The upperclassman, cast his gaze down upon Ethan, who was seated with a book next to his already-eaten tray of food.

"I apologize for intruding on your well-deserved break, but the tales I've heard about you left me with no choice but to seek you out." he began, his voice carrying an air of courtesy.

Ethan looked up from his book, his curiosity piqued. "And who might you be?" he inquired.

"Ah, my apologies for the late introduction. I am Theophilus Aloysius. You can simply call me Theo," he replied with a congenial smile.

The moment Theo revealed his name, whispers erupted among the noble freshmen nearby.

"He's an Aloysius!"

"It makes sense; he radiates that distinctive aura and charm. Must be in the noble merchant's blood."

"But what's he doing in the academy? I thought the Aloysius bloodline had predetermined paths laid out since birth. Shouldn't he be dealing with merchant affairs?"

Ethan couldn't help but overhear the rumors swirling around him. He also observed Theo standing unruffled, seemingly unperturbed by the gossip that had suddenly enveloped the cafeteria.

Ethan, intrigued by Theo's presence and the sincerity in his demeanor, decided to engage him in conversation to gain a better understanding of why he had sought him out.

"And why were you searching for me? I can't see any connection or reason for us to seek each other out." Ethan inquired with a hint of curiosity.

Theo nodded, acknowledging the validity of Ethan's question. "You're absolutely right," he conceded. "But that doesn't mean we shouldn't take the opportunity to get to know each other. Or am I mistaken?"

Ethan remained contemplative, considering Theo's words.

"You see," Theo continued, "I've heard from reliable sources that during your duel with Leon Ember, you displayed an extraordinary manifestation of lightning."

Ethan recognized the name. 'Ember? Ah, that must be his family name,' he surmised.

"While I doubt you'd be inclined to divulge the intricacies of your spellcasting techniques seeing as how you've declined the Elders from the council, my purpose here today is simply to introduce myself to you. As you may have already gathered from our surroundings, I hail from the Aloysius family, one of the most influential merchant dynasties. Among the many teachings instilled by my family, one principle stands out: that we should extend our hand in introduction to those we believe could contribute positively to our lives. Though we may not know each other well at this moment, I hope that the next time our paths cross, we won't see each other as strangers but as acquaintances." Theo concluded with a genuine and warm smile.

Ethan contemplated Theo's words, his initial skepticism giving way to a deeper understanding of the noble merchant's perspective. He couldn't deny the logic in Theo's approach.

The philosophy of reaching out to those who can contribute positively to one's life resonated with Ethan. In a world where we often build walls and divisions, there's something refreshing about the idea of breaking down those barriers and fostering connections based on mutual benefit. Rather then lineage. During his time here, it was the first time someone actually reached out based on interests of the other's capability rather then bloodline.

Ethan reflected on his own experiences at the academy and replied back to Theo. "I've learned that true growth often comes from the exchange of ideas and experiences. It's through these interactions that we challenge our own beliefs, broaden our horizons, and discover new potentials within ourselves."

With a warm smile, Ethan extended his hand towards Theo. "Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Theo." he said.

Theo, pleased with the connection they were forging, grasped Ethan's hand firmly. "Haha! The pleasure is all mine, Ethan!" he replied with a hearty laugh, sealing their newfound acquaintance with a firm handshake.

As their hands met and their eyes locked. The unexpected meeting between Ethan and Theo had not only bridged the gap between two individuals of different status but had also brought a touch of unity and understanding, It was a moment of significance that would shape their paths in ways they couldn't yet fathom.

If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

Theo inclined his head respectfully and replied, "I've taken enough of your time as well, and I, too, have classes to attend. Before I depart, I would like you to have this token of... let's call it 'friendship.' If you ever find yourself in need of anything from me or the Aloysius Family, simply present this token at our nearest branch or store, and you will receive the utmost courtesy."

Ethan accepted the token, his expression a mix of gratitude and intrigue. "That's unexpected. Thank you. I don't have anything to offer you in return."

Theo chuckled, his smile warm yet tinged with pragmatism. "As I mentioned earlier, Ethan, my actions are not purely driven by kindness but by mutual interests. I'm forging a trustworthy connection with someone I consider worth collaborating with. That, in itself, is a valuable exchange."

With these parting words, Theo bid Ethan farewell and left the cafeteria, leaving behind a token of potential alliance and the promise of a connection that transcended their initial encounter. As Ethan held the token in his hand, he couldn't help but wonder about the future and the opportunities that lay ahead, guided by the unexpected relation they had begun to build.

As Ethan gazed at the token in his hand, a flood of memories and faces flashed before his eyes. He reflected on all the people he had interacted with during his time at the academy – his dedicated professors, Seraphine, Leon, the enigmatic Theo, his benefactor Alfred, and even the complex presence of Sven. Each of these connections, whether positive or negative, had played a role in shaping his journey so far.

Unbeknownst to him, these relationships and the experiences he had shared with them were like threads weaving together to form a complex tapestry. Little did he realize that these connections, seemingly insignificant in the moment, would ultimately prove to be of the utmost consequence, their impact reaching far beyond what he could currently comprehend.

As Ethan contemplated the web of relationships he had formed, he couldn't help but wonder how each of these threads would influence the course of his life, unaware that the foundation of his future had already begun to shift in subtle and profound ways.

***

In a secluded chamber within another part of the academy, an elderly man sat in contemplation, his figure shrouded in the dim light. Before him, an unfamiliar figure stood, reporting on recent events.

"How long will it take?" inquired the elderly man.

"Sir, Grandfeld, the Valmilion Stone was acquired approximately three days ago," the figure began, a hint of urgency in their voice. "However, we've faced significant challenges during that time. We've lost several of our comrades, and the entity whom was protecting the stone has been relentless in pursuit. As a result, a substantial number of dark creatures have converged, forming a massive horde. If we don't dispose of the stone soon, I can only imagine the devastation it will bring to the nearby settlements."

Grandfeld nodded, his expression silent. The situation was dire, and the decision they faced carried immense weight. The Valmilion Stone was a formidable and dangerous material, and its presence had triggered a chain of events that threatened to spiral out of control.

"Has news of our acquisition of the Valmilion Stone reached the imperial kingdom?" inquired Grandfeld.

"No, sir," the figure replied. "We have made every effort to conceal this information. However, if the current situation persists, it won't be long before the truth is revealed."

Grandfeld contemplated the implications of their actions. "How long do you estimate it will take for the stone to reach the designated location?"

"Given that Sir Gregory has taken charge of the mission, I would estimate approximately four days," the figure responded. "Of course, this assumes that we prioritize safety and minimize the impact on the nearby villages, considering the relentless pursuit by the horde of monsters."

The urgency of their mission weighed heavily on their minds as they strategized how to transport the Valmilion Stone to its intended destination, all while keeping their actions hidden from the imperial kingdom and preventing the impending disaster from spreading further.

"We have no other options."

"D-Do you mean..."

"Yes! We must utilize one of the nearby villages as a diversion to halt the monster horde. We can't allow all our efforts to go to waste. If sacrifices must be made, then they shall be! What are the closest villages to Sir Gregory's current location?"

"Sir! The closest villages are 'Willowbrook,' 'Stonehaven,' and 'Thornfield.'"

"Thornfield? That name rings a bell..."

"Sir! Thornfield is indeed managed by a lord of the same name. His son, a freshman, also attends the academy."

Grandfeld's interest was piqued. "And what might the son's name be?"

"If my memory serves me right, the freshman's name is Sven Thornfield."

"Hmm, no, that's not the name that's sparking my memory. Is there another student who is acquainted with him or perhaps friends with a similar name?"

"If I recall correctly, he did arrive at the academy with another student. I wouldn't say they are particularly close or friends, but they are from the same village."

"Another noble child? It's unusual for them to travel together; they typically avoid such arrangements."

"No, sir. The student who accompanied Sven Thornfield is of humble birth."

"A commoner! WHAT IS HIS NAME?"

"It should be Ethan Hartfield."

"!"

"Haha...HAHA!"

"Sir?"

"Yes! This is perfect! I can't believe the opportunity to rectify the humiliation I endured at the council meeting has presented itself so conveniently."

"Sir?"

"Fetch the young lad for me, what was his name again? Sven?"

"Yes, sir."

"Sven! Bring him to me; I'd like a word with him."

The stage was set, and the pieces were in motion, with an unexpected event forming. The future remained uncertain, awaiting the resolution of their intertwined fates.