Scene: The Protest – Yue's Scheme 2
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ACADEMIC BRANCH – PRIVATE LOUNGE – AFTERNOON
The private lounge in the academic branch is bathed in the soft light of afternoon sun filtering through tall, elegant windows. The atmosphere of the room is tense as Kimhyun, the Jack, angrily walks out after being dismissed by the King.
Angela (smiling) "Aww, The King is kicking the little doggo~ It's animal abuse, your majesty."
As she talks, Angela walks out from the shadow. Invisibility through bending light and erasing scents, she has been trying a lot to make sure her technique can get through Kimhyun's radar.
Yue (Jokingly smiling) "Shaddup, advisor!! The king can do whatever he wants!!"
Angela (smiling) "Pfft… hahaha"
Yue (smiling) "Where is Lysander? Shouldn't he be here?"
Lysander (smile) "Here…"
The voice comes as Lysander suddenly appears in front of Yue, in his hand is a bag of snacks.
Lysander (smile) "Also, Angela, your disguise is sus, Kimhyun must have seen through it."
Angela (a bit angry) "What? How could you know?"
Lysander (smile while eating his snack) "I have skimmed through Kimhyun's power analysis. His radar is simply himself constantly emitting electrical signals around to detect it. Thus,"
As he said, Lysander took out a round machine object from the bag, a radar.
Lysander (smile) "If this radar can detect you, he can too."
Angela (annoying) "Ugh, you must be kidding."
Yue (smiling) "Hey hey, you two, no argue. We are here for business, remember?"
Lysander (suddenly got serious) "Did they contact your father?"
Yue (smiling) "Yeah, to save face, they decided to buy some magic swords to give to some of their lower ranking hunters to save face. So sad though, it won't be enough."
Angela (calm yet soft) "So now, you want to directly go and ripen out the benefit?"
Yue (smiling) "Hahaha. What else? Call Alexei and Floria. The five of us will go to see Wilhelm tomorrow in the stadium."
Scene: Sea Witch VS Hell Blaze/GGG
EXT. PE STADIUM – AFTERNOON
The crowd, originally gathering for protests, now hums with organized chatter, their attention redirected to the impending match.
Whispers in the crowd:
"The King is going to see a match?"
"Seriously? We can't let him see the chaos—he beat the Queen last time like she was nothing."
"But hasn't the stadium been empty? No fights in the last two days."
"Who could catch his majesty's eye?"
INT. VIP SECTION – AFTERNOON
Yue, Lysander, Angela, Alexei, and Floria enter the VIP section with their usual aura of authority. All eyes turn toward the King's Court as they gracefully take their seats. Already present, Wilhelm Königsberg glances at them, his demeanor neutral but cautious.
Yue (calmly, but with purpose): "Good afternoon, Mr. Wilhelm."
Wilhelm (fake smile, scanning the arena): "Good afternoon, Yue. It's rare to see you and your esteemed cousins here." He nods briefly at each member of the court. "Lysander, Angela, Alexei... And you must be?"
Floria (smiling) "Floria, Mr. Wilhelm, I am Alexei's girlfriend."
Wilhelm (fake smiling): "Ah, yes, good afternoon, Floria."
After the brief introduction, Angela smiles gracefully.
Angela (smiling) "The news of your arrival to our academy has been spreaded far and wide. Mr. Wilhelm, anything interesting here?"
Upon saying the word, Angela glances at the arena… much to her surprise.
Angela (surprised, whispering): "Hugo? I wasn't expecting this."
Lysander (quietly, his tone more analytical): "Nor was I. What's he doing here?"
Alexei (excited): "This should be interesting."
THE FIGHT BEGIN
INT. ARENA – STAGE
Zing Zing (on the mic): "Alright folks, let's get ready for an epic battle! On one side, we have Maidono Shizuka, the Sea Witch! And on the other, Hugo Gentoshi, the fiery newcomer! Let's see who reigns supreme!"
Shizuka holds her hand as water snakes coil around her, shooting toward Hugo with startling speed. Hugo immediately blasts fire beneath his feet, launching himself upward. But Shizuka's water snakes aren't ordinary—they twist and turn, homing in on him with near-perfect precision.
Hugo changes the burst of flame under his feet to dodge the snakes mid-air but one snake has pierced through his flank.
INT. VIP SECTION – AFTERNOON
Wilhelm (a bit surprised): "Gentoshi? Ah, so that cyclop boy is your cousin, Yue? No wonder you're here, supporting your blood."
Yue (grinning): "Why, of course, Mr. Wilhelm. What else could have brought me here?"
The comment carries layers of meaning, and Wilhelm relaxes just a little.
Angela (whispering): "Hmm, this technique."
Lysander (whispering, analytical): "Similar to the fireballs guy but much faster and more precise. She must have learnt to make quick attacks from her loss against Kimhyun."
Lysander (whispering, analytical): "As for Hugo… when did he learn those acrobatic moves?"
Alexei (confidence): "I can do that too."
Lysander (rolls his eyes): "Yeah, yeah…"
INT. ARENA – STAGE
Black flames suddenly erupt around Hugo, forming a vortex that consumes the water snakes, evaporating them in an instant. The flames spiral tighter, compressing into a fiery orb in his hand.
Hugo (determined, out loud): "Snapdragon!"
INT. VIP SECTION – AFTERNOON
Wilhelm (fake smiling): "This Hugo has potential. His power... It's raw but formidable."
Angela (quiet): "This black flame…"
Lysander (whispering, analytical): "The same one that destroyed our family… it seems that Hugo finally got a grip on his power."
Alexei (suddenly got serious): "Yes, but we are also getting stronger. The burst of flame, the movement, I can follow all of them, we all can, right?"
Alexei's face twisted into a smirk. He speaks with confidence "We can easily beat him in a fight."
INT. ARENA – STAGE
Shizuka conjures a massive tidal wave, sending it crashing towards Hugo's flame. Steam billows into the air as the water splits, but Shizuka rides one half of the wave, dodging his attack with finesse. She shapes the other half into more water snakes, which she directs at Hugo with pinpoint accuracy.
Hugo attempts to evade by propelling himself down with a burst of flame, but the arena floor shifts beneath him. Too late, he realizes her trap.
Shizuka (grinning): "Gotcha."
The water on the ground shoots up, freezing into jagged spikes that pierce Hugo's midsection. He gasps, struggling to summon his flames, but the freezing water dulls his power. The once-mighty black flames sputter weakly as the cold seeps into him.
Zing Zing (on the mic): "And the winner is… Maidono Shizuka!!"
The crowd erupts into applause. Hugo, barely conscious, is whisked away by medics.
INT. VIP SECTION – AFTERNOON
The King's Court watches, their expressions inscrutable, though an undercurrent of satisfaction runs through them.
Lysander (whispering, smirking): "Is that all Hugo's got? We've been living in fear of that?"
Angela (grinning, dismissive): "We wasted days preparing for this... disappointment."
Alexei (with a gleam in his eye): "Can I take him next? He wouldn't last a minute."
Floria (gently): "Babe... don't."
Wilhelm breaks the tense silence, his eyes on Hugo as he's carried away.
Wilhelm (smiling, though his tone remains careful): "The boy is strong, but his control needs refining-"
He turns to the King's Court, but is met with their predatory grins. It's clear now, they don't see Hugo as an asset. He's prey.
Yue (smirking): "Thank you for your concern, Mr. Wilhelm. Shall I escort you out?"
Scene: Sea Witch VS Hell Blaze Aftermatch
INT. INFIRMARY – AFTERNOON
The infirmary is buzzing with activity, almost overflowing with students from the superpower branch recovering from various injuries. Rows of beds are lined up against the walls, filled with students nursing burns, broken bones, and bruises from the constant sparring and training. Medical staff rush between patients, using their healing abilities and equipment to stabilize the wounded. The energy in the room feels heavy with exhaustion and pain.
Hugo is laid out on one of the beds, wincing as a nurse tends to the jagged wound across his stomach, still throbbing from Shizuka's water spike attack. Despite the pain, Hugo's mind is racing, not with the injury but with admiration for the fight.
Hugo (mumbling to himself, awestruck): "Her control... It was on a different level."
Across the room, Shizuka is sitting on her own bed, a few minor burns being treated by a nurse. Despite her victory, she looks as focused as ever, her sharp eyes scanning the infirmary, like she's mentally reviewing the fight. Fenix, meanwhile, is lounging in a nearby chair, sipping casually from a blood bag, his sharp gaze flicking between the injured students and Hugo.
Fenix (smirking, playful tone): "Not bad for a first timer. Dear cyclop."
Hugo chuckles weakly, still processing the fight, his admiration clear.
Hugo (serious, a bit awestruck): "Shizuka... how did you control all that water so precisely? You didn't just throw it around—you shaped it, bent it... It was... perfect."
Shizuka (grinning, a spark of pride in her eyes): "Years of practice, Hugo. It's not about raw power—it's about understanding your limits."
Hugo listens intently, feeling a pang of frustration mixed with awe. His power is raw, dangerous, and unpredictable. It's like holding a wild animal on a leash. Compared to Shizuka and even Fenix, who handles his blood magic with cool precision, Hugo feels like a ticking time bomb.
Hugo (quietly, almost to himself): "I wish I had that kind of control..."
Fenix (grinning, leaning back): "You will. It just takes time. Look at me, I've been practicing for years just to create a few arrows out of blood."
Fenix taps the blood bag hanging by his side for emphasis. His gothic appearance and casual attitude contrast with the seriousness of his words. Hugo watches him, realizing how much preparation goes into controlling a power like Fenix's.
Suddenly, the infirmary door bursts open, and Andrea stumbles in, his eyes red and full of tears. His gaze immediately locks onto Hugo, and before anyone can react, he's across the room, pulling Hugo into a tight, almost suffocating embrace.
Andrea (tears in his eyes, frantic): "Hugo! Oh my God, are you hurt? Are you okay?! I—I heard about the fight and I ran straight here! What were you thinking?!"
Andrea's voice cracks with emotion as he grips Hugo tightly, his overprotective nature on full display. His hands tremble slightly as he checks Hugo over, looking for more injuries, not trusting that the medics could have healed him well enough.
Hugo (groaning, awkwardly): "Big brother... I'm fine. Really. Just... please don't squeeze me so hard..."
Fenix (watching with amusement): "Well, someone's popular today. Didn't know you had a fan club."
Andrea finally pulls back, tears still in his eyes as he inspects Hugo's wound.
Andrea (still emotional): "This... this is too dangerous, Hugo. You can't just throw yourself into fights like this! I don't care what rank your power is, you could've been seriously hurt!"
Hugo looks away, a mix of guilt and frustration bubbling inside him. He knows Andrea is right, but the fight was important to him. It was the first time he really tested himself since coming to the superpower branch, and the first time he saw how far he still has to go.
Fenix (watching with amusement): "Good afternoon, Mr. I am sorry to interfere but… Little Cyclop here is one of us now. You can't stop him from doing like us."
Andrea (surprise): "Huh? You are…"
Fenix (amused): "Fenix Tepes of the Tepes noble family, very glad to meet you~"
Andrea (stunned): "Ah… hah"
Andrea is stunned in front of Fenix' extravagant greet. Not even his noble family got this kind of extravagant exchange.
Hugo (explain): "Big brother, Fenix is my first friend here. He's a bit… weird. But he's a good person, ah, vampire"
Fenix (a bit angry): "I don't drink blood from disobedient cyclops, but I might make an exception for you!" While talking, Fenix uses his fists to push both sides of Hugo's head.
Hugo (groaning): "Ack, hey, I got it, Count Dracula, spare me!! Ack.."
Andrea (stunned, happy, thinking): "Hugo… So you have made some wonderful friends, huh?"
As Andrea releases his tight grip on Hugo, Shizuka, who's been observing the emotional reunion, steps forward. She takes a deep breath, sensing the tension but maintaining her calm, collected demeanor.
Shizuka (calmly, but with respect): "I'm Maidono Shizuka... the one who fought your brother earlier."
Andrea turns sharply, his eyes narrowing slightly as he looks at Shizuka.
Andrea (frustrated): "You're the one who hurt him?"
Shizuka doesn't flinch under Andrea's gaze. Instead, she nods, acknowledging the truth but staying composed.
Shizuka (serious, but understanding): "Yes, I did. But this is part of what we do in the superpower branch. It's how we push ourselves, how we prepare for real fights—against monsters, against dangers we'll face as hunters."
Andrea's expression softens slightly, but he's still protective.
Andrea (stern): "That doesn't mean you should be reckless with each other's lives."
Fenix (grinning, jumping in): "Reckless? No, no, dear big brother. You know what they said, 'When in Rome, Do as the Romans Do', Hugo is one of us now, he has to fight others. That's the only way to prepare him fighting monsters after he truly becomes a hunter."
Andrea glances between Fenix and Shizuka, still processing their words.
Hugo (softly, but with conviction): "Big brother, I'm okay... really. They're right. It's not just about fighting—it's about training ourselves to be better. I need to do this if I'm ever going to learn to control my power."
Shizuka steps in again, her tone more gentle now.
Shizuka (nodding): "We're expected to take risks. It's part of the path we've chosen. This fight wasn't meant to hurt Hugo—it's meant to help him get stronger. Just like it helps me."
Andrea, still protective, exhales deeply, his eyes scanning Hugo's face. The determination in Hugo's expression finally sinks in.
Andrea (sighing, calmer): "I guess... I just don't want to see you hurt. But if this is what you have to do... then I'll trust you."
Scene: Eagle Eyes
INT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – PRIVATE OFFICE – NIGHT
The dimly lit office of Wilhelm Königsberg is cold and imposing, filled with dark mahogany furniture and thick curtains, with faint city lights casting long shadows. Wilhelm sits behind his massive desk, fingers tapping lightly on the polished wood, deep in thought. His sharp eyes narrow as he contemplates the events of the day.
Wilhelm (to himself): "That boy... Hugo. There's something off between him and the rest of the Gentoshi family."
Without turning his head, Wilhelm's voice cuts through the silence.
Wilhelm (stoic): "Stop lurking in the shadow, Arys Balten, you looked like a dirty thief."
Stripes of multiple colors ripple through the air as a tall figure materializes—Arys Balten, his skin shifting back to its natural blue hue, revealing the lizard-like features of his werechameleon form. He steps forward with a sly grin.
Arys: "You flatter me, master."
Arys Balten, one of the country's most skilled Thief Class fighters, known for his mastery of stealth and camouflage, moves with an unnatural fluidity. Just then, the door creaks open, and in strides Memel Mohrungen—a short, muscular man with the stocky build of a dwarf, his face stern as he closes the door behind him.
Memel (serious tone): "Guild master, with respect, the scandal surrounding the weaklings you hired isn't going away. I'd prefer if you focused on fixing that mess rather than playing these games."
Wilhelm (stoic): "Memel Mohrungen."
Memel Mohrungen, Tank Class specialist, is renowned for his durability and brute strength. Unlike most dwarves who work in mines or forge weapons, Memel decided his natural resilience made him perfect for tanking blows in combat.
Wilhelm (excited, darkly smiling) "Don't worry, Memel. I have just the solution for that little... inconvenience."
Memel (raised an eyebrow): "And that somehow is related to a long legged demon?"
Wilhelm (with intrigue): "Haha. Arys, investigate this boy, will you? Hugo Gentoshi. If I play my cards right, we can get everything we want—and more."
He pauses, remembering the way Lysander, Angela, and Alexei watched the fight. His grin grows darker.
Wilhelm (speaking thoughtfully): "Those eyes... there was something in their gaze. Something hungry. Something deadly. I want to know what it is."
Arys bows with a flourish.
Arys (playfully, but dutifully): "Consider it done, master."
Scene: Morning Run
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CAMPUS – EARLY MORNING
Shizuka "Hugo~ Hugo!!!"
It has just been early morning but a familiar voice came knocking on his door.
Hugo (Yawning) "Ugh… it's just early morning… What's wrong, Shizuka?"
Shizuka (smiling) "Hehehe. What else do you think? Let's run!!!"
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER TRAINING GROUNDS – EARLY MORNING
Hugo (Gasping) "Hey… hey… wait up… Shizuka…"
Shizuka (smiling) "Hey, stand up, you need to run more."
As she talks, Shizuka runs towards Hugo
Hugo (Gasping) "Hah… hah… yeah… but… why are we training this? Ha…"
Shizuka (slightly surprised) "Huh? Didn't you want to better control your power? We are training for it."
Hugo (surprised) "Huh? What do you… hah… mean?"
Shizuka (grinning, wiping her forehead): "You see, mana is the energy converted through life force. If you want good control of your power, you need good control of mana—thus, good control of your own health."
Hugo (surprised) "What? So being strong physically is related to being good at controlling power?"
Shizuka (grinning): "Huh? No, controlling your mana is like controlling your health. A healthy body helps. Being healthy is different from being physically strong."
Hugo (surprised) "Huh? What about Fenix? He controls his power well without even training physically."
Shizuka (grinning): "He is though."
Hugo (surprised) "Huh?"
Shizuka (grinning): "Vampires generally have two skill trees to master. Vampiric Strength and Blood Magic. But you see, vampires' bodies do not change since they are other races that become vampires. So, here is a question: how can a vampire increase their physical power through Vampiric Strength skill tree?"
Hugo (surprised) "How?"
Shizuka (grinning while explaining): "Through the blood inside their body. Vampiric Strength is merely controlling their internal blood to make themselves stronger while Blood Magic is external blood. In other words, a vampire's power is related more to their power to control blood. Thus, functioning differently from us."
Hugo (stunned) "Oh!!"
Shizuka (grinning but serious): "Hey, no time for gasping, train!!!"
Hugo (grumbling, but smiling): "Alright, alright… let's do this."
EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CAMPUS – MORNING
Hugo and Shizuka are walking side by side, finishing their morning run. Their pace slows as they approach the campus entrance. They spot Fenix up ahead, leaning casually against a pillar, yawning widely, clearly not a morning person.
Fenix (sleepily, rubbing his eyes): "You two are crazy. Running at this hour... Vampires are supposed to rest when the sun's barely up."
Hugo (amused): "Morning routine, huh? Keeps you sharp."
Shizuka (smiling): "Besides, it's fun watching Hugo struggle to keep up."
Hugo (grumbling): "Hey, I'm improving..."
The three of them start walking towards class together, but they quickly notice a large gathering at the school gates. Students are holding signs, and some even use their powers to block off the entrance. An earth wall stands tall, separating the campus from the outside world.
Hugo (pessimistic, sighing): "Protest... again?"
Shizuka (annoyed, shaking her head): "And they're blocking the gates. Don't they realize protesting like this won't change anything?"
One of the students shouts from the top of the earth wall: "St. Alaric has failed us! Corruption in the school! We don't need to go to a school that exploits us!"
Fenix (casually): "If her majesty was here, this would've been dealt with ages ago."
Hugo (confused): "Her majesty?"
Shizuka (explaining): "Oh right, Hugo, you don't know about the Royal Family of our school."
"The top students in our superpower branch are called 'The Royal Family.' There's Yue Monarchy Gentoshi, our King, with his telekinesis powers. Then there's Ludociel Vanderbilt, the Queen of Light, and finally Kimhyun Narukami, the Thunderous Prince—also known as our Jack."
Fenix (nodding, wistful): "Ah yes... Her majesty, the Queen. Last month, she challenged the King because she thought he wasn't doing enough for the school. She also didn't like how he was... a little too rough with some students."
Shizuka (nodding): "Right, but Yue crushed her... easily. She's been in the hospital since then."
Fenix (sighing, dramatically): "Ah, our beloved Queen. She kept everyone in line. We need someone like her again to restore order."
Shizuka (glancing at Hugo curiously): "Hey... come to think of it, you have the same last name as the King. Gentoshi, right? Do you know him?"
Hugo (awkward, stammering slightly): "Uh... I... I—"
Before Hugo can respond, the ground trembles violently as a blast of crackling electricity and swirling flames erupts, obliterating the earth wall in an instant. The air buzzes with residual energy as the wall crumbles to dust, sending the protesting students staggering backward in shock. Standing in the aftermath, Professor Roderick's stern gaze sweeps over the crowd. His hands glow with elemental power, each finger adorned with a ring pulsing with its own magical aura, as the raw energy of his spell still hums in the air, commanding immediate silence.
Professor Roderick (booming voice): "Enough of this nonsense! St. Alaric Academy will not tolerate disruption of any kind. Return to your classes immediately!"
He steps forward, his eyes scanning the students who now hesitate, unsure whether to continue their protest.
Hugo (whispering to Fenix, surprised): "Who is this guy?"
Fenix (smirking, whispering back): "Professor Roderick. Master of elemental magic... and he really doesn't like his mornings being interrupted."
Scene: Debrief in Class – Magic Fundamentals
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH – CLASSROOM – MORNING
The classroom is quiet, a far cry from the chaos of the protests they have seen before. The large windows let in rays of soft morning light, creating a warm contrast to the tension lingering from the earlier events. Professor Velorum, a tall figure in flowing robes, stands at the front of the room, scribbling intricate diagrams on the blackboard. The shapes seem to form complex geometric patterns, surrounded by mystical symbols and runes.
Professor Velorum (calmly): "Today's lesson will focus on the fundamentals of magic. Magic, at its core, is the art of manipulating mana through specific formulas combined with elements from the environment. To put it simply, magic is the art of warping the world for a desired effect."
Students shift in their seats, some leaning forward with interest, while others glance around, unsure if they're up to the task.
Professor Velorum taps the board, pointing to the diagrams.
Professor Velorum (continuing): "The world itself provides an endless reservoir of energy, but the skill of a magician lies in knowing how to access it and manipulate it. That requires understanding formulas. For example—"
He turns and writes a basic spell formula on the board, showing how mana flows through the caster, using the environment as a catalyst to conjure a result.
Professor Velorum (continuing): "A simple wind spell might look like this. You gather mana to make it float in a specific ways to warp the world, bending it for the creation of a breeze of wind.
A few students frown, taking notes but clearly daunted. Magic is far more complex than they had expected.
Student 1 (hesitant): "So… how do we actually use this in combat? It seems like it takes a lot of prep time."
Professor Velorum (nodding): "Correct. Unlike superpowers, which can be activated instantly, magic often requires meticulous preparation. This is why it's more difficult for most humans to use. The formulas can be long, and a small mistake can lead to disaster."
He turns back to the board, writing more complex equations, adding variables based on environmental factors. Some students squint at the board, trying to keep up, while others lean back in their seats, starting to look discouraged.
Student 2 (muttering): "This looks impossible…"
Student 3 (whispering): "Yeah, forget about it. Too much complex."
He pauses, turning to face the class.
Professor Velorum: "Who here has attempted magic before? Would anyone like to demonstrate?"
The room falls silent for a moment, with most students hesitant to volunteer. Then, with a dramatic flourish, Fenix Tepes rises from his seat, his dark coat billowing slightly as if he's stepping into the spotlight.
Fenix (in a deep, theatrical tone): "Allow me, professor."
Hugo glances at Shizuka, smirking at Fenix's melodramatic entrance.
Hugo (whispering): "Here we go…"
Shizuka (with a knowing smile): "Brace yourself."
Fenix strides confidently to the front of the class, his pale skin and crimson eyes giving him an almost supernatural presence. He holds up one hand, his voice dripping with dramatic flair.
Fenix (slowly, as if unveiling a dark secret): "You see, us vampires have a natural connection to sacrifice magic. While many of you struggle with formulas and calculations, we vampires use the essence of life itself—blood—as our medium."
With a slow, deliberate motion, Fenix summons blood from his finger. A single drop of blood wells up, and he holds it out for the class to see.
Fenix (whispering): "Blood is our catalyst. With just a single drop, we can summon the forces of nature."
He closes his eyes and mutters an ancient incantation under his breath. The drop of blood in his palm begins to glow faintly. A breeze suddenly swirls around the classroom, rustling papers and stirring the students' hair.
Fenix (grinning, with a dramatic sigh): "Behold—our connection to magic."
Several students gasp in admiration, while others exchange uneasy glances. Hugo watches, impressed by the ease with which Fenix summoned the wind, though still amused by his theatrical display.
Hugo (whispering, amused): "Does he always make it sound like he's summoning the apocalypse?"
Shizuka (laughing quietly): "Half vampire, half theater kid."
Professor Velorum: "Thank you Fenix, a very… illustrative demonstration."
Professor Velorum (pointing to the mana flow chart again): "Fenix's demonstration shows one approach to magic. Vampires, as you saw, often rely on blood sacrifice to focus their spells. You can try it too but vampires are just better due to their blood control power."
Hugo leans over to Shizuka, keeping his voice low.
Hugo (whispering): "Hey, Shizuka, do you know how to use magic?"
Shizuka (shaking her head): "Nope. I use my innate power, just like you."
Hugo (nodding): "Makes sense."
Shizuka (whispering): "Magic's hard. Warping the world for a small effect when I can manipulate water anytime I want… doesn't seem worth it. Plus, as an elf, we prefer to live in harmony with nature. Using magic feels like polluting it."
Hugo (curious): "But there are benefits to becoming a mage, right? I mean, Professor Roderick…"
Shizuka (thoughtful): "Oh, definitely. The versatility is unmatched. While we're limited to one power with its strengths and weaknesses, mages aren't tied down. They can adjust their spells to different enemies—slimes? Fire. Gargoyles? Wind. They have near limitless possibilities… if they have the time to prepare. And I mean days—sometimes months for the more complex spells."
Hugo (surprised): "Oh… no wonder the mage class has the fewest hunters."
Shizuka (nodding): "Exactly."
Scene: The Court's Move
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ACADEMIC BRANCH – PRIVATE LOUNGE – AFTERNOON
The private lounge of the academic branch is a spectacle of elegance and wealth. Ornate tapestries line the walls, and richly upholstered furniture fills the room, casting an air of aristocratic excess. Professor Roderick, one of the academy's most powerful mages, stands near a painting, his eyes narrowing at the grandeur.
Professor Roderick (sighing, muttering): "How wasteful… meaningless decorations."
The door opens, and Angela enters with her usual grace. Her presence is commanding, yet deceptively soft as she greets the professor with a smile.
Angela (pleasantly): "Good afternoon, Professor Roderick."
Professor Roderick (thinking, with mild disdain): "And there she is… a rich brat. Since when do students summon teachers to their private areas like royalty?"
Despite his irritation, he nods curtly.
Professor Roderick (stoically): "Good afternoon, Miss Angela."
Professor Roderick (thinking, wary): "I hate her attitude... but what can I do? Her family practically funds half of my research. Still, why does this brat... no, this young woman... feel so fearsome?"
Angela approaches a richly upholstered chair but doesn't sit. Instead, she gazes at Professor Roderick with an air of polite curiosity, her smile never faltering.
Angela (calmly, almost casually): "I'm sure you've heard the rumors about Eagle Step by now, professor."
Professor Roderick (stoically): "Eagle Step? Those rumors are completely fabricated, Miss Angela. Eagle Step would never involve itself in such corruption."
Angela's smile widens slightly, her expression amused as if they were discussing a trivial matter. Her eyes, however, are sharp, calculating.
Angela (gracefully): "Oh? But the reports, the journalists, even the news itself—they're quite... convincing, wouldn't you say?"
Professor Roderick's eyes narrow, but his voice remains steady.
Professor Roderick (firmly): "Miss Angela, I assure you, St. Alaric Academy would never collaborate with such corruption. Those reports are nothing more than lies."
Angela raises a delicate eyebrow, her smile never wavering as she glides closer to him, her tone dropping just enough to suggest hidden stakes.
Angela (smoothly, but with a touch of steel): "Even if it means we have to cancel the funding for your new research lab?"
Professor Roderick freezes, his eyes widening in shock. His mind races as the weight of her words sinks in.
Professor Roderick (surprised): "What?"
Angela takes a small, perfectly folded contract guideline from her bag and hands it to him with the same polite, unshakable smile. Her voice is soft but cutting, as if delivering a simple truth that cannot be ignored.
Angela (smirking slightly): "Uncle asked me to pass this along to you, Professor. After all, you're supposed to be the head researcher of the new laboratory, aren't you?"
Professor Roderick hesitates, holding the papers but barely glancing at them. His eyes flicker with unease. Angela's words, while polite, hang in the air like a threat.
Angela (continuing, her voice smooth as silk): "It's quite simple. If the academy cannot find common ground with the students, and if Eagle Step fails to resolve this... scandal, then the funding will have to be re-evaluated. We cannot, after all, continue to fund what might ultimately harm us—students of the academic branch, many of whom come from rather... influential families."
Professor Roderick, caught off guard by the sudden shift in tone, swallows hard. He realizes now that this meeting was not merely a polite discussion—it was a power play.
Professor Roderick (hesitant, struggling to maintain composure): "But… Miss Angela, this lab is crucial to the advancement of—"
Angela's smile hardens slightly, her gaze cool.
Angela (interrupting, smoothly): "We understand the importance of your research, professor. But surely, you also understand the importance of maintaining the prestige and safety of St. Alaric Academy."
She steps back slightly, her expression softening once more, though her voice retains its edge.
Angela (with faux sympathy): "No one wants to see this school's reputation tarnished by baseless rumors, do they?"
Professor Roderick clenches his jaw, understanding the gravity of the situation. He knows he's trapped—Angela's family holds the purse strings, and his research depends on them. With a sigh, he lowers his gaze.
Professor Roderick (defeated): "No… no, they don't."
Angela's smile brightens, though the victory in her eyes is unmistakable.
Angela (with a satisfied tone): "Good. I'm glad we're on the same page, professor. I trust you'll do what's necessary to protect the academy… and your research."
She turns to leave, but not before casting one last, knowing glance over her shoulder.
Angela (softly): "I'll be in touch, professor."
As Angela glides out of the room, Professor Roderick remains standing, the weight of the situation pressing down on him. He stares at the contract in his hands, the elegant script spelling out the price of compromise.
EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – OUTSIDE THE LOUNGE – MOMENTS LATER
Angela steps out of the building, the cool afternoon breeze rustling her hair. Just as she walks into the courtyard, slow applause greets her.
Alexei (grinning, clapping): "Bravo, bravo, sis. You turned that old man around like he's some kind of chicken."
Angela lets a satisfied smile cross her face. Her brother's admiration never grows old, but before she can respond, Kimhyun, who stands nearby, frowns, still unsettled.
Kimhyun (seriously): "Are you sure it's going to be okay? I mean… threatening a teacher—especially Professor Roderick…"
Kimhyun can't help but feel uneasy. Threatening a teacher, let alone one as powerful as Roderick, is something he never would've considered. But here, in the academic branch, people like Angela and Lysander do it so easily, as if it's nothing.
Before Angela can answer, Lysander steps in with his usual calm demeanor, a small smile tugging at his lips.
Lysander (smoothly): "Relax, big guy. Professor Roderick is a very intelligent man. Once he realizes cutting off Eagle Step is easier than dealing with unruly students, he'll convince the headmistress."
Lysander's tone is reassuring, but his words carry a cold logic that makes Kimhyun uneasy.
Lysander (continuing): "After that, a little investigation, Eagle Step's corruption will come out, they'll face trial, and everything will go back to normal."
He smiles, though his eyes gleam with a subtle challenge.
Lysander (softly, with a smirk): "Just remember what you promised me."
Kimhyun exhales, still unsure, but he nods.
Kimhyun (reluctantly): "Alright… I'll trust you."
Scene: The Eagle's Move
INT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – PRIVATE OFFICE – LATE NIGHT
The cold, imposing atmosphere of Wilhelm Königsberg's private office remains unchanged, but the tension in the air has thickened. Wilhelm sits behind his desk, his fingers tapping rhythmically against the dark mahogany. His sharp gaze is fixed on a folder sitting on his desk—a dossier containing the latest intel from Arys Balten.
Across from him, Arys lounges casually against the wall, his werechameleon skin shifting slightly in the dim light. The door creaks open again, and Memel Mohrungen, the stout dwarf with a build like a tank, strides into the room, his face set in a deep frown.
Memel (gruffly): "You said you had a solution, master. What is it?"
Wilhelm's lips curl into a slow, dangerous smile as he taps the folder in front of him.
Wilhelm (calm, but with a dark edge): "I did. And it's more than just a solution—it's an opportunity."
He flips the folder open, revealing pages of information and photographs. At the top is a picture of Hugo Gentoshi, his eye shadowed by uncertainty and pain. Beneath it are detailed records, notes on his powers, and a summary of his tragic past.
Wilhelm (slyly): "Hugo Gentoshi. The family outcast."
Arys (teasing, but curious): "Ah, the little cyclop with the tragic backstory. What did you ask me to dig up, boss?"
Wilhelm's fingers trace the edges of the documents as he speaks, his tone almost gleeful.
Wilhelm (thoughtfully): "He killed his parents. Or rather, his out-of-control power did. Black flames… the kind that burn everything in their path. The Gentoshi family covered it up, of course. But it wasn't enough for Lysander."
He leans back, a dangerous glint in his eyes as he lets the gravity of the information sink in.
Wilhelm (darkly smiling): "Lysander, his oh-so-perfect brother, kicked him out of the family. They said it was for his safety, but we know better, don't we?"
Memel crosses his arms, his face hardening as he considers Wilhelm's words.
Memel (gruffly): "So the kid's got uncontrollable power and family issues. How does that help us?"
Arys grins, his chameleon-like features shifting slightly as he moves away from the wall.
Arys (mocking, playful): "Oh, Memel, don't you see? The boy's vulnerable. He's desperate. A perfect pawn, wouldn't you say?"
Wilhelm's smile widens as he watches the pieces fall into place.
Wilhelm (smoothly): "Precisely. Hugo's been cast out, but that power of his… it's formidable. He's unstable, emotionally compromised. And right now, he's aligned with the very family that rejected him."
Wilhelm leans forward, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous whisper.
Wilhelm (coldly): "What do you think will happen when we push him?"
Memel's eyes narrow as he begins to understand the scope of Wilhelm's plan.
Memel (gruffly, intrigued): "You think we can turn him?"
Wilhelm chuckles darkly, his fingers still tapping against the desk.
Wilhelm (smiling darkly): "This is where we make our move. Let the Gentoshi family crumble from the inside."