Chereads / Museum of Life / Chapter 15 - Life Gallery 15 - Tension of the Branches

Chapter 15 - Life Gallery 15 - Tension of the Branches

Scene: Forbidden Magic Report

INT. PENTAGON – MEETING ROOM – DAY

The meeting room is dimly lit, with long shadows cast by the overhead lights. Around the polished table sit the most powerful figures in the United Emirates—leaders of the Hunter Guilds and top researchers, all gathered to address a growing threat. At the head of the table, Abraham Lincoln, president of the United Emirates, sits with his hands folded, a calm yet serious expression on his face.

Abraham Lincoln (calmly): "This is the fourth time we've convened on this issue, but we must discuss the latest findings regarding the forbidden magic... specifically, the involvement of Arys Balten, a member of Eagle Step."

Lincoln's steady voice fills the room, setting a somber tone. A few members shift in their seats, feeling the weight of the moment. The president's eyes flick to John Carter, the blonde, blue-eyed superhero, who is known for his unshakeable confidence and his position as the leader of OverEdge.

John Carter (firmly): "So, has the investigation concluded?"

He speaks with the authority of a man accustomed to leadership, his voice cutting through the silence. Professor Roderick, a scholarly man with silver-rimmed glasses, adjusts his papers and clears his throat before responding.

Professor Roderick (calmly): "That's correct, Mr. Carter. It appears Eagle Step attempted to use the forbidden ritual... a time-rewriting spell, based on my earlier research. My best hypothesis is that the ritual backfired, and Arys Balten paid the ultimate price."

The room goes quiet for a moment, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Hendrickson Vanderbilt, the Guild Master of the Knights of Orleans, his white hair gleaming under the lights, speaks in a reserved but authoritative tone.

Hendrickson (calm, questioning): "Using forbidden rituals to reverse time... How, exactly, did they even get hold of your research in the first place, Professor?"

His question hangs in the air, and all eyes turn toward Roderick. The professor adjusts his glasses, a look of quiet frustration on his face.

Professor Roderick (somber): "I cannot answer that, I'm afraid. If time was rewritten, we may never know how they came into possession of it. All traces before the event would have been erased... including the memories of those involved."

A slight murmur runs through the room, but it is silenced when Ninfea, the matriarch of the elves, speaks. She is a striking figure, with her long blond hair and ethereal presence, representing the guardians of the Amazon rainforest.

Ninfea (softly, yet deliberate): "I've examined the memories of Wilhelm, Eagle Step's guild master. He, too, knows nothing. All he suspects is that the GGG corporation may be behind the incident, though there's no evidence."

The mention of the Gentoshi family, the infamous rulers of the GGG Corporation, raises a few eyebrows. Lunared, a towering werewolf with platinum fur, his golden eyes glowing, steps out of the shadows. His deep voice rumbles through the room.

Lunared (growling, intrigued): "The Gentoshi family? Are they involved in this mess?"

Ninfea shakes her head lightly, her long ears twitching.

Ninfea (thoughtfully): "There's no clear proof, but two of their members—Lysander and Hugo—are entangled in the affair. Hugo was tortured by Wilhelm. If the Gentoshi were truly involved, they'd leave no trace... as always."

Lunared (snarling): "Those mad scientists... always playing with fire."

Before the tension can build further, a gravelly voice interrupts. Balor, the world-renowned dwarf blacksmith, sits quietly in the corner, stroking his long beard. His voice is like the grinding of stone.

Balor (roughly): "Don't jump to conclusions, Lunared. We have no idea how many layers of schemes are involved here. Arys Balten's death may just be the beginning."

The room falls silent as President Lincoln leans forward, his calm demeanor never wavering.

Abraham Lincoln (calmly): "The situation is more complex than it seems. Without evidence, we can't accuse anyone—neither GGG nor any other group. As for the forbidden ritual... it's possible Eagle Step once possessed the spell, but after the failed time-rewriting attempt, even Wilhelm lost his memory of how they obtained it. Arys Balten is the only key to this mystery, and sadly, he's gone."

A tense silence follows his words, but Lunared growls lowly, his massive form bristling.

Lunared (with a roar): "Hmph! A weak pawn dies because of his own stupidity, and we mourn him? What's to be sad about?"

Before Lunared can continue, John Carter speaks up, his heroic nature shining through.

John Carter (firmly, calm): "Please, Mr. Lunared. Whether he was a criminal or not, Arys Balten was still a human being. Let's not forget our own humanity."

Lunared huffs but didn't reply. The tension between them lingers, but the conversation shifts back to the matter at hand. Hendrickson speaks again, his voice measured.

Hendrickson (thoughtful): "So, what's our next step? If time has been rewritten, and Arys is dead... how do we proceed without more information?"

Professor Roderick adjusts his notes, looking gravely at the table.

Professor Roderick (calmly): "We must begin by securing all remaining research related to forbidden magic. We can't afford another incident like this."

The room hums with quiet murmurs, each leader considering their role in the coming conflict. The use of forbidden magic has set dangerous events into motion, and everyone present knows that this is only the beginning.

Scene: Academic PE Incident

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ACADEMIC BRANCH PE HALL – DAY

The state-of-the-art PE hall is filled with top-tier equipment—donations from wealthy families to ensure the best for their children. The room is buzzing with activity as students from the academic branch engage in their physical training. The atmosphere, however, is disrupted when two figures from the superpower branch make an unexpected entrance.

Kenjiro (smirking): "Oh? You rich kids sure have a lot of toys."

Ryuto (scowling): "Tch. And we've got nothing decent in our PE hall."

Kenjiro Matsuda and Ryuto Yamada, both from the superpower branch, stand at the entrance. Their presence is unusual, as it's rare for students from the superpower branch to cross into the academic side. They glance around the pristine facility with a mixture of disdain and envy.

Alexei (whispering to Floria, irritated): "The superpower branch? What are they doing here?"

Floria (softly, glancing at the pair): "Those two… we saw them in the arena, remember? The fire guy and the speedster."

Alexei (smirking): "Right. A couple of weaklings."

The PE teacher, Mr. Sato, notices the disruption and steps forward.

Mr. Sato (sternly): "You two are from the superpower branch. This is the academic branch's training session—please leave and don't interfere."

Kenjiro (grinning, ignoring the teacher): "Hey, old man, no need to be stingy. We're just checking out the fancy equipment. It's not like you guys even use it."

Ryuto (mocking): "Yeah, all this expensive gear... wasted on a bunch of soft rich kids."

Alexei, his expression growing more irritated, steps forward. His presence commands the attention of everyone in the room.

Alexei (coolly, but with a dangerous edge): "Is it because we don't use it, or is it because you apes keep breaking everything you touch?"

The comment stings, and both Kenjiro and Ryuto bristle with anger.

Ryuto (seething): "What did you just say?"

Alexei (smiling smugly): "Oh, I'm sorry, did I hurt your feelings?"

As Ryuto steps forward, fists clenched, Alexei continues, his voice calm but laced with arrogance.

Alexei (mocking): "I don't think you want to make a scene. Let me introduce myself. I'm Alexei Orca Gentoshi. You know the name. Cousin of your King, Yue, and a member of his court. So, if you're thinking of trying anything, remember what happened to Ludociel."

The mention of Yue stops Kenjiro and Ryuto in their tracks. They exchange uneasy glances, recalling the brutal defeat of the queen, Ludociel—paralyzed, her body shattered after a confrontation with Yue. The memory leaves them visibly shaken, but they try to mask it.

Kenjiro (gritting his teeth): "You think you're safe because your cousin is the king? Hiding under his apron?"

Alexei (laughing softly): "Hiding? Me?"

In an instant, Alexei moves with blinding speed, faster than either Kenjiro or Ryuto can react. His fist connects with their stomachs in a sharp, calculated strike, leaving both of them doubled over in pain. They fall to their knees, clutching their midsections, gasping for breath.

Alexei (calmly, looking down at them): "Even without Yue, I could handle you both with one hand behind my back."

He steps back, watching as the two struggle to regain their composure. His voice takes on a more dangerous tone.

Alexei: "You remember my brother, Lysander? He defeated pro hunters from Eagle Step with his weapon, Azure. Do you really think I don't have something just as powerful?"

Kenjiro (struggling to speak, gritting his teeth): "Y-You…"

Alexei (nonchalant): "I don't fear you. I don't even fear Ludociel."

He pauses, glancing around the room as his classmates gather behind him, their presence reinforcing his control over the situation.

Alexei (smirking): "This isn't your playground, apes. It's ours."

The surrounding academic branch students step closer, their numbers creating an unspoken barrier between Kenjiro, Ryuto, and any potential retaliation. The superpower students, outnumbered and outclassed, realize they're out of their depth.

Kenjiro and Ryuto exchange a glance, understanding that any further confrontation would only end badly for them. Slowly, they stand, still wincing from the blow Alexei delivered, and begin to back away.

Ryuto (spitting in frustration): "You'll regret this, rich kid."

Alexei (smiling coldly): "I doubt it."

With one last glance, the two superpower branch students turn and leave the hall, their pride wounded, but the fight avoided—for now. As they disappear, Alexei turns to his classmates, his smirk still in place.

Alexei (muttering to Floria): "Well, that was fun."

Floria (smiling slightly): "Are you sure it's going to be alright? Fighting them?"

Alexei (grinning): "Oh, relax babe. Those weaklings can't do anything worth of note."

Scene: Friendly Family Weaponry Ads

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ACADEMIC BRANCH PE HALL – AFTER THE INCIDENT

The tension from the earlier confrontation still lingers in the air, but now, curiosity buzzes among the students. After seeing Alexei's quick and decisive action, a group of his classmates gathers around him, eager to learn more.

Drakos Windsor, a sharp-eyed student, steps forward, his voice filled with excitement.

Drakos (excited): "Alexei, that was amazing! How did you move so fast? What kind of weapon were you using?"

Beside him, Nadia Graves, a girl with braided dark hair and a curious gaze, adds eagerly.

Nadia (intrigued): "Yeah, you practically knocked them out before they even realized what was happening!"

Alexei, still cool and collected, casually adjusts his uniform, not appearing overly impressed by his own display. Floria stands beside him, her arms crossed but with an amused glint in her eyes as the crowd swells.

Alexei (grinning slightly): "Oh, that? Nothing special, just a little something from my family's collection. You know how it is."

His classmates lean in closer, eager for more details. With a smirk, Alexei reaches into his bag and pulls out what looks like a bundle of silver and black elastic bands, intricately woven together. The strange piece of equipment gleams faintly under the gym lights.

Alexei (holding it up): "This is the Hard Taping Custom. It's an experimental suit designed to boost physical abilities—kind of like wearing a second nervous system."

His classmates lean in closer, their curiosity piqued. With a smirk, Alexei reaches into his bag and pulls out what looks like a bundle of silver and black elastic bands, intricately woven together. The strange piece of equipment gleams faintly under the gym lights.

Leontius Hale, a tall, analytical boy, furrows his brow as he stares at it.

Leontius Hale (surprised): "Wait, that's a suit? It looks like... tape?"

Alexei (proudly analytical): "Easy to conceal under your clothes. It has the advantage of not taking your armor slot and can be wore anytimes you want. Same with all of my family's magic items, easy to use, easy to maintain, small and versatile."

He begins explaining as he wraps the suit around his arms, demonstrating its application. The elastic material conforms to his body, almost seamlessly melding with his skin, giving off faint sparks of electricity as it activates.

Alexei: "The Hard Taping Custom works by altering the electric signals in your body, increasing speed, reflexes, and strength. It basically amplifies your natural abilities to the next level."

The students watch in awe as Alexei performs a quick dash across the gym floor, moving with blinding speed. Even Floria raises an eyebrow, impressed.

Floria (smirking): "You really love showing off, don't you?"

Alexei (grinning): "Hey, free publicity for the company's product, babe."

He takes off the suit and tosses it back into his bag, his expression growing a little more serious.

Alexei (calmly): "But don't get too excited. It's still an experimental weapon, so it's not without its downsides. Relying on it too much can mess with your body—headaches, dizziness, that sort of thing. It's not perfect yet."

Felix Dorian, a quiet but curious student, steps forward, his brow furrowing.

Felix Dorian (curious): "So, when is it going to be officially released? I mean, if it's from the GGG Corporation..."

Alexei (grinning): "That's classified information for now. Let's just say, when the time comes, the world will know. But until then, you'll have to be patient."

The students exchange impressed glances, murmuring about the possibilities of the Hard Taping Custom and how it could change everything. As the excitement builds, Alexei casually swings his bag over his shoulder and glances at Floria.

Alexei (smiling slightly): "What do you say, babe? Should we grab something to eat? All this excitement made me hungry."

Floria (playfully): "You mean all this showing off?"

The two laugh lightly as they head for the door, leaving their classmates still buzzing with questions and speculations.

Scene: Tensions Reach the Council

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – STUDENT COUNCIL OFFICE – DAY

The afternoon sun filters through the large windows, casting a warm glow across the busy student council office. Sōshun Murasame, the calm and composed president, sits at the head of the table, focused on paperwork as usual. Ludociel, with her serene and poised demeanor, adjusts her wings as she organizes some files. Elena Togami leans back in her chair, lazily spinning a pen, while Oliver shuffles through stacks of reports, quietly muttering to himself.

The peaceful scene is suddenly interrupted when Ryuto Yamada bursts into the room, panting from exertion and frustration. The student council members look up, surprised by the intrusion.

Ryuto (frustrated, catching his breath): "I need to talk to you guys... now!"

The council members exchange curious glances. Ludociel steps forward, her wings folding behind her as she addresses Ryuto with a calm but serious expression.

Ludociel (firm, but kind): "Ryuto, this is the student council. You're always welcome here, but take a breath. What's wrong?"

Ryuto (angry, but defensive): "It's that rich brat, Alexei Gentoshi! He attacked me and Kenjiro in the academic branch PE hall! He used some kind of weapon—something we've never seen before. It's not fair!"

The mention of Alexei causes a ripple of concern across the room. Sōshun raises an eyebrow as he listens carefully, while Elena leans forward, intrigued by the drama. Oliver glances nervously between the others, unsure of what to say.

Elena (confused): "Wait, Alexei Orca Gentoshi? Younger brother of Lysander and Angela? In a fight?"

Sōshun (calm): "You're saying you went to the academic branch? I don't recall Alexei and his siblings coming to the superpower branch—ever."

Ludociel narrows her eyes, crossing her arms.

Ludociel (curious, but cautious): "How exactly did this happen, Ryuto? Alexei doesn't leave the academic branch—especially not for fights. Are you sure it was him?"

Ryuto shifts uncomfortably, avoiding eye contact for a moment before letting out a sigh.

Ryuto (guilty, reluctant): "Look... it's our fault. Me and Kenjiro... we went to the academic branch first. We were just... checking out their PE hall, you know? They have all this fancy equipment and stuff we don't have. And we might've... used our powers a bit. But then Alexei jumped us out of nowhere!"

Ludociel raises an eyebrow, her expression becoming a bit more stern.

Ludociel (serious, disappointed): "So, you went there and used your powers? You know that's against the academy's rules, Ryuto. The superpower branch students aren't allowed to go to the academic branch for that reason—especially if you're planning on using powers."

Ryuto (defensive): "Hey, the king does that all the time, and you guys don't even bat an eye, why worry about it now?"

The mention of Yue's name sends a ripple of tension through the room. Ludociel crosses her arms, her expression serious as she considers Ryuto's words.

Ludociel (firm, but measured): "Yue is a different case. He's the top student at the academy, and he follows the rules—at least publicly. And I don't need to remind you that using your powers to fight outside of the arena is against academy regulations."

Ryuto clenches his fists, frustration and helplessness evident in his eyes.

Ryuto (bitterly): "So, what? We just let them walk all over us because they've got money and toys? Is that what we're supposed to do?"

Sōshun, ever the peacemaker, steps in, his voice calm but authoritative.

Sōshun (calmly, trying to defuse the situation): "Ryuto, we're not saying that. But there's a process for dealing with these things. If Alexei attacked you, we can file a formal complaint. The academy has procedures for this sort of conflict."

Ryuto (frustrated): "And what good will that do? At best, his family will make a donation, and at worst, he'll get a few days off for a vacation."

But before, Ryuto can get his angry explode to the council, the light hearted Elena cut him

Elena (teasing, raising an eyebrow): "Let me get this straight—you and Kenjiro, two superpower branch students with all your strength and abilities, lost to one academic branch kid with a 'flashy toy,' and now you're here to complain?"

Ryuto grits his teeth, his frustration boiling over.

Ryuto (angrily): "That's right! Those rich kids already think we're nothing without our powers. And now, they've got weapons to prove it."

The room goes silent as his words hang in the air, the underlying fear in the superpower branch finally voiced. Ludociel's wings twitch slightly, betraying her own unease at the growing tension between the branches. She steps forward, her tone softening as she addresses Ryuto.

Ludociel (understanding, but firm): "I understand your frustration, Ryuto. But we can't let our emotions dictate our actions. If we start using our powers recklessly, we'll only prove their point—that we're nothing more than brawlers. We need to show them that we're more than that."

Ryuto stares at her, still brimming with frustration, but her words seem to sink in. He lets out a deep breath, his shoulders slumping slightly.

Ryuto (grudgingly): "Fine. But don't expect me to sit back and watch while they push us around."

Ludociel nods, satisfied that Ryuto is calming down.

Ludociel (gently, but firmly): "Leave the rest to us. We'll handle this through the proper channels."

As Ryuto turns to leave, Oliver, who had been quiet up until now, pipes up, adjusting his glasses nervously.

Oliver (softly, but thoughtfully): "I think it's worth looking into this technology. If the academic branch is using something experimental, we might need to prepare ourselves for a shift in the balance."

Sōshun nods in agreement, his mind already working through the possibilities.

Sōshun (calmly): "Good point, Oliver. Let's keep an eye on things. For now, let's not let this escalate any further. We can't afford a full-blown conflict between the branches."

As the tension in the room eases, Ludociel watches Ryuto leave with a thoughtful expression. She knows this won't be the last time tensions flare between the academic and superpower branches—and the next time, things might not be so easily contained.

Scene: Flirtation amid Branch's Tension

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ACADEMIC BRANCH CAFETERIA – LUNCHTIME

The cafeteria buzzes with the chatter of students, the clatter of trays, and the smell of fresh food wafting through the air. In one corner, Alexei and Floria sit at a small table, their trays half-eaten as they laugh and exchange playful banter. The ambiance is relaxed, with students coming and going, but their conversation carries a sharper edge.

Floria (teasing, smiling): "You know, you might have overdone it with those superpower branch guys. You practically sent them running with their tails between their legs."

Alexei (grinning, leaning back in his chair): "They deserved it. Besides, it wasn't even a fight. More like... putting them in their place."

He takes a casual sip from his drink, his eyes glinting with amusement. Floria chuckles, but her expression shifts slightly, growing more thoughtful.

Floria (softly, but concerned): "Still, don't you think this might stir up trouble? The superpower branch is already on edge, feeling like they're losing their ground. Showing off like that... it could escalate things between the branches."

Alexei waves her concern away with a smirk, clearly unconcerned.

Alexei (mocking, confident): "Let them be on edge. If anything, they should hope things don't escalate—because if they do, Yue will flatten them."

He leans forward, lowering his voice but keeping his tone cocky.

Alexei (smirking): "What can they even do when their strongest is on our side?"

Floria frowns slightly, sensing the deeper implications of Alexei's words. She leans in closer, her eyes serious.

Floria (cautious): "That's exactly what I mean. If they feel like they've got nothing left to lose, they might push back harder. People do desperate things when they think they're cornered."

Alexei shrugs, clearly unfazed by the idea.

Alexei (nonchalant): "Let them push. What's the worst that could happen? They're all bark and no bite. You saw how easily I handled them—barely had to lift a finger."

He flashes her a confident smile, clearly enjoying the idea of being untouchable. Floria, though, seems less convinced.

Alexei (smirking):

"Lysander could take them on without even using his powers, and you know how Yue is—no one's matching him. They don't stand a chance."

Floria shakes her head, not entirely convinced by his bravado.

Floria (softly, still worried): "Maybe... but you should still be careful. Tension like this... it can spiral out of control."

Alexei (grinning, teasing): "Worried about me, babe?"

Floria rolls her eyes, though a small smile tugs at her lips.

Floria (teasing): "I'm more worried about the mess you'll leave behind."

Alexei chuckles, leaning in closer to her, his voice dropping to a playful whisper.

Alexei (mock-serious): "Don't worry. I'll clean it up... just for you."

They both laugh, the tension in their conversation momentarily easing, but Floria's concern still lingers in the background. Alexei may not see the danger, but she knows that the simmering tensions between the branches could lead to something much bigger—and much harder to control.

As they continue flirting, the world around them buzzes with activity, but the unspoken conflict between the branches looms large, like a storm waiting to break.

Scene: Debrief in Class – Magic Weapons

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CLASSROOM – DAY

The classroom is bustling with students, each engaged in their own learning. The walls are adorned with charts and diagrams, depicting everything from superpower theory to dungeon mapping strategies. Professor Aster stands at the front, he brought here many magic weapons.

Professor Aster (teaching): "Today, as we continue our lessons on magical combat, I'll be introducing you to the basics of magic weapons and enchanted items."

He picks up a dull, unremarkable-looking sword and a simple brick, holding them up for the class to see.

Professor Aster (continuing): "Can anyone tell me what you notice about this sword?"

A girl with short blue hair raises her hand. Her black armor gleams, and her lance and shield rest beside her desk.

Alyssa Kane (thoughtful, curious): "Uhh… It looks kind of... dull, sir?"

Professor Aster (smiling): "Exactly. It's dull now, but watch closely."

With a small gesture, Professor Aster channels his mana into the sword. Instantly, the blade glows with a brilliant blue aura. He effortlessly slices the brick in two, the halves falling with a soft thud. The class gasps in awe.

Professor Aster (explaining, holding the sword up): "This is a basic enchanted weapon. Magic weapons are created with internal circuits that simulate your mana flow. When you channel your mana into them, they become an extension of your power. As you just saw, even a dull blade can become sharper and more powerful than any regular weapon."

The students lean in, clearly impressed. Professor Aster continues, walking along the front of the class.

Professor Aster (continuing): "Each weapon has its own strengths and weaknesses. A mage would benefit more from using a scepter or wand—items with more refined mana circuits. For warriors—"

But before he can finish, Kenjiro Matsuda, a red-haired student known for his fiery temper, speaks up. His voice cuts through the lecture with sharp frustration.

Kenjiro (serious, almost defiant): "Sir, are we really wasting time with this? Why should we bother learning this when the academic branch is packing even better toys than that? Like… Alexei…"

A murmur spreads through the class. Hugo, sitting toward the back, tenses at the mention of his brother Alexei, his single eye darting toward Kenjiro. He leans over to whisper to his friends, Fenix and Shizuka.

Hugo (whispering, concerned): "Alexei? What's he talking about?"

Shizuka, always calm and collected, lowers her voice in response.

Shizuka (concerned, whispering): "Apparently, Kenjiro and some others had a run-in with a dude named Alexei Orca Gentoshi from the academic branch. He used some kind of new weapon that boosts physical strength. It didn't end well for Kenjiro."

Meanwhile, Fenix, sipping casually from his blood bag, grins mischievously.

Fenix (mocking, grinning): "Tch, tch, tch. Getting your butt handed to you by an academic kid... that's gotta sting. The shame of a hunter!"

Professor Aster's brow twitches in irritation as he hears the ongoing chatter and sees the growing unrest among the students. He locks eyes with Kenjiro, who's still fuming.

Professor Aster (calm, but stern): "Kenjiro Matsuda... I wouldn't be so eager to tell the class about your defeat at the hands of a non-superpowered student."

The tension in the room thickens. Kenjiro grits his teeth, clearly embarrassed but too angry to back down.

Kenjiro (angry, defensive): "It's not fair! The academic branch shouldn't have weapons that rival our powers. We're supposed to be hunters—our superpowers set us apart! What's the point of training if they can just match us with some toys?!"

A few other students murmur in agreement, frustration bubbling under the surface. Professor Aster watches them carefully, understanding their unease.

Professor Aster (firm, yet measured): "I understand your concern, but this is precisely why we study magic weapons and enchanted items. You rely too much on your powers, Kenjiro. Weapons like these—whether they belong to the academic branch or to us—are meant to amplify our abilities. Your superpower is just one part of who you are as a hunter."

Kenjiro opens his mouth to retort, but Alyssa Kane speaks up from her desk, trying to defuse the tension.

Alyssa (calm, thoughtful): "Professor Aster's right. We're hunters. We adapt. Whether it's magic, superpowers, or tech, we should be prepared for anything."

Her words hang in the air, resonating with some of the students. Kenjiro, however, isn't convinced. He shoots Alyssa a sharp look.

Kenjiro (grumbling): "Easy for you to say. You rely on that shield and lance because you barely have any power yourself."

Alyssa flinches but quickly recovers, her voice calm.

Alyssa (calm): "And you are better? Mr. Little Fireball got his ass handed twice by two people with no power, me and Alexei."

Kenjiro (grumbling): "You… bitch!!!"

Before he can continue, Professor Aster's voice booms through the classroom.

Professor Aster (booming) "Enough!"

The class falls silent, all eyes on the professor.

Professor Aster (firm, authoritative): "Humiliation is part of the learning process. You failed because you underestimated them—and that's your mistake. Don't blame their technology for your lack of preparation."

The classroom falls silent as Kenjiro glares down at his desk, his frustration still simmering but his argument now deflated. Hugo watches quietly, his thoughts swirling around his brother's name, feeling a mix of emotions he can't quite sort through.

Hugo (thinking): "Alexei... What is he up to?"

Meanwhile, Professor Aster continues his lecture, moving on to another weapon laid out on his desk—a glowing scepter this time.

Professor Aster (calm, moving on): "Now, as I was saying, mages would use a weapon like this scepter. It enhances mana output and precision in casting spells..."

But the underlying tension in the room remains palpable, the students still quietly digesting Kenjiro's frustration—and the growing divide between the superpower and academic branches.

Scene: Rising Tensions in the Superpower Branch

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CLASSROOM – AFTERNOON

The classroom is buzzing with uneasy chatter. Students from the superpower branch gather in small groups, their expressions a mixture of frustration and disbelief. Posters depicting the triumphs of past superpower branch heroes line the walls, but today, their usual pride is overshadowed by the growing tension from the rumors circulating through the academy.

Kenjiro slams his fist onto the table, his expression full of frustration. His friends, including Grigor and Amara Greendale, sit around him, equally tense.

Kenjiro (angrily): "Can you believe this? The academic branch not only gets all the fancy toys, but now they've got weapons that make our powers practically useless!"

Grigor (gritting his teeth): "It's ridiculous! We've spent years honing our powers, mastering our abilities, and now... what? They just slap on some fancy tech and suddenly they can compete with us?"

He gestures to the earth beneath his feet, shifting slightly as if reacting to his anger. Grigor's power over the earth always makes his emotions more visible than he would like.

Amara Greendale (calmly but with a sharp edge): "The academic branch has always had more resources. Money, connections... now this. It's like they're trying to erase what makes us special. What's the point of having powers if some rich kid can just use a gadget and beat us?"

Her vine-like tendrils curl up around her arms, responding to her emotions as well. The normally serene elf looks more agitated than usual.

Kenjiro (bitterly): "Exactly! Powers were supposed to be our thing. What we excel at. What we're known for. The reason we're here. And now, the academic branch gets to swoop in with their toys, acting like they're on the same level as us?"

Grigor (nodding, resolute): "Without our powers, what are we? Just kids who couldn't make it academically. They'll see us as second-rate, as their shadows."

Amara (grimly): "We've always had an edge. But if they can take that from us too... what's left?"

A tense silence falls over the group as the weight of the situation sinks in. For the first time, they feel like they might lose the one thing that sets them apart from everyone else—their superpowers.

Kenjiro (determined): "We can't let them get away with this. We need to remind them why the superpower branch is still the backbone of this academy. No amount of tech can replace what we can do."

Grigor (firm): "Right. We've fought real battles. Controlled forces beyond anything they can imagine. They may have their money and gadgets, but we've got our abilities—abilities that they can't just buy."

Amara (softly, but resolutely): "We'll need to get stronger. Show them that no matter how much tech they have, it's nothing compared to the real thing. We're not just students of St. Alaric. We're superpower users—and we'll make sure they don't forget it."

The group nods in agreement, a renewed fire in their eyes. The academic branch may be gearing up with new technology, but the superpower branch won't back down. They'll show the entire academy that true strength doesn't come from gadgets, but from mastery of one's own abilities.

Scene: The Shadow of Human History

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH STUDY HALL – AFTERNOON

The study hall is quiet, bathed in the warm orange light of the setting sun. Hugo Gentoshi, Shizuka Maidono, and Fenix Tepes sit cross-legged on pillows, their eyes half-closed as they meditate. The faint aura of their powers shimmers around them—light and ethereal, flowing in rhythm with their breathing.

Shizuka (happy) "Wow, Hugo, you're getting better day by day."

Fenix (grinning) "As expected of our cyclops."

Hugo's friends seem happy, but his expression remains distant, troubled.

Shizuka (tilting her head, concerned) "Hugo? What's wrong? You don't look good."

Hugo (quiet, distracted) "I'm just... thinking about what Kenjiro said this morning. About how normal people could catch up to us—using equipment instead of powers."

Fenix (rolling his eyes, voice casual) "Oh, I wouldn't call them normal..."

Hugo and Shizuka exchange confused glances, both of them staring at Fenix.

Shizuka (leaning forward, curious) "What do you mean?"

Fenix (lowering his voice, calm but serious) "Sea Witch, you're a half-elf, so you might not know this... but we vampires? We know humans better than anyone."

The room seems to grow colder as Fenix speaks, his tone deepening. He leans forward slightly, lowering his voice, as if revealing a dark truth.

Fenix (somber) "There's an unwritten law in nature. Balance. Herbivores eat plants, carnivores eat herbivores, and when carnivores die, their bodies feed the plants."

He pauses, his voice growing harder.

Fenix (bitter) "But humans? They broke the balance. They figured out how to defy nature. They used their so-called intelligence to bend its rules. We, vampires, were created to keep them in check, to stop them from destroying everything—but we failed."

He clenches his fists, sadness creeping into his voice.

Fenix (sadly) "They mined the Earth, tore into its core. They left the atmosphere, went into space, all in search of weapons to fight us... and they succeeded. They became the rulers of this world, while the rest of us, vampires, elves, dwarves and werebeasts became relics of the past, discriminated against, cast aside."

Shizuka and Hugo listen in stunned silence, Fenix's words heavy with centuries of history. The room feels colder, the sun's warmth no longer as comforting.

Fenix (sighing) "When the gates opened, and monsters started pouring out... humans couldn't figure out how to handle it on their own. They begged the other races for help—offering human rights and shared resources in return."

Fenix's expression darkens, his voice dropping lower.

Fenix (bitter) "But mark my words, one day—when they've found another way to deal with the monsters, a way that benefits them more—they'll cast us all aside again, just like they always have."

Shizuka opens her mouth to respond, but no words come out. Hugo, meanwhile, stares at the floor, deep in thought.

Hugo (whispering, to himself) "So... what my brother Lysander did to me... casting me out... is just what humans always do?"