Curiosity

That morning, Akira Yoshitsuki walked slowly alongside his twin sister, Kurumi. They were part of a renowned family of pillar sorcerers, and it was well-known that their magical abilities, particularly Akira's, were above average. However, Akira's blindness meant he had to rely on Kurumi for everyday tasks. Despite this, Akira's powerful magic, especially his ability to "see" through magic, allowed him to navigate the world quite well without normal sight.

Kurumi linked her arm with Akira's as they made their way to the Omniforge building, where high-ranking and highly potential students studied. The building stood majestically, showcasing futuristic architecture. Kurumi looked a bit worried, even though they had faced similar situations many times before.

"Akira, are you sure you'll be okay? I won't be in your class this time," Kurumi said gently, her voice tinged with concern. 

Akira offered a faint smile, his eyes as unfocused as ever. "Kurumi, I'll be fine. Don't worry," he replied calmly. "You know I can still 'see' clearly, just not in the usual way." 

Kurumi sighed softly. She knew how powerful Akira was, but as his twin sister, she couldn't help but feel anxious every time they had to part ways. They had been together since childhood, and although Akira managed his blindness through magic, Kurumi still felt a strong sense of responsibility to protect him.

"Alright," Kurumi finally said, slowly releasing her grip. "But if anything goes wrong, call me, okay? I'll always be there for you." 

Akira smiled again, this time warmer. "Kurumi, I know. I'll be fine; just relax. Focus on your class. We can meet up again later after lessons." 

With a reluctant nod, Kurumi turned toward her own class. Akira paused for a moment, sensing his sister's departure, before stepping into his own class in Omniforge. Though physically blind, Akira used his magic to detect the energy around him. All the objects and people nearby appeared as colorful energy auras, providing him with a clear picture of the world surrounding him.

As he walked, his mind wandered back to the events in the hall during the new student welcoming ceremony. One thing kept nagging at him—a girl from the Neoforge group. Even though she was far away among the other students, Akira had immediately sensed an incredibly strong energy emanating from her. Her magical power was so immense that it made Akira wonder why she was in Neoforge and not in Omniforge with the other talented sorcerers.

'Does she not realize her own power?' Akira pondered. But after thinking it over, he quickly realized this might not be a matter of ignorance. The girl must be aware of her strength; she simply chose to conceal it.

His thoughts continued to swirl as he reached the door to his classroom. The Omniforge classroom was more modern and futuristic compared to Neoforge, equipped with advanced magical technology, high-tech tools, and far superior facilities. The students here were those considered to have extraordinary potential, and Akira was one of them.

He took a seat in the corner, trying to concentrate on the lesson that was about to start. Still, his thoughts kept drifting back to that girl—Luna, if he remembered her name correctly. 

Akira closed his eyes for a moment, recalling the energy of the girl in his mind. There was no way he was mistaken. Her energy was clearly beyond the Interferer category. She might even rival a Dominator or more. Why was she in Neoforge?

While Akira was lost in thought, another student sat down next to him. "Hey, Akira, what's up? You look like you're daydreaming," he said jokingly. 

Akira snapped out of his reverie and smiled slightly. "Oh, I'm fine. Just thinking about something." 

The student chuckled softly. "Thinking about something or someone?" he teased, nudging Akira playfully.

Akira just shook his head with a smile still on his face, but deep down, he knew there was something more significant than mere curiosity. The girl named Luna, who was in Neoforge—she was not just an ordinary student.

Before long, their teacher entered the classroom, and the atmosphere turned serious. Omniforge students were known for being competitive and ambitious, always racing to be the best. The teacher began explaining the day's lesson—advanced magical theory on energy resonance and how to optimize magic in battle scenarios. Akira listened attentively, yet his thoughts kept returning to the girl he had spotted from afar.

After the lesson ended, Akira stood up from his seat, preparing to leave the classroom. As he walked out, he overheard some students discussing the upcoming magical ability test. 

"I heard the test is pretty tough. Even for us in Omniforge, a lot of people failed last year," one student said. 

"Yeah, especially since we have to face off against the Neoforge students too. Even if they're ranked lower than us, some of them could be formidable opponents," another added. 

Akira paused for a moment, hearing their conversation. 'Neoforge students… including that girl,' he thought. He felt increasingly certain that Luna was deliberately hiding her power. And for some reason, he felt compelled to uncover the truth behind it.

As Akira stepped out of the classroom, he found Kurumi waiting for him outside. Her face was full of worry, as usual. 

"How was your class?" Kurumi asked, immediately linking her arm with Akira's. 

"Good. Just as I expected," Akira replied casually. "How about you?" 

Kurumi let out a sigh of relief. "It was alright. But I still worry about us being apart like this." 

Akira chuckled softly. "Kurumi, I'm fine. I can still see better than most people here, just not with these eyes." 

Kurumi smiled, but there was still a hint of concern in her eyes. "I know. But I can't help but worry."

The spacious and modern Omniforge building felt cold and formal, with neon lights reflecting silver glimmers off the metal walls. However, Akira, who was blind, perceived the world in his own way—through the energy flowing around him. Kurumi gently linked her arm with his, as always, guiding their steps through the crowd of students bustling toward the cafeteria.

As they walked, someone suddenly caught up to them from behind. The footsteps were clear amidst the murmurs of students making their way to lunch. Akira turned slightly, and even though he couldn't see directly, his magic sensed a strong energy approaching. The energy felt subtle yet solid, indicating an impressive mastery of magic.

"Hey, Akira!" a casual voice called out. Akira recognized the voice but needed a moment to place it. 

The girl finally walked alongside them and introduced herself. "I'm Madalyn. Madalyn Naventhius, from the Naventhius family. It seems we're in the same class, right?" she said, her smile almost infectious.

Akira, despite his blindness, turned a little in her direction. "Ah, yes. I remember," he replied briefly. He hadn't been very involved in interactions with his classmates, focusing more on himself. However, Madalyn was one of the more prominent students—not just because her family was one of the seven pillar families of sorcerers, but also due to her high ranking as a Dominator.

Kurumi, standing beside Akira, eyed Madalyn with a hint of suspicion. She was always protective of her brother, especially since Akira often became the center of attention due to his blindness, despite his extraordinary abilities. 

Madalyn smiled widely and continued, "I was quite surprised to hear that the Yoshitsuki family finally allowed one of you to step out of their residence. You've always seemed like legends—locked behind the tall walls of your home. Some even say you never leave at all."

Akira paused for a moment, digesting what Madalyn had just said. The comment felt odd to him. While it was true that the Yoshitsuki family had strict rules, especially regarding Akira's condition, he didn't think it was a suitable topic for an outsider to discuss. 

Before Akira could respond, Kurumi stepped forward, her tone icy. "Our family matters are our own, Madalyn. There's no need for you to interfere." 

Madalyn chuckled softly, seemingly unfazed by Kurumi's sharp tone. "Oh, don't get me wrong, Kurumi," she said, sounding a bit smug. "I'm just curious. As fellow sorcerers from pillar families, shouldn't we be more open with each other? After all, relationships among the pillar families are important, aren't they?"

Akira remained silent, listening to the exchange between his sister and Madalyn. Although Madalyn tried to speak in a friendly tone, there was something about her words that made the situation feel uncomfortable. 

Kurumi fixed a sharp gaze on Madalyn, even if the latter might not have sensed the intensity of it. "If that's what you mean, I appreciate your desire to 'strengthen connections,' but we don't need that kind of attention," Kurumi replied coldly. "Our family is doing just fine on its own."

Madalyn smirked, slightly shrugging. "Alright, if that's what you want. But remember, in the world of sorcerers, we all need each other. The strength of each pillar family determines the balance of power in this world. I think the more we get to know each other, the better."

Finally speaking up, Akira's tone was calm but firm. "Madalyn, I appreciate your concern, but what happens within our family isn't something that needs to be discussed here. Every pillar family has its own way of doing things, including the Naventhius family."

Madalyn laughed again, but this time it sounded colder. "You're right, Akira. Every family has its secrets, and I suppose that's part of what makes us all intriguing." Her gaze was sharp, though she maintained a façade of friendliness. "I'll be on my way now. But remember, I'm always curious about how this world of sorcerers evolves. See you in class."

With that, Madalyn left, leaving Akira and Kurumi standing in the hallway leading to the cafeteria. Kurumi appeared unsatisfied with the interaction, her face clearly showing discomfort. 

"Kurumi, it's fine," Akira said gently, trying to ease the tension his sister felt. "She's just trying to provoke us, that's all."

Kurumi turned to Akira, her eyes still full of concern. "I don't like the way she talks. Madalyn might be speaking politely, but I can sense her intentions aren't entirely genuine." 

Akira smiled slightly. "We can't control what others say or think. All we can do is live our lives."

Kurumi sighed softly. "I know, but it still makes me uncomfortable." 

They continued their way to the cafeteria, the atmosphere between them still feeling a bit awkward after the encounter with Madalyn. Upon arriving, they found the usual bustling scene of students enjoying lunch. The Omniforge and Neoforge cafeterias were combined into one, and often students from Omniforge looked down on those from Neoforge, even if it wasn't always overt.

Akira and Kurumi chose a seat in the corner, away from the bustling crowd. Akira couldn't shake off Madalyn's words. Although she appeared indifferent, there was something unsettling in the girl's tone. It wasn't just about their family; it was also how Madalyn spoke as if she knew more about them than she should.

"Kurumi," Akira began softly, "do you think Madalyn knows something about us that others don't?"

Kurumi looked at her brother seriously. "I don't know, but I wouldn't underestimate her. The Naventhius family is one of the seven pillar families of sorcerers. We need to be cautious."

Akira nodded in agreement. He understood that despite his immense power, the magical world was filled with intrigue and secrets. Each pillar family, including his own, harbored many secrets that outsiders should never know. Now, he sensed that Madalyn might know more than she was letting on.

They continued their lunch in silence, but Akira felt that this was just the beginning of something much bigger—something involving not only their families but also the future of the magical world.

The cafeteria atmosphere felt tense, as usual, when students from Neoforge and Omniforge shared the same space. Even though Akira was blind, he could sense the energy and emotions swirling around him. There was a clear divide—Omniforge students occupied the larger tables, often speaking in loud tones, while Neoforge students appeared quieter, typically huddled in corners as if trying to avoid attention.

"Why do they always look down on Neoforge students?" Kurumi asked, pulling Akira from his thoughts.

Akira smiled faintly. "It's simple, Kurumi. Neoforge is seen as the lower class, so they feel entitled to belittle us."

Kurumi scanned the cafeteria. "But I don't understand; aren't they all sorcerers too? Why should there be such a big difference?"

Akira shrugged. Although he couldn't see the expressions on people's faces, his magic allowed him to feel the emotional currents in the room. "Power is everything in this world, Kurumi. Those at Omniforge are considered stronger, more talented, and more deserving of the best resources. That's why Neoforge students often feel overlooked. But not all Neoforge students are weak; they just aren't given the opportunity to showcase their potential."

Kurumi sighed, then looked at her brother intently. "And you can feel all of that, right? Without seeing?"

Akira nodded. "Yes, I can sense their emotions—frustration, dissatisfaction... and also repressed anger."

As they spoke, Akira suddenly felt a strong magical energy enter the cafeteria. The energy was so potent that it made his body tingle slightly, and he immediately knew who was emanating it. He had felt this powerful magic during the new student induction ceremony not long ago, coming from someone in the Neoforge line.

His closed eyes narrowed slightly as he concentrated on the source of the power. Akira turned his head toward the entrance of the cafeteria, where the energy was coming from. "Kurumi," he whispered, leaning slightly toward his sister, "who is that girl who just walked into the cafeteria? She's from Neoforge."

Kurumi followed his vacant gaze and spotted two girls who had just entered. "Do you mean the girl with black hair? That's Luna, from Neoforge. She's with her friend, Aria."

"Luna…" Akira murmured, trying to absorb the information. The immense magical energy he sensed definitely came from the girl named Luna. He couldn't be mistaken.

Thinking quickly, Akira stood from his seat. "I need to talk to her."

Kurumi gasped and grabbed his arm, preventing him from moving. "Akira, wait! What are you doing? You don't even know them. You can't just approach someone like that!"

Gently but firmly, Akira released Kurumi's grip. "I have to talk to her, Kurumi. It's important."

Kurumi, still anxious, reluctantly let Akira go. However, she quickly followed him, trying to stay close. Akira walked confidently toward Luna and Aria, his steps steady even though he couldn't see, as he could feel their magical presence.

Luna and Aria were sitting at a table, deep in conversation when Akira suddenly stopped in front of them. The sound of his footsteps made them both pause and look up at him.

"Are you Luna and Aria?" Akira started, his voice calm yet confident. "I'm Akira Yoshitsuki."

Luna stared at Akira, slightly confused. There was something different about the figure standing before her. His unfocused eyes and serene posture made him seem mysterious. But Luna remained quiet, allowing Akira to continue.

"I'm interested in you, Luna," he said, his tone deep and steady.

The statement left Aria and Kurumi speechless. Kurumi, standing not far behind, quickly stepped forward. "Akira, what are you talking about?" she exclaimed, panic in her voice as she tugged at her twin's arm. "You can't say things like that out of the blue!"

Aria looked at Kurumi with curiosity, while Luna simply regarded Akira with a blank expression. Yet beneath her calm facade, Luna felt a bit surprised. She didn't know how to react to such a direct statement.

Noticing Kurumi's nervousness and Aria's shock, Akira chuckled softly, realizing how his words might sound strange. "I'm sorry; I guess that came out wrong." He raised his hand slightly, signaling for everyone to remain calm. "What I mean is that I'm intrigued by you, Luna, because I can sense your power. Your magical energy is incredibly strong. In fact, I don't understand why you're in Neoforge and not in Omniforge."

Luna didn't respond immediately. She let Akira's words hang in the air for a moment before raising an eyebrow slightly. "You... can feel my power?" she asked, her tone curious.

Akira nodded, even though his eyes looked elsewhere, as if he could see Luna clearly. "Yes, my magic allows me to sense the energy and strength of others. From the first time I felt it during the induction ceremony, I knew you weren't an ordinary sorcerer. But I don't understand why you chose to be in Neoforge."

Luna remained calm, though inside, she felt a twinge of unease. She had been very careful to conceal her power, but it seemed that Akira possessed an ability unlike others, allowing him to detect it. "I didn't choose anything," she replied flatly. "I'm in Neoforge because that's what my test results indicated."

Akira smiled faintly, as if not fully convinced. "Maybe, but I sense there's more to it. Not many can hide their strength so well, but I can feel it emanating from you. Your power is greater than it appears."

Kurumi, now worried again, interjected. "Akira, you can't just approach people and talk about their powers. That's rude."

Akira nodded. "I'm sorry if I intruded, but I just want to know more. I'm sure there's a reason you're here, Luna, and I hope we can talk more later."

Luna offered a faint smile. "We'll see about that," she replied, her voice remaining steady.

Akira nodded, and after exchanging farewell pleasantries, he turned to leave, with Kurumi nervously bowing her head toward Luna. Meanwhile, Luna watched Akira's retreating back, realizing she might need to be more cautious from now on. There was someone who could see through her facade, and that made her feel slightly on edge.

***