"I need some fresh air..."With each step, Ryoshu walked over to the window, feeling the soft carpet under his bare feet. He reached the window and flung it wide open, allowing the crisp, cool night air to rush into the room. The sudden temperature change made him shiver slightly, but it was a welcome sensation. He rested his hands on the windowsill, feeling the smooth, excellent wood beneath his fingers. It had a slightly worn texture, a testament to the many times he had leaned on it, lost in thought. He took a deep breath, letting the refreshing breeze fill his lungs, and closed his eyes momentarily, savoring the sensation.Opening his eyes, he looked up at the moon, which hung brilliantly in the night sky, casting a silver glow over everything. The moon was full, its round face shining with an almost supernatural brightness, illuminating the landscape with a soft, ethereal light. The stars twinkled more brightly around it as if they were drawing attention to the moon's magnifice

The exam had barely concluded, yet Charlotte and Katia were already waiting in their usual spot under the giant oak tree near the entrance of the school courtyard. The spot was their favorite, providing a mix of shade and comfort, making it a perfect rendezvous point. Esther noticed them immediately as she exited the examination hall, her heart warming at the sight of her two best friends already there as if they had eagerly anticipated her arrival."Shall I go say hello?" Esther pondered momentarily, a small, mischievous smile playing on her lips. She could never resist the urge to greet her friends in the most cheerful way possible. With a newfound energy, she decided to make her way towards them. Her steps were light and quick, and she waved energetically, her hand high to catch their attention."Halloo~" she called out, her voice carrying a musical lilt that echoed through the courtyard. This was her warmest and most affectionate greeting, one she reserved exclusively for Charl

"Now, I must push myself harder to catch up with Haruki and Charlotte! I can't afford to rest on my laurels just because I secured the top spot in the entrance exam!" she resolved, feeling a surge of determination. She stood by her window, gazing at the horizon as the sun set, casting a golden glow over the academy grounds. With its towering spires and sprawling courtyards, this place had become her new world, where every day was a test of her abilities and resilience.The memory of the exam still lingered in her mind. The grueling hours spent pouring over books, the sleepless nights practicing spells and techniques, all leading to that moment when her name was announced as the top scorer. It had been a moment of triumph, a validation of her hard work. But now, standing at the brink of a new challenge, she knew it wasn't enough. The competition was fierce, and she couldn't afford to be complacent."But the title of Star Student definitely won't be mine anymore," she muttered to hers

"Are you okay, Ryoshu? You look... different. I mean, you've changed a lot. No, maybe a little bit. Two weeks ago, you looked so different compared to now," she said, her voice filled with confusion and curiosity. Her eyes scanned his face, taking in the gaunt cheeks, the shadows under his eyes, and the air of weariness that seemed to cling to him. There was something profoundly altered in his demeanor, a certain gloominess that hadn't been there before.She stood there, her mind racing to understand the transformation before her. Just a fortnight ago, Ryoshu had been a vibrant young man with confidence in his step and a hopeful glimmer in his eyes. Now, he seemed almost a shadow of his former self, as if his life had been drained.Then, a mischievous idea sparked in her mind. She decided to mock the person standing before her, hoping to provoke a reaction. Turning to Charlotte, she sneered, "I can't believe this idiot confessed to you, Charlotte."Her voice carried a biting edge,

She could no longer sense his presence as if he had vanished into thin air. The realization hit her like a cold splash of water, leaving her momentarily stunned. Her equally bewildered friends exchanged puzzled glances, their confusion mirroring her own."Where is he? That bastard!" Esther's voice was a mix of fury and disbelief. Her eyes darted around the bustling square, desperately trying to locate him amidst the crowd. The bright lights and festive decorations now seemed mocking, highlighting the stark contrast between her inner turmoil and the surrounding merriment.'Damn it, he ruined the best day of my life!' she fumed silently, her hands balling into tight fists. The frustration bubbled up inside her, threatening to spill over.Haruki, ever the peacemaker, stepped in. His gentle smile, a constant source of comfort, appeared as he laid a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Calm down, Esther. Remember we still have your father's party to look forward to?" His voice was calm and