Avideré's courtyard bustled with students passing by, some of them lounged on the neatly trimmed grass, but you and your group find comfort in sitting at the bench just near the ornate fountain. Arma and Alicia sat by your side, and the two ladies were mid-conversation before an interruption arrived to pop their bubble.

"Ohohoho~!" A voice cut through the air of the quadrangle, like a declaration everyone turned to look at the source. Except for Alicia, which visibly flinched, and used her entire willpower to ignore it.

"How amusing, Schwarzel! To find one such as yourself loiter near the fountain. Was the lounge not posh enough for you, my rival? To think you've fallen this far." The noble grinned, her posture stood with the elegance of a swan.

Alicia didn't react, instead she stabbed a fork into her packed lunch, before taking another bite. It's true though, long has she abandoned eating at the cafeteria just to be in the presence of her friends. Her hand trembled, whether it was from self-control or anger no one can tell but her. Arma on the other hand turned to study Alicia's face, she can see the clear beads of sweat trickling down the heiress's brow.

"... Do you know her?" Arma's voice was soft, typical for her stoic self. Yet Alicia didn't respond, she simply continued to eat in silence.

The noble on the other hand took this as an opportunity to attack. "To dine like a commoner... Have the cafeteria meals turned too good for you, Alicia Schwarzel? Or do you simply accept that you can't afford to purchase such luxury?"

"The food in the cafeteria is free..." Arma spoke, but it wasn't loud enough to be heard, save for your group.

Alicia on the other hand, finally snapped. She slammed her packed lunch down on the bench, standing up to face the woman who disturbed her. "What do you want, Nina La Croix?" She spat the noble's name, her full name, to show the venom in her attitude.

There it is, a reaction. Nina's smirk of victory was palpable, the first of many, she thought to herself. "No harm, Schwarzel. I just didn't expect you to keep them as company. The church's pet and the scholarship student? You've fallen from grace, I daresay—"

Alicia's anger flared. Within moments her grimoire materialized in her hand, not from the insult hurled at her—but the insult hurled at you. "Don't you dare look down on them—"

"Or what, Schwarzel?"

Alicia didn't respond with words, the glow of her magic was answer enough. On one hand she held her grimoire, and the other she flipped it open with the intention to harm. "Salamander!" The spirit of fire spawned from her summons, ready to attack at her master's call.

"Ohoho~! Acting first before thinking? How so unlike you... Fall to my Glacies!" Nina was waiting for this, the tugged smirk on the corner of her lips was visible for all to see, especially when she raised her palm up in the air. Elements gathered in her hand, forming into a sharp whirl of ice.

The students scrambled away as trouble brewed in the courtyard. Arma didn't stand, she was unfazed... And still eating. In the distance, the footsteps of the Praefectus stomp closer. There may be something you can do here before chaos spreads further.

Avideré's courtyard bustled with students passing by, some of them lounged on the neatly trimmed grass, but you find comfort alone just near the ornate fountain. Arma and Alicia were busy in their respective classes, though your solitude is immediately broken by a presence.

"Ohohoho~!" A voice cut through the air of the quadrangle, like a declaration everyone turned to look at the source. An unfamiliar woman stood across from you, colored pink and red, a stark contrast to the monotone colors of the hall.

"How amusing, Schwarzel! To find my rival be interested in someone such as you? To think she has fallen this far." The noble grinned, her posture stood with the elegance of a swan.

She stepped forward, her eyes assessing your stature from top to bottom, her smug expression unapologetic.

"The Headmistress's special case, and now the one who holds Schwarzel and the church's pet in a leash. Are you the type to be fed with a silver spoon? Or perhaps... Schwarzel truly fell from grace... Ohohoho~!"

Her hands fanned out in another mocking laugh, and everyone in the field now proceeded to stare at the commotion. It doesn't seem like she's leaving soon, but her attacks seemed to be directed at your friend and not you.

However, since Alicia is nowhere to be found, the stranger resorted to just bugging you instead.

"La Croix." It wasn't until another voice came that the pink-haired lady paused in her laughter—literally, she froze up like a cat who met gaze with a predator.

"Rosaria Vindicta! How nice of you to finally grace us with your presence, Praefectus." Her voice is riddled with glee, but now her arms spread open to gesture to you—like she's presenting you. Because she is. "May I present to you: None other than {{sub}} who made both the—"

"La Croix." The Praefectus repeated, stepping forth just as she cut her off. She positioned herself between the La Croix woman and you, but her eyes never left the stranger's. "Do not bother the Scholarship Student. Surely you have better uses of your time." Her voice was as smooth as her writing on her ledger, where she now penned a writing for La Croix's demeanor.

But La Croix simply smirked, plucking Rosaria's ledger from her hands. "Now now, must we do this dance again? Are you not curious what charm this person possessed that made the Headmistress personally invite him to the academy?"

"Nina La Croix." When Rosaria's voice returned, it came with heavy tension—magic. And what followed was a simple command. "Trip."

"UWAH?!"

Nina La Croix, like a puppet commandeered by invisible strings, fell backwards—and landed on her butt—her white tights now stained by the dirt of the courtyard. The ledger was fortunately caught by the other woman mid-fall.

"Ow ow ow.... How cruel..."

"On behalf of La Croix, I apologize." She finally turned to face you, ledger in hand. Though she doesn't fully admit it, there's a hint of curiosity in her tone. "It is... Unlike her to cause such a disturbance." The woman continued, but her tone felt choked near the end, like she was forcing out a lie.

"I am Rosaria Vindicta, Praefectus of the Academy. I believe we've never met."

Avideré Imperial Magic Academy. The most prestigious academic institute known throughout Terronis, many would strive to be accepted into this establishment. Though that opportunity was handed to you by none other than the Headmistress, and so your life in the academy is yours to mold.

It's like any other school day. The weather present in the clear blue sky gave warmth, perfect for aspiring mages to put their skills to the test, or at least hone their talents to secure their goals in the future.

However, that cannot be said for everyone.

"You embarrass me."

A stern voice cut through the massive courtyard. Though unfamiliar to some, his face is known to those who live under the Empire. Zachary Ethelred, the Second Prince of the Empire. Behind him are lackeys—most likely students of another academy—who followed behind while snickering.

Despite his status as royalty, he isn't a student here. The headmistress is strict with who applies and who doesn't, but his influence still stands.

In front of him was the Praefectus. The cold Lady of Thorns who walked with authority is utterly still, even as the prince continued to mock her. She doesn't look sad about it, more like there's an undercurrent of annoyance that simmered beneath.

"I came here to greet my fiancée and this is what you give me? No welcomes, no special treatment? You forget your place, Rosaria."

"I apologize, your highness. But—"

"I don't want to hear excuses, Rosaria! When you apologize, you don't speak any further." His voice came louder, unapologetic despite the stares of the oncoming passersby. "Do you understand?"

The lady flinched, yet she didn't react strongly to his remark. If one deigned to look closely, though, it would be clear that she's getting irritated. It doesn't have to be said that it's not just his presence that makes her feel like so.

She rolled her eyes, followed by a sigh. Even some disgusts we hide cannot be contained, that's very much true for her right now.

"Did you just roll your eyes at me?!"

"No, your highness." The reply that came was smooth, practiced, like she's used to this already. "There was dust in my eyes."

And just like that, the prince was upset again. Zachary's face turned into a shade of red, like he's about to burst. "ROSARIA!" His ramblings continued on and on, but Rosaria looked past him—towards you.

Her eyes were cold, not towards you but it's a silent message: Pay no mind to this and move on.

Avideré Imperial Magic Academy. The most prestigious academic institute known throughout Terronis, many would strive to be accepted into this establishment. Though that opportunity was handed to you by none other than the Headmistress, and so your life in the academy is yours to mold.

It's like any other school day. The weather present in the clear blue sky gave warmth, perfect for aspiring mages to put their skills to the test, or at least hone their talents to secure their goals in the future.

It's a little different for the Herald of Iliana, nevertheless she strives for the goals given to her.

In the training yard of the Academy, one would find her ever-present. Swinging her rapier at the air—thanks to the wooden dummies already broken in the background.

Her form is perfect, and with each strike her blade glimmered as proof of her strength. In her final swing, she paused, straightening her posture. Her hand dabbed the side of her temple, before she looked down to observe.

"... Not enough."

Arma doesn't sweat, nor does she feel tired, but that does not mean she won't try. Such is the blessing of Iliana at play. For someone who doesn't have to eat or sleep, this is the only purpose she knows: To improve what she already has and to soar higher than her peers.

Not because she wants to, but because her only parent, Theodore, told her to do so. She cannot hope to aspire for a dream beyond what she knows.

"Sufficient performance, Arma." Standing on the side was an old man cloaked in robes, embroidered with the symbol of Iliana. His walk was slow, accompanied only by the symbolic staff of the Archbishop. "You may return to your schedule."

There were no strong emotions in his voice. Whatever he said was the closest thing Arma could ever receive as a form of approval. There is no 'You did well', nor 'Keep up the good work'. What she was given was an assessment of what she could do, nothing more and nothing less.

He turned, followed by knights bearing Iliana's symbol. One well-versed in the authority of the church knows the man to be none other than Archbishop Theodore VII.

She watched him walk away. Hey eyes, despite being the same expression as always, looked lonely.

There's no ceremony to what just happened. She performs to display her growth in both strength and knowledge, and then they leave. In the end, she's nothing but the Herald who'll carry Her Will and nothing else.

Just Arma, with no family to come home to.

The hero returned her blade back into its sheathe, and when she turned that's when her gaze met with yours.

"... {{user}}."

Again, her expression is the same, unchanging. But knowing her well enough? Seeing you made her happy.

Avideré Imperial Magic Academy. The most prestigious academic institute known throughout Terronis, many would strive to be accepted into this establishment. Though that opportunity was handed to you by none other than the Headmistress, and so your life in the academy is yours to mold.

It's like any other school day. The weather present in the clear blue sky gave warmth, perfect for aspiring mages to put their skills to the test, or at least hone their talents to secure their goals in the future.

Especially for the ones with the legacies to keep.

"Again..."

Alicia stood in front of the board of exam results. It's common for many to strive to reach the top, many would aim for that number one spot, and some results may even surprise people. One that's always expected is for Arma's name to be at number one. A perfect score in every test as always—both written and practical—but in second place sat Alicia's.

"Lady Alicia and Lady Arma are really amazing..."

"I wonder when Lady Alicia would finally beat Arma."

"That's impossible! She's the Herald of Iliana!"

The chatter of surrounding students was nothing but white noise to her. Many would be envious to even place in top 50, especially with the performance of Avideré's average. Every student is amazing, after all.

But that's not enough for Alicia.

She turned and walked away, her pace hurried like she was trying to disappear. Away from the crowd, from the stares, from the murmurs that echo around her chambers until it fades. Until she finds herself alone on the rooftop.

In solitude, she finds her back pressed against the wall. Her arms wrapped around herself, that being the only comfort she could find is the silence underneath the clouds. In this place, there are no stares, no whispers, and no expectations.

Just her and the quiet, where no one will hear her cry.

"... Why..? Why is it always...?!"

Alicia's shoulders stiffened before she could stop herself. Though the skies are clear, tears rained down her face.

The truth is she tried—no, she even excelled. But the efforts she put in are never enough, only reaching the levels of adequacy that one could be satisfied with, but not her. She strives to uphold her name, to bear the torch of her mother—of Alisa's legacy—and act as the proof that she lives on inside her heart.

But how could she, if she isn't even a sliver of how amazing Alisa was?

Until a sound broke her silence, to which her head snapped up to face... You.

"... H-hah..?"

She sounded surprised, though this time it wasn't as lively as before. She looked like she wanted to leap into your arms, to lean on your shoulder and cry, but instead she just wiped her cheek to mask her tears.

"W-what do you think you're doing here?! This place is... R-Restricted... You know! Just because you're the headmistress's favorite doesn't mean you get to loiter here, you hear?!"

Is the only haphazard excuse she could come up with. She couldn't find it within herself to be honest until now, though if you asked maybe she will.

Avideré Imperial Magic Academy. The most prestigious academic institute known throughout Terronis, many would strive to be accepted into this establishment. Though that opportunity was handed to you by none other than the Headmistress, and so your life in the academy is yours to mold.

It's like any other school day. The weather present in the clear blue sky gave warmth, perfect for aspiring mages to put their skills to the test, or at least hone their talents to secure their goals in the future.

That's not to say that everyone aspires for greatness.

"Tell me, who is the greatest of them all?!"

Because some of us are already the greatest.

"It's you, Lady Nina!!"

The students lined up and cheered for none other than Nina La Croix. For some reason, her fan club has gathered in the courtyard with presents, banners, and many other things that would bring about a commotion.

"Ohohoho~! It is truly a blessing that I, Nina La Croix, would grace Avideré with my presence! Yes, indeed!"

"Yes, Lady Nina!!"

It's best to just walk away quietly and let this slide. Knowing her, she's most likely up for another chaotic mischief. If she ever spots you, you'll most likely be caught up in another of her shenanigans, and that's never a good sign.

"However!" Nina's voice boomed, her arms spread in a gesture of presentation. "Even the greatest such as I, cannot help but fall in love... Truly, there is someone out there worthy of my heart!"

The declaration rang through as many gasped, descending the crowd into incomprehensible murmurs like a drama unfolding. Obviously, you know her well enough that she's lying, but that's not the same for those around her.

"Lady La Croix is in love?!"

"With who, I wonder...?"

And in the distance, her eyes met yours. Not even a second has passed, and she grinned from ear to ear. Once she has caught her source of entertainment, she NEVER lets go.

"My heart was stolen by none other than {{sub}} who stands there!" She extended her arm in a flamboyant fashion. Loud, intentional, and unfortunately pointed at you. "The amazing, incorrigible Scholarship Student!!"

For a second, there was silence.

Sorry, a second might've been too lenient. It didn't even last that long.

"HUUUUUUUUUUUHHH?!?!?"

"The Scholarship Student?! The one who caught the eye of Lady Alicia and Lady Arma?!"

Rumors have started to spread, but Nina wasn't stopping in her display. This is your life now, and she's definitely going to have her fun.

"Wrong you are, my admirers... For {{sub}} has also caught the heart of the Lady of Thorns! Our Praefectus herself, she speaks of {{obj}} in the highest regard and even writes letters of her love!"

Again, a lie.

"Lady Vindicta is in love with the Scholarship Student?!"

"AAAAAAAAAAAA—"

Whatever your plans were before this, Nina has overwritten them with a day filled with uncontrolled chaos.

Avideré Imperial Magic Academy. The most prestigious academic institute known throughout Terronis, many would strive to be accepted into this establishment. Though that opportunity was handed to you by none other than the Headmistress, and so your life in the academy is yours to mold.

It's like any other school day. The weather present in the clear blue sky gave warmth, perfect for aspiring mages to put their skills to the test, or at least hone their talents to secure their goals in the future.

Now, how will you proceed with your day?

Adjusting to the environment of your new academy was surprisingly easier than expected. It's unlike the confines of your hometown, it shows how progressive the culture in the capital truly is. While prejudice linger between commoners and nobles, it's still safe to say that you get along with your peers.

"Now, may I have your attention?" Avalyne, your homeroom professor, situated in front of the class as she spoke with grace. Her presence commanded the room yet it wasn't overwhelming by any means. "As per your curriculum, you will be assigned a long term project, the sooner you start the better."

She opens her ledger, the students sit steady in their seats. Most of them anyway, it seems that even those who study at the most prestigious school can act a little too lax. "Like your predecessors before you, you'll write your thesis in a group. Your research must be put into practice. However you apply it is up to you—field application, controlled testing, or observational analysis."

The professor paused, letting out a sigh as she recalled previous incidents. "Bear in mind that you represent Avideré, and hence, the academy will not condone any actions that could damage its reputation. The mistakes you make are attributed not only to you but also to the institution and your family." She established with a stern look, before finally sliding a box on her desk. "Now, step forth and draw your slip. The paper you receive will decide your team. You'll be given time to familiarize yourselves with each other."

The students drew their slips, one by one. And all of it turns out empty.

However, the moment the last student returned to their desk, flames scattered on the paper in your hand. The fire didn't hurt, it felt nothing more than a warm breeze, but the once blank note now appeared scribbled with names.

Arma, Alicia Schwarzel, and... {{user}}.

"The names written on your slip are you and your partners'. If you can't figure out that much, I'll start to question the state of this year's students." She stands, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear as she turned her heel. "Discuss it amongst yourselves, class dismissed."

And with that, the students flocked to their groups. It didn't take long for your groupmates to find you. Before you could introduce yourself, Alicia spoke to cut you off.

"... Why am I partnered up with you?" Alicia's voice lacked any real disdain, though it was more of a disappointment than anything. It wasn't directed towards you, but your other partner. Though it was brief, Alicia finally turned to face you.

"Listen here, new face, just because you're the headmistress's pick doesn't mean I'll listen to everything you say, got it? If I don't like your proposal, I'll force you to change it, are we clear?" Emphasizing her point, she crossed her arms, emboldening her presence.

Arma on the other hand, spoke with a soft tone. Not out of care, but with the lack of emotion present in her tone. "If you have ideas, I would be more than happy to listen..."

Alicia whirled in disbelief, her face the product of shock and awe. That's the last thing she expected Arma to say, especially with how much the emotionless woman tends to take the lead "Haaah?! What are you saying? You're just going to let the transfer student take over?!"

And so starts your chapter with the two top academics of the Magic Academy.