Scene: Gentoshi Combining Strength
INT. GGG RESEARCH LAB – TESTING GROUND – DAY
The GGG Lab, usually reserved for high-level experiments and specialized power testing, is filled with a tense excitement as Yue, Angela, and Lysander prepare for their unconventional training session. The lab's state-of-the-art equipment, reinforced walls, and complex simulations are designed to handle powerful abilities—though today, it will be tested to its limits.
Angela stands by Yue, her hands hovering close to his temples, her expression one of calm concentration. Lysander observes the setup, a smirk playing on his face as he twirls his wand, Azure, ready to conjure at a moment's notice.
Angela (softly, her voice soothing) "Alright, Yue. I'm going to ease the mental strain on you. Just focus on what you want to do, and let me take care of the rest."
Yue nodding, feeling a warm, relaxing sensation wash over him as Angela channels her power into him
Yue "Thanks, Angela. With this, I can push myself further without worrying about those pesky pressure vectors…"
Lysander (grinning, standing back with crossed arms) "Good. Then let's see what happens when we put all that brainpower to use. Let's show this lab what real power looks like."
Angela closes her eyes, focusing on her unique support ability—an aura of energy envelops Yue, easing the usual stress and pain that calculating pressure vectors inflicts on his mind. With the mental barriers lowered, Yue feels a surge of clarity and raw power, a heightened awareness of his own potential.
Angela (opening her eyes, smiling at Yue) "There. You should be able to handle even the most complex calculations without the headache."
Yue (grinning, energy pulsing through him) "This is incredible, Angela. I've never felt this… clear. Let's see what happens when I push it."
Yue steps forward, raising his hand and focusing his telekinetic energy. A shimmering field of force materializes around him, and he starts experimenting with its capabilities. Angela boosts his strength further, and Lysander stands ready to unleash a barrage of attacks.
Yue (focus) "Alright, let's try the pressure calculation at high velocity… using the air as a conduit."
He concentrates, manipulating the air particles with precise, invisible vectors. As the force builds, he flicks his fingers—and a burst of lightning crackles through the air, generated from the sheer friction of particles colliding. The electric bolt streaks across the lab, slamming into a reinforced target and reducing it to sparks and smoke.
Angela (delighted, clapping her hands) "That's amazing! You're pulling off elemental effects with telekinesis alone."
Lysander (analytical) "That's cool but it is still weaker than Kimhyun's lightning, no?"
Yue (smirking) "Maybe, but I can do this!!"
He flicks his hand again, using his telekinesis to generate immense pressure in the air, conjuring fire through pure friction. Flames dance at his fingertips as he pushes the fire toward another target. The intense heat warps the metal, twisting it as though it were mere plastic.
Lysander (chuckling, impressed) "Electricity, fire… What's next, invisibility? Oh, wait—you're already doing that."
Yue concentrating harder, creating a slight shimmer as he merges telekinesis with light manipulation
Yue "Exactly. Angela, can you amplify this?"
Angela (grinning) "Consider it done."
With Angela's boost, Yue's invisibility becomes sharper, covering not only himself but also Lysander and Angela as they meld into their surroundings. The three become indistinct shadows, almost invisible in the dim lighting of the GGG lab.
Lysander (analytical) "Hmm, you bend light for this? As much as I am impressed, Angela's invisibility is better."
Angela (soft) "Yeah, this is more like transparency than invisibility."
Yue then flicks his finger, the three got out of their invisibility state. He seems to be a bit tired from all the testing.
Yue (smirk, gasp) "Yeah… Angela should try to cover the invisibility and supporting part. I should worry more about the raw power part."
Angela (soft) "Are you alright, Yue? Need a break?"
Yue (smirk, gasp) "Nonsense. Your king can continue for days later. I just have not gotten accustomed to controlling microscopic particles like light."
Then, Lysander raises his wand into the air, multiple magic swords with wings decoration appear dancing around.
Lysander (grinning) "So, ready for a real test? Let's see how many swords you can manage to hurl at once."
Yue (smirk, gasp) "Fine. But let's aim for the pool this time—I'd rather not damage the testing ground more than necessary."
As he said, Yue pointed at a pool near them. Then, Yue started to charge his telekinetic force behind the swords.
Angela (soft) "I'll take the anemometer."
An explosion echoes through the lab as the swords collide with the pool's surface, sending water splashing in every direction. The blast ripples across the pool, leaving a smoking crater at its center. As the water begins to settle, the cousins stand there, panting, drenched but triumphant.
INT. GGG RESEARCH LAB – TESTING GROUND – EVENING
The testing ground is in ruins, with water splashed across every surface, scorch marks on the walls, and several broken targets scattered around. Homunculi move about, diligently cleaning up the mess. Angela, Yue, and Lysander, each exhausted, lean against the wall, observing the aftermath.
Yue (tired but satisfied) "Alright, I think we've tested the limits today. Ten swords with full speed and impact… I didn't think I could pull it off."
Angela (nodding, her voice gentle) "B-ranked weapons being hurled with rocket speed… I am wondering if it is still considered a B-ranked attack at that point."
Lysander "So, shall we leave before anyone comes to yell at us? I can asport us out if you're both ready."
The other two exchange a glance, nodding gratefully.
Yue (smirking) "Yeah, let's get out of here. We've done enough damage for one day."
Angela (smiling tiredly) "Sounds like a plan."
Lysander covers his head with his hand and teleports the three out. The three cousins vanish from the GGG Lab, leaving the homunculi to quietly repair the testing ground until it's as good as new.
Scene: Gentoshi Combining Strength 2
INT. GGG RESEARCH LAB – TESTING GROUND – DAY
At another GGG's lab, the sterile, clinical environment seems indifferent to the peculiar tests Alexei and Floria are about to conduct. Lab equipment and glass containers line the shelves, creating an atmosphere of both experimentation and secrecy.
Alexei picks up a sharp knife from the counter, his expression one of cool confidence. With a casual, almost reckless attitude, he slices his wrist, watching with fascination as the wound seals itself within moments, leaving his skin unmarked. He grins, pride evident in his eyes.
Alexei (smirking, marveling at his own ability) "Hehe. Witness the true power of this Alexei. Healing wounds with extreme ease."
Floria, standing nearby, watches with a mix of fascination and concern, her brow slightly furrowed.
Floria (concerned) "Is this how you survived Kimhyun's attack? You healed even from a fatal blow?"
Alexei (smirk widening, almost playful) "Yup. My secret weapon~."
He stands up, his confidence unshakable, and glances over at Floria, his eyes alight with curiosity.
Alexei (tilting his head, teasingly) "What about you, babe? Got any new tricks up your sleeve?"
Floria (softly, a hint of mystery in her tone) "Well, nothing as flashy… but I have been working on something. Can you… injure yourself again? I'll show you."
Without hesitation, Alexei takes the knife and cuts his arm again, holding it out toward Floria with a raised brow.
Alexei (smugly) "So, what's the plan?"
Floria steps closer, plucking a strand of her hair. As she twirls it between her fingers, the strand transforms, taking on a translucent, sap-like quality. She presses it gently against Alexei's wound, and it spreads over the cut, sealing it within seconds.
Alexei (raising an eyebrow, unimpressed) "That's it? How disappointing—"
But before he can finish his sentence, he places his hand on a nearby table to steady himself. To his shock, the slight pressure of his hand crushes the table, splintering it under his touch.
Alexei (startled, looking at his hand in disbelief) "Huh?"
Floria (smiling, pleased with herself) "I call this 'Rebound.' It's based on the principle of muscle growth. When you work out, you cause tiny tears in your muscles. The body repairs these tears by fusing the fibers, making the muscles stronger and larger."
Alexei (eyes widening, his gaze snapping to her with renewed excitement) "So if you apply that same concept to wounds…"
Floria (nodding) "I can enhance a person's physical strength by healing them, infusing my plant sap into their body. With each healing, the strength rebounds, stronger than before."
Alexei's face lights up, and without warning, he pulls Floria into an enthusiastic hug, practically lifting her off her feet in his excitement.
Alexei (laughing, thrilled) "Oh my god! I knew it! You're my perfect support."
Floria (giggling, gently patting his back) "Babe, you're… squeezing me."
He releases her, grinning sheepishly as he realizes the newfound strength in his grip. Testing his strength, he glances around the lab, an eager gleam in his eyes as he considers all the possibilities.
Alexei (still grinning, awe in his voice) "This changes everything. We could test this out on the field… I'd be unstoppable."
Floria (playfully raising an eyebrow) "Let's not get carried away. For now, just remember that a little sap goes a long way."
The two exchange a smile, a shared understanding of the power they hold when they work together.
Scene: Rumors of the Exam
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – GARDEN TEA ROOM – AFTERNOON
The garden tea room is bathed in soft sunlight filtering through the tall windows, casting a gentle glow over the elegant tea setup. Fine china teacups rest on delicate saucers, and the table is decorated with fresh roses, each one perfectly arranged. Angela, dressed in a refined ensemble, sits with her friends: Elena Togami, Rina Rosenkreuz, Vivienne Devereux, and Eloise Diesel. The scene exudes sophistication, yet the conversation soon reveals there's more than just polite tea-drinking happening here.
Angela sips her tea thoughtfully, savoring the delicate flavor before directing a subtle, yet meaningful, question toward Vivienne.
Angela (smiling slightly, eyes gleaming with satisfaction) "Vivienne, are you pleased? After all, I took care of that little… inconvenience you had with the superpower branch."
Vivienne, poised and elegant as always, raises an eyebrow, her tone more amused than grateful.
Vivienne (with a calm smile) "Surprised, more than pleased, I'd say. I didn't think of you as… quite so hands-on, Angela."
Rina, ever the blunt one, chuckles as she sets down her teacup.
Rina (laughing lightly) "Honestly, none of us did. You always seemed more suited for, well, the subtle sort of battles."
Angela just smiles, a mysterious sparkle in her eyes.
Angela (smiling serenely, with a touch of mischief) "Every rose has its thorns, you know~."
The ladies laugh, appreciating Angela's playful warning. The conversation flows smoothly until Eloise turns her attention to Elena, a curious glint in her eye.
Eloise (teasingly) "Elena, what brings you here? Shouldn't you be in the student council office, doing… whatever it is you do to get close to your precious senpai?"
Elena pouts, setting down her tea a bit forcefully, clearly not amused by Eloise's jabs.
Elena (sighing dramatically) "Well, if you must know, Sōshun is too busy with midterms and all that schoolwork nonsense. He's graduating soon, and all he cares about now is homework! It's like I don't exist anymore."
Vivienne (curious) "So, where is he headed after graduation?"
Elena (brightening up a bit) "Law school. It's only fitting, right? Sōshun's father is a well-known politician. It makes sense he'd follow in his father's footsteps."
Rina (nodding thoughtfully) "That does seem like a natural choice. Sōshun always had that… noble aura about him."
Angela (amuse) "What are you saying, queen. We all have noble aura~"
All of the girls laugh at Angela's joke.
Elena (with a grin, leaning in conspiratorially) "By the way, have you heard about the midterm for the second-year superpower branch? It's not just regular exams—they're going all out with a teacher versus two students combat assessment."
Eloise (intrigued) "Teacher versus two students? That's quite intense."
Elena (nodding, excitement in her eyes) "Exactly! But here's the twist: they're bringing in well-known hunters to participate since they don't have enough teachers for all the battles. Guess who Yue has to face?"
Angela, who had been only half-listening, suddenly focuses intently on Elena, her curiosity piqued.
Angela (leaning in, curious) "Who?"
Elena (grinning) "The leader of OverEdge himself, John Carter."
The name hits Angela like a thunderbolt. Her eyes widen briefly before she manages to maintain her composure, but a spark of alarm flickers in her gaze.
Angela (pressing for more details, trying to stay calm) "John Carter? The public's favorite superhero? Who else is coming?"
The other girls exchange glances, surprised by Angela's sudden interest. Vivienne raises an eyebrow, mildly curious.
Vivienne (teasingly) "Why the sudden concern, Angela? Yue can handle himself, right?"
Angela forces a smile, trying to keep her emotions in check. She gives a quick, dismissive wave of her hand, though her voice betrays a hint of worry.
Angela (smiling tightly) "Well, Yue did ask either me or Lysander to be his partner… so, I'd like to be prepared, that's all."
Elena nods reassuringly, her smile playful yet confident.
Elena "Don't worry. Yue is… Yue. Too powerful for his own good, really."
Eloise takes a sip of her tea, her voice calm and thoughtful.
Eloise "And it's not just John Carter. They're bringing in hunters from different guilds. I heard Candice Nosferatu from Cloud Tower will be there, along with Dreyfus Londinium from the Knights of Orleans, and even… Sakae Gentoshi from OverEdge."
Angela's smile falters for just a second as she hears Sakae Gentoshi's name, but she quickly regains her composure. Her hands grip her teacup a little too tightly, and a barely perceptible flame flickers at her fingertips before she extinguishes it, maintaining her mask of calm.
Angela (smiling, though her eyes hold a spark of something more) "Interesting… Quite the lineup, isn't it?"
Inside, though, her mind is racing, and a quiet anger simmers just beneath the surface.
Scene: The Tamed Dog
INT. LYSANDER'S APARTMENT – LIVING ROOM – AFTERNOON
Lysander is lounging comfortably on his sofa, absently scrolling through his phone, when he hears a soft knock at the door.
Lysander (calling out) "Come in!"
The door creaks open, and Kimhyun steps in, glancing around with his usual calm expression. As Lysander turns to look, he's caught off-guard—Kimhyun is already seated on the floor in front of the sofa, his wolf ears and tail fully visible, twitching slightly as he settles into his usual spot.
Lysander (thinking, eyes widening) "What the— Don't tell me…"
Kimhyun (tilting his head, noticing Lysander's look) "Something wrong?"
Kimhyun's tail starts wagging subtly, giving away his hidden excitement. Lysander looks at him, torn between amusement and disbelief.
Lysander (thinking, sighing internally) "No… maybe this is just… classical conditioning."
He clears his throat, trying to play it cool.
Lysander (smiling) "Want something to drink? Coffee? Tea? Juice? Coke?"
Kimhyun "Coffee's fine."
Lysander heads to the kitchen, grabbing a coffee can and taking a moment to collect his thoughts. When he turns back, he's met with the sight of Kimhyun sitting obediently, his gaze following Lysander's every move with that endearing eagerness.
Lysander hands him the coffee, settling down beside him on the sofa, trying to ease into casual conversation.
Lysander "By the way, I heard about the midterm exam. Do you have a partner yet?"
Before he can finish his sentence, Kimhyun looks up at him with soft, almost pleading eyes, his ears lowered slightly, and his tail gives a hopeful wag. Lysander's heart skips a beat in surprise.
Lysander (blinking, genuinely surprised) "Uh… what's wrong?"
Kimhyun (hesitating, voice soft) "Do you… not want to pet me?"
The realization hits Lysander like a truck.
Lysander (thinking, stunned) "Shit… So it's true. The wolf's gone full puppy."
Not one to disappoint, Lysander reaches out, his hand gently brushing over Kimhyun's head, stroking his hair and softly scratching behind his ears. Kimhyun's tail wags faster, and he lets out a quiet, contented giggle.
Kimhyun (giggling) "Hehe…"
Lysander (chuckling softly, a hint of affection in his voice) "So… about your midterm partner?"
Kimhyun (snapping back to the topic, looking up) "Oh, right. Can you be my partner?"
Lysander's eyes widened slightly, caught off guard again.
Lysander (surprised) "You… want me?"
Kimhyun's gaze lowers, his ears flattening a bit, as if he's almost embarrassed. He looks back up, a quiet determination in his eyes, but there's still that vulnerable, almost pleading look.
Kimhyun "Well… if you wanted to help the king, I wouldn't mind, but…"
He trails off, his voice softening as he avoids Lysander's gaze.
Kimhyun "I really want you to be mine."
Lysander feels his heart tug at the sight. He bites back a smile and reaches out again, his voice unintentionally affectionate.
Lysander "Good boy~"
Kimhyun (blinking, slightly confused) "Huh?"
Lysander (shocked, blushing) "Oh! Sorry, I didn't mean— So… you really want me to be your partner?"
Kimhyun's face breaks into a joyful smile, his tail wagging in full swing now.
Kimhyun "Yeah! You can use your swords to support me from a distance, and I'll handle the close-range stuff. We'd make the perfect team, right?"
Lysander can't help but smile at his enthusiasm, finding himself unexpectedly charmed.
Lysander "Yeah, sounds like a solid plan… But… uh… can I… pet your tummy, too?"
Before he can even second-guess his words, Kimhyun is already lying down on the floor, looking up at him with a playful smile.
Kimhyun (smiling, tail thumping against the floor) "Sure! Go for it~"
Lysander (thinking, a mix of concern and amusement) "Damn… how deep did you become a dog?"
Lysander continues to pet Kimhyun's stomach, feeling oddly at ease with the situation. He's surprised by the firmness beneath his fingers—Kimhyun's core is muscular, toned from his intense training with six packs distinguishably, different from Lysander's thin frame.
Lysander (murmuring, impressed) "You're quite muscular, huh?"
He keeps his hand resting lightly on Kimhyun's stomach, feeling the steady rise and fall of his breathing. Kimhyun looks up, a relaxed smile spreading across his face.
Kimhyun "Yeah… I need a lot of strength to stabilize my power."
(closing his eyes, practically melting into the touch)
"Ahh… I love being petted like this..."
Lysander's brows knit together as he watches Kimhyun's contented expression. There's a slight pang of concern mixed with frustration.
Lysander (thinking, conflicted) "Damn… And I still haven't gotten my answer. The hero… turned full dog."
He quickly reins in his emotions, his analytical mind kicking back into gear. His gaze sharpens as he continues to pet Kimhyun, his thoughts whirling.
Lysander (thinking) "Still… this is kind of… nice? I'd like to pet his ears more, honestly. This stomach-petting thing was just a test, yet he agreed without a second thought. Is he really this easy to deceive? Or has he just… come to trust me so much because I've invested so much in this?"
A wave of irritation flickers through him as he ponders this, his hand still lightly tracing along Kimhyun's firm abdomen.
Lysander (thinking, frustrated) "Ugh… The more I think about it, the angrier I get. I've invested so much that he's changed… and still, I don't have the answer I wanted."
Noticing Lysander's silence, Kimhyun opens his eyes and looks up with soft, concerned eyes, his head tilted in confusion.
Kimhyun (curious, a hint of worry) "What's wrong?"
His expression is almost heartbreaking—pure, trusting, with those puppy-like eyes that make Lysander's frustration slip away. Lysander quickly hides his inner turmoil, replacing it with a soft smile as he strokes Kimhyun's head, fingers brushing gently over his wolf ears.
Lysander (soothingly) "Nothing at all~ I really can't be angry at you~"
Lysander(thinking, resigned but content) "This is still… quite nice. I suppose the answer can wait a little longer."
With that thought, he continues to pet Kimhyun's head, allowing himself to enjoy the quiet closeness and Kimhyun's quiet happiness, at least for the moment.
Scene: The Court's Exam Plan
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ACADEMIC BRANCH PRIVATE LOUNGE – EVENING
The evening sun casts long shadows across Yue's private study as Angela and Lysander join him to strategize for the upcoming midterm. Yue, his gaze sharp and calculating, sits with one arm draped casually over his chair, watching his cousins with a mix of amusement and intensity. Angela stands with her usual grace, while Lysander lounges against a nearby bookshelf, arms crossed, waiting.
Angela (serious, yet composed): "Yue, I've confirmed who you'll face in the midterm. It's John Carter, leader of OverEdge. They're bringing in hunters from various guilds as proctors this year, not just our teachers."
Yue's expression sharpens, his smirk fading into a serious gaze. Lysander looks up from his book, his own attention caught by the name.
Yue (taken aback, his usual confidence momentarily shaken): "John Carter? They're bringing in OverEdge's leader as my examiner?" (he pauses, collecting his thoughts) "I expected a challenge, but this… he's a real powerhouse."
Angela nods and hesitates before adding another detail, her voice softer but firm.
Angela: "And there's more. Sakae Gentoshi, from OverEdge, is participating as well. They're testing some students using hunters from different guilds… "
A flicker of controlled anger crosses Yue's face as he considers this. The name seems to ignite something personal, though he pushes it down with a dismissive scoff.
Yue (voice hardening) "Why bother mentioning Sakae? That bastard isn't even worth our attention."
Angela and Lysander share a look of disdain, both nodding in agreement.
Angela (icily): "I thought it was worth mentioning, if only because Sakae will be among the examiners."
Yue's expression sharpens with a spark of anger, his hands curling around the armrests.
Yue (bitterly): "The Gentoshi name deserves respect—not some fool who betrayed it. She'll regret it if she tries anything beyond her role."
Angela nods, satisfied with his response, and her calm demeanor returns.
Angela: "At least with John Carter as your opponent, there's no room for holding back. You'll need a strategy. And… speaking of which, Lysander, what about you? Will you sit back while the rest of us handle all the fighting?"
Yue raises an eyebrow, looking at Lysander with a mix of amusement and challenge.
Lysander (smirking): "Actually, Kimhyun's asked me to partner with him. He's the one who might need a bit more tactical support."
Angela's eyes light up with mock delight as she teases him.
Angela (grinning): "Oh, so Big Bro is taking care of his dog now?"
Yue (with a wry grin): "I've noticed, Lysander. You're always with the dog these days. Barely see you with us anymore…"
Lysander chuckles, shaking his head, but there's a flicker of humor in his eyes.
Lysander: "Oh, please. Didn't I just spend an entire day training with you? Besides, it's not like we all share the same interests." (shrugging) "Sometimes I like focusing on other things, too."
Yue's gaze sharpens with a glint of amusement, but he waves it off, returning to the matter at hand.
Yue: "Fine, fine. But don't forget—this is a serious exam. Carter's S-ranked gravity power could be a problem, especially if he manages to pin me down."
Lysander (thoughtful): "Then I'd suggest Azure. We already know the potential of our combined power."
Yue shakes his head, his expression resolute.
Yue: "Azure's only powerful with us together, Lysander. I need two people—one to carry and create projectiles, the other to charge the force. With me alone, it won't be enough. But Angela…" (he glances at her) "Your support might be what I need. You can help mask my position and detect him if he tries to hide."
Angela (nodding, understanding): "I'll make sure to cover you. Carter won't see what's coming."
Yue's usual smirk returns as he gives a confident nod, the fire in his eyes burning brighter with the plan set.
Yue: "Then it's settled. We'll put on a performance they won't forget."
Scene: The Rebuilt Training Ground
EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH TRAINING GROUNDS – MORNING
Hugo, Fenix, and Shizuka arrive at the training ground, stopping short as they take in the sight before them. What was a destroyed mess just the day before is now fully restored, looking as pristine and imposing as ever.
Hugo (surprised): "Whoa… They actually rebuilt the entire training ground in a day?"
Just then, Ludociel approaches from behind them, her arms crossed, watching their reactions with mild amusement.
Ludociel: "Actually, it was Professor Roderick who did it."
Hugo turns to her, wide-eyed.
Hugo: "Professor Roderick? He rebuilt all of this?"
Ludociel nods, a hint of respect in her tone.
Ludociel: "Yes. He's a grand mage, after all. While he's most well-known for his elemental mastery, his true specialty lies in Aspectual Magic—the manipulation of space and time. He didn't just 'rebuild' the ground; he used time magic to revert it to its previous state."
Hugo (amazed): "So… he just turned back time? That's insane…"
Fenix whistles in admiration, crossing his arms as he surveys the rebuilt grounds.
Fenix: "As expected of a grand mage. His magic is almost as impressive as my sire's."
Shizuka rolls her eyes with a smirk, nudging Fenix to keep him grounded.
Shizuka: "Alright, enough gawking in awe. The place is fixed, so let's get training. We need all the prep we can get for that exam."
Fenix (grinning): "Fine, fine. Just one last look at the amazing training ground."
They share a laugh as they move toward the center, each readying themselves to take full advantage of the restored training area.
Scene: Class Tour Announcement
INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH FIRST-YEAR CLASSROOM – MORNING
Professor Aster stands before the class, his gaze steady as he scans the room of attentive students. He clears his throat, commanding the class's full attention.
Professor Aster: "Alright, everyone, listen up. We'll be taking a class tour next week, visiting various guilds and museums to educate you about what life as a hunter entails. This isn't just a tour—you'll be expected to learn from it. Your midterm will involve writing a report on how you would approach a dungeon. Consider the monsters you might face and the strategies you'd use to overcome them."
Reina Calder raises her hand, her face a mix of curiosity and disappointment.
Reina Calder: "Professor, does this mean we… won't be here when the second years have their midterm exam?"
Professor Aster tilts his head, studying Reina with a small, knowing smile.
Professor Aster: "That's right. Why? Is there an issue?"
Reina hesitates, then glances at her classmates as if seeking support.
Reina Calder: "Well, it's just… we all wanted to see how the second years fight. The royals are taking on teachers and pro-hunters—it's something you don't get to witness every day. It'd be memorable."
Professor Aster lets out a small sigh, his gaze shifting to the rest of the class.
Professor Aster: "It would be a memorable sight, but you aren't quite at that level yet. The foundation of any battle is knowledge. The second years are now applying what they've learned. You, on the other hand, are still in the stage of building that foundation."
Professor Aster's gaze sharpens as he turns his attention to Jaxon Varro.
Professor Aster: "Tell me, Jaxon, when you watch Yue fight, what techniques do you think he's using?"
Jaxon, caught off guard, hesitates before answering.
Jaxon Varro: "Uh… telekinesis?"
Professor Aster nods approvingly but presses further.
Professor Aster: "Yes, telekinesis is the basic answer. But think deeper. How is Yue able to punch through GGG armor without having superstrength?"
Jaxon frowns, stammering as he tries to answer.
Jaxon Varro: "Um… I… I'm not sure."
Professor Aster (nodding): "Exactly. When Yue attacks, he doesn't rely solely on raw strength. He surrounds his fist with telekinetic force. But unlike most telekinesis users, who typically apply force in one or two directions, Yue's technique applies fifty points of force precisely. It's strong enough to prevent injury to himself and powerful enough to break through advanced armor. It's a technique that requires extensive training, a deep understanding of one's abilities, and a strategy for handling formidable opponents."
The class murmurs in awe, the students realizing how much more went into Yue's fights than they had assumed.
Jaxon Varro (under his breath): "I just thought he… punched really hard…"
Professor Aster catches his words, chuckling lightly.
Professor Aster: "And that's exactly why we're doing this tour and exam. You'll observe different guilds, learn about various monsters, and understand how hunters prepare for and execute missions. Even if your powers differ from your upperclassmen, analyzing and understanding their techniques will give you an advantage in your own development."
Shizuka leans over to Fenix, her eyes wide with newfound respect.
Shizuka: "Wow… the King thinks that far ahead?"
Fenix (smirking proudly): "That's His Majesty for you."
Professor Aster, overhearing, gestures to the class once more.
Professor Aster: "For those interested, I encourage you to analyze the tactics and techniques our second years have shown in their matches. Their power levels approach that of a dungeon boss, so study their moves closely and incorporate that insight into your reports. If it's well done, you can expect a high grade."
The students exchange eager whispers, now buzzing with excitement and inspiration to learn all they can from both the tour and their upperclassmen's abilities.
Professor Aster paces slowly in front of the classroom, his hands clasped behind his back as he speaks. The students sit at the edge of their seats, leaning forward with eager curiosity.
Professor Aster: "Now, to give you an idea of what to expect on this tour, let's start with our first stop—the Graves Museum. This museum is dedicated to relics found in dungeons, showcasing ancient artifacts, weapons, and magical items. You'll learn about their origins, how they were retrieved, and what they represent for our history."
A few whispered conversations break out among the students.
Hugo (whispering to Fenix and Shizuka): "That's the museum Nadia told us about."
Fenix (grinning): "Ah, so her last name is Graves? Nadia Graves… a beautiful name for a beautiful lady."
Shizuka (rolling her eyes): "Only you would think so, Count Dracula."
Professor Aster (raising his voice slightly to regain the class's attention): "Our second stop will be the Knights of Orleans Guild."
The class murmurs with enthusiasm—Knights of Orleans is the guild of their Queen, Ludociel.
Arabelle Fairwater (raising her hand): "Professor, won't it be strange to visit the Queen's guild without her there to welcome us?"
Professor Aster (nodding): "Not at all, Arabelle. Ludociel has commitments here as both a student council member and as part of her mid-term. However, her brother, Hendrickson Vanderbilt, the Guild Master, will welcome you."
The class's initial excitement dims slightly; Hendrickson, though well-respected, doesn't inspire the same level of awe as Ludociel.
Professor Aster: "Then, we'll head to Cloud Tower, where Miss Candice will guide you through its halls."
The students nod, intrigued by Cloud Tower's mystique.
Professor Aster: "And last, you'll take part in a small dungeon exploration—a controlled environment where you can observe the dungeon setting without the usual risks."
Niko Tavaris raises his hand, looking puzzled.
Niko Tavaris: "Professor, we're not going to OverEdge?"
The class's energy spikes at the thought of seeing OverEdge's headquarters—and possibly meeting their hero, Guild Master John Carter.
Professor Aster (shaking his head): "Unfortunately, no. The Master of OverEdge, John Carter, has agreed to join our mid-term exam. He'll be evaluating Yue himself. OverEdge will be closed for visits during that time."
The class falls silent, a collective sigh of disappointment echoing as they digest the missed opportunity of witnessing a battle between their King and the legendary hero.
Professor Aster (nodding at the class): "Take in what you can from this tour—it's your chance to see the wider world of hunters firsthand. And keep those reports in mind. That'll be all for today. Dismissed."
Scene: Andrea's New Job
INT. HUGO'S APARTMENT – EVENING
Hugo enters the small, dimly lit apartment, humming lightly to himself as he sets his bag down. He pauses when he sees his older brother, Andrea, seated at the table, his face turned away slightly. Hugo notices Andrea's eyes, red and tired, though he smiles faintly as he looks up at Hugo.
Hugo (concerned): "Andrea… what happened? Did… did Lysander do something again?"
Andrea (smiling, shaking his head): "No, Hugo. Lysander didn't do anything to me directly. I'm just dealing with some of the… collateral damage from his leadership."
Hugo (frowning): "Collateral damage?"
Andrea nods, his expression weary as he explains.
Andrea: "When Lysander took over, he saw the estate as a business asset, something that needed maximizing to meet his profit goals. So, he made cuts to staff—long-time employees, our maids and butlers—just to preserve profit margins. Any extra funds he earned went straight to restoring the estate, as if all those people who worked for us were nothing."
Hugo gasps, processing this revelation. He had seen Lysander's drive for success, but he hadn't considered what it meant for those caught in the crossfire.
Hugo: "You mean… he fired everyone? Just like that?"
Andrea (nodding, sighing): "And that left me to pick up the pieces. I've been reaching out to our former employees, handing them compensation from my own pay to make up for it. It's… it's not enough, but it's something."
Hugo (sadly): "Andrea, I'm sorry. I had no idea…"
Andrea: "It's alright, Hugo. I've always known Lysander was… ruthless. It's how he's ensured GGG's success, always one step ahead, unyielding. But in doing so, he steps on those around him. He achieves his goals, but someone has to be there to fix what he leaves behind. That's… that's where I come in."
Hugo's expression softens as he realizes the burden his brother has been carrying. Wanting to lighten the mood, he brings up the class tour.
Hugo (trying to sound cheerful): "Well, my class is going on a tour around the guilds and a few museums. It's part of our training to understand the hunter world better."
Andrea's expression brightens, a real smile breaking through his weariness.
Andrea: "Really? That's great, Hugo! You're getting real exposure to the world you're training to join. In that case…" (reaches into his pocket) "Here, let me give you some money for the trip. This new manager position pays well, and I'd like to support you."
Hugo (surprised and touched): "Thanks, Andrea. But are you sure? I know things have been tight…"
Andrea (smiling warmly): "Yes, Hugo, I'm sure. I've got a steady income now, and it's about time I gave you something to make up for… everything."
Hugo nods gratefully, his heart warmed by his brother's support. He realizes that, despite everything, Andrea is always there to help, no matter the weight he carries on his shoulders.