Rising to my feet, I dusted myself off. The demonstration had left me with mixed feelings. I was frustrated on one hand because there were abilities I couldn't even touch, let alone defeat. However, for the first time, I began to seriously consider the potential value of studying at Axeris. If I could have a professor even remotely close to Director Emilia's level, my magic would improve by leaps and bounds.
"I'm sorry I couldn't offer you something more impressive, Director," I said, turning to Director Emilia. I was somewhat worried she might be angry because I held back a bit, but fortunately, Director Emilia took it well.
"Forget about it, Eizan. On this continent, no one else possesses that Element besides you," Director Emilia replied, sighing.
"Does that mean Eizan is on a different level compared to kids his age?" Eva asked, still holding Jeff's hand gently. Nodding, the Director patted her head.
"Your friend has the potential to become very powerful, Sophia."
"Heehee!" Sophia wore a proud expression, as if she were the one being praised.
Jeff still wore a look of disbelief, processing everything. As Alex ensured his father was okay, he glanced at me with a mixture of wonder and slight fear.
I couldn't blame him.
I turned to Director Emilia, giving her a determined look, a gaze that seemed unfitting for a fifteen-year-old.
"Director Emilia, is there a reason why I possess this power?"
Understanding the seriousness in my voice, she nodded. "I have a suspicion that the Element has a consciousness of its own and chooses who is worthy to wield it, Eizan. You seem too sharp for that."
Agreeing with her, I replied, "There are few benefits I can gain from attending your academy. One is learning how to better harness my Element. However, that's something I can teach myself given time. The main reason I would attend your academy, if I choose to, is for protection. Currently, I'm not strong enough to protect everyone. But you hold a position of power and influence that can provide security for my friends, family, and me, at least until I can control this power to protect them myself."
"Eizan! You're being disrespectful to Director Emilia! How can you…"
"No, it's fine, Eva." As soon as she said this, the Director murmured a soft chant before speaking again.
"Eizan, I believe you have the capability to make a difference in this world. For that, if you're willing to attend Axeris Academy and become a lawful citizen who will do anything to protect his land, then I will agree to any criteria you set." Director Emilia's voice was clear and determined.
"Alright, I will learn what I find valuable from the classes your school offers and train my power on my own. As long as you provide me with the tools and freedom to do so, and keep my loved ones safe, then I will consider you an important benefactor," I promised.
Director Emilia's lips curved into a smile as we shook hands. Hearing this, I suddenly noticed I could hear others again. Seeing the director, she gave me a knowing wink.
With everyone else around us looking confused, I could only assume that Director Emilia had somehow made it so no one could hear us.
Clarifying for those who couldn't hear, I said loudly, "I will abide by our agreement when I enroll at your academy."
"Oh? Were you not planning to enroll at my academy soon?" Director Emilia and the other adults seemed puzzled.
"I plan to enter Axeris Academy as soon as possible. In fact, I've decided to enroll this month, if not next week. I assume that won't be an issue?" I tilted my head.
"Oh my! Of course, I don't mind. Eizan, the sooner I see you at the academy, the more exciting it will be for me to stay there." I didn't think Director Emilia would accept me this quickly.
I turned to face everyone watching us.
"Surely, I will bring your elf friend along with you, Eizan. She's a highly talented Quadra Element user. I can't just leave her here if she wants to join the academy with you." Director Emilia smiled at Sophia, who looked confused.
"That won't be an issue for her. She will follow me wherever I go." It seemed the Director understood my words. She turned with a teasing look, as if realizing something.
I looked up at the night sky, the stars shining brightly. The brilliant light truly made the night sparkle.
"Speaking of talented students, there's someone you should meet."
Her words made me look back at her.
"Who is that?"
"He's your age. That boy is as impressive as both of you. The difference is, when I look at him, it seems he has been through a long journey and worked hard to reach that point." Wait, could the student she's talking could it be…
"His name is…"