After completing the mining construction quest, Kazu and Nozue stood back to admire their work. What had once been a rocky expanse was now a freshly carved tunnel, ready for further excavation. The chief approached with a satisfied smile and handed Kazu a completion paper.
"This is proof of your work today," the chief said, nodding in approval.
Kazu accepted the paper, a hint of pride in his smile, while Nozue gave a quick nod.
"Thanks," Kazu said, tucking the paper away.
They then headed back to the guild to report their completed quest. Inside, they found Missy at her desk, her usual pile of papers neatly organized. As they approached, Missy looked up, her eyes softening when she saw Kazu.
"Hey, you two! Done with the quest?" Missy asked, her voice warmer than usual.
"Yeah, we finished it up," Kazu replied, handing her the completion paper.
Missy took it, her fingers brushing against Kazu's for a moment longer than necessary. She quickly averted her gaze, a slight blush coloring her cheeks.
"Good job," she said, trying to maintain her composure. She opened a drawer and pulled out a small pouch. "Here's your reward, 300 silvers."
Kazu took the pouch with a smile. "Thanks, Missy."
Missy nodded, her heart racing a little as she watched Kazu and Nozue leave the guild.
As they stepped out into the bright afternoon sun, Kazu and Nozue, holding their completion paper and a pouch of 300 silvers, made their way back to the orphanage. They enjoyed the lively buzz of Druzka's streets as they walked.
Upon reaching the orphanage, Rosalia greeted them at the entrance. "Welcome back! How did the quest go?"
Kazu showed her the completion paper with a smile. "We finished the mining quest and earned 300 silvers!"
Rosalia's face lit up with pride. "That's wonderful! I'm so proud of you both. Let's go inside."
The children gathered around, excited to hear about the quest. Kazu and Nozue shared details, and the kids listened eagerly.
"Hi kids, don't worry—I'll tell you about our adventure," Kazu said.
"Yes, we'll share the story with you!" Nozue added.
As the children gathered around the table and Rosalia prepared their meal, Nozue set glasses of water on the table. Kazu animatedly recounted their experiences from the construction quest.
"I gained a new skill," Kazu said with enthusiasm. "I think it's called Fist of Authority. And my mining skill has improved; it's almost at level twelve."
Nozue looked surprised. "You didn't mention that earlier. That's not fair!"
Kazu chuckled. "I must have forgotten. It just slipped my mind."
Laughter filled the room as the children, Nozue, Kazu, and Rosalia enjoyed their time together, sharing stories and joy within the cozy confines of the orphanage.
Rosalia glanced at Kazu with a warm smile. "Kazu, I heard something interesting today. There's a free scholarship available at the Zirabia Magic Heights Academy."
Kazu's eyes widened with curiosity. "Really? When did you find out?"
Rosalia explained, "While I was out buying food at the market, I saw a child from the academy handing out posters about the scholarship. I picked up one of the papers. Let me show it to you."
Kazu took the paper from Rosalia and read aloud. "It says, 'Zirabia Magic Heights Academy is looking for a worthy individual to join as a scholar student. Anyone below 14 years of age may inquire.' Scholar? Does this mean I could study for free? But how?"
Nozue tilted his head, puzzled. "I don't really know either."
Rosalia reassured him, "The only requirement is to be worthy. Why don't you give it a try, Kazu?"
Kazu hesitated. "Do you really think I'm worthy?"
Rosalia placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "For us here at the orphanage, you are definitely deserving of a chance at that academy."
Nozue nodded in agreement. "That's right."
Kazu's eyes welled up with tears of gratitude. "Thank you for believing in me, Nozue." He hugged his friend tightly. "I'll go to Zirabia Magic Heights tomorrow to see if I can get in."
Nozue offered a supportive smile. "Do you want me to come with you?"
Kazu's face lit up. "Of course you can!"
After dinner, the children helped Rosalia clean up. The evening was warm and comfortable, and Rosalia wished them all goodnight with a loving smile.
Kazu and Nozue headed to their room, a cozy space with two simple beds and a small window letting in the cool night air. As they settled in, Kazu's thoughts were on the next day.
"I can't believe it's finally happening," he said. "Tomorrow could change everything."
Nozue, already settled under the covers, smiled. "You've earned this. It's going to be great."
Kazu nodded, feeling reassured. "Thanks, Nozue. I really appreciate it."
"Get some rest," Nozue said. "We'll need our energy."
Kazu turned off the lantern, and the room filled with soft moonlight. The night was quiet, and soon Kazu was drifting off to sleep, dreaming of his future at the academy.
The next morning, as dawn broke over Druzka, Kazu and Nozue rose early to embark on their journey to Zirabia Magic Heights Academy. Kazu descended the stairs, his movements sluggish with sleep. He greeted Nozue, who was busy organizing their supplies.
"Good morning, Nozue. You're up already?"
Nozue glanced up, a focused look in his eyes. "Morning, Kazu. Just making sure we have everything we need for the trip."
Kazu couldn't help but smile. "You're always so prepared. I'm still not sure if I'll even get in."
"No worries," Nozue said, his confidence unwavering. "I'm sure you'll make it. Regardless, we need to be ready for the journey."
Kazu nodded, appreciating Nozue's support. "Alright, let's head out together."
Nozue finished his packing and handed Kazu a smile. "Everything's packed. You can store your things in your Item Space now."
"Thanks," Kazu said, heading for the bathroom. "I'll be quick. Just need to shower."
Nozue watched him go and began his own final preparations. "I'll be ready when you're done."
With their preparations complete, the two friends boarded the carriage to the heart of Druzka. The journey to Zirabia Magic Heights Academy was filled with anticipation and excitement.
As they approached the academy, Kazu's eyes widened in awe. The academy's impressive structure loomed before them, its towering walls and grand, palace-like design leaving him captivated.
Kazu stepped out of the carriage, his heart racing with a mix of excitement and nervousness. He stood before the grand gates of Zirabia Magic Heights Academy, the imposing structure ahead a testament to the institution's prestige.
In front of the gates, a group of academy students was busy announcing and directing newcomers. Kazu, accompanied by Nozue, approached the registration area.
"Good morning," Kazu began, addressing the two student receptionists. "I'm here to apply as a scholar for Zirabia Magic Heights Academy. How do I go about the application process?"
The first receptionist, Seira Koruchi, greeted him with a warm smile. "Good morning! I'm Seira Koruchi, and this is Joy Hasaki. We're the student receptionists. To apply as a scholar, you'll need to complete a brief process. First, fill out this registration form," she said, handing Kazu a piece of paper.
Joy Hasaki added, "Once you've filled out the form, you'll need to present it at the gate to the knight students on duty. They'll guide you through the next steps. Is that clear?"
Kazu nodded, taking the form from Joy. "What comes after that?"
Seira replied, "The knight students will provide instructions on what to do next. Keep in mind that only one student will be selected for a scholarship, so make sure you stand out. There are many applicants today."
Nozue leaned in, whispering to Kazu, "That girl seems a bit stern."
Kazu glanced at Nozue and nodded in agreement. "Noted," he replied, then turned back to the receptionists. "Nothing important, just a bit of conversation. I'll get this form filled out."
Seira raised an eyebrow but said nothing. "You're applying on your own, correct?"
"Yes," Kazu confirmed.
"Next!" Seira called out, directing the next applicant forward.
Kazu took a deep breath and began filling out the form, his thoughts focused on the opportunity ahead.
After completing the form, Kazu approached the grand gate of Zirabia Magic Heights Academy. The towering walls and imposing structure loomed before him, a testament to the academy's prestige. With a determined stride, he presented the form to one of the student knights stationed at the entrance.
"I'm here to submit my application as a scholar," Kazu said.
The knight, a tall figure clad in a uniform that signified his status, took the form and examined it briefly. He then gave a nod, signaling Kazu's entry. As Kazu stepped through the gate, he realized that Nozue was not allowed to follow him.
Turning back, Kazu addressed the knight with concern. "Why can't my friend, Nozue, come inside with me?"
The knight responded, "Only applicants are permitted inside the academy grounds."
Kazu leaned in, whispering urgently to Nozue, "You should apply too. Don't waste any time."
Nozue's eyes lit up with resolve. "Okay, I'll get on it right away."
Kazu offered a reassuring smile. "I'll wait for you here. Just hurry."
As Nozue turned to head back toward the registration area, Kazu entered the academy. The grandeur of the interior was awe-inspiring, with marble floors and intricate tapestries that spoke of centuries of magical tradition. He wandered through the spacious hallways, his excitement growing as he anticipated the possibilities that lay ahead.
Kazu's thoughts were interrupted by the bustling activity around him, a mix of students and faculty moving purposefully. He found a spot to wait, his anticipation mounting as he glanced toward the entrance, eager for Nozue to join him.