Today marks the beginning of a new chapter as my morning routine no longer includes my family. It seems that Luy is feeling a bit down about it, but our mother appears unperturbed, hinting at something up her sleeve. Walking beside royalty and the enigmatic Mary feels surreal, especially when Mary, with a soft voice, urges me to drop the 'saint' title in private conversations. Observing all the third-year classrooms gathering at the training camp in the morning, a departure from the usual afternoon routine, sparks curiosity. King Arthur reveals a shift in focus towards combat experience over theory classes, a strategy that leaves me feeling vulnerable without Destroyer's presence. My dependence on distance-oriented combat tactics surfaces, juxtaposed with the realization that my mother and Luy may not bleed, but I do. Alidia cryptically hints at something concealed when she draws attention to my attire.

-Aido: Why all the secrecy, then?

-Destroyer: The secret is necessary to protect your instincts and ensure your safety. As the saint mentioned, you are still learning to control your powers, and there is a chance of a calamity occurring.

-Luyira: Why can't you always be by his side?

-Destroyer: Unfortunately, I have my own limitations that I cannot overcome. Just like a Retter Messiah cannot feel malicious intent or harm living beings.

-Princess Sasari: Speaking of which, if Retter Messiahs cannot kill, then is eating considered an exception? I have witnessed the Holy Mary cooking on several occasions.

-Destroyer: Eating is different. When you consume something that was once alive, it is a necessary act of survival, a required evil. Someone I once knew used to say that evil is the force to survive, while good is the force to live. Only by balancing both can one find true happiness. However, if either becomes excessive and causes harm, they become detrimental forces.

Princess Sasari pondered

-Sasari: Can goodness have a dark side?

Luyira, with a twinkle in his eye.

-Luyira: Ah, the delicate dance of yin and yang, my young one.

Aido interjected thoughtfully.

-Aido:It's not simply black and white, an excess of anything can be destructive, as Destroyer rightly pointed out.

Luyira disagreed playfully.

-Luyira: But, my dear Aido, too much of you can never be a bad thing!

Princess Sasari chuckled at their banter.

-Sarari: As we delve into the realm of complexity, it's truly fascinating to contemplate how Destroyer transcends his singular form to embody the essence of a sturdy man and then seamlessly transforms into a collection of garments, each piece playing a vital role in his being. It's nothing short of magic.

Destroyer smiled even though the sound is heard from the clothes.

-Destroyer: As an immortal, I have been given the opportunity to learn many things. While there is much to be discovered, there is also much to be learned from what has already been revealed.

Luyira's hands gracefully danced in semi-circular movements, a spellbinding display of magic as she whispered, "MAGIC!

-Aido: Aido: In simpler terms, we are in the dark about its origins; all we can confirm is that it is a product of ancient technology.

Javier interjected, "That is the importance of recovering lost knowledge. There are things we don't know how they work, like the androids in the industrial zone. When they are ruined, they may be lost forever because we don't know how to build or repair them. My dear Sasy.

Sasari nodded thoughtfully.

-Sasari: I grasp the gravity of it all. Indeed I do.

-Luyira: Pardon my curiosity, but you bear a striking resemblance to an older iteration of Aido. Is there a means by which one can alter your apparent age?

-Sasari: And what age do you identify with?

-Destroyer: That is an intriguing inquiry. As I lack a body of flesh, I am exempt from the constraints of aging and the perception of time. I exist in a state of immortality, or rather, a state unaffected by time. While I do possess the capability to recall a numerical representation of age, it holds no significance as I am not organic, but rather an entity embodied in armor.

Alidia pondered.

-Alidia: Why are you unable to harness your abilities? How do you grasp the notion of wickedness? You are not alive, your senses are unique. How do you understand the art of dining, the timing of your consumption?

-Destroyer: At present, I am unable to access my abilities as it is not yet the appropriate moment to unveil them, my lord. There may be adjustments made to my functionality for reasons unknown to me. I have a specific role to fulfill within the larger plan, and I must exercise patience and await the opportune moment to act.

-Aido: The bizarre sight of my talking clothes has become so normalized that few bat an eye at their adult-like, sophisticated voices. Even the king's tone seems more laid-back compared to theirs.

-Luyira: It's like telepathy! You can sense the vibrations of his voice. それはたんに素晴らしいです! (It's simply amazing!)

Aido nodded.

-Aido: This is true, I can hear the vibrations in my skull, and my senses can perceive it. It is not exactly the same as a spoken word, but it is close enough to be discerned.

-Arthur: Within the walls of the academy and palace, Destroyer is a well-known figure, almost like an android. However, in your year group, he is seen frequently as your armor, so talking clothes are not as shocking. Even I have experienced the awe-inspiring might of your mother and Frenia in battle - enough to make anyone’s legs tremble.

Mary is holding Aido arm, as the other day, Luyira is doing the same all this time, meanwhile Alidia is walking beside the king and Queen, they are about to reunite with the classroom and the students.

-Mary: I have the power to leave you breathless in awe!

Luyira interjects with a teasing joke against Mary

-Luyira: Only for you look, you are so cute when you blush.

Mary: Ahhhh, you are always the tease.

The whole royal family laughed.

-Luyira: The young saint Mary is being shy and trying to hide.

As I approach the group of students, a familiar sight comes into view - Sakura and Carlos sprinting towards us, their presence adding a touch of predictability to the moment. "Sakura, my love!" she exclaims, launching herself into Luy's arms, who effortlessly catches her and hoists her up with a loving ease that borders on paternal. "Now the morning feels complete," Sakura proclaims with a grin. All eyes turn towards us, intrigued by the arrival of these significant individuals, but the sight of Sakura and Luy's customary exchange somehow manages to diffuse the tension. Sakura, in her usual way, teases Luyira, and I can't help but wonder if there's more than just friendly affection between them. It seems like Luy does, but with Sakura, I can sense a mixture of lust and affection.

-Sakura: You look radiant as always!

Luyira grins

-Luyira: Thank you, my sweet, you look beautiful as ever.

"You two have such an interesting dynamic."

- Sakura: Luyira, it's a pleasure to see you again.

-Luyira: And why wouldn't it be, it's not like I've moved.

- Sakura: Of course not, but it's good to know that we are together again, right Carlos.

-Carlos: Yeah, you don't realize how much you miss a routine until you can't do it, but the most important thing is that everything is fine.

- Sakura: Right, but why didn't you invite us, I could have had a delicious breakfast with you, and now I have to suffer from hunger, my body will starve.

- Luyira: Don't worry, if you want, we can share something, the kitchen staff will certainly prepare something.

- Sakura: Oh, thank you very much!

- Luyira: What are friends for, and you have to learn to eat, and not rely so much on the food of others.

-Sakura: But that's your job!

- Luyira: And yet, I'm not always going to be around.

-Sakura: Ahhhh, you are mean.

-Carlos: Don't worry Sakura, you know how the world is, it's true that we're going to have a busy day, so we'll have to have something to eat.

-Sakura: It's not the same, and what is this about?

Sakura is pointing to the saint, and the destroyer, while her eyes are open wide.

-Sakura: He is  Destroyer, he is today here with you.

-Princess Sasari: How did you know, we haven't introduced ourselves yet.

-Sakura: Ah ... ha, is because ... it is easy to identify them,it is not the first time I see your people, and the Saint is our home teacher now.

-Destroyer: A good answer.

-Carlos: So you are the Destroyer, and you look like an our uniform. So Aido it is being wearing it for today training?

-Alidia: That is, Listen everyone! As you can see this time the royals will also be in the group, I am sure that teacher Alfredo and teacher Irma mentioned that from today we will have practical classes much more often to prepare them. What they had not been told but they should keep in mind is that the exam is not an exam, since it is possible that they are assigned a higher rank to D in the people tended to call it that, but it has always been a way of seeing who is acting to protect a territory or not. We have very few who do not have the qualities of a hunter until today, but times are changing and now we need not only protectors but more adventurers more than ever.

Meanwhile my mother is telling this introduction of what we are going to do, we walk into the group of students, Mary goes to the side of the teacher, with king Arthur and queen Jessica, now I can see them well, both are wearing hunters clothes and armors. I though the queen, princess and Marceline would not participate.

-Teacher Irma: This is not a competition, but it will not be easy, so the more we can train the better, so if there is a way to improve our abilities, or even our weapons, this is the perfect time to do so.

- Teacher Alfredo: That's why I'm glad to see you have made good use of the materials we've provided.

-Alidia: Question, who knows what magic is?

-Student: Magic is a science that we do not yet understand but we are able to use.

- Alidia: That's right, many have heard the story of how we came to know that magic exists in our world when in ancient times it did not seem to exist.

-Francisco: Several centuries ago a blacksmith was creating utensils, the flame of his forge was weak, and he began to wish that there was more heat in it, and without adding more material to the forge the metal actually began to heat up more.

-Alidia: For some reason the visualization of things is important for magic or in general as you will learn later. Keep going.

-Francisco: Later, the blacksmith, realizing what was happening and remembering stories from his childhood, tried to get fire out of his hands like a super hero from children's stories or a sorcerer. Although I could feel that something was happening, it was not until I thought, and if I recite a spell, "I command nature to listen to my request, and to form flares from my hands." The result was not as expected, because if flares formed but internally in his hands and arm, causing serious injuries. Luckily this blacksmith lived in the capital and asked for an audience with the Saint to heal his wounds.

- Santa Mary: That's right, the young craftsman came up to us and told his incredible story, nothing like that had happened before that.

- Alidia: The truth was, no one believed him, since no one knew about magic, but when the Saint saw him, she confirmed that his body was injured, but also noticed something important, he vitals were erratic.

-Santa Mary: Most people has energy coming from there bodies, the more healthy one person is the more energy can be perceive.

-Destroyer: Vitality is an essential part of living beings.

- Alidia: The blacksmith had a smaller amount of vitality than a noble.

-Teacher Irma: When someone is born, the vitality is the same for everyone, although it will grow, there are exceptions.

- Santa Mary: In the case of this blacksmith he had depleted some of it.

-Alidia: At that moment we knew something had changed in the world, but what really surprised us, was what the Saint said when she healed him.

- Santa Mary: The energy from this boy, is erratic, even so he has a strong will, and is full of desire, although the injury was not a life threat, it was a very dangerous thing.

-Alidia: The blacksmith, still excited, wanted to prove that he was not dangerous, so he asked the Saint for time and if she was able to see if something was wrong. So, this time he changed his spell, thinking that there was a mistake for not being specific. "To the power of nature listen to my request, make flares form towards the front beyond the palms of my hand."

- Santa Mary: Incredibly that's what happened, flames appeared as if from a flamethrower out of the blacksmith's palms. He was very excited and glad that it worked, however when reviewing it, his vital energy was consumed even more, he seemed tired and the flames although impressive did not seem very useful for a blacksmith like him.

- Alidia: So when you hear the story, what do you think?

- Sakura: That was silly, if the blacksmith was not a noble he most likely did not possess much vital energy and put his life at risk.

- Alidia: That's right, my child. If it's silly, with some food and rest the blacksmith recovered, but he could only do 1 or 3 spells before putting his life at risk, on the other hand the blacksmith was special, because?

-Carlos: That's exactly why, the fact that he was able to do magic without previous knowledge and something that no one else had done until this moment.

- Santa Mary: Give this one a beer and pleasures, boy!

Everyone is surprised to see that Mary is not only able to look elegant and calm, if she does not have expressions like any other girl, even so her saint aura is not overshadowed by her behavior.

- Alidia: Yes, that was right, and it's not the only thing that's special about him, what else?

- Carlos: The first one, and most important was, the blacksmith was a commoner, and his magic was something very rare.

-Alidia: And how did the people react to all this?

- Francisco: The world has not changed, and there was no way to confirm that what the blacksmith did was not a miracle, or the work of the saint.

- Alidia: That's exactly right, and then it was confirmed a little later that other people were able to do magic, although there was not a very large number of people who could do it.

Just when my mother mention it, Mary goes away from the group of people and the royalty, she raise her hands and enormous flames come from her palms, she did not use a spell neither say something. Evey one was in shock including me.

Everyone was in awe, exclaiming "Wow! Amazing!" Saint Mary then commanded attention.

-Saint Mary: Now, please pay close attention.

She raised her arms once again, and a ball of light materialized before her, growing to the size of a person.

-Santa Mary: Here we go!

The ball shot up into the sky as swiftly as an arrow.

-Alidia: What is the difference between the two spells?

-Francisco: I believe the first one is an attack spell.

-Sakura: The second one seems to be a detection spell, like a beacon to prevent getting lost in the woods.

-Alidia: Good guesses. But what do you think the first spell was?

-Student: I think it was a spell that creates flames.

-Alidia: Close, but not quite. The key difference between the two, besides their appearance, is that the first spell utilized a certain energy system, where the Saint's vitality was consumed as fuel to produce the flames. In the second spell, she used her own boundless energy, simpler and in a way more potent. Notice that in both cases, she did not utter any incantations aside from "Here we go." What are your thoughts on this?

-Luyira: Perhaps spells can be cast without verbal commands.

-Alidia: There is more to consider.

-Destroyer: The essence of spellcasting lies in the visualization of energy manipulation. In the first incantation, Saint sought external assistance to transmute energy she provided, while in the second, Saint Mary, the energy was converted by herself. A delicate balance of energy conservation governed the proceedings; Retter Messiah possessed an inexhaustible wellspring, exhaustion being more a manifestation of emotional strain rather than physical depletion. In either scenario, she was the wellspring from which the spells drew power - in the first, reliant on an enigmatic external mechanism, and in the second, a master of manipulation and control, shaping the very essence of energy with her innate prowess. To others, such feats may seem unfathomable, but to her, they were simply manifestations of her undeniable power.

The students were intrigued, considering the possibility of casting spells without words. Destroyer delved deeper into the intricacies of the spells, emphasizing the importance of visualization and the preservation of energy. The group was left pondering the endless possibilities of magic and the mysteries it held.

-Alidia: As Destroyer mentioned, both cases seem the same, but let's consider what would happen in a place where this magic system does not exist. In that scenario, you would not be able to use the magic you are accustomed to. In the second case, it is your own system that transforms your energy into the result, so even without the system, you would likely still be capable of such feats. Learning all this takes a lot of time, and not everyone is expected to do the same; there are only two individuals whom we hope can do similar things.

My mother is talking about me and my brother, since we both are special. If Mary can do it, my brother can do it because both of us are the Retter Messiahs. I don't know if I am able to do it, but the Destroyer seems to confirm I can when I am wearing him. We all have the same energy, but there are differences in how it manifests in our bodies. So, the use of energy is the same, but the end result is different, which is why we have to train

-Destroyer: Rigth now does not matter why the system is here, we can use it and that is what matters.

-Saint Mary: Despite our current methodologies, they have proven to be inadequate. Individuals with these extraordinary gifts are rare. Some individuals possess talents in particular areas; for instance, I excel in healing abilities rather than combat skills, while Frenia demonstrates greater prowess in warfare.

-Alidia: Let us embark on a practical experiment. We need a volunteer - one with an audacious spirit, an open mind, unyielding determination, and an absence of fear.

-Luyira: Pick me! Me, me, me!

Jumping and eagerly waving, she offers herself, the only one seemingly impervious to wasted energy. Her honesty shines through, though she appears to be the soul unscathed by potential mishaps.

-Alidia: Luy, you possess unparalleled resilience, impervious to harm, yet physically inferior when compared to most here. Your abilities may be adept, only trailing Aido. Your speed surpasses an average citizen but lags behind any noble in the academy's freshman class. Astoundingly strong, your bunny-like features belie your full strength potential. Your agility is akin to that of a regular individual. Why do you think that is?

-Luyira: Because I need no more than that.

-Alidia: Exactly. My dear child, as long as you are happy with it, your body does not need to show more than you think is necessary.

-Luyira: Then why should I strive?

-Alidia: Because we are on the brink of unveiling a path for you to reach the heights of us, the esteemed SS hunters. Watch closely, everyone.

My mother retrieves a large shield from the arsenal and positions herself as if prepared to defend against an attack. An imperceptible glow emanates from the shield, unnoticed by many, yet exuding a mysterious energy

-Alidia: Channel your inner strength, as you always do. Fix your gaze on the shield before you and attempt to push me back. But beware, for any malice in your intent will only weaken you, just as it always has.

-Luyira: Let's do it!

The moment Luyira began to move, a strange sensation overcame my body. A loud sound can be heard from the impact of Luy, mother does not move a inch, neither the shield seem to be affected.

Alidia shook her head in disapproval.

-Alidia:This simply won't suffice. Let's up the ante, shall we? If you can't break through the shield with your punch, then alas, there shall be no Aido for you for a span of 48 hours.

Luyira's eyes widened in disbelief.

-Luyira: "WHAT?!"

With a mischievous glint in her eyes, Alidia continued.

-Alidia:Yes, dear Luyira, that shall be your penance. Mary will be enjoying all of Aido's attention, going on romantic dates, and sharing sweet moments. Kiss, kiss.

It was her playful way of goading Luy, knowing that only such a consequence would make her take things seriously. is scene fills me with a sense of embarrassment as the others around me chuckle and point in my direction.

She ran up and punched the shield. I could sense the difference in the air around the point of impact. Although I couldn't see the change, I could tell it was a forceful punch. However, nothing happened - and I'm not referring to the shield. The only noticeable effect on the field was the shock wave and change in pressure from the blow. Neither the shield showed any damage, nor did my mother budge an inch. This time, I am confident that the shield would have been shattered, even though Luy doesn't usually exhibit super strength. When she is angry, she has been known to lift weights of several tons or simply move heavy objects effortlessly. It is a wonder how a body like hers can possess such astounding power.

Luyira sighed in frustration as she admitted.

-Luyira: "It didn't work."

Alidia's curiosity piqued as she asked.

-Alidia: What didn't work?

Luyira hesitated for a moment before dismissing it with a simple, "Nothing."

Determined to uncover the truth, Alidia countered.

-Alidia: That's not true. In a typical scenario, a solid hit would at least send something flying. So why didn't it this time?

We all understand that no attack can pierce through a Retter Messiah's defense, but perhaps you could try lifting and tossing them instead. Despite their impenetrable structure, their weight is similar to that of a regular person.

The Destroyer chimed in with an explanation.

-Destroyer: As you unleashed your energy, a fierce dance began with your mother, each force pushing against the other like a relentless tug-of-war. It was as if you were trying to move a mountain with your bare hands, the weight of your punches met with an unbreakable shield of resistance. The simplest explanation: an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object.

Luyira is more confused with Destroyer words, and the rest of the group seems to share her sentiment.

-Luyira: Hmm, I don't know what you mean.

-Destroyer: You need to channel your energy with more intention and precision.

-Alidia: Don't worry, we will guide you, but the only one who can change yourself, is you.

- Luyira: How?

- Alidia: The same way a person who can walk does not have an idea how the muscles work, and if they are injured the doctors have to heal it, you don't have a idea about this, but I know you can do it, and the only thing left for you is to find a way to make it possible.

- Luyira: okie, doki, imagine, imagine it, I am stronger, I am powerful, I will punch my mother!

That last sentence worries me a little, but Luyira would not be able to harm our mother, right?

Luyira's eyes turn white for a moment and a light barely visible comes from her hands, her whole body is covered in the light and in the middle of the light we can see the silhouette of a big figure.

-Luyira: Take this!

My mother was ready for her attack since long ago this time, my mother moved a few inches back, leaving a mark on the floor of the training ground.

Alidia reassured Luyira.

-Alidia: Fear not, for we shall be your guides. Yet remember, the power to transform lies within you alone.

Intrigued, Luyira asked.

-Luyira: How can I achieve this?

-Alidia: Just as a person who walks doesn't ponder the mechanics of their muscles, entrusting their healing to doctors when injured, you may not comprehend it fully now. But believe me, you have the capacity. All that remains is for you to discover the path to unlock it.

With determination, Luyira replied, "Alright, I'll envision it. I am mighty, I am formidable. I will face any challenge head-on! Although the mention of punching her mother gave me a pause, I knew Luyira would not truly harm their mother. Suddenly, Luyira's eyes turned a ghostly white, her hands emanating a faint light that enveloped her entire being, casting a shadow of a colossal figure within it. In a burst of energy, Luyira declared, "Witness my strength!" Prepared for the onslaught, their mother gracefully withstand the attack, leaving a trail etched into the ground of their training area.

Alidia turned to the group with curiosity shining in her eyes,

-Alidia: Can anyone shed light on what just transpired?"

Sakura pondered for a moment before replying.

-Sakura: I believe it unfolded exactly as she intended. I managed to maneuver her without causing any harm to you or the shield.

-Alidia: Correct, this time, Luyira used more power to move me rather than harm me. Still, in battle, the important thing is to damage the opponent. Even Frenia is able to knock out enemies, even if she cannot finish them. As for the restriction we know of Retter Messiah not being able to kill a living being, she can harm it until a state where others can do it. This is acceptable in their nature.

Luyira chimed in proudly

-Luyira: You see, Aido, I may be the best, but I would never dream of hurting our mother.

Aido beckoned her closer with a promise.

-Aido: Come here, and you shall receive your well-deserved reward.

With a mischievous giggle, Luyira approached him, allowing him to gently stroke her head as their mother continued her explanation.

Alidia interjected, emphasizing the significance of Luyira's intention to push without malice, pointing out the magical aspect that could be harnessed with practice.

-Alidia: Perhaps it is magic, but just like any science, it follows rules and can be honed to perfection.

Saint Mary redirected the conversation, inquiring about the criteria for achieving a B or higher rank as a hunter. Sakura answered with certainty.

-Sakura: It's simple - kill many beasts and ensure the protection of others. The more you do, the higher your rank.

Saint Mary interjected, shedding light on the transformative power of visualization techniques for warriors like Frenia.

-Saint Mary: In the past, this method has helped elevate hunters to new heights, with even Rank E hunters, who prioritize protecting civilians over creature slaying.

Alidia delved into the specifics of D and C ranks, describing them as seasoned hunters who have dispatched a substantial number of beasts.

-Alidia: The path to progression always involves more kills.

Saint Mary concluded with a profound insight,

-Saint Mary: Rank B is reserved for those who can utilize magic in ways that set them apart from their peers, showcasing unparalleled abilities within the hunting community.

Alidia's voice carried a mystical quality as she instructed us to partake in the upcoming exercise.

-Alidia: Gather a wooden sword and position yourselves in front of the wooden targets that shimmer in the field.

She beckoned. We stepped in unison towards the wooden weapons that resembled majestic swords, each piece waiting to be wielded. The field was adorned with practice targets made of wood, inviting us to channel our inner warriors. Without hesitation, even the royals among us grasped a sword and took their stance. Luy, ever one to act impulsively, defied expectations by effortlessly cleaving a piece of wood in two with a single strike.

Astonished, Saint Mary praised her.

-Saint Mary: Oh my, it seems that Luyira has become quite skilled at wielding a sword.

Luyira nodded proudly in agreement as Alidia continued to instruct.

Sakura, bursting with pride, exclaimed.

-Sakura: Ah, my beloved, you are truly gifted from birth.

Luyira, with a mischievous gleam in her eye, retorted.

-Luyira: Hehehe, I'm actually Barbara.

A collective gasp escaped our mother as the unexpected display unfolded before us, proving that perhaps this was the task meant for us all along.

-Alidia: I don't expect everyone to replicate Luy's feat within moments.

Alidia emphasized.

-Alidia: But the essence of this exercise lies in mastering the technique to seamlessly slice through wood just as you would with a steel blade. Now, observe as I demonstrate.

A hunter arrived at the training grounds carrying an unusual item – a jelly of sorts? Alidia's voice filled the air once more with tales of her past battles.

-Alidia: In my early days of combat, I once attempted to uproot a tree with sheer force, only to find myself unable to do so. Instead, I tore a fragment of wood from it. The stories of superheroes effortlessly lifting structures and soaring through the skies may linger in our minds, but reality often unfolds quite differently. Applying excessive force tends to shatter rather than conquer. Hence, I wielded the wooden splinter as a makeshift weapon until a proper one was secured, albeit of little use in the end.

Her next move left us in awe. As she gingerly made contact with the jelly sword, the expected wobble and jiggle transformed into an unyielding stance, akin to a genuine blade. The jelly had morphed into a solid and unwavering entity before our very eyes.

Alidia's eyes sparkled with intrigue as she explained the mysterious force she possessed.

-Alidia: If you can harness this enigmatic power on an object as I do in my shield with precision, they will fortify its structure. The energy required depends on the material; I can transform this jelly sword into a weapon as mighty as Vitrilium. Remarkably, a Vitrilium sword can be strengthened with far less energy.

My mother wielded the jelly sword effortlessly, effortlessly slicing through a solid stone before our astonished eyes. "Now, behold," Alidia proclaimed.

We couldn't tear our gaze away from her. Even the esteemed royals and seasoned hunters were wide-eyed and spellbound. Suddenly, the jelly sword lost its solidity, melting into a sticky puddle at my mother's feet.

-Alidia: I trust no one was expecting a snack.

Alidia quipped. Laughter erupted hesitantly from the onlookers, clearly a result of nervous tension, as she challenged us to replicate her feat. Could I, too, channel the destructive strength and accomplish such a feat? When my thoughts wandered to this notion, Destroyer, my constant companion, reassured me.

-Destroyer: Certainly, I possess ample power. Your physical form may not match mine, but together, we are a formidable force.

I realized he could discern my intentions and meet my needs.

Aido inquired

-Aido: So you suggest I believe we are one?"

-Destroyer: Indeed.

Destroyer affirmed.

-Destroyer: United as a singular entity, we are one in mind, body, and spirit.

-Aido: Alright, let us begin.

I focused on the task at hand, and before I knew it, I unintentionally tapped into the immense strength of Destroyer. The wooden sword shattered within seconds, sending splinters flying everywhere. However, the target remained intact, bearing only a mark from where I made contact – a stark contrast to Luyira, who effortlessly destroyed her target. My companions observed the outcome, with Saint Mary examining the target and commenting.

-Saint Mary: Well, Aido, you did not manage to cut it, but you did leave a mark with your strike.

Surprised, I responded

-Aido: What? Luyira was able to slice through the target!

Trying to encourage me, Alidia reassured.

-Alidia: Stay composed, Aido. You can do it if you focus.

In a demonstration of skill, Sakura successfully made a small cut on the target. All eyes then turned to me. Feeling the pressure and the weight of Destroyer's power that I had only ever wielded in combat simulations, I pondered.

-Aido: I sense Destroyer's gaze upon me. I have relied on its strength solely in training battles.

-Destroyer: The art of manipulating energy comes naturally, but true mastery comes with dedicated practice. Luyira, on the contrary, is a prodigy, effortlessly excelling in every endeavor. Just as you have mastered the basic functions of life, Luyira possesses a unique gift that surpasses ordinary abilities. Remember, just because Luyira shines brightly, it does not dim your own potential.

Realizing this, I resolved.

-Aido: You're right. I must attempt it.

Suddenly, a strange sensation enveloped me, as if I were engulfed in shimmering lights intermingled with dark clouds. A vision of forgotten memories flickered in my mind. As I focused on the target before me, I channeled my energy into the new wooden sword I had retrieved. With determination, I declared, “Clean cut!” Upon the sword's contact with the target, a dazzling light enveloped us, accompanied by a deafening sound. In an instant, Destroyer transformed from a beret into a full helmet, shielding me from harm as the wooden target disintegrated and a crater formed around us, leaving us unscathed amidst the destruction.

Sakura inquired.

-Sakura: Aido, are you alright?

Luyira expressed a mix of concern and playfulness as he remarked that he was intentionally making inappropriate contact with my body while hugging me.

-Luyira: What happened, Aido? Take it easy.

While our mother observed with astonishment, she remained composed, remarking.

-Alidia: We theorized that energy could be harnessed differently. Your weapon was reinforced with a more volatile and chaotic energy. To control it, you must maintain calmness and envision cutting through a piece of bread rather than an opponent. Luyira cut the target because she imagine it from the begining, but she never have the intention of harm something living. Luyira skillfully sliced through the target with precision, visualizing each move before executing it. Her intent was never to harm any living being.

Although I have never considered harming a living being, I cannot deny that my mind is currently in turmoil. Since the childhood attack and the loss of Ninaies Hernandez in that incident, I have been apprehensive of people. While it brings me joy to have Luyira and my mother by my side, the traumatic experiences have left me feeling overwhelmed. It seems that the negative events from my past carry more weight in my thoughts than the positive ones. I do not fully comprehend this phenomenon, but I recognize it as a contributing factor to my current actions being misguided.

After numerous attempts, a group of teachers including Mary and my own mother, along with the ever-helpful Luyira, were assisting other students. To everyone's surprise, it was only Sakura who could fully grasp Luyira's explanations, using onomatopoeias and playful methods that seemed to soothe me in ways I couldn't quite explain

-Luyira: First you mhm, then you gah!, and when it lands, it's a big shooo!

-Sakura: Yes, yes, I know, right?, Luyira, I understand what you're saying.

-Luyira: It's like this.

-Sakura: Like this?

-Luyira: That's right.

-Sakura: I see, I see, so it's like that.

-Luyira: Right, right.

I must admit that I feel a tinge of jealousy being left on my own; however, on the other hand, I also sense a decrease in pressure. Carlos appears to be the first to meet the target, but initially, he experienced struggles similar to mine and those of the others.

-Carlos: phew, I am taking a rest if possible? I am not a energy monster like you guys.

-Luyira: Hehehe, you said it.

-Sakura: Yes, yes, take a break.

-Carlos: Thanks, but I will keep my eyes on you, Sakura.

Sakura's determination is propelling her past the halfway mark of her target, while Francisco has been gradually honing his skills, managing to slice through multiple targets. Initially, it took him 6 attempts to cut them in half, but now he has streamlined his technique to just 2 strokes. His progress is evident in the visible fatigue that lingers, but he is steadily closing in on Carlos's level of success.

-Saint Mary: It seems Francisco is the serious and hardworking type. Ultimately, it is just a matter of time. Nevertheless, most of the students are displaying talents that surpass those of previous generations.

-Alidia: The energy and the technique is improving, still, there are many things to work on.

-Saint Mary: That is true.

-Alidia: Luyira is already at the mastery level.

One of the reasons I was separated from the students is due to... Even though my sword remains unscathed, the targets continue to burst into fragments.

-Destroyer: Behold, my lord, your wandering mind has guided you to success.

-Aido: What? I did it?

As I look upon the target, cleanly split in two without an explosive burst, I realize my achievement. My focus was on avoiding harm to others, but now I see the need for further training to control my formidable power.

-Destroyer: I am delighted to witness your mastery over my powers.

In my moment of triumph, seeking recognition, Princess Sasari stole the spotlight, drawing the admiration of the crowd. The other students are not yet able to achieve this, but they are steadily progressing, as Mary mentioned. It seems that with a few more attempts, everyone will succeed.

-Luyira: Bravo, my dear, encouragement is vital. Even for a genius like me, acknowledgment is a welcome feeling, isn't it?

Luyira embraces me once more, her support and understanding unwavering. She knows my thoughts and feelings, and she is right.

- Aido: Well done, Luy, I share in our joy.

-Luyira: Hehehe, let's not forget Mary and Alidia, they are part of this family.

It was as though they had caught wind of her presence, as the two of them flashed matching smiles in our direction, silently assuring me that their watchful gaze never wavered, even if I couldn't sense it.