Scene: The Bloody Gold
INT. GENTOSHI FAMILY MAIN MANSION – BALLROOM – JABBERWOCK ISLAND – DAY
The ballroom glistens under golden chandeliers, their light reflecting off the marble floors. The air buzzes with laughter and conversation, while an orchestra plays softly in the background. As tradition demands, the Gentoshi family's annual gathering brings together all of their 1000-strong bloodline with the exception of bastards and demons.
Servants dressed in sleek, black-and-gold uniforms glide effortlessly between the clusters of guests, carrying trays of fine wine and delicate hors d'oeuvres. The servants, trained to perfection, move with precision, offering the Gentoshi family the finest red vintages from their personal vineyards. Each wineglass sparkles like a jewel in the dim, opulent lighting, capturing the aura of extravagance.
A cluster of family members stood near the towering windows, watching the ocean waves in the distance. Two cousins were discussing the family's latest achievements—one, a geneticist, spoke passionately about a new breakthrough in human augmentation, while the other, an archaeologist, mused on the ancient evolution of the Gentoshi bloodline. Elsewhere, a group of younger members laughed together, their eyes glinting with curiosity as they observed the older generation.
At the center of the room stood the magnificent golden chair—empty, waiting for the one who commanded it.
Angela was sipping a glass of red wine when Gennifer, her cousin with sharp eyes and a reputation for always prying into family affairs, approached her.
Gennifer smiled slyly, leaning in. "You know, Angela, your big brother, Lysander's sudden appearance at the Eagle Step mess… doesn't it seem a bit odd?"
Angela held her glass delicately, taking a slow sip, her expression unreadable. "Lysander always knows when to show up, Gennifer. He's strategic."
Gennifer's eyes gleamed with suspicion, clearly not satisfied with the vague answer. "Strategic? Isn't he practically winning by just waiting? Why does he need to—"
Before Gennifer could press further, a commanding voice echoed across the room, silencing all other conversations. Eden Eulyphis Gentoshi had arrived, his presence demanding full attention. The murmurs faded as everyone turned to him, the conversation between Angela and Gennifer abruptly cut off.
Eden Eulyphis Gentoshi, the patriarch of the family, entered the hall. His bald head and long, flowing white beard gave him a formidable presence, though it was his eyes—glowing emerald green, just like every Gentoshi—that drew the room's attention. His dark attire was simple yet dignified, his every step exuding a commanding authority that made the room fall silent. He was the embodiment of their Darwinistic beliefs, the symbol of their bloodline's strength.
As he reached the center, every member of the family, no matter their station or age, offered their respects, some bowing their heads while others simply stood at attention. No words were spoken, but the reverence was palpable.
Eden sat in his golden chair, his posture regal, and with a nod, he addressed the room.
"Sit," his voice echoed with a deep, resonant authority.
In perfect synchronicity, every member of the Gentoshi family took their seats, the vast hall now still, awaiting the words of their leader.
The room grew colder with Eden's words, the once lively atmosphere replaced by a tension that hung thick in the air. His voice, though calm, carried an undercurrent of frustration.
Eden "Today, I have heard some sad news about our clan..." Eden's emerald eyes swept over the gathering. "It appears that my great-grandchild Lington Sophia-Ri and his wife died at the hands of a little demon... Isn't that right, Andrea?"
Silence followed, until Lysander, seated a few rows back, rose to his feet. His posture was respectful, but there was a slight tremor in the air, the weight of familial responsibility evident in his voice.
Lysander "I am sorry, o' great great grandfather," Lysander began, bowing his head, "but my brother Andrea has encountered certain... difficulties and cannot attend our annual meeting this year. I, Lysander, will represent him and my family in his absence."
Eden's brow furrowed, a flicker of annoyance crossing his weathered face. His voice grew colder, more pointed. "Tch, as an heir, he sure has his own idea of what responsibilities entail by not attending this! Report on the situation."
Lysander, maintaining his composure, nodded before continuing. "I am sure he sends his deepest apologies for missing this meeting. Regarding your question, yes... sadly, my parents have passed away due to a surge of power from the demon."
Eden's eyes flashed dangerously as he clenched his hand on the armrest. "Tch... and I warned him about playing with fire. What of the demon?"
Lysander's voice grew steadier, as if prepared for this moment. "The demon has already been cast away, my lord. My brother Andrea, ever the perceptive and intelligent man, foresaw the danger the demon posed and exiled him from the family to prevent further harm."
Eden's expression softened, satisfaction replacing his earlier frustration. "Good... very good."
With the air slightly eased, Lysander turned to address the entire assembly, his voice strong and clear. "O' my dear clan, on behalf of my family, we deeply regret the inconvenience caused by the sudden demise of my parents. We acknowledge that this unfortunate event marks a setback in our continuous journey of evolution. But fear not, for my brother Andrea has prepared a gift in atonement for this tragedy."
At Lysander's signal, a servant entered, dragging behind them a figure bound and struggling. The murmurs in the room grew louder as everyone recognized Allenstein Domnau, once a member of the disbanded Eagle Step. Her body was bound tightly, her arms removed, her mouth sealed shut, but her eyes wide with desperation.
Lysander stepped forward, his gaze steely as he addressed the gathering. "Cousin Yue and my brother Andrea have been discussing the next great leap in our journey as a species. They have come to the conclusion that it is time we look deeper, beyond superpowers—into the very molecular level of human existence."
His hand gestured toward Allenstein, whose silent struggles only added to the tension in the room.
Lysander "Behold, this woman's power holds the potential to cut through genes at will. If we harness her abilities, we could create artificial superpowers... and perhaps even unlock immortality itself."
A ripple of excitement passed through the crowd as they exchanged glances, their eyes lighting up with the possibilities.
Eden's laugh broke through the murmurs, deep and satisfied. "Hahahaha... good... good... very good!" His emerald eyes gleamed with approval.
The room erupted into applause, the sound echoing against the high ceilings. None paid attention to Allenstein, whose desperate struggles went unnoticed. Her body, bound and broken, was nothing more than a tool for the Gentoshi family's ambition—a stepping stone on their long and twisted path.
Scene: Justice & Hatred
INT. GENTOSHI FAMILY MAIN MANSION – LYSANDER'S PRIVATE LOUNGE – JABBERWOCK ISLAND – DAY
After hours of discussing the potential of Allenstein's ability for genetic modification and engaging in tiresome conversations with relatives, Lysander lies on his bed, exhausted. The soft glow of the setting sun filters through the curtains, casting the room in a warm hue. Suddenly, the door creaks open.
Lysander (sighing, tired): "Can you knock before coming in, Alexei? I've had my fill of pointless talks and too much wine."
Alexei (entering quietly, voice low): "I've just got one question first, big bro."
Lysander (rubbing his temple, exasperated): "Ask away, if you must."
Alexei (straight to the point): "Why did you rescue Hugo? You're his biggest hater."
Lysander groans softly but sits up, shifting to the edge of the bed.
Lysander (with a hint of amusement): "You think so?"
Alexei (leaning against the wall, arms crossed): "I know so. You've rewritten time dozens of times, and no matter what, you've never forgiven him."
Lysander straightens his posture, his usual calm demeanor slipping back into place, though Alexei's directness stirs something beneath the surface.
Lysander (calm, thoughtful): "Normally, I'd just say Ludociel dragged me into it, but—"
Alexei (cutting in, smirking): "Please. If you really wanted out, you would've had Yue handle things, or you'd have done a quiet retreat without her even noticing."
Lysander's faint smile grows more apparent, but it's one laced with something deeper. He stands up, crossing the room to his desk, where a glass of leftover wine sits. He swirls it thoughtfully.
Lysander (with a hint of intrigue): "Would you be satisfied if I told you my real motivation was... justice?"
Alexei (raising an eyebrow): "Justice?"
Lysander (smirking, half-amused at his own words): "That's what I said."
Alexei's eyes narrow, unsure whether to take him seriously or not.
Alexei (skeptical): "Come on, bro. You don't believe in that."
Lysander takes a sip of the water, the faint smile never leaving his face.
Lysander (reflective): "Before Andrea left for Hugo, he told me that my decision to exile Hugo wasn't about justice. He said it was for our gain, not for any moral high ground."
Lysander sets the glass down and turns back to face Alexei, his voice now a touch more serious.
Lysander (calm, continuing): "Then Kimhyun Narukami came to me, privately. He asked for my help—for the sake of what he called justice."
Alexei (curious, frowning slightly): "And that convinced you?"
Lysander shrugs nonchalantly, but his eyes glint with a kind of curiosity that goes beyond mere self-interest.
Lysander (musing): "What is justice, anyway? Why are people willing to abandon their advantages, their comfort, for it?"
His gaze drifts around the room before finally settling on Alexei, his voice growing more introspective.
Lysander (softly, almost to himself): "I want to understand it. Why do people sacrifice so much for something so ambiguous... and seemingly unbeneficial. I got curious. Very curious."
Scene: The Gold that Bleeds
INT. GENTOSHI FAMILY MAIN MANSION – DINING ROOM– JABBERWOCK ISLAND – NIGHT
The vast dining room, large enough to seat the 1000-strong Gentoshi clan, is a testament to the family's wealth and influence. Dinner serves not just as a meal, but as a stage for discussions about ambition, strategy, and power. Chandeliers cast a golden glow over the long tables, where family members converse about their latest goals and ventures.
Lysander, Angela, and Alexei sit together with their cousin Yue and his family. Seated next to them is Liam Sophia-Ri Gentoshi, Yue's father, and a key figure in the Gentoshi business empire.
Liam (grinning, a hint of pride): "I'm surprised you played such a pivotal role in Eagle Step's downfall, Lysander. You've done an excellent job. The phones haven't stopped ringing today—wealthy customers are already asking how they can get their hands on a weapon like your Azure."
Lysander (modesty): "I'm flattered to contribute, especially since I hold no official position in the company."
Liam (chuckling): "Aww… my little nephew has grown. Do you want to be a manager? I can reserve a seat."
Lysander (shaking his head politely): "No, thank you, Uncle Liam. I'd rather reserve a seat for Andrea instead."
At the mention of Andrea, the mood at the table shifts slightly. Liam's smile fades, his eyes darkening as he sets down his wine glass with a soft clink.
Liam (quiet but firm): "With respect, nephew, Andrea left this family of his own accord. In other words, he's chosen to become a bastard. I don't understand why you continue to shield him, but this... can't go on forever."
The tension builds as Lysander maintains his calm facade, but Angela steps in to soften the conversation, her tone gentle and persuasive.
Angela (interjecting, pleading): "Please, Uncle. Big brother Andrea is just trying to cope with the tragedy. Once he's done mourning, he'll return. We're all grieving... please don't blame him. We need to give him time."
Liam pauses, his expression softening slightly as Angela's words sink in. His fingers tap lightly on the edge of the table, his mind clearly working through the family's predicament.
Liam (sighing, relenting): "Haizz… perhaps you're right, Angela. But remember, there are limits to how long we can wait. This family can't afford to hold a seat for someone who's not even present."
The conversation lingers in the air as the room around them continues to hum with life, each family member plotting their own ambitions. Lysander's gaze remains steady, though the shadow of Andrea's absence looms large over their future.
Yue: (observing carefully, finally speaking) "Still, it makes one wonder. Is Andrea mourning the loss of our parents... or is he mourning something deeper, something tied to the demon's exile?" (his tone is calm, yet there's an undercurrent of curiosity)
Alexei: (low voice, edged with frustration) "Cousin… It is not nice to question our brother's grief."
Yue: (nodding slightly, unfazed) "Hey, I get it. But it's normal to wonder, you know? I just don't want another tragedy like your parents' deaths to happen again."
Alexei: (more sharply, his voice stiffening) "I appreciate your concern but my big brother will come back. I know it."
Yue: (with a calm smile, raising his glass slightly) "Well… If that's what you believe." (his tone is light, but his eyes still search for something deeper in Alexei's conviction)
Scene: Struggle of Guilt
EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH TRAINING GROUNDS – DAY
Hugo stood in the middle of the academy's open-air training grounds, the familiar landscape offering little comfort. Shizuka and Fenix flanked him, watching as he attempted to channel his flames into the weapon in his hand. His movements were stiff, his flames flickering erratically.
Hugo (gritting his teeth): "Come on... Focus, damn it..."
His black flames sputtered, failing to fully enchant the blade. He clenched his fists in frustration, the memory of Wilhelm's manipulation and the torturous experiences at Eagle Step still fresh in his mind.
Shizuka stepped forward, her face soft with concern.
Shizuka (gently): "Hugo, you're pushing yourself too hard. You don't need to rely on people like Wilhelm anymore. That path... it's not for you."
Fenix nodded beside her, his usual grin fading into a more serious expression.
Fenix (nodding, voice steady): "She's right, Cyclop. You don't have to take shortcuts. Wilhelm's way—it's twisted. And dangerous."
Hugo lowered his weapon, staring at the flames in his hands. The guilt that had been building inside him since the Eagle Step incident flared up again, threatening to consume him. His mind flashed back to the chaos of the battle, the constant danger he'd put his friends in.
Hugo (quietly, voice cracking): "I... I almost got you two killed. I wasn't strong enough to protect you... or anyone."
His voice wavered as memories of the fight flooded his mind—the moments when his power had spiraled out of control, when his flames had nearly hurt the people he cared about. The weight of that guilt bore down on him, suffocating.
FLASHBACK
The training grounds of Eagle Step had been a battlefield, chaotic and unforgiving. Ludociel, radiant and untouchable, hovered above the scene, her Sanctuary shimmering around her like a divine fortress. Every blast of light she unleashed seemed to cut through the battlefield, protecting her allies while her enemies fell back in awe. Her presence alone was enough to turn the tide.
Across the field, Kimhyun moved with terrifying precision. His strikes were swift, his golden lightning flashing in the darkness as he took on multiple hunters at once. His movements were calculated, each blow a lethal strike that forced his opponents into retreat.
And then there was Lysander—the brother who hated him, the one who had cast him out. But in the battle, Hugo saw something more. Lysander hadn't even needed superpowers to control the battlefield. With sheer intelligence and the use of his Azure wand, he manipulated the fight, directing the flow of battle and outsmarting every opponent who came his way.
Hugo (thinking, overwhelmed): "They don't rely on guild training... they don't rely on shortcuts... they're just powerful."
The sheer gap between him and them felt insurmountable. No shortcuts, no guild could bridge that divide. They were on a different level—Hugo couldn't shake that thought.
END FLASHBACK
Hugo's brow furrowed as the memory faded, leaving him feeling even smaller. Compared to them—Ludociel, Kimhyun, Lysander—he was nothing.
Hugo (hesitant, barely audible): "But... What if I can't catch up? What if... I'm just not strong enough?"
Shizuka stepped closer, her voice firm but gentle.
Shizuka (softly, with conviction): "Hugo, you are strong enough. You've just forgotten it. We'll remind you."
Fenix clapped Hugo on the back, his grin returning as he tried to lighten the mood.
Fenix (teasing): "And besides, you've got me. If I can break out of that geezer's torture chamber and still look this good, you can definitely figure out your flames."
Hugo managed a small smile, though the weight of his self-doubt still hung over him. He didn't want to rely on shortcuts anymore. He wanted to stand on his own, just like the royals had.
Hugo (more determined, though still uncertain): "Alright... I'll try. No more shortcuts."
Shizuka and Fenix exchanged approving glances. They could see that Hugo was struggling, but they knew he was capable of more than he realized.
Fenix (grinning): "Hey, how about we go talk to her majesty, Ludociel? She doesn't rely on those bloody guilds, and she's strong—stronger than most of the hunters out there. And she came to rescue us, didn't she?"
Shizuka raised an eyebrow, though she couldn't deny the logic in Fenix's suggestion.
Shizuka (surprise): "Huh? But isn't she a member of the Knights of Orleans guild?"
Hugo paused, his brow furrowing at Shizuka's comment.
Hugo (puzzled): "Wait… she's with the Knights of Orleans? So, she is part of a guild..."
Fenix (shrugging): "Technically, yeah. But her majesty isn't like Wilhelm or the others. She doesn't need to rely on her guild to be strong. From what I've heard, she's in it to protect people, not to build up some empire or whatever."
Shizuka nodded thoughtfully, her gaze distant.
Shizuka (thinking aloud): "The Knights of Orleans are different from most hunter guilds. They're known for their loyalty to the people, not for exploiting power. Ludociel embodies that. She stands for something beyond personal gain."
Shizuka stops for a moment, her face saddened.
Shizuka (quietly): "It's a shame though... they only accept warriors in their ranks. Rogue builds like mine aren't accepted there."
Hugo looked at the flames flickering in his hand, the guilt and doubt gnawing at him. The memory of his chaotic fight at Eagle Step still fresh, he couldn't help but feel like he had failed—not just as a fighter, but as a friend.
Hugo (whispering): "I just… I don't want to hurt anyone again."
Fenix's expression softened, his teasing demeanor giving way to genuine concern.
Fenix (softly): "You didn't hurt us, Hugo. If anything, you're the reason we made it out of that mess. You stood your ground, even when Wilhelm had you cornered."
Shizuka (gently): "We all got through it together. You didn't fail anyone."
Hugo (gritting his teeth, frustrated): "But it wasn't enough! I wasn't in control. I couldn't even protect you or myself. If Ludociel hadn't shown up when she did..."
Fenix (cutting in, with a grin): "If her majesty hadn't shown up, we still would've made it. And you know why? Because we don't give up. And neither do you."
He gave Hugo a playful nudge, though his voice remained serious.
Fenix (confident): "So let's go see her. The queen's also someone who knows what it takes to fight without losing yourself. She's proof that you don't need to rely on some guild like Eagle Step to be strong."
Shizuka (smiling slightly): "Fenix has a point. She didn't become the Maiden of Orleans because of her guild. It's because of who she is."
Hugo hesitated, staring at the flames in his hands again. Could talking to Ludociel really help him? He had seen her fight, seen her power up close. She was everything he wasn't—focused, controlled, confident. Maybe, just maybe, she could show him a way forward that didn't involve falling into the traps of guild politics or relying on manipulation like Wilhelm's.
Hugo (slowly, more determined): "Alright. Let's go talk to her."
Fenix (grinning widely): "That's the spirit, Cyclop. Let's see what the Maiden of Orleans can teach us."
With a newfound sense of purpose, Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix turned and made their way off the training grounds, heading toward their next challenge: a meeting with Ludociel, the queen who had saved them and might just have the key to unlocking Hugo's true potential.
Scene: St. Alaric Student Council
EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – STUDENT COUNCIL OFFICE – AFTERNOON
The student council room was bathed in warm sunlight, the soft hum of conversation and the shuffling of papers adding a sense of calm to the atmosphere. The room was spacious and modern, with large windows overlooking the academy grounds. In the center, a long, polished table sat, around which several students were already gathered.
The student council room at St. Alaric Academy is a lively, eclectic place. The large, round table in the center is cluttered with papers, snacks, and random trinkets. Light pours in from the tall windows, casting a warm glow over the room. As Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix enter, they immediately see a surprising sight.
Elena Togami, the council's energetic secretary, dramatically tumbles to the floor in front of Sōshun Murasame, her arms outstretched as if reaching for his help. She gazes up with wide, exaggerated puppy eyes.
Elena (dramatic, high-pitched tone): "Senpai! I've fallen and I can't get up!"
Sōshun, seated at the head of the table, looks utterly drained, surrounded by towering piles of paperwork. His normally composed face shows signs of weariness, but he still manages a strained smile as he watches Elena's antics.
Sōshun (sighing but maintaining a polite smile): "Elena… I really wish you wouldn't fall during council meetings…"
Despite his exhaustion, there's no bite in his words. His voice remains gentle, and though he looks worn out, he's too kind-hearted to criticize her directly. Oliver, the short first-year with round glasses, peers out from behind a stack of reports. He looks equally overwhelmed by the chaos, but keeps quiet, adjusting his glasses as he glances nervously at the scene.
Oliver (softly, whispering to himself): "I can't believe this is my life now..."
At the entrance, Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix exchange bewildered glances.
Shizuka (whispering to Fenix): "Are you sure this is the student council? It looks more like a circus..."
Fenix (excited): "I can never imagine what the castle of our school will be like… but I like it!!"
Before anyone can react, Ludociel, the elegant representative of the superpower branch, strides over confidently. Her radiant wings are tucked behind her, giving her an almost divine presence.
Ludociel (smiling softly): "Don't mind Elena. She likes to keep things... lively."
Oliver (softly): "She thinks acting cute will get her out of work."
Elena, already back on her feet, beams at Sōshun, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
Elena (cheerful, teasing): "And it works, doesn't it, senpai?"
Sōshun, ever the good-natured leader, chuckles softly, despite the clear toll the paperwork is taking on him.
Sōshun (still smiling, tired but amused): "Sure... sure, Elena."
The room hums with a playful energy, yet there's an unspoken sense of teamwork beneath the antics.
Ludociel (nodding, chuckling): "It might look chaotic, but we get things done. Everyone here has their own way of contributing."
At this, Oliver cautiously steps out from behind the stack of papers, offering a small, shy smile to the group.
Oliver (nervously, but friendly): "Um, welcome. Sorry about the mess. I've been trying to organize everything..."
Elena (teasing, ruffling Oliver's hair): "Oliver's our little genius. He's the one who actually gets things done around here."
Oliver blushes deeply, pushing his glasses up again.
Oliver (stammering): "It's... it's not that much, really..."
Sōshun (laughing softly): "Don't be modest, Oliver. You're a lifesaver."
Hugo, taking in the scene, begins to relax, the student council's quirky dynamic easing his usual tension. This wasn't the rigid council he had expected.
Hugo (thoughtful, to himself): "This... isn't so bad."
Shizuka (whispering to Hugo, excited): "I thought it'd be all strict meetings and grand speeches... but I like this. Feels more like a bunch of old friends."
Just as things settle down, Sōshun suddenly springs to life, panic in his eyes.
Sōshun (alarmed, searching through papers): "Oh no! The volunteer event at the orphanage! I forgot we have to be there today!"
His usual calm shatters as he frantically searches through a pile of paperwork, clearly flustered. Elena giggles from the sidelines, amused by her usually composed senpai's rare moment of disarray.
Elena (playfully teasing): "Senpai, you're slipping. Don't worry, I'll save the day with my cuteness!"
Sōshun (grinning through his panic): "Ahaha... thanks, Elena. But I don't think the orphanage is in need of cuteness right now..."
Ludociel, always the practical one, steps forward to take charge.
Ludociel (calm but firm, smiling softly): "We should head out soon. It's important work."
At this, Shizuka, impressed by the council's commitment, steps forward.
Shizuka (respectful, but curious): "Would it be alright if we joined you?"
Scene: Kind Heart In the High Place
EXT. ORPHANAGE – AFTERNOON
The orphanage stood on the outskirts of town, a modest building surrounded by a small garden. The children's laughter echoed in the courtyard as the student council approached. The warm afternoon sun bathed everything in a soft, golden hue.
INT. ORPHANAGE KITCHEN – LATER
The kitchen was bustling with activity as the student council, joined by Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix, got to work preparing a large pot of soup for the orphans. The scent of fresh vegetables and herbs filled the air, adding warmth to the cozy room.
Sōshun stood near the stove, carefully stirring the broth with a focused expression. Elena playfully sliced carrots at a nearby counter, humming a cheerful tune while Oliver meticulously measured spices with precision. Ludociel floated from station to station, offering guidance and lending a helping hand where needed. Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix found themselves cutting vegetables under Ludociel's supervision.
Hugo, who hadn't expected to be cooking at all, found himself oddly at ease, the simplicity of chopping vegetables providing a welcome distraction from his usual worries.
Fenix (grinning): "I didn't expect to be chopping vegetables today. Who knew cooking could be part of the castle's duties?"
Shizuka (chuckling): "It's a nice break from training. Plus, the kids will love it."
Hugo (quietly): "Yeah… it's different."
As they worked, the kitchen filled with the sound of light chatter and clanging pots. Madame Briar, the kind, elderly head of the orphanage, entered the kitchen, her eyes lighting up at the sight of the students hard at work.
Madame Briar (smiling warmly): "Ah, Sōshun, once again, your team has outdone themselves. As expected of the students from the prestigious St. Alaric Academy—not only intelligent but so kind-hearted as well."
Sōshun turned to her with a humble smile, wiping his hands on a kitchen towel.
Sōshun (modest, but warm): "Thank you, Mrs. Briar. We're just happy to help."
Madame Briar (beaming, looking around): "The children look forward to your visits so much. You always bring a sense of hope and joy to this place. It means more than you know."
Ludociel floated beside Sōshun, her presence calm and reassuring.
Ludociel (smiling): "We're just glad we can make a small difference. The children deserve all the happiness they can get."
As the soup simmered, the group began setting up tables in the dining hall. Bowls were laid out, and bread was sliced for the meal. Elena, ever the energetic one, bounced around the room, chatting with the children who had started to gather.
INT. ORPHANAGE DINING HALL – LATER
The dining hall was lively, filled with the cheerful noise of children talking and laughing as they sat at long wooden tables. The aroma of freshly made soup wafted through the air, making the atmosphere feel even cozier.
Sōshun, with a ladle in hand, carefully poured soup into bowls, handing them to the eager children. Hugo stood nearby, watching the interaction. His usual pessimistic demeanor softened as he observed how genuinely the children smiled and how patiently Sōshun and the others worked.
Hugo (thinking to himself, surprised): "This isn't what I expected at all. They are completely different from my siblings from the academic branch. They actually care about helping people."
Across the room, Fenix was surrounded by a group of younger orphans, pretending to be a vampire, hissing playfully while the children giggled and squealed. Shizuka helped a small girl, carefully blowing on her soup to cool it before handing her the spoon.
Fenix (grinning, pretending to hiss): "Beware! The vampire of St. Alaric Academy has come for your soup!"
The children erupted into laughter, and Fenix winked at Hugo, clearly enjoying himself. Hugo couldn't help but smile at the sight.
Hugo (thinking): "Maybe not everyone is as distant as I thought. They're just… people. Trying to help where they can."
As the children ate, the room was filled with warm conversation. Sōshun moved from table to table, checking on the kids, ensuring everyone had enough to eat. He knelt beside a young boy who had been quiet, offering him a gentle smile.
Sōshun (softly): "How's the soup? Good?"
The boy nodded, his small hands clutching the spoon tightly. Sōshun ruffled the boy's hair before moving on.
Hugo quietly took in the scene, realizing how much this work meant to the council members—and to the children. For the first time in a long while, he felt a flicker of something like admiration.
He glanced around, watching how the student council members interacted with the orphans. There was no sense of superiority, no feeling of obligation. They were simply helping, because they could, and because they cared.
Scene: A Moment of Reflection
EXT. ORPHANAGE – EVENING
As the evening sun dipped below the horizon, casting an orange glow across the orphanage, Hugo stepped outside. The warm breeze carried the sounds of laughter and conversation from the dining hall, where the orphans and student council members enjoyed their meal. Hugo stood at a distance, his single green eye lingering on the building. For the first time, he felt the quiet warmth of fulfillment, realizing that even the smallest acts of kindness could bring genuine happiness to others.
His heart swelled with something unfamiliar, a sense of accomplishment. He had helped—truly helped—and the joy it brought to the children left a soft, lasting mark on him.
As he stood there, lost in thought, a gentle presence approached. Ludociel, with her radiant white wings shimmering in the twilight, stepped into the fading light. Her serene aura seemed to glow against the dusky sky.
Ludociel (smiling, lighthearted): "That's not good, junior. If you want to be a hunter, you need to eat more. Can't protect others on an empty stomach."
Hugo glanced at her, admiration flickering in his eye. He remembered how Fenix referred to her—The Queen. The title suddenly seemed fitting.
Hugo (admired, in awe): "Her majesty… this…"
Ludociel (intervening with a gentle chuckle): "Please, don't call me that. I don't even know who came up with that whole royal caste nonsense. Just call me Ludociel, like everyone else does."
Her tone was light, but there was a depth to her words that made Hugo pause.
Hugo (slightly flustered, yet still admiring): "Oh… right. Sure, senior Ludociel… but, how can you be so charitable and so powerful at the same time?"
Ludociel smiled, her expression calm yet unwavering, as if she had been asked this question many times before.
Ludociel (thoughtful, with a soft smile): "I don't know… hard work, I suppose."
Hugo (awed, with a quiet sigh): "Hahh..."
She turned to glance back at the orphanage, her wings rustling softly in the evening breeze. Her expression shifted slightly—still soft, but with a deeper sense of purpose.
Ludociel (confident, looking at the orphanage): "When I look at them—the people I've helped and protected—it just feels right. It's not just about strength. As a person, I feel fulfilled when I can make a difference for those around me."
Her words struck Hugo with a new kind of admiration, one that went beyond just her power. His single eye widened as he remembered how she had come to his rescue, without hesitation.
Hugo (surprised, realization dawning): "So… that's why you saved me."
Ludociel nodded slightly, her smile bright and unwavering.
Ludociel (encouraging): "You've been holding something back, haven't you? If you've got something to ask, go ahead."
Hugo hesitated for a moment, guilt weighing on his shoulders. His gaze dropped, his voice filled with remorse.
Hugo (saddened, guilty): "You probably already know… I was tricked by Eagle Step. I put my friends in danger. None of this would've happened if it wasn't for me…"
Ludociel (bluntly, without hesitation): "You're right."
The abruptness of her response caught Hugo off guard. His eyes widened in surprise as he looked at her, uncertain how to respond. But before the guilt could sink further, Ludociel softened her expression.
Ludociel (commanding, yet warm): "If it weren't for your foolishness, you wouldn't have dragged your friends into such danger…"
She paused, letting the weight of her words hang in the air for a moment before continuing, her tone softening further.
Ludociel (gentle, yet firm): "But that's why you need to keep improving yourself. Only by bettering yourself can you protect those you care about. Just like me—I've only been able to help others because I've worked hard to become stronger, not just physically, but in every way that matters."
Hugo gasped quietly, her words hitting him deeper than he expected. There was no malice in her voice, only a hard-earned wisdom that she shared with him openly.
Ludociel (calm, confident): "I've heard about you, Hugo. Your power is S-ranked, like mine. But I know it's harder for you to control because of what you've been through. Trauma doesn't just disappear, but I can help you train."
Her offer caught Hugo off guard. Shock slowly turned into admiration as he realized that despite her strength, she was willing to help someone like him, who still struggled with his own power.
Hugo (admired, humbled): "I… I don't know what to say. I'm thankful, Ludociel… truly."
Ludociel smiled again, her wings softly glistening in the evening light as the orphanage behind them buzzed with life and warmth. At that moment, Hugo knew that this was more than just an offer of training—it was a path forward. A way to redeem himself, to become stronger not just for himself, but for those he cared about.