure he got them right. Reggie didn't want to get the name of even a single person in the orphanage wrong.

Claude pat Reggie on the head, tousling his hair. "Why don't you go ask 'em then? He's right there."

Reggie was urged forward soon after. But he instantly threw up his hands near his chin in fear. This was instinctual.

Reggie was hesitating. He'd seen many looks in people's eyes before: anger, joy, sadness, fear... All from a variety of whimsical things that happen in the Blue Wings Orphanage.

But never.

Has Reggie seen eyes that looked like they had wanted to die.

"... I'm Reggie Marshall." So hesitantly, the boy threw out his hand in front of the boy's in a hand shake.

And in an instant, as if it were a programmed response, the scarred boy slapped his hands.

Almost shouting, he said, "Don't touch me! Or these hands at all!" Reggie stepped back in fear. Anyone that age would if someone shouted so loud.

Claude didn't react.

Staying still, the boy named Willard shouted, "These hands are unclean. They've been used to take the life of another!

Anyways- Claude...?! Why did you even bring me here in the first place?! You saw what I've done!"

Reggie was confused. The boy named Willard had just claimed something bold, and... Of course, he looked over to Claude for a response.

Claude however did not say anything.

Thus, the three in the entrance of the orphanage were left in silence.

"Why...? Why didn't you leave me there?" The scarred boy said, as everyone could see him inching to the exit subconsciously.

"..."

Claude, again, responded with silence.

So Reggie spoke for him, slightly frustrated.

"Dad said he needed more people to help with cooking. So you can use those hands for cooking too, you know?

Still though. What's your name?"

It was a totally innocent response.

Words that could only come from a boy who had never even thought of bloodshed or combat before in his entire life. The gravitas of how Claude had accepted someone who had just confessed to a crime did not set on the boy.

More importantly though, Reggie was just hungry. He said that because he was starving for lunch.

It was his pure and unfiltered emotions in a single statement.

----------------------------------------

Chapter Two Part One: Golden Invocation

The halls of the Crimson Wings, or so it was called, were larger than I thought.

They were spacious and large, but when it comes to the design department? Totally dull.

I've seen office buildings more sleek and inviting than this. The moment I started walking through the halls though, I instantly felt unnerved and unwelcome. Or maybe it's because I'm ACTUALLY unwelcome, but I dunno.

While the outside of it was certainly stunning... Enough to distract me from any potential feelings of hunger I had, the inside's just way too bleak.

The walls are mostly black, iron or silver. I'm barely seeing anyone in the hallways.

And there's little decorations too. No paintings along the way, no flowers, no...

"Is this really a Military Academy...?" I let that slip out accidentally.

Shit. Wait. I did NOT mean to vocalize that.

This is because the woman next to me, Iris Blackwell, seems to be a total patriot for whatever this Arcanzar is. As she instantly stopped walking ahead of me and glared.

"What? Not to your fancy?" She said with her arms crossed. "Was the son of Claude Marshall perhaps expecting a more grand entrance? With trumpets booming and a marching band coming for you, then servants coming to serve you the finest alcohol of Arcanzar?"

"Well, no, err..."

"Then shut up and follow me."

I grunted. "How long is it gonna take you to realize that I had no idea my Dad was some kind of superhero or whatever?!"

And then she gave the exact same grunt back. "How long is it gonna take for you to realize that the only way that could be possible is if you've lived in a cave your whole life?! I know some people here who come from villages who know his name!"

Skiiiid. I also stopped. "Wait. Villages? As in- like they don't use electricity?"

"A lot of places don't use electricity." Another confusing statement was passed. But I'll keep that in mind for now. Iris raised a finger soon after. "But if you mean rural and with minimal electricity or magic, then yes. So what's your excuse?"

I took a deep breath. "... I lived in an orphanage."

"That won't cut it. I still do NOT get your situation at all."

"Damn."

Eventually though, we arrived at our destination. It appeared to be similar to a meeting room, and lucky for me, there was an actual window.

We got up here via... Actual teleportation as a beacon beamed us up, but I hadn't seen any windows since our trip here. It took me a while to really take in... That we're really up in the sky.

I wonder if I noticed the window first because the four people in front of me sitting in a round table were so menacing that my first instinct was to look away.

The weirdest of them was a man in a robe with a wolf head. No- he was a literal wolf the size of a human and walking on two legs. Or rather sitting.

To his left was a woman wearing a rather plain white suit. But her hair was a golden type that reached to her hips. Looked to be about in her late 20s...

And to the right of the wolf guy was a shirtless guy. No, really. He had black hair and was really built. Like damn. This guy definitely goes to the gym every day.

To the right of the shirtless guy was a woman in a red coat with short white hair.

Their appearances- okay, yeah, they were all bizarre.

But they demanded the same kind of respect with their gazes like my dad did. The same sort of stare like they want me to listen very, very closely.

So I stayed silent.

"So you've come. I've heard of you from Iris Blackwell. Reggie Marshall, was it?" The wolf man spoke, speaking ominously even though he probably only just heard of me five minutes ago. Question is, how did Iris contact these guys so fast...? Well, whatever.

His voice sounded a lot like a wise old man though. "Please. Have a seat."

Since it was a round table and I was the topic, I found it fitting to sit directly in front of the four. Even though I'd really rather not.

The wolf man continued. He raised up a finger. "If you're wondering how I know about you- I don't.

None of us were even aware that Claude Marshall had a son. Nor were we aware that he was so close to us. Again, we cannot express how grateful we are to you, Iris Blackwell, for finding him."

Iris sat next to me. "If he really IS the son of Claude Marshall, then he'd be able to defend himself. I didn't fill you in as much as I wished I could when I was on my Transciever, so I'll fill you in on what exactly we're dealing with here."

"? Transciever?" I asked her. "Is that the device you used to beam us up here?"

Iris nodded. I remember her using a strange walkie-talkie phone-like device when we were below the Crimson Wings to lift us up here. I'm guessing maybe that's like a phone...?

Iris then bounced off of what I said. "See? He doesn't even know what a Transciever here. Forgive my language, Instructor Torgier..." She said, looking to the wolf. "But this man is a clueless idiot who doesn't even know the first thing about magic."

... The golden haired woman stifled a chuckle.

"Hey, I'm not an idiot!" I gestured my hand over to her again.

"You might as well be with how you're not even able to shoot a basic mana blast!"

"Like I said! I didn't know things like mana or magic existed before yesterday!!! I grew up in an Orphanage!!!"

"Did you receive no formal education or anything like that?!"

Fortunately- a single raise of the man named Torgier's hand was enough to shut the both of us up. He didn't say anything.

Surprisingly, his voice was quite serene. "Reggie. Even though, as hard as it is to believe, you have no knowledge of magic or circulation whatsoever..."

He pointed to something that was causing all these issues. "You have that invitation with a golden crest for a reason. Please, give it to us, and we will look it over."

I gulped. Luckily, the white haired woman responded in a surprisingly casual intonation. "Bossman, what if that crest was faked?"

Oh yeah. What if there just so happens to be two people named Claude Marshall!?

"Can't be." Damn. The golden haired woman spoke. "Even from a distance, I can tell. That gold crest is the genuine article- Claude Astoria's signature."

So I'm really locked into this, huh...

Reluctantly, I passed over the envelope over to the four. They began to scan it over.

I could hear some murmurs from them. They looked like they were having a pretty heated discussion.

The golden haired woman was groaning a lot... And the shirtless man was letting out a lot of "hmph"s.

Then, the man named Torgier looked at me as he smiled his wolf teeth. "Our decision has been made. Welcome to Arcanzar Military Academy."

"W-Wait. That's it?"

I blurted that out. Iris passes me a death glare. This time, I know why.

I'm pretty sure these guys are like the big brass of the Academy... And I spoke like there was no difference in status.

Otherwise, complete disrespect. Well. Now I had no choice but to KEEP speaking. I cleared my throat.

"I... Well, as Iris mentioned, I'm really confused right now. I don't know the first thing about magic, or even where I am... I don't know how I ended up on this island or even that my father was some kind of famous person...

So am I not gonna get an explanation for all that, or...?"

The shirtless man lowered an eyebrow as he said something to me in a quiet voice. "... Amnesia?"

"Huh?"

"Are you experiencing some form of amnesia right now?"

That's not-

Wait. This might be my ticket out of everyone calling me some kind of idiot.

What if I could FRAUD my way through this?

"... My memory's honestly been a bit foggy since I left the Orphanage. I don't remember a lot of things, honestly, like what I was doing yesterday, or why I was even in that forest..."

I said, giving a hopefully convincing enough response. "B-But I do remember some things! Like my past, my siblings, and the great stuff my Dad did!" And I said that quickly in case I go on another tangent about how much I'm grateful for either my Dad or my siblings. According to Robert, I do that a lot.

Instantly... I could see their looks. Even Iris's. Changing from skeptical to sympathetic. Being a fraud was clearly a success.

"That's tough..." The shirtless man said.

The woman with a red coat clicked her tongue. "Oooh. Yeah. Maybe you got a concussion in that monster forest...?"

The wolf man Torgier nodded slowly. "Not the first time I've seen this..."

And even Iris relented! "Oh damn. Sorry I was so harsh on you, man. I'd ask what you were doing in that forest, but... You probably don't remember, huh?

If you were Claude's secret son though, I bet you were off doing some top secret mission!"

... Please act more upbeat and like that to me from now on instead of being rude. I'd greatly appreciate that.

Unfortunately.

The golden haired woman still looked skeptical. As she raised up something from a drawer...

And slammed it on the desk.

"!" Only me and Iris were surprised.

Because it was an entire gold bar. Glimmering and shining brightly.

"... Touch it." She said.

"Me?"

"Who else? Or are you actually an idiot like Iris Blackwell was suggesting?" Hostile intent was in the golden haired woman's voice. I could not understand why, but I guess she didn't like me from the offset. Which is fair, because I kind of had a gut reaction from just gazing at her too.

I nodded and held out my hand... And placed my entire hand on the gold bar. Oddly enough, it was warm. Aren't minerals like these supposed to be cold?

It was then, the golden haired woman smirked proudly. "No reaction from the Gold. This child has no magic aptitude."

And then. The look of sympathy faded as they all looked and murmured at each other. It was both sympathy and skepticism merged, though.

Luckily though, they shut up pretty soon. The wolf man Torgier turned over to me and stood up. "Since it is late in the night... We would love to explain your full situation and what is going to happen to you from here on out in your stay in the Crimson Wings.

There is much we have to go over- and perhaps much more if you do actually have amnesia."

- Damn it, they no longer believe my claim!

"Just... One thing. Are you adopted?"

"Huh?" I nodded, caught off guard by the question. "Yeah. Why?"

"I see..." Then, Torgier turned over to the blonde woman. "Then, Ezabell. He is not Claude's biological son. You can put away your personal grudges for the time being alongside any theories of what he is."

I could see the woman named Ezabell click her tongue. But personal grudges...? Well, I guess it makes sense. Father must've gotten on at least ONE person's bad side.

"But before you go. Allow us to introduce ourselves and this school.

I am Torgier Halldorson. Captain of the Crimson Wings and also head of the World Exploration department."

The shirtless man next, as he picked up a jacket on a shelf. "Kouji Sakamoto (鋼治 酒本). Head of the Land Service department. Interested to see what the son of the Golden Sorcerer has to offer, even if y'are adopted."

I get the feeling that this man might actually be the friendliest of the bunch.

Next, was the woman with white hair. She let out a yawn. "Alicia. Alicia Meinster. Head of the Combat Proficiency department and stuff. Don't usually stay up this late on a weekday, so I'm a bit out of it right now, sorry..."

... And I get the feeling that this sort of person was an alcoholic. Just a hunch.

Lastly, was the woman named Ezabell. "Ezabell Eastman. I expect many things from you, Reggie Marshall."

Still. She was looking at me with that same look of animosity. Is her grudge against my Father THAT big to the point where it'd carry on over to his son...!?

What did you even do to piss her off, Dad?!?!

Torgier reached over to a cane on the wall and tapped it on the ground. A loud resounding thud was heard, gathering even the sleepy Alicia's attention. The voice he spoke in...

Was inspiring and booming, despite the fact that everyone was tired due to it being so late night.

"Here at Arcanzar Military Academy, the top Military Academy in all of Arcanzar, our mission and vision is to train those who will become a foundation for the future!

Travelling and being sagely about the world. Being able to serve both government and citizen. To understand the roots of their magic. And to fight as hardened soldiers.

Regardless of origin or social status, as long as you are invited or you pass the tests: you may join. Fight hard, rest hard and eat hard.

And pave the path to the future for those who cannot. Regardless of where you end up in life: either as a Soldier, a Policeman or even a Freeseeker that will be your goal."

... Iris and I were left staring in awe. How could we not?

He had commanded this sleepy night so well.

Then the wolf man gave a surprisingly serene smile. "That is the speech that I do to all students on the first day. I still have it, don't I?"

"Yeah, you got it." Alicia said with a thumbs up. "No doubt in my mind." Kouji said with a nod.

"Regardless, Reggie. Tomorrow, more will be explained to you on what exactly your predicament is and the precise details of our curriculum here. One of us will attend to you after you eat breakfast, depending on if we're free or not.

For now- why don't you get some dinner and rest?"

Usually in a situation like this, I'd be cheering and all ready to do that. But... There's something I've been wanting to say since I got here.

"I don't get any say on whether or not I wanna be a part of this or not?"

...

Of course, everyone was astonished. I know.

The Torgier guy just said that this is kind of a big deal. I don't know where Arcanzar is on the map, but apparently it's the #1. And I'm basically rejecting it.

But I have my reasons.

"I have children waiting at home. N-Not that I'm married, I... I manage an Orphanage while my father is away. He disappeared all of a sudden.

While it would probably be great to attend this and all, it might fall apart if I'm not there or..."

... Who am I kidding. I manage it terribly.

But I just...

... In all of this confusion, I think I wanna go home.

Alicia then spoke next. "Yeah, Claude's missing here too. And if even you don't know where he is... That's more of a reason to join us!"

"Huh?"

She looked directly at me. "Right now, you're powerless. The gold didn't react when you touched it and you don't know what magic is.

Like that, how can you find your Father? Or hell, even if you went back, protect your kids?

War might be over, but that doesn't mean no fighting will break out."

I... Okay, there was a WAR? This is DEFINITELY a different world.

Still. The context is different, but she's right. I definitely am...

"And if you're missing some memories, then maybe chasing your father will cause it to come back." Kouji spoke next.

At least he believes in it...

"..." I took a deep breath and looked to Torgier.

Fine then. You guys sold me. If Dad really did send me here on purpose and if he really intended me to go to this other world...

... Then according to him, this is what I need the most.

"I'm weak.

So I'd like to enroll in this academy to become strong."

----------------------------------------

Chapter Two Part Two: First Friend

9/14/2016

... To be honest, I don't remember much from yesterday evening.

I heard that big speech, declared that... Then I got my keys to my dorm room and went over to the dorm... I devoured a bowl of rice and some katsudon and hit the sack.

I didn't even look at my room. I was just so tired that I fell asleep right away.

So now might actually be a good time to- hey, since when did I get to the bathroom to start doing my hair...?

I guess I kind of just hit autopilot. Which is rare, as I usually get up to do work straight away, but...

It helps that this room is kinda cozy.

Unlike the rest of the ship, the dorm itself and the rooms inside of it were made out of wood surprisingly enough.

It gave a sort of rustic feel from what little I could tell in the dark. But this room itself was enough.

They were well designed with carpets, paintings, tables and such... Exactly what you'd expect from a nice building. Even the bathrooms had wood, though they were mostly ceramic.

It reminded me of a fantasy inn. Which... I guess I'd have to grapple with the fact that I was pretty much whisked away to a fantasy world.

I hear sleeping lets you automatically sort things out in your head as you sleep, so I guess that's how I'm able to accept this so easily.

Getting ready for the morning as I open the drawers- hey what the hell?

The duffel bag that I was carrying here's just... There. I didn't even take the clothes out to hang them when there are clothes hangers right there?

What the hell, past me?! I know you were tired, but did you have to make inconvenient for future me?!

After getting over THAT predicament... "Oh. Oh damn."

I step out. And there are a LOT of people in the dorm living room.

The dorm living room's pretty spacious, with a lot of tables and chairs... No video games though or TV. But a whole lot of board games.

People of all sorts of races and nationalities were sitting down and chatting. Luckily all in English though. Said people looked to be waiting... Waiting for the food, perhaps?

I could tell that people were still sleeping though so this wasn't the full amount pf people that could've been there. According to the clock on the wall, it was 6:00 AM. Which is WAY earlier than when I usually wake up.

"... I'm hungry." I muttered out rather loudly as I went over to where I remember to be the dining room.

Entering it... There were still more people waiting.

But still no food. What's up with that? While still kinda groggy, I went over to the kitchen and opened it.

In it... There were only two people. "Huh?!"

That got a shock out of me. There must be like- what, 30 or so people in here?! And I see just two people cooking?!

"Come on! It's JUST an omelette! There's no way you messed up an omelette." A woman in... Witch attire spoke. Yeah. Really. Black long skirt, long black hair, witch hat, red robes...

The woman next to her was a blonde haired woman with her hair tied up in a ponytail. She was wearing a rather modest dress. "S-Sorry! It's just..."

"Oh wow. That is a messed up omelette." I said out loud, not even realizing that I was already next to them.

""WHO ARE YOU?!?!?!""

"GAAAAAAAAH?!?!"

I hadn't expected the both of them to shout so loud all of a sudden!!!

We took a few steps back... Then I exhaled.

The witch spoke first. "No, seriously, who ARE you? I thought I memorized everyone in our dorm already!"

"All 40?! Wow- that's our Eva for you!" The blonde haired woman said with a clap.

I scratched the back of my hair, looking away slightly. "Oh, uh... Reggie." I omitted my last name because that was what caused Iris to get crazy last we met. "I'm a new transfer under special conditions.

It's nice to meet you. You two are?"

The witch crossed her arms. "Evangelyne Thalberg. I know, a Thalberg here in the Military Academy." ... She was looking for my reaction.

I know I'm supposed to be surprised. She said that name like it was some kind of important name. And fantasy always means royalty and nobles.

I raised up a hand and said, "... You?"

"Geh?!" And of course, the girl named Eva gagged because of my unsurprised look.

The blonde haired woman smiled at me happily. "Frei! Frei Astoria. I'm a commoner from Albarnia. It's nice to meet you, Reggie!

Any reason you're not introducing your last name?"

Oh come on.

"... Promise me you won't scream?"

"Sure!"

"Marshall."

""WHAAAAAAAAAAT?!?!""

...

It took a while for me to convince the two that I was an amnesiac (a fraud amnesiac). A long while that I'd rather spend eating.

I could even hear some complaints from the dining room about the food and how it was taking so long. So eventually they stopped grilling me.

Eventually... I was able to bring up the topic I wanted to bring in the first place.

"So. Where are the chefs? There's a lot of hungry people outside."

Frei then looked to the side. "Well... This may come as a surprise, but the classes are supposed to do their own cooking. This kitchen's communal."

Oh. So like Blue Wings then, huh... I nodded. "I see. So why are we the only ones here?"

Eva crossed our arms. "Cause our chef, Luft's on a field study. And she cooks for EVERYONE."

"EVERYONE?! All... What, 40 people here?!"

"She's crazy for cooking."

"Damn. I respect it though."

Eva crossed her arms. With a tired sigh, she looked over to the kitchen. "And that brings us to where we are now. Cooking for everyone else because everyone's too lazy to volunteer otherwise.

Guessing you went in here to volunteer?"

"Oh. Yeah. I live in an Orphanage, so I'm used to stuff like this." I said, cracking my knuckles. Immediately, Frei began to look relieved. "Oh thank lord, we've been saved...!!!"

"... Can the two of you not cook?"

Eva looked over to the side. "I can! Basic foods! But Frei over here..."

"Ehehehe..." Frei then raised up double peace signs. Oh boy. This was gonna take a while, wasn't it?

As expected... When we started cooking, I spent most of it tutoring Frei. She seemed to be totally clueless when it came to cooking. When it came to me though, I made meals just as fast as I've been able to.

Some meals though I've never heard of before, but Eva has. So she started working on them.

Luckily, most ingredients I recognized. Some though I've never seen before- which is to be expected, seeing as I'm in a new world.

Still. I'm able to cook.

Frei made a lot of basic mistakes though. Such as improperly cracking the egg, mixing things too quickly and sometimes too slowly.

I began to wonder if she had even cooked at all. So I asked about it.

"Frei, right?" I spoke as we were making some salad. On a paper was a list of requests and orders, which were all simple enough.

"Y-Yes?!" She responded, standing completely upright. I guess she's not good at socializing?

I asked, "You seem to be, uh... A little inexperienced with cooking." I had no idea how to sugarcoat that she was bad at it. "Why'd you volunteer knowing this?"

Then she let out a loud exhale, putting her hands on the table. "Well... Everyone was just so hungry, and no one was volunteering I...

I felt like I HAD to help."

I lowered my eyebrows. "Yeah, and let the logistics come later... I get that. I'd do the same thing even if I didn't know how to cook."

I stumbled into this kitchen wondering why so many people were waiting for food despite there being no food. If there's an issue... I'd want to fix it as soon as possible.

"Still. You've seriously never cooked once before?" I spoke again. I mean... Some of my old classmates used to never cook. I'm not surprised, but... Frei looks like the type.

Frei nodded. "Mm. I've been meaning to, but... I lived in a poor family. We always ate out or my parents' friends lent some food to us."

"Oh... I didn't mean to pry into that. I'm sorry." I said, looking rather guilty. A poor family, huh... I can't imagine how that'd be.

... If I abandoned my orphanage, then would the children left there be like that?

I shook my head. Didn't wanna think about that right now.

"No, no, it's fine!" Luckily, Frei didn't seem to be too bothered. "I made it in here SO I can get a career that'll get my family out of that situation.

I'm lucky I passed the physical exam! I didn't think I could, honestly!"

Now might be a good time to ask something I've been meaning to ask... So I brace myself for any rude reactions, since my question is kinda rude.

"I see... By the way, this is a military academy, right? You don't really look the type for fighting and all that, so..."

Shit. Maybe I should've rephrased that better. I forgot magic exists now and I saw a slim girl fighting up close with a quarterstaff like it was nothing.

Maybe I should have said something else... Then Frei simply exhales. Oh my god, I am so glad she's not offended.

"I know. I'm trying to be a healer, you see. But... Even though I've avoided all combat-based classes, even my Land Service classes involve combat somehow..."

I hung my head. I felt bad for her... But it's probably gonna be bad for me too, seeing as I don't know how to fight. Especially in the same way Iris did.

Then. I stood up proudly in front of Frei. I'm not usually the encouraging type, but-

- I think my Dad's rubbed off on me more than I think.

"Well! That's why you're in school, mm? To learn! So it's fine if you're bad at a thing here and there, cause you make mistakes so you can get up harder.

Like in the omelette we're making. You messed up at first and now..." My hand hovered over to the omelette we were cooking. And...

"...!!! Eva, eva, look!!!" Frei said, pointing over to it. Eva, luckily, was just seasoning some pork as she walked over. "What? What do you want- oh holy crap that looks edible."

Frei took both of Eva's hands and shook them. "I know, right?! It's amazing! And it's all thanks to Reggie's advice!"

"Huh. Well, of course the Golden Sorcerer's son would be a good chef." Eva said with a smirk. Mentioning that name and my relation to him...

It never feels right any time. It always unnerves me and makes me uncomfortable. Eva, not knowing this, nodded with a smirk. "Good job. And treat Frei well, okay? She's a good friend, even though we haven't known each other for a while."

"? Treat her well?" I was a bit confused by her statement, so I repeated it.

"Ugh, do you do ANYTHING other than ask questions?" And annoyingly, Eva didn't answer my question. She rolled her eyes. Was I supposed to know what she meant by that...?

A quick glance over to Frei confirms she's just as confused as I am. Eva walked away soon after.

"Alright, since we're done with this omelette... Let's move over to this request.

..." I took a double take as I looked over to the list of requests for the day.

"STEAK?!

This guy wants STEAK?! DO WE EVEN HAVE THAT HERE?!"

...

A satisfied pat on my belly confirmed that I was done. I couldn't eat anymore.

I ate some rice, eggs and pork to start off the day. I expected to eat alone...

But Frei ate with me. And she's still eating a whole lot of pancakes and French toast. (Which is apparently called Melardian Style French Toast here?)

"Man... That was good." I said, patting my belly again and again. I hadn't eaten that good of a meal in a while, which is strange. The ingredient quality wasn't any different than at home, with some being worse, and I cooked the same as usual.

I looked in front of me over to Frei. "Guessing you're enjoying it too. You're practically scarfing down on that meal!"

Frei had a LOT of food in her mouth as she swallowed it, looking over to me. "I-I'm sorry! I know it's unladylike, but..."

"Nah, no need to apologize." I said quickly. Frei shook her head as she looked guilty. "I always eat a lot in all my meals, because... Well... There was never this much food back at home."

I let out another "oh", as again I am reminded that her origin is poor. Which... To be honest, I expected her to be a noble-sort of type.

"Then keep on going. I'll wait for you to finish, then I'll be off to my business." I said, leaning back.

"Really?!" Frei looked surprised that I was gonna keep her company. Then she raised an inquiry soon after, thoughts flowing naturally. "By the way... What sort of business? Classes don't start till 8."

I looked over to the side, outside the window. Still... We're high in the sky. That sight I might not ever get used to. It doesn't even feel like we're in a plane right now.

"Oh. Well... The school directors wanna fill me in on what exactly we do here since I was a late transfer. To be honest, I'm still unsure on that. I think I'm gonna go on a tour of some sort..."

"Then- can I go with?" Frei said with rather excited eyes. "Huh? Oh, sure." I was going to ask why, but I had a feeling that'd look too skeptical. After all...

I think I may have made my first friend.

----------------------------------------

Chapter Two Part Three: Gold, Fragments and a Fraud

9/14/2016

Walking out of the dorm room... I took a look at the entrance.

The entrance to the dorm room was a large one with the number "VI" on it. Huh. So they use Roman numerals here.

I wasn't excited to be going back out though. From what I remember from yesterday, the halls were dull... And they still are.

But they seem less so right now. With all these different people of different shapes, backgrounds and origins walking all around chatting.

... It kind of reminds me of the Blue Wings Orphanage. Again, somehow Dad adopted a LOT of people from different nationalities. But it's like this on a larger scale- and of course everyone is around my age.

"... You're smiling, Reggie. What's up?" Frei said, looking over to me from the side.

"Huh? I am?" I touched my lips. "Wonder what's up with that... I'm not really thinking of anything but the past."

"Your father, right?"

"... Yeah, how'd you know?" I just met her. How does she know that thoughts of my family- Will, Annes and of course, Dad are rent free in my mind.

Frei stepped in front of me and was still smiling. That sort of pure smile... I couldn't look away from for some reason. Even though I don't like making eye contact with people.

"I never knew him. Only in name and in passing- as he's a legendary hero, but..." Pause. "Living with him must have been really fun, right?"

"Fun? Every DAY was!" Oh god I can't stop myself. "He'd teach me new recipes each day, show off to me his knowledge in cars, help me with my homework, introduce me to the other kids in the Orphanage, play games with me..."

I scratched the back of my hair. "Felt like there was nothing he couldn't do. Until. Well, he just... Vanished one day. I'm here to go find him."

"That must have been hard. You sounded really happy when you were talking about your dad."

"... It was really hard."

That's right. I embarked on this journey first to find him.

And all these people seem to know of him- at least in passing. If I can at least get an idea of WHAT he's doing...

That might bring me a little bit closer to him. So I might as well.

"I have some special circumstances by the way, and... I'm not really sure what my Dad did to get his title. Just why exactly is a hero?"

Frei looked a bit surprised for some reason... And then she nodded.

"Arcanzar is just one region out of many. So it's obvious that we'd have a war with another one of these days.

... Our northern neighbor, Elenbright had wanted to exploit the massive amounts of steel in our underground."

It's always about resources when it comes to war, huh... I listened in onto Frei's story more.

"Arcanzar might have the better Mages, but they had much greater technology than us. Imagine the Crimson Wings... Except there's an entire fleet of them."

"Yeesh. Couldn't imagine that." I looked out a rare window. "The sky, covered in steel beasts like these..." Just seeing one plane in the sky is enough. To see them covering the sky just as much as the clouds do?

... Don't wanna entertain that thought either.

"So with these two powers equal, a decade long started.

Until the Golden Sorcerer stepped up. Claude Astoria. He graduated from this Academy, actually."

I nodded along to show that I was listening Frei paused again. "He didn't just win the war due to his unheard of magical skill. But also... His tactics.

He had devised plans to route the Elenbright Air Fleet in weeks. Capturing and retaking many towns and entire countries...

But most of all, how to capitalize on our already strong mages. A potential war that could've lasted a century was reduced to a single decade."

... My father? A war hero?

I found it hard to believe honestly. That man couldn't pick up girls let alone fight in a war.

Sure, his build was strong. But he was kind of a bumbling man who stubbed his toe a lot and tripped a lot.

Like he didn't know how to use his own strength. Clumsy, to put it.

But... Even though Frei was just explaining him, she looked so passionate. Her voice was still, but her eyes were much more focused than when she was cooking.

"You seem knowledgeable about this stuff... I'm guessing you also like history!"

"Yes!" Her eyes beamed up. "And well... My hometown would've been reduced to ashes if it weren't for him. So I owe a lot to him."

"He burnt a lot of other hometowns to ashes too."

"!?"

We turned around at the same time to see someone enter. A woman with a suit. Long golden hair.

I met her before. One of the academy directors, Ezabell Eastman...!!!

Wait. They said they'd send whichever director was free... Damn it, it had to be the one who had a grudge against my dad and therefore me!

"Reggie Marshall. I see you made a friend." Ezabell said, addressing me coldly. "Oh... Uh... I guess I did." I said, looking over to Frei. She was still grinning, but she didn't say anything. Hope that means she agrees.

"By the way, is it okay if she follows me? She wants to accompany me as I... Learn about this school I guess."

Ezabell nodded. "That would be fine. Frei is one of my students after all. About the project, by the way..." Then.

Frei immediately gave the DEEPEST bow I've ever seen. "I-I know! It's overdue, but it'll be ready by tomorrow! I promise!"

??? This is probably class related, so I won't pry.

"Regardless, Reggie. There are two things that I will fill you in on. Your situation when it comes to magic and the curriculum. Which would you like to know first?"

"Whatever's up with me and magic. What was with that gold bar you gave me the other day?" That comment got Frei to look a bit shocked.

I mean, of course. It's gold. Anyone would be surprised by gold.

Ezabell cleared her throat. "If you don't mind Frei hearing... Your amnesiac state has probably gotten you to forget about it.

Gold is the source of magic."

"Eh?" I verbalize my shock unintentionally. Gold and magic...? But we have gold back on Earth and there's certainly no magicians.

Ezabell reached out to her pocket and pulled out a gold coin. As... Quite literally, an aura of magic covered it.

It was almost like a thin steam or mist. It surrounded the coin as it went over to her hand. The coin was gray now, having been sucked of all of its gold color.

But I could get that somehow, Ezabell drained its energy. "Humans don't contain the ability to use magic. But 80% of all people in the Arcanzar Region can siphon the Mana from Gold and take it directly."

She pocketed the now gray coin. "The lowest it goes is 50% for each region, but this region is notable for having the highest percentage out of anyone."

Frei raised a finger, adding in. "Mm! And everyone in the Academy can use magic. It's a requirement to even enroll in the first place." I guess she's adapted to me having amnesia already, or well, rather adapting to having just found out about it.

I nodded slowly. I think I get it. Though Frei's statement was... Troubling. "I see.... What was that comment earlier about me having no magical aptitude before anyways?"

"It meant that you haven't absorbed a lick of mana from any sort of gold yet. The gold not reacting was proof of it. Which means you'll just have to do it now."

"!"

It was too fast! Ezabell flicked over some sort of gold badge over to me with her thumb. It flew up and I struggled to catch it. As it leaped from one hand to another, my hands unable to keep it steady.

Eventually I stop it from slipping... As I looked at it. Ezabell spoke while I was pondering the badge. "Unless of course- you don't even meet one of our basic requirements."

... A smug grin passed her face. Frei seemed to be oblivious to it though. But damn it. I knew this woman didn't like me, but she's really trying to get me expelled?! I just made up my mind about wanting to be here!!!

She's right though. I can't use magic so I can't even enroll normally. But still, I want to get strong...!!!

"..."

I stared at the badge and held it.

Aaaand nothing. I don't feel any power coming from it. "Gh..."

Maybe I have to breathe deeply or grunt? Or... Squat...? I dunno, Ezabell did it so effortlessly!

"Come on? What's wrong? You mean to tell me the son of the Golden Sorcerer can't even do something all Mages can do? Unless of course, you aren't..."

"I'm trying here, okay! Just figuring it out!"

Come on... Gimme your power and turn gray!

Any second now it's gonna happen! it's...

It's not happening.

"So?"

I remained silent. I stared at the badge. Then to Ezabell. Then to the badge. Back at Ezabell. Back to the badge.

It still wasn't gray.

"I..."

Luckily. Frei spoke up. "This sort of thing happened to me before too, don't worry."

Oh thank god. She stepped in front of me and held up one arm. "I understand you're a fan of tough love... But Reggie just got here, and according to you, has amnesia!

I mean... You've seen how untalented I am at magic. Some people struggle to even do the basic things- like me, see!"

Then. Frei snatched the badge as... She held it tightly. Her fingers were clenched and she couldn't drain the mana from it.

I saw and heard Ezabell click her tongue. She even looked away. "Fine. I'll believe it. But isn't it embarrassing for the Golden Sorcerer's son to be so utterly untalented in magic?"

"Untalented doesn't mean I won't learn. Now tell me about the curriculum."

Ezabell let out a rough exhale as she started walking forward. Then down the stairs.

Good. It's kind of suffocating to be someone who looks at you like they're gonna strangle you for so long...

And being around Frei seems to alleviate that. Seriously, she's always smiling. But it's somehow never creepy. So...

I guess I'll start a brief conversation? "Untalented in magic?"

"Oh, it's... Nothing."

Then she stopped. Shit. I messed up.

We followed Ezabell without a second word.

...

Eventually, we arrived at the second floor of the Crimson Wings. I'm now realizing Ezabell is spiting me in more way than one because she made me take the stairs even though there are elevators.

Why'd she have to make Frei walk too though...?

But from what I can tell, this is a sort of main hall. No one's standing to talk here and everyone's on the move. There are five paths. Two on my sides and three stairs going up.

Each path is labelled. "MAGIC MASTERY", "WORLD EXPLORATION", "DORMS AND OFFICES", "COMBAT PROFICIENCY" and "LAND SERVICE." Ezabell stood in front of a large epitath.

The words were in a language I didn't recognize which didn't use the English lexicon. Which is odd, cause everywhere else did... Maybe Arcanzar has an indigenous language?

Ezabell explained. "Arcanzar Military Academy's academic doesn't work like most universities, academies or colleges.

To graduate, one must collect eight golden Fragments." She raised up a finger. "Excelling in a class, passing its major requirements or getting on the Professor's good side will net you a Fragment.

One class in those four that you can see from here offers FIVE Fragments. The way you earn those fragments are up to you."

I listened. But this information is pretty heavy. I don't think I've ever seen a school system be used like that...

Frei also added on. "Some people focus on two subjects and get four fragments from each. Some go all in one, and just get the remaining 3 from doing the other classes. As the first fragment is MUCH EASIER to get than future ones!" She said with a raise of her finger.

"I see..." I poked my chin.

"On the official school application is the schedule of all offered classes. Of course, you'd need a Transciever for that and..." Ezabell chuckled. "You'll have to buy that in the official store."

A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

"Uh-huh. And how do I earn money?"

"Get a job."

"Like a part time job?"

"No other way around it."

Damn.

Well... I don't have any magic. And I don't THINK I can use any magic right now. Or... Ever. Scary thought/

Taking that in mind, I think based off the name alone, the smartest ones to pick are Land Service and World Exploration. They don't sound like they involve TOO much magic.

Either way, I'll ask about what these classes are. "By the way, am I supposed to know the details of each class? Like, they sound pretty self explanatory to me..."

Ezabell nodded. Seems like it was, but... Frei explain. "Of course, they go deeper than their name.

Magic Mastery either involves learning how to improve it when it comes to combat... Or improving it in terms of general advancements. You pick the one you want to do. I'm the latter one!"

She said with a smile. But with how many genuine smiles Frei's been showing...

When she talked about her class, I could tell it was forced.

"World Exploration involves embarking on Field Studies across all of Arcanzar to help out with the locals and citizens. Like a Freeseeker!" I have no idea what that is. But that sounds like a pain...

"Land Service is like World Exploration, except you choose the country or city you wanna be bound to so you can help out their government." Nevermind, that sounds MORE like a pain, I'm not taking that one.

"And Combat Proficiency has four different versions based on the type of fighter you wanna be. I think the one that focuses more on non-magic based fighting might help you!"

Silently, I lean in to whisper, ("Frei. Thank you so much.") Then she flashed me a thumbs up.

Afterwards... I exhaled and turned over to Ezabell. "Out of curiosity... What classes did Dad take?"

"You mean Claude?" Ezabell grunted and looked frustrated. Wow. Just THINKING about him causes her to look THIS sour. Seriously, Dad. Did you fail in trying to pick her up so hard she hated you...?

"Three in Magic Mastery. Four in World Exploration. One in Land Service."

I nodded. No plan to follow in his footsteps since I obviously can't do Magic Mastery... "Is that all the questions then?" Ezabell said.

"Yeah. That'll be all!"

"Good." Ezabell gave a light bow, before she started walking away. "I have classes to attend to. If you have any questions, please see someone else.

Oh. And Frei? Submission is due tomorrow night. Please approach me before dinner about your project."

Great, so even AS she leaves, she's still spiteful...

Once she was gone... We started walking. But it was more like I was following Frei this time.

We seemed to be heading over to the Land Service classes. Maybe she had a class there.

I spoke, not wanting to leave her company just yet. She didn't shake me off either. "So... You have a project, huh?

What's it about?"

Frei, however, seemed slightly discomforted. She talked however. "To get our first fragment, we have to show a unique application of our magic to Instructor Ezabell depending on our Affinity..."

Affinity? I won't ask about that right now, though. Seems complicated... "Ah, and I'm guessing you're struggling."

Frei stopped and turned to me with a disappointed sigh. "Yeah. I mentioned I wanted to be a healer, right? Here." She raised up a finger... As like an ember, a fire formed over her finger.

I stared at it as my pupils widened. "Woah... It's like a candle!"

However, Frei looked away shyly. "... You're not supposed to be impressed." Huh? What kind of a statement is that?

I'll just respond honestly.

"I can't help it. I said I don't have much experience in magic stuff right? So even if that's basic, it's still cool to me."

Frei snuffed away the fire as she looked away shyly. "Yeah. But it won't help in healing at all. My project is to find out how to heal with this ability. I've seen Water Affinities, Air Affinities and Sky Affinities heal- even Earth Affinities sometimes.

But never Fire."

... Five affinities, huh? Probably doesn't matter right now, but I'll keep that in mind.

"Fire Type affinities don't just manifest fire with their magic, but their Factor and abilities from it relate just to enhancement of the ability. So if my Factor doesn't relate to healing... Then it means I can't heal."

?

A lot of terms were being thrown around that I didn't get. But I understood this much.

Frei believes she can't heal.

"So... Why're you making that your project, then? If it's just to pass, then..."

"... If I can't learn how to heal there, then half of why I even enrolled in the first place is pointless."

We stood still for a second.

The words that came from Frei were potent. Laced with not just anger, but resolve.

"My older sister's sick. She has the type of disease that can only be healed by magic. But, well... We can't afford any healers." She put her hand up to her hair.

"No reason you shouldn't just drop this project though, right? You just have to get enough money to..."

Frei looked down and gripped her fist. "I'm doing it because I want to be the one to heal her!"

It was almost a shout.

I didn't quite get it. Why she couldn't do it.

But her conviction... Was clear enough.

"So I'm not giving up. No matter what."

I looked down. I felt like I had insulted her in a way.

"... Sorry for that." So I simply apologized. "But thanks." And tried to shift the topic.

"Huh? For what?"

"Covering for me earlier. I really don't know how to absorb mana from gold. I mean, apparently you weren't able to do it easily right? So I guess we're in the same boat." I said, pointing over to the badge she had. The golden one.

"Oh, it's... It's no problem. Magic is really hard, isn't it?" Shit. Now she's looking distant. I really messed up.

I have no idea how to continue this conversation. It's almost like she's rushing to end it...

So I might as well end it too.

I've had a theory. If I can't use magic and only about 80% of the people here can... Something is up with my body.

Therefore- I'll have to see if it can be fixed.

"One last question. Do you know where the infirmary is?"

----------------------------------------

Chapter Two Part Four: The Truth

"And a stich and a stich and another... And now you're alright!"

"OUAAAAAAAGHHHHHHHH!!!"

The first thing I heard when I walked into the infirmary was a scream. That CANNOT be good.

The infirmary itself was bog standard. About what you'd expect. White walls, beds, office tables and desks...

But seriously. A scream? In an INFIRMARY? If I were sane, I'd walk out.

But then again, I survived running through a forest filled with skeletons. I'm a real man. I can do thi-

I almost pass out when I walk in and peek. It's only morbid curiosity that kept me awake.

There's a student about my age with... A detached arm. And strings all over that arm. Lying down on a bed.

"Now for the second arm!" A pale man with rather bold and regal clothing was standing over, strings attached to his fingers. But more importantly...

There was an aura of mana all around him. A thin pale and blue mist.

As the man artfully moved over his fingers... The strings moved at a speed too fast for me to comprehend.

And the detached hand slowly began to attach itself back. The wounds and even insides of the arm being healed.

... Holy shit. Okay, so THIS is the level Frei has to contend with. Now I see why she's so insecure.

The student slowly stood up as he stretched his arm. "Is it weird to say that I preferred the old arm?"

"Not weird!" The doctor said, seeming rather jovial. "I get that a lot, Yohei. Now, remember to keep safe in World Exploration. Things can get rough out of there, but just because we can reattach your limbs..."

The student sighed. "Doesn't mean I should make risky maneuvers. Besides, this procedure feels like shit. I'm in no rush to do it again.

But seriously, thanks Doctor Albescu." The student got up and left, passing me by while stretching his limbs.

Then it's just me and this pale doctor.

"... Did you just reattach his limbs?"

"Why yes, yes I did! Never seen magic of this caliber before?" He said, sitting down on a chair. I was still staring in awe.

Sure, I've seen SOME magic before... But to reattach a limb...

I don't think anything's gonna impress me anymore. That was just insane.

Then the man instantly inched in closer and stared down me with one eye. It felt like I was looking at a real life fish eye. "Boy, where do you come from?"

"Uh!" So of course I was shocked, as I stepped back.

"Northern Albarnia? Ginto Archipelago?"

"Uh... New Zealand, doctor."

"Huh?"

And for some reason, the pale man got even paler.

The poker face on him right now was unmatched. He was very expressive before, not content to stay on one emotion or face.

But now he stayed still. Maybe I should repeat myself...?

"New Zealand, doctor."

Then immediately! The doctor grabbed my shoulders and made a MAD dash to a private room.

"BOOOOOOOOOOOOY!!! HEAD INTO THIS ROOM, NOOOOOOOOOOOW!!!"

"GWUAAAAAAAAAH!?!?!?"

- SLAM!

And LOCK!

At record pace, the Doctor not only makes it to the room while dragging me into it, but he also slammed the door with great force and locked it with thundering speed.

I don't know how I caught all of that. I am so dizzy right now.

I sat right down, my hand on my head... As his voice boomed through the soundproof room.

"Did you say what I thought you just said!? Did you say with those small lips of yours the words NEW. ZEALAND?"

"Uh. Yeah? Something weird about that?" No... Wait. I almost forgot. This is most likely another world.

I remember mentioning my country to Iris, but she just looked confused. But wait.

This guy's acting like he knows about it.

"... Who ARE you?!?" And then he just looked confused.

"Reggie Marshall."

Which was instantly replaced by a look of complete understanding. "Oh. That makes sense."

We both stared at each other in silence. Not content to keep this up... We both raised our voice.

But he dropped his first. So I ended up being the one speaking.

"... I just realized. This place is called Arcanzar right? How do you know about New Zealand?"

The doctor sat down and put his hands together... As he sighed. "... A normal person isn't supposed to know about that place- or most of those countries in the first place."

"Huh?"

He readjusted his coat as he leaned in closer. Even though the room we were in was soundproof... He still spoke quietly.

"Have you ever seen insane theories like... From flat earthers for instance. Theories on how the Earth is much larger than it actually is?"

"That's... Oddly specific, but yeah."

"That's what actually happened. You come from a Colony that's being handled by multiple governments to simulate what a land is like without magic."

”Eh?"

That's...

I've heard and seen a lot of things that were just impossible or crazy. So my definitions of that have been stretched wildly.

This however.

This might take the cake... For the thing I don't believe in the most.

The Earth I knew was actually bigger? The Earth I lived in was just a colony...?

What the hell? Who can say that with just a straight face?! It's impossible! This has to be a dream or some sort!

I refuse to believe it!

"I know it's a lot to take in." Of course it was obvious I looked distressed.

"But... You're not supposed to be here. Claude's son or not, Earth colony people can't even survive in the Academy.

In the first place, they can't even gain the ability to use magic."

- Oh. My heart sunk.

"Ahaha... That's..." I wanted to take my mind off of the realization I just had. "What I came to consult to you about. If I could use magic at all..."

The air became silent. I stared down at the ground and so did the doctor. The tension was palpable- but I wasn't mad at him.

I was just... So, so lost.

"Why ARE you here anyways? I've heard rumors of the son of Claude being here, but..." I knew quickly my response to that. It's been plaguing me the whole time.

"I don't know. No, really, I don't. My Dad just asked me to go chase after him if I wanted to know the truth about him... And he said that I should go on a journey of my own. To go to a town to try and find him. I followed an address to a town and...

Then I ended up here."

I put my hands to my eyes. I hadn't even been here for more than a day. But I was overwhelmed.

Honestly, I felt pathetic.

"Perhaps Claude intended you to go to that address, and you ended here on accident... But knowing Claude, that probably isn't the case. He was always a schemer." I got a hunch that this Doctor knew my Dad. But right now, I was too overwhelmed to ask about that.

"Even so. It's dangerous for you to be here. Earth Colony people, when they're found by the government... Are executed."

"...!!!"

- My heart sunk even deeper. Just by being here I had a risk of dying?! What the hell, Dad?!

No wait. I was just found out... But maybe I got lucky. This guy doesn't look to have any intents on reporting me.

Even so, I was still in this unlucky situation. Maybe my luck just evened itself out.

"So, Doctor..."

"Doctor Jean Albescu. Feel free to just call me Jean, though."

I put my hands together and stared at the pale man directly. "What should I do?"

Again. Silence.

"... If you want to return, then return the way you came from. Certain parts of the world are hidden gateways to the Earth Colony in case the people working on the project need to transport a lot of things at once."

"Eh?" I looked at Jean's eyes. "I... I can do that?"

Jean nodded, but it was a slow nod. He wasn't fully sure of himself. "If you wish to. Do be warned- monster infested areas are still infested even in the day. It might be wise to take a few Combat Proficiency classes before you go."

... I've made up my mind, then. I got up from my seat and pumped my fist up.

I nodded over to Jean. "Thank you then. I...

I thought at first I would make it here. But I can't even perform the most basic thing most Mages can- and I'm not supposed to be here.

So thank you. Plus, I wouldn't wanna risk dying."

Jean... Didn't respond. He only nodded.

Maybe he's the type to be quiet when things get serious? I mean, he seemed like a pretty upbeat and loud sort of person earlier so...

That type of personality shift isn't unheard of. I gave one last thank you bow before I reached for the door and...

"Reggie. Did you make any friends while you were here?"

"...?

Oh. Right. I should probably say goodbye to Frei."

----------------------------------------

Chapter Two Part Five: Answer

9/15/2016

"Oh, hey! Reggie!"

Guh...

Sitting on a bench just outside the Combat Proficiency classrooms... I hear the voice of someone familiar.

I saw Frei running up to me, still looking as happy as ever. She stopped in front of me, skidding a little. Doing a full turn to face me...

I wonder how she manages to be filled with energy so much. "You just finished your Combat Proficiency classes, right? How tough were they?"

I pointed over to my arms. "I cannot feel them. I feel absolutely dead and I wanna do nothing but lie in bed for hours." The Taekwondo training that I used to have were nothing...

Apparently there were 5 types of training being offered, but I didn't get the terms and I just signed up for weapon training. The sword and sheath resting on my back indicates what I chose.

But I didn't expect to have to do full body workouts... BEFORE THE SPARRING. So that when I sparred, I was already tired.

I'm still breathing deeply even now. And Frei chuckles.

"Hehe... Most of the people I know who take Combat Proficiency are like that. Absolutely tired out of every session."

"I don't know if I could survive another day..." I said, putting my hand up to my head.

I don't feel competent with a sword yet. But the moment I do... I'm going back to those woods and slicing my way through those damn skeletons.

To get back to the orphanage. But before I do that- I should say bye to Frei.

She's just about the only friend I made here so far, and I'd feel bad for leaving without a second word so...

"Hey. I know it put you in a bad mood last time I mentioned it, but... How's your project going along?"

She frowned... But noticeably, she didn't look as sour as before. "Thanks for worrying. I put sleepless nights over it, but... It just couldn't work."

Again, she formed that ember over her finger. "My inner fire manifests as a flame and it enhances my stamina and physical abilities. Again... It doesn't relate to healing.

But I'll take this project no matter how many times until I find a way to heal with this fire."

Again. I was confused. It was like she was running against a wall over and over... Expecting something to happen.

I don't know why Frei hasn't given up yet. So I didn't know how to respond to it- but...

I knew I had to uplift her somehow. So I put my hand on her shoulder. "Eh?" Of course, she was surprised by this sudden motion.

To be honest, I'm not sure why I did that either. I didn't even have any words in mind: just my goal. So... I let it flow out naturally.

I'd deal with getting embarrassed after I said it.

"... There's gotta be a way.

I might be a dunce with magic, but seeing you put all this effort into it... It has to be rewarded."

And she was stunned. Okay, didn't fuck up or say anything embarrassing, good.

It might not be true. And I'm a naive guy who has no idea how any of this works. But I know one thing for sure.

A frown doesn't suit her face. You should be smiling, just like you were before...!

A pitfall like this shouldn't stop you- it's just one project!

"... Those were obvious words." Oh. I heard that come from Frei. But even so- she held her heart. "Yet I felt like I needed to hear them."

"We... We can forget important things in the heat of the moment." I sat up.

I was still tired- but right now, I get the feeling that now might be a good time to leave. Frei...

I think if I'm going to stay, I'm going to want to watch her finish her project. Maybe even help. Which will prolong my stay.

Hell, if she succeeds, she might even dazzle me. Convince me to stay more when... I can't.

So I steeled my heart. "Frei. Where are you going now?"

"To the dorms. You wanna go with me?"

"No. I'm... Probably leaving."

...

"Why?"

I turned around and let out a sigh. "I can't really explain the full story, but some complications came up, my life is at risk and..."

"No. I know. I know you can't use magic- and you won't even have the chance of using it." Frei said. Her voice as serious as it could be, which...

I turned around and met her in the eyes. Though we were still standing a part. "That part about me taking a while to siphon mana from gold...? I lied.

... Any Mage can do so instinctually. There's never been a recorded case of a Mage struggling to siphon mana from gold. It comes to them like an instinct."

I... "So... You covered for me in more ways than one." I stuffed my hands in my pockets as I didn't break eye contact. Normally I would by this point.

But she broke away first. "So why?"

"Shouldn't it be obvious? I'm a man who can't use magic in an academy of magic." I stretched my arms out... And said this with a smile. "I don't belong here. Not in this story or land."

"No. That's wrong." I turned around even though Frei called out to me. I could hear her walk...

And I walked. She sped up. So I sped up as well.

And I ran over to the hangar.

The way to get down was either through smaller aircrafts... Or a machine with gold in it to beam you down.

Apparently machines are also powered by gold. Electricity exists only in certain cities. In fact, the Crimson Wings run on gold.

I ran to one as fast as I can. "Hey!" I shouted over to the operator of the beaming machine (I still had no idea what it was called). "If we're still on Capena island, beam me down right now!"

"W-What?! Y-You don't just run here, and..."

"... Do it now!!!"

...

The forest is just as thick and dark in the night than it is in the afternoon.

I don't have the stuff I packed. But that's okay.

I didn't expect the trip to be long, so I only packed just about enough for 4 days. The brunt of my clothing is at the Orphanage.

Sure, we're tight on funds. Doesn't mean I can't buy a few more clothes.

Still, it's unnerving at just how dense and deep this forest is. The amount of trees here almost makes it impossible for light to pass through.

In deep parts, it almost resembles night time.

... And just as expected, there are still monsters. I see a skeleton aimlessly walking.

So. I raise up my blade and make the first move.

"Ha!"

It notices me- and we cross each other. it tries to slash me...

But my reach with my sword is longer than its arm. The skeleton is cut in half.

- I'm still an amateur. I only had about two days of practice.

Two days of grueling practice with training far beyond anything on the "Earth Colonies", but I'm still an amateur.

This only means I could deal with about one or two skeletons at a time. The horde from the other day? I'd be dead.

I don't even need to mention the giant one.

So I kept walking. Sometimes jogging if I had the energy. I was fatigued from training...

But my drive in getting home was pushing me forward. I was too overwhelmed.

- I have a chance of dying here. And a high chance.

I faked having amnesia. I can't use magic. I don't even know the history of this place or how everything works.

All in all, I'm a fraud who doesn't belong here. Make sense. I should just leave.

I should just...

"... Five?!"

I stared in front of me. There were five skeletons. Three unarmed.

One holding a broadsword like my own. The other... A spear. Shit. This might get tricky.

I stepped back. The stance I took was a practice stance. I knew it was meant for beginners, but it's all I knew!

I had my sword raised to shoulder level as it pointed directly upwards. I distanced myself against the five skeletons...

And the spear one came first. Not good!

"...!!!" Screw it. If he's gonna attack first, then I'm gonna be faster! I swing my sword down like a hammer hitting an anvil as I rushed towards the spear skeleton and-

- We trade blows. I take a nasty one.

A spear stab straight to my left side gut. "GH?!" As my slash only reached its shoulder.

I leaped back before the stab could impale me deeper, but "- AGH!" Just the act of doing so shot pain throughout my whole body.

I fell on one knee.

But I had no time to rest...!!! I saw it.

The sword skeleton lowering down their sword on me, about to slash me in half!

"Not... Happening!" So I suck up the pain and roll- but the grip on my sword gets loose. I felt my pants torn, which probably meant the slash grazed my leg.

And I can't even get up. An unarmed skeleton raises up their arm and slashes down at me.

"- Gh!!!" So I raised up my sword to block it, using my other hand to support. My entire body shakes because of this, and...

"AH!" I'm kicked in the back by a skeleton. I roll over.

As I look up. They were approaching me from all angles...

Five skeletons. Five goddamn skeletons.

That's all it takes to take me down. Meanwhile, Iris was able to take waves after waves... And even that big one.

And she asked me for help. Five skeletons.

That's all that it took to beat me.

"I really am pathetic, aren't I...?"

...

I'm not even surprised when I'm saved. Because this happened last time.

The sword about to lower to my face was stopped by a fireball.

"- DON'T TOUCH HIM!!!"

It merely knocked the skeleton back, as it stumbled back. 4 more fireballs were sent over to the skeletons as they stumbled back as well.

Looking over to who shot it... It was of course none other than Frei Astoria. Standing in front of me with smoke coming out of her finger. "REGGIE!!! Get up!!!"

I slowly got up... As i moved over to her. She was the first one to speak. "Y... Your gut...!!!"

"It's fine. The doctors can heal them. Or maybe you can...!!!"

I raised up my sword and faced the five skeletons. They weren't defeated. This wasn't like Iris where they could be defeated in one blow.

There was a gulf of power between Iris and Frei. That I could tell. But...

These skeletons still had to be defeated. The two of us stepped back... Frei was readying a fireball at her fingertip, aiming it like a finger gun.

While I held my sword unsteadily, my arms shaking due to the blood loss. My breaths were heavy too.

"Reggie... What were you thinking?! Leaving on your own and going to this forest...?!"

"I thought I could handle myself!"

"When you can't even use magic?! I thought you were more rational than this!"

"I am!" The two of us backed off slowly.

"Then is this you thinking rationally?!"

I sighed. This was not rational thinking at all.

I ran because there was a chance I would stay.

Staying means a chance of dying.

I ran... Because I wanted to live. But.

Would that really be living?

"..."

An unarmed skeleton was approaching. Just like before, I'd normally be able to cut it up... But I had a wound.

That skeleton was faster than me now. Even so, I was rushing to it. It swung its arm horizontally. I was readying my sword-

But my legs were readied first. I side stepped to the side and shouted, "FREI, THERE!"

Then Frei fired a fire bolt straight at the skeleton- which caused it to stagger. It didn't stop it completely...

But my diagonal slash to cut the skeleton into two stopped it in its tracks. There were just four.

Unfortunately- I was given no time to rest.

Two skeletons were headed my way. The broadsword one to my back and an unarmed one to my front.

They both swung... Around the same time. So I twisted. I pivoted my whole body and predicted the strike the sword skeleton would use...!!!

Again- I blocked a vertical strike from the skeleton with a horizontal strike. While... The unarmed skeleton was shot by Frei, with it staggering.

"Hngh...!!!" Me and the sword skeleton were locked in a blade lock. Usually, my power would be stronger. But again... I was injured.

I had an advantage though. Frei could shoot the sword skeleton and I'd win the blade clash...

It's just gonna happen any second now. Any second...

My legs began to shake. Frei hasn't fired yet.

"! Oh shit!"

I looked over to my side- and the unarmed skeleton was running her way!

All while Frei was aiming her finger gun at the skeleton, but her hands were shaking. "FREI!"

I dashed and sprinted to her. Letting go of the blade lock... Means I'd get hit. So I did. The skeleton slashed me across my right side- a big cut formed.

"Hngh...!!!" The pain doesn't matter. I ran over to the unarmed skeleton- and slashed it in half before it could reach Frei!

Afterwards- I fell on one knee again. The adrenaline wore off. "Haaaa...?!"

Frei then crouched down and put her hands on my shoulders. "!!! We should leave! Let's just run and head back to where my Transciever can pick us back up!"

I... "But... I have to keep on going. I have to go home...!!!"

"Go home and do what!? I thought you said... You wanted to find your father!"

"I..." I only mentioned that once. It's on my mind the entire time, but... To her, I only said it once.

She remembered a detail as minor as that...?

My lips quivered. "I have an orphanage to tend to at home and take care of..."

"Then who's going to find your Father?! He's gone missing according to you- well he's gone missing here too!"

- And in that case, I'm the only one who's ever been told that I should go find him.

...

"I... I can't...!!!" I shouted. "I can't use magic, I might die if my origins are found out, everyone's comparing me to my father just calling me Claude's son and not my name, I don't have amnesia, I don't come from here, I lost to five skeletons and...

I just can't do it!"

I groveled.

The sounds that left Reggie certainly wasn't pretty. What laid in Reggie's heart only a fraction of the ugliness that he had inside.

But it came from deep within. It was a confession of the soul.

For the first time since Claude had left him, Reggie had remembered how to speak from the heart.

"Then who was it that showed me that even I could make a good omelette?!"

"Eh?"

That...

That comment was so out of left field that it snapped me out of whatever I was in... That I almost forgot.

I first met her while trying to teach her how to cook. And she was pretty bad at it. But she did manage to make that omelette with my help in the end.

In the end, she...

"So stand!!! I didn't just bullshit how to heal just now for you to whine like this- I don't even know how I did it!

So, stand, Reggie!"

"Huh?!?!?!"

I looked over... And my wounds. They were being covered with mana. But more importantly,

they were being healed.

It was as if the natural healing rate was sped up. It wasn't like Doctor Jean's healing where his healing reattached things. It was as if the process that was already there was being sped up.

That's right. She did mention that her fire had the ability to boost physicality... So if someone else had her fire, or the ability to generate it like she could... They'd be able to heal fast.

Well. I can only make hypotheses. I don't exactly know how this magic stuff works yet.

But I stood up. I could stand and I could feel my injuries no longer slowing me.

"... It's not impossible, Reggie. No matter how many walls you run into...

You just need to keep running into one until it breaks, no?"

"... A blockheaded statement like that is the last thing I expected to hear from you." I held my sword tightly. "But it's exactly what I need!"

I dashed forward. The three skeletons were dashing at me at the same time.

The spear skeleton stabbed first- but he was staggered. A fire bolt from Frei hit him, but it seemed weaker than before. Still, it was enough to stagger it.

The sword skeleton next- a horizontal swing. I blocked it with a vertical and used the force from blocking it... To instantly transition it to a decapitating slash to the third skeleton!

With its head flying off, only two remained! I charged over to the spear skeleton... But it recovered fast.

"- Gngh!" It stabbed me straight in the gut. But.

Frei ran up to me- and tapped my back. The wound quickly healed.

As I grabbed the spear and took it out of my body like nothing happened. The skeleton stood still.

"Didn't know monsters could feel fear."

- SLASH!

And with a step forward and a downward strike... The spearman was cut in half.

Only one remained. The swordsman skeleton and me.

"HAAAAAAAAAAA!!!" So I charged forward. So did the skeleton. He swung in an arc, starting from his right shoulder...

As I matched his swing with a rising slash. I hadn't been taught how to do these yet, but I've seen them in TV!

What I was taught how to do in those classes yet... Was how to dodge.

I ducked deep low and the slash of the skeleton barely missed me. That's when I unleashed it.

"- HA!"

A rising slash... That cut the fifth skeleton in half.

Once all five were dealt with... I let out a rough exhale.

Quickly, I put the sword back into its sheath on my back. My arms felt tired.

My legs even more so. But more than that... I turned over to Frei.

"Frei. You alright...?"

Then she looked disappointed. "Alright?! I just used some mana- of course I am! But you..."

"I..."

"Let me ask you again. Were you thinking rationally?!"

The fight just ended and we don't even get to celebrate... We have to go straight away into this, huh.

Even so, she's right. I have to confront it.

I wasn't thinking straight. I was thinking with my gut rather than my head and...

This time, I found it hard to talk to her. Even though it was so easy usually.

An angry face on her... Hits harder than most.

But eventually she let it go and exhaled. Giving that same gentle look she always had...

"No. Let me rephrase.

... Why did you join this academy anyways?"

I grit my teeth and clenched my fists. It...

"To find my Dad."

It wasn't just that.

"And to get strong."

It wasn't just that either.

"Why do you want to get strong?"

"... Because I'm weak."

"But you were going to give up because you said you were weak."

It felt like my fists were going to bleed if I clenched them even harder. It felt like I should however.

I... Was also glad I didn't break eye contact with Frei.

"You inspired me, Reggie. In just a few days, you gave me genuine encouragement. Over my project, over my omelette... And they both succeeded!

But when it comes to you, you gave up! Even though you told ME to never give up! I just... Don't get it."

This... Was also something I didn't get either.

Leaves passed us by as a cold wind blew. We were in a monster forest. But right now, it felt like only the two of us were here. And that this forest was constructed purely for us.

Just for this moment in this time and in this space. All for this silent moment.

I let go of my fists. "... Sorry. I shouldn't have made you run all this way. And there was no point in me running to.

I thought I made my answer before- but this is my answer.

I'm staying. And I'm not backing out of this."

Frei slowly smiled. As she held both of my wrists, looking up at me with a smile.

A smile that suits her. The look that fits Frei the best. "That's more like it. Now let's get back before dinner.

And if I catch you trying to sneak out again- I'll show you just what my fire magic can do."

"Y-Yes ma'am." I said with a swallow.

"Then... Shall we go back?"

To be honest.

I don't know who I made that decision for. The decision to stay.

Was it for my dad, who I know is out there? And I know sent me on this journey?

Was it for Frei? Who I felt would be sad without me? Who wanted to see me own up to my own words?

All I knew is that...

I wasn't staying for myself.

And I hated that part of me.

----------------------------------------

Chapter Two Final Part: Memories lost in the Sky

9/16/2016

"... I see. So it was a test." Sitting at Doctor Jean's infirmary again...

I found myself explaining to him why I didn't leave. Even though I said I was going to, me showing right back up the next day must have been confusing.

But then Jean explained a few things on why he said that.

"It was a win win for me. Either you leave and you're protected... Or you stay and we see a real star emerge."

"A real star?" I looked over to Doctor Jean. He was standing while I was sitting.

"Yeah. Takes real grit to stay here even knowing how many odds are against you. You've got some crazy willpower within you."

... I felt bad. Because it wasn't my own willpower. I wasn't aware of just how much the odds were stacked against me...

Until I saw Frei overcome her impossible odds too. Fire can't heal, yet she devised a way. Frei can't cook, but she somehow made a decent omelette.

So I thought. If she could, then maybe I could as well? Overcome the impossible, that is.

Again. I felt bad because... This feeling came from her.

When I was left on my own, my response was to give up. It's only because of someone else that I realized my mistake...

...

I don't want to linger on these thoughts much longer so I'll ask something else.

"Incidentally, Doctor Jean... You know I'm from these Earth Colonies. Why haven't you reported me to the government yet if my existence is apparently a crime?"

Doctor Jean chuckled a little bit... As he raised two fingers. "Because I'm like you. Not that I'm from the Earth Colonies, but... I've got my own secret to hide too." And stabbed them into his arm.

"!!!" With sheer strength alone, he impaled his own arm. Stretching it down...

The blood that leaked out of Jean was much much paler than normal blood.

"Are you...?"

"A vampire. Yes. The staff knows, don't worry. So I don't have it as bad as you." The strings on his sleeve unraveled as mana surrounded his arms. The strings patched up the wound that was just made.

Jean crossed his arms. "And yes, they're real. A lot of fantasy stories are just excerpts from stuff that actually happens here. Some people visiting the Earth Colonies become authors because of boredom."

Wow. Wait. So is "fantasy" basically just another way of saying "based on a true story" for some books... Wow. That's one hell of a bombshell.

Either way, Jean continued. "Vampires... Are looked down upon here in Arcanzar. Seen as thirsty beasts who are uncivilized or exist only to be killed. Over in other regions, they're not exactly welcomed with open arms either.

People will attach prejudice on me merely for existing. I won't be treated with respect. I won't even be treated like I'm a person.

So I hide that part of myself. Ever wonder why the bathrooms in the infirmary don't have mirrors?! Or windows?!"

"Didn't know that. But damn. You're really going all the way to hide who you are..." I smiled slowly. At least I had someone to confide in somewhat...

"W-Wait. Doctor Jean. You won't drink my blood now, right...?"

... Jean looked and tilted his head over to me. And his neck did a full 180 spin, as it literally creaked.

I could see fangs coming out of his teeth as mist rolled out of his mouth.

"- GAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!! POLICE! HELP! I'M GONNA DIEEEEEEEE!!!"

...

The last person I expected to make a friend next was a staff member. Then again, it's probably crazier that I befriended a vampire.

Apparently the staff provides him with blood bags and animal meat, so he's fine on that regard.

I'll still lock my dorm doors just in case he goes hunting one night. You never know.

Unluckily for me though... There was one person standing in front of the infirmary entrance that I really didn't want to see at the moment.

Ezabell Eastman. That one teacher who really doesn't like me.

"... Frei asked me to credit her discovery of healing to you."

I stopped in front of her and didn't say anything. The hostility in her voice was clear.

And it was only us in this hallway. Most people were in class right now.

"Flattered you'd come here directly to thank me." I said, trying to play it off that I was indifferent.

"She got a fragment for it."

"Oh damn." And that facade breaks as a proud smile appears on my face. Damn it.

"It was pretty advanced- what she did. All magic uses fall under one affinity. That affinity determines the best way for you to use your Factor.

Fire affinity... Enhancement. Water affinity... Detachment. Air affinity... Aura. Earth type... Coating. Lastly, Sky Type: mimicry."

She put her hands in her pockets as she explained. "Frei's a fire affinity. Which means whatever ability she had: the best way for her to use it would be to enhance it.

But she wanted to change herself. So she broke out of who she was and found out how to use her Factor like a Water affinity user."

"Factor...?"

"A person's own personal magic. A reflection of their inner world and an ability only they can use. Of course- you wouldn't know what it's like because you don't have one."

Tch. Rub it into my face why don't you...

"If you're that pissed over me not having magic, then you can go ahead and expel me." I said with a shrug. I really didn't want to be at this point.

But. I am GOING to win this "I don't care" competition between us, Instructor Ezabell!

"No can do. Soon as I tried to do that- it was ruled off from a 3-1 vote to let you stay. Seems the other directors were impressed with how you dealt with Frei." Guh. They ALL know about it...?!

Am I really THAT big of a rumor topic?!

"So what's your point in coming here to tell me this?" I cut straight to the chase.

And Ezabell looked right out the window. "I'm here to warn you about who you are. Because you're just like your Father."

...!!!

"In what way?"

"He was the type of man that inspired others to change. But not always for the better. You have the same power he has to make someone fight for a different cause or a different motivation than they would previously.

Watch your words carefully, Reggie."

Was Ezabell trying to say that Frei only discovered healing because of me...?

That can't be. She said she figured it out herself. I didn't do squat in helping it aside from being her test subject.

But before I could ask her about it... She left.

And I was left alone in the hallway.

da

"The type of person who could change others...

Dad, just who the hell even ARE you?"

Author's Note

Five skeletons, huh? Don't worry, things will get more actiony in the future! I hear that even the strongest student of Arcanzar Military Academy has been eyeing Reggie, perhaps for a fight soon...

Reggie may only have a sword for a while, but don't underestimate the power of a sword. Swords are pretty strong!

The power system's pretty in depth. I will say this now: there are 5 main fighting styles. It goes pretty deep and I'm excited to explain more of it later. Just know that it is more psychological than rule based!

These first few chapters are mostly going to be episodic. There is still an ongoing story in these chapters, but that will take a backseat to the characters. Chapter 8 is the last of these episodic bouts though and will be when the full main cast has been introduced.

Look forward to the next chapter "3- Luft Wingrider", focusing on that chef character mentioned earlier!

Bonus Note

Reggie Marshall - 21 years old. 0 fragments. Now is one of the main cooks for Dorm VI. Struggles when it comes to South American cuisine however, but excels in Southeast Asian food. Those WERE his Dad's favorite foods, after all.

Iris Blackwell - 23 years old. 3 fragments in Combat Proficiency. 1 fragment in Land Service. Is a second year: you have a maximum of three years to get all 8 fragments before you're kicked out. Second years and third years take different classes based on their fragment count. Iris is currently struggling in Land Service, so she's considering taking other classes.

Evangelyne Thalberg - 21 years old. 1 fragment in Magic Mastery. Better at brewing coffee than she is cooking. Very particular when it comes to tea and coffee: she enjoys both equally however. Would hate Starbucks if she ever went to it.

Frei Astoria - 20 years old. 1 fragment in Magic Mastery. Spunkier than she seems. Had a tomboy phase when she was a teenager, now looks back on that phase fondly. She's trying to act more ladylike because her mother told her that would be more appreciated in Military School. This however is a misconception.

Ezabell Eastman: 50 years old (no really). College wasn't in Arcanzar Military Academy. Goes drinking with the other directors frequently: always the first one to get wasted. Swears that one day she will beat Kouji in a drinking competition.

Jean Albescu - 112 years old. College wasn't in Arcanzar Military Academy. Ships video games from the Earth Colonies to his secret hideout. Loves farming games.

Torgier Halldorson - 83 years old. 4 fragments in World Exploration, 2 fragments in Combat Proficiency, 2 fragments in Land Service. Captain of the Crimson Wings also means headmaster. Leads the Chess Club of the academy and is undefeated. He qualifies for Grandmaster position across all of Arcanzar.

Willard Ferrer - 22 years old. Is the reason why Reggie learned how to make brownies. Brownies are his favorite food, and he loves the ones Reggie makes in specific.