​"Everything that I am is a gift as well as a curse."

Rumors about an infamous Mage-sprout - Azalea "The Bewitched"- had been circling around the Hunter's Council. Such rumors tend to attract the attention of various organizations. It's easy to tell with the uncanny similarities the men enquiring often possess. These malicious gossips had produced troublesome situations for Azalea's demon hunting job. Most hunters are afraid to team-up with her and some people are reluctant to make a hunting request with her involved.

During her solo hunt in Dimatagpuan Region, four students from the renowned school, AB Academy, appeared before her with an odd offer. This academy's Headmaster had grown a sudden interest in her skills as a Mage and he wants her to enroll as one of his scholars. It is the most unexpected offer which might as well bring the greatest change in her current lifestyle. Is she prepared to leave behind her normal daily life of hunting and fighting, to turn it around into an unusual daily life of socializing and schooling? How will she respond to her new environment as she learns more about who she really is?

Defiant

Kris taps Tristan’s shoulder while pointing at the door. “Hurry and prepare that rifle.” He speaks softly. “I’ll guide you.” 


“I did get some basic training but I’ve never shot a person before.” Tristan speaks softly. His hands are trembling while holding the rifle. 


“There are also a lot of students outside who never fought against robots or monsters before but that’s beside the point.” He retorts while extending his hand. “We cannot waste time. If you don’t want to pull the trigger then give it to me. I am not well versed in firearms since I was trained to use weapons that don’t make much noise.” 


“Y-you’ve never held a gun before?” 


“That’s right. You just have to pull the trigger, right?” 


Counter 29: Depth-less Crystal II