Life Gallery 9 - Hunter Paths

Scene: Debrief in Class – Superpower Control

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER TRAINING GROUND – MORNING

The training grounds of St. Alaric Academy are alive with energy as students spread out, their powers flickering and sparking in controlled bursts. The open space is perfect for practice, allowing for demonstrations without the risk of accidents in confined areas. The sun hangs low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the grounds. Professor Aster, a stern yet knowledgeable figure, stands before the group of students, his presence commanding respect.

Professor Aster (calmly): "Stability. That's what separates an amateur from a true hunter. Without stability, your power is as dangerous to you as it is to your enemy."

He pauses, letting his words sink in

Professor Aster (continuing): "A way to control your superpower is to use it for specific, highly accurate tasks. Your task today is to use your power to form something specific. Shapes, structures—something stable. Your result does not need to be a product of your power but your power must be related to your result."

He gestures toward a designated area where students can demonstrate.

Professor Aster (nodding toward the students): "Let's begin. Show me how you can manipulate your powers."

The first student steps forward, Elena Vark—a short, slender girl with vibrant blue hair, her sharp eyes focused on the task.

Elena (confident, focusing): "I'll start."

Elena raises her hands, and the wind around her stirs. A small cyclone forms above a lump of clay on the ground. With precise control, she manipulates the cyclone to shape the clay into a smooth, swirling pot. The wind dies down as she finishes, and the pot remains intact.

Elena (smirking, stepping back): "Not too bad."

A few students clap in admiration. Aster nods approvingly.

Professor Aster (pleased): "Good. High precision."

Elena is well-known as some of the best sculptors in the Sculpting Club. Her precision is among the best, even higher than Shizuka. Though, she is not really suitable for combat due to her lack of her raw power in air manipulation.

The second student, Grigor Stone, a large, muscular boy with a square jaw and cropped black hair, steps forward. He commands the earth.

Grigor (determined): "Watch this."

He slams his fists into the ground, and the earth trembles beneath him. Stone and soil rise, forming into a crude golem shape. But before Grigor can fully stabilize the structure, it collapses back into rubble. He groans in frustration.

Grigor (grumbling): "Still can't get it right."

Professor Aster (sternly): "Stabilize the foundation before you go for size, Grigor. It's not a race."

Next, it's Fenix's turn.

Fenix stepped forwards. He focuses on his blood magic, and a beautiful crimson flower begins to bloom from a stream of his blood—an elegant, detailed blood aster. The petals curve and twist until the flower appears lifelike, shimmering in the sunlight.

Fenix (smiling, theatrically): "Behold, the beauty of our clan's sacred arts."

A few students gasp at the precision, even Elena mutters something in awe.

Next, Shizuka steps up. Her long bronze hair sways in the wind, and her calm, focused demeanor shows her readiness. Water gathers around her in a swirling vortex, forming the shape of a majestic horse. In one fluid motion, Shizuka freezes the water, transforming it into a detailed ice sculpture. 

Shizuka (softly, but satisfied): "Done."

However, *crack* several cracking sounds coming from the ice statue.

Professor Aster (pleased): "Excellent precision. But freezing water makes it brittle. Especially with complex structures, such as a horse."

Shizuka is surprised that her power isn't as precise as she hoped: "Thank you, professor, I'll practice harder on this."

Finally, Hugo stands before the class, his brow furrowed in concentration. He summons his black flames, but they swirl into a chaotic vortex, refusing to take any shape other than their natural form.

Hugo (frustrated, muttering): "Why can't I do this…"

He tries again, pushing the flames to mold into something—anything—but they explode outward, barely missing the nearby students. Hugo clenches his fists, his frustration evident.

Professor Aster (calmly, yet firm): "You're fighting against your power instead of working with it, Hugo. Control comes from harmony, not brute force. Keep practicing."

The trio moves off to the side, continuing their exercises. As they practice, the conversation shifts.

Fenix (glancing at Hugo): "So, cyclop, I heard you're joining Eagle Step?"

Hugo (quietly): "Yeah… I think it's the best way to control my power."

Fenix (with a dramatic sigh): "Alright. If that is your decision, I, Lord Fenix, will support you."

Shizuka remains more skeptical, her eyes narrowing slightly.

Shizuka (cynical): "Are you sure about this? Maybe I should tag along, we should not overlook their recent 'scandal'..."

Hugo looks at his friends, uncertainty lingering in his expression, but Fenix's lighthearted tone keeps the mood from darkening further.

Fenix (grinning): "I'm sure the mighty Eagle Step wouldn't mind a couple of spectators."

Scene: The Eagle Nest – Gate

EXT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – ENTRANCE – DAY

Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix walk up to the imposing gates of Eagle Step's headquarters. The structure before them is massive, constructed from dark stone and steel, with an architecture reminiscent of early 20th-century fortresses. The design is utilitarian yet grand, evoking images of military power from an older, grimmer era. The thick iron gates, adorned with eagle insignias, loom overhead, flanked by towering watchtowers that oversee the entire perimeter. The headquarters exudes an aura of authority, with banners hanging down from the walls, each emblazoned with the black eagle crest.

Shizuka glances around with skepticism, her sharp eyes scanning the imposing fortifications. The atmosphere feels cold, almost industrial—no warmth or charm to be found. Just cold efficiency.

Shizuka (skeptical, glancing around): "So, this is Eagle Step, huh? Looks like they take themselves a bit too seriously."

Fenix (smirking, trying to lighten the mood): "All Eagle Nests are impressive, dear Sea Witch. Though, I can't say the décor is particularly welcoming."

As they approach the entrance, the large wooden doors swing open with a mechanical hiss. Allenstein Domnau, dressed in her signature pink dress that sharply contrasts the grim surroundings, steps out to greet them. Her white hair flows elegantly over her shoulders, her calm demeanor somehow making the oppressive environment feel even more unnerving. The way she carries herself, delicate yet authoritative, makes her presence hard to ignore.

Allenstein (smiling warmly at Hugo): "Welcome, Hugo. It's good to see you've come."

She pauses for a moment, her eyes flicking over to Shizuka and Fenix, the surprise in her expression subtle but noticeable. She clearly wasn't expecting Hugo to bring company.

Allenstein (curious, but polite): "And you've brought company?"

Hugo shifts slightly, feeling the need to explain.

Hugo (nervously, introducing them): "Uh, yeah. These are my friends—Fenix Tepes and Shizuka Maidono. They wanted to see the place too."

Fenix bows slightly, a sly grin on his face, always ready to make a theatrical entrance.

Fenix (grinning, offering a slight bow): "Lord Fenix Tepes, at your service."

Shizuka nods politely, her sharp gaze never quite leaving Allenstein's face.

Shizuka (nodding politely): "Shizuka Maidono. Sea Witch, if that rings a bell."

Allenstein's expression softens as she recognizes Fenix's name, a hint of respect crossing her face.

Allenstein (thoughtful, with a hint of respect): "Tepes, you say? The noble family of vampires. I've heard much about your clan."

She then turns her attention to Shizuka, her eyes narrowing slightly, taking in the girl's composed demeanor and sharp tone.

Allenstein (smiling, slightly amused): "And the strongest first year student of St. Alaric. Quite the impressive company you keep, Hugo."

With formalities out of the way, Allenstein gestures for them to follow her inside the headquarters.

INT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – TRAINING GROUNDS – DAY

They step inside, passing through a series of narrow corridors lined with steel-plated walls, the dull thud of their footsteps echoing against the cold, metallic floors. The decorations are stark, minimal—World War I-era military helmets and gas masks displayed on the walls, alongside weathered flags and propaganda posters that look straight out of a wartime museum. Black-and-white photographs of past Eagle Step hunters hang in frames, their expressions grim, many standing in front of battlefields or with monsters in the background. The entire place feels like a living relic of an old war.

The training grounds themselves are enormous—far larger than anything Hugo has ever seen at the academy. The air is heavy with the smell of metal and sweat, the faint hum of magic blending with the clang of weapons and the crackle of abilities being tested. The entire space looks like a hybrid between a military drill yard and a laboratory, with intricate mechanical targets and dummies that resemble monstrous creatures.

The grounds are divided into sections, each dedicated to specific training regimens. One section is an obstacle course, lined with trenches and barbed wire, where trainees practice evasion and hand-to-hand combat. Another section is a large open field, where elemental users spar with one another, hurling fireballs, conjuring windstorms, and summoning barriers of earth.

Hunters clad in dark uniforms train rigorously, some locked in fierce one-on-one combat, while others run drills under the barked orders of veteran hunters.

At the far end of the grounds, Memel Mohrungen barks orders at a group of trainees, his stout frame and gruff voice carrying authority. His pupils clash with brutal precision, every movement calculated and designed to incapacitate their opponents.

Memel (gruffly, to his trainees): "Stay low! Faster! In a real fight, hesitation gets you killed!"

One trainee, Klaus Ritter, with the power to manipulate liquid mercury, demonstrates his skill by shaping his mercury into both shields and stakes, attacking and defending with blinding speed. His precision is flawless, the mercury shifting between forms almost effortlessly.

Allenstein (smiling, explaining as they walk): "That's Klaus Ritter. His ability to manipulate mercury allows him both offense and defense. At Eagle Step, we teach our hunters how to weaponize every part of their power. The academy's focus on precision and beauty may look nice, but here… we train for survival."

As they walk, they see another trainee, a young woman with sound manipulation powers. She claps her hands, amplifying the sound waves in specific areas to create small, controlled explosions around her opponent.

Fenix (raising an eyebrow, impressed): "Well, that's certainly... different from what we've seen at school."

Shizuka's gaze sharpens as she watches the explosive power of the sound manipulation, a look of skepticism crossing her face.

Shizuka (serious, quietly): "Creating controlled explosions with soundwaves... How creative."

Allenstein (smiling, explaining as they walk): "That's Elbing Gumbinnen. She can control sound waves. Raw power is certainly not her strength but her precision and creativity know no bounds."

The trio continues to follow Allenstein as she leads them to an open area where even more hunters are demonstrating their abilities. The sheer scale of the training grounds and the intensity of the exercises make the academy's facilities seem trivial in comparison.

Allenstein (gesturing toward the facility, with a subtle hint of superiority): "This is where we turn raw potential into survival. Sculpting statues and flowers might have its place in the classroom, but in front of real monsters? That won't help. Here, we shape powers for combat—whether it's blood, water, or sound. Everything must be used to kill or defend."

Hugo watches the demonstrations, his mind racing with the possibilities. He sees how the hunters weaponize their abilities with precision and lethality, something he's struggled to achieve. His hands clenched into fists as he realizes how far he still has to go.

Hugo (murmuring, in awe): "This... this is what I need. To control my flames like they do."

Scene: The Eagle Nest – Professional Fight

INT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – TRAINING GROUNDS – DAY

The training ground hums with activity, but Memel steps forward, locking his eyes on the trio. His burly frame is imposing, and the confidence in his gaze sets the tone. The trio gathers across from him, preparing themselves for the sparring session. Around them, other hunters and trainees stop their drills, their attention turning toward the coming spectacle.

Memel (grinning, cracking his neck): "Alright, kids. Let's see what you've got. Show me how St. Alaric students measure up."

Shizuka (smirking): "You'll be surprised, old man."

Some of the trainees nearby are surprised about the situation.

Kraus (grinning): "Huh? Sir Memel is going to fight?"

Elbing (surprised): "Teach those kids, the power of the Eagle, sir!!"

Four of them go to the middle of the training ground with many of the Eagle Step trainees surrounding them.

Memel (grinning, cracking his neck): "Alright, kids. I am ready when you are."

Fenix steps forward, twirling a blood arrow between his fingers, while Hugo summons a flicker of his black flames. Shizuka stands ready, her water beginning to coil around her in snake-like patterns.

Memel (with a mocking laugh): "Flashy powers, huh? Let's see how that works in a real fight."

Before they can react, Memel surges forward with blistering speed. Despite his stocky frame, his movements are quick and calculated. Shizuka is the first to react, sending a barrage of water snakes hurtling toward Memel.

Shizuka (focused): "Try dodging this!"

But Memel doesn't dodge. Instead, he raises his shield, deflecting the water snakes with ease. The fluid splashes against his shield, dissipating without causing any damage.

Shizuka (surprised): "He has some serious physical strength… my snakes did not even slow him down."

Fenix (grinning): "Let's see you block this!"

Fenix steps in, conjuring his blood arrows and firing them at Memel from multiple angles. The arrows fly fast and sharp, aiming for Memel's exposed legs and arms. But with a swift spin, Memel's shield blocks each shot with precision.

Memel (gritting his teeth as he braces the fire): "Hmph. Multiple directions attack? Not bad, kid. But you'll need more than that."

Memel charges forward, closing the gap between them with shocking speed. Hugo, sensing the threat, reacts instinctively. He summons his flames, the black fire swirling in his hands before he unleashes it in a wild burst toward Memel. The blast is powerful, forcing Memel to skid back, his shield glowing from the impact.

Fenix (calling out): "Let's see if you can handle this!"

Memel is knocked back a few feet, the force of Hugo's fire giving the trio a brief advantage. Seizing the opportunity, Shizuka acts quickly, freezing the ground beneath Memel's feet. Sharp ice spikes rise from the ground, aiming to pierce his legs, while Fenix conjures larger blood missiles from behind, ready to shoot them toward Memel.

But Memel grins as his body suddenly shifts. His skin takes on a metallic sheen as his Heavy Metal technique activates, transforming his entire body into dense, heavy metal. The ice spikes shatter against his legs, and the blood missiles splatter harmlessly against his body, leaving no mark.

Memel (shout): "Heavy Metal."

With a swift motion, Memel slams his foot into the ground, creating a sudden sandstorm that whirls around the trio, blinding them with dust. In the confusion, Memel moves in for the kill. His spear glints in the sun as he thrusts it forward, piercing through Fenix's side with brutal precision.

Shizuka (shocked): "Fenix! No!"

Hugo (panicking): "Fenix!!"

But Fenix, though momentarily staggered, grins through the pain, his vampire nature kicking in. Blood oozes from the wound, but he remains calm, even amused.

Fenix (smirking, his voice calm): "Oh, don't worry. Your liege is perfectly fine. I'm a vampire, remember?"

Memel (laughing): "That's why I targeted you, vampire. But if I'd aimed for one of them... well, you'd be short a teammate by now."

He turns toward Shizuka and Hugo, his tone shifting to something more serious.

Memel (gruffly, yet teaching): "You three are strong—no denying that. But strength isn't enough. You lack creativity in your attacks. You rely too much on flashy moves without considering your opponent's counters."

He looks over their exhausted forms, clearly impressed despite his harsh words.

Memel (more serious): "And teamwork? Nonexistent. You act like three solo fighters thrown together. That's not gonna fly in a real fight, kids. Out there, you need more than just raw power. You need coordination. Strategy."

The trio, still catching their breath, exchange glances. Though they didn't win, it's clear they've learned something valuable. Shizuka wipes the sweat from her brow, her expression thoughtful. Hugo, though frustrated, feels the truth of Memel's words deep in his gut.

Shizuka (nodding, respectfully): "I get it now. There's more to fighting than just power."

Hugo (determined, clenching his fists): "I'll keep practicing."

Fenix (laughing despite his wound): "Well, that was fun. But next time, I won't let you hit me so easily, old man."

Allenstein (smiling): "You did well, considering this is your first time fighting a pro hunter. If you do this with us regularly, no doubt you would become some of the strongest hunters in the world."

The trio exchange looks of determination. The scandal of Eagle Step seems like a thing of the past when they see what Eagle Step actually is in their own nest.

Scene: Debrief in Class – The Value of Education

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CLASSROOM – DAY

The classroom is bustling with students, each engaged in their own learning. The walls are adorned with charts and diagrams, depicting everything from superpower theory to dungeon mapping strategies. Professor Aster stands at the front, writing formulas and crafting techniques on the board, while students take notes diligently.

Professor Aster (calmly, as he teaches): "Now, as we discussed before, creating stability in your powers is essential. But it's also important to understand how to adapt that stability to a variety of situations."

The trio—Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix—sit toward the middle of the room, each of them clearly less engaged than usual after their sparring session at Eagle Step. Their minds wander, especially Hugo, who glances at the blackboard filled with diagrams, his thoughts drifting back to the raw, practical training they experienced.

Hugo (whispering to Shizuka and Fenix): "I don't get it. All this stuff about crafting and magic theory… we're hunters, not scholars."

Fenix (leaning back, smirking): "Ah, dear Cyclop, they do love to make us learn the boring stuff, don't they?"

Shizuka (frowning, thoughtful): "I don't know... some of this might be useful. But I agree, it's a lot of information that doesn't seem immediately practical."

As the trio continues to murmur, one of the other students raises a hand, echoing their thoughts.

Kenjiro Matsuda (curious, raising their hand): "Professor Aster, why does the academy focus so much on theory and crafting? Royals like the King don't need this stuff—they were born powerful."

The class murmurs in agreement, the question resonating with many students who feel the pressure of living up to the elite standards set by the Royal students. Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix exchange looks—this is the question they've been thinking about too.

Professor Aster pauses, turning to face the class with a thoughtful expression. He steps away from the board, his gaze sweeping over the room.

Professor Aster (calm, with a hint of amusement): "Ah, the eternal question—why study when you could jump straight into battle?"

He paces slightly, clearly ready to give them more than just a lecture.

Professor Aster (continuing, serious): "Let me ask you this—do you all plan to live a life of fighting forever? Combat is essential, yes, but if you think it's all that matters, then you're sorely mistaken. Sure, some of you could easily raid a dungeon with the right party and equipment. But you still lack one thing: knowledge."

The classroom quiets as he continues, his voice steady and deliberate.

Professor Aster (engaged, building up the lesson): "The basics we teach here are the foundation for your entire future. Crafting, for example. Not every student here has a power suited for combat. Some will become artisans or craftsmen, creating tools and weapons for hunters like you. Do you think combat is the path for everyone?"

He looks around the room, his gaze resting on the trio for a moment longer.

Professor Aster (explaining, thoughtful): "Even those of you dedicated to becoming hunters—you will face situations where combat alone won't be enough., combat won't always be enough. Dungeon raids can last days, sometimes weeks. You'll need shelter, you'll need to maintain your gear, and you may even need to craft weapons in the field. Wouldn't it help to know how?"

Shizuka (skeptical, speaking up): "But isn't that making us jacks of all trades and masters of none? Shouldn't we focus on specialization?"

Professor Aster (smiling knowingly): "Good question, Shizuka. Specialization is important. But think of it like this—knowing how to build a basic shelter or use magic to heal doesn't make you any less of a specialist. It makes you more resourceful."

The class quiets again as his words sink in. Even Hugo starts to reflect, realizing there might be more to their training than just combat.

Professor Aster (wisely, with a smile): "You see, power without versatility can only take you so far. The most successful hunters are not just strong—they're prepared for any situation. St. Alaric gives you the tools to survive in more ways than one. And that's something Eagle Step may not offer."

Hugo (surprised, whispering to Shizuka and Fenix): "He's got a point."

Fenix (leaning back, smirking): "As expected of the teacher of mine, he even explained why that old dwarf man is better than us three. He wasn't just strong; he was adaptable. The old man could counter everything we threw at him."

Hugo (still mulling it over): "But does that mean Eagle Step is the right place? We can still learn specialized combat there while picking up the basics here."

Fenix (reserved) : "That is true, I suppose."

Scene: After Class Reflection

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH HALLWAY – DAY

The trio—Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix—exit the classroom, their footsteps echoing against the cracked and scorched walls of the superpower branch. The hallway feels alive with energy, buzzing with the aftershocks of student sparring and power training. Burn marks, deep gashes, and scorched patches mar the stone walls, evidence of the frequent battles that break out between students. The space is raw and chaotic, a stark contrast to the pristine, calculated beauty of the academic branch. Here, everything feels more unpredictable, more primal.

Outside the building, the faint sound of protests rises through the air—students chanting and shouting about the recent Eagle Step scandals. The noise ebbs and flows like a distant storm, creating an uneasy atmosphere in the hallway.

Shizuka walks with a contemplative expression, clearly bothered by more than just her own training. Her sharp gaze flickers toward Hugo and Fenix, but she looks uneasy as she starts speaking.

Shizuka (serious, breaking the silence): "You know, the Eagle Step scandal is all over the news. They're getting hammered for exploiting weaker hunters—stealing dungeon loot from their own members. People are furious."

Fenix (raising an eyebrow, intrigued): "Ah, the scandal… I heard even our teachers were worried."

Shizuka (nodding, frustrated): "Exactly. Even some of the professors are speaking out. Professor Roderick, for example—he's been vocal about wanting the removal of their recruitment campaign."

The distant protests grow louder for a moment, filling the hall with the angry chants of students who are fed up with the corruption. It's clear that the scandal isn't just a rumor anymore—it's real, and it's causing ripples throughout the school.

Hugo (thoughtful, conflicted): "I've heard about it too... but Wilhelm—he saved me and my big brother Andrea. I just don't know who to trust anymore."

Shizuka (glancing at Hugo, her tone resolute): "I'm not saying all of them are corrupt, Hugo. But we can't overlook what's happening. If even our own teachers are pushing for Eagle Step's removal, we need to be cautious. You need to be cautious."

Hugo (uncertain, trying to process): "But Eagle Step's training... It's the fastest way for me to gain control. What if—"

Before Hugo can finish, Shizuka interrupts, shifting the conversation with a determined look in her eyes.

Shizuka (with a sigh): "You might not know this, Hugo, but I actually challenged one of the Royals a while back."

Fenix (grinning): "A while back, you mean the day right before Hugo's transfer?"

Shizuka (a bit angry): "Shut up, dracula!!"

Hugo (stunned): "You did? Who?"

Shizuka (calmly): "Kimhyun Narukami, the Thunderous Prince. He's the Jack of our academy with the S-ranked ability to control lightning."

Fenix (smirking, amused): "Let me guess... his majesty handed you a royal beatdown?"

Shizuka lets out a soft sigh but nods.

Shizuka (sighing, then resolute): "He specializes in speed rather than strength so I thought I could slow him down with my water and ice. Turns out, he is not only fast but strong. He made quick work of all of my hidden attacks. It wasn't even a contest."

Shizuka (speaking with determination): "If there are hunters at our school as strong as Kimhyun, and they don't need to rely on a guild... then I want to try that too. I want to push my abilities, refine them here at St. Alaric. After all, we can't just turn a blind eye to the corruption in Eagle Step."

She gestures toward the growing sound of protests outside the building.

Shizuka (serious): "Look outside, Hugo. People are fighting to get them out of the school. Professors like Roderick want them gone for a reason. Are you sure you want to tie yourself to them?"

Hugo hesitates, the weight of Shizuka's words sinking in. But his mind is divided—Wilhelm's offer of control still pulls at him.

Hugo (uncertain, torn): "How strong is Kimhyun, really? Isn't electricity your weakness?"

Fenix (stepping in, smiling): "Traditional weaknesses don't apply to our Sea Witch, Cyclop."

Hugo (confused): "Huh?"

Shizuka (explaining, with a small smile): "With enough control, I can purify water, turning it into pure water that doesn't conduct electricity. I did defeat many electricity students to get my position as the top of first year after all."

Hugo (impressed): "I didn't know that..."

As Hugo listens, his mind starts to spiral into self-doubt again. Shizuka's advanced control over water, Fenix's vampiric resilience—it all feels so far ahead of what he can do. His power, though strong, feels wild and untamed in comparison.

Hugo (thinking, insecure): "Shizuka can purify water... Fenix has his vampiric immortality... What do I have? It feels like they're both moving forward, and I'm just... stuck."

Fenix notices Hugo drifting into his thoughts, as if lost in his own insecurities.

Fenix (teasing, waving a hand in front of Hugo's face): "Earth to Hugo? Cyclop, you still with us?"

Hugo (snapping back to reality): "Huh? Yeah, I'm here."

Fenix (laughing, but shifting to a more serious tone): "Well, I was saying that I might just pay a visit to her majesty-"

As Fenix speaks, Hugo's mind drifts again, pulled deeper into his own self-doubt and uncertainty. The noise of the protests outside fades into the background as his thoughts grow darker.

Hugo (thinking, spiraling): "They're both so far ahead of me... What if joining Eagle Step is the only way I can catch up?"

Scene: The Eagle's Temptation/GGG's Darkness

INT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – TRAINING GROUNDS – EVENING

The Eagle Step training grounds are busy, filled with hunters and trainees honing their skills. The air is thick with the sound of sparring, bursts of power, and shouts of trainers correcting their students. The setting sun casts long shadows across the grounds, giving the place an almost ethereal glow. The clang of metal against metal reverberates as trainees test out various weapons and abilities.

Hugo stands near the center, feeling the weight of the atmosphere around him. Trainees look sharp, confident, and disciplined. Nearby, groups practice different techniques: some conjure powerful elemental blasts, while others engage in hand-to-hand combat. In the distance, Memel watches over one group with his gruff, authoritative demeanor, barking commands as usual.

Allenstein approaches Hugo, her white hair shining in the fading light, her pink dress fluttering slightly in the wind. As always, she exudes a calm yet commanding presence, but this time, she's more careful, given the crowd.

Allenstein (smiling warmly, holding a sword): "Hugo, you've been making good progress. I thought you might like to try this."

She hands him a sleek, silver magic sword, its blade adorned with intricate runes. The crowd around them is still focused on their own training, but a few trainees glance over, curious about the exchange. The atmosphere subtly shifts as they see Allenstein handing the sword to Hugo.

Allenstein (explaining, calmly): "This is one of the magic swords from Gold Gigant Garment—GGG. They're designed to be imbued with the user's mana, making the weapon stronger. Care to give it a try? All you have to do is channel your Hellblaze into it."

Hugo takes the sword, feeling its weight in his hand. The runes shimmer faintly, waiting to be activated. He feels the familiar pull of expectation, not just from Allenstein but from the other trainees, who are now paying more attention to his attempt.

Hugo (nervously): "I… I've never done this before."

Allenstein (encouraging): "It's simple. Just focus and let your mana flow into the sword. You can control your flames, Hugo—this is just another way to channel them."

Hugo breathes deeply, trying to steady his nerves. He closes his eyes, focusing on the sword, summoning his black flames. He can feel the heat building within him, but when he tries to direct it into the blade, the flames sputter and fizzle out. The sword barely responds, leaving only a faint glow.

A few of the nearby trainees murmur, some whispering under their breath. Hugo's face flushes with frustration, feeling the pressure of the onlookers and his inability to perform.

Trainee 1 (whispering, curious): "Isn't that the kid with the Hellblaze? Why can't he use it?"

Trainee 2 (murmuring): "I thought that power was supposed to be S-rank…"

Hugo grits his teeth, his grip tightening on the sword. Allenstein steps closer, her voice soothing but still carrying a subtle edge.

Allenstein (calmly): "You're trying too hard, Hugo. Let me help."

She places her hand over his, guiding the sword. The moment her fingers touch his, Hugo feels a shift—her influence calming the chaotic flames within him. Slowly, the flames start to channel into the sword, causing the runes to glow brighter. For a brief moment, Hugo feels a surge of power, the thrill of success.

But then, just as quickly, the blade warps. The metal distorts under the heat, and before Hugo can react, it melts into a pool of molten slag, dripping from his hands onto the ground. The trainees nearby gasp or chuckle quietly, clearly unimpressed by the outcome.

Hugo (stunned): "It… melted?"

Allenstein steps back, crossing her arms with a sigh, her face a mixture of disappointment and frustration. She glances at the molten mess on the ground before looking back at Hugo, her voice dropping to a more pointed tone.

Allenstein (shaking her head, with a disappointed sigh): "This is exactly the problem with Gold Gigant Garment. They overcharge for these so-called 'magic weapons,' and yet they can't even handle a little bit of power. It's ridiculous. They're only in business because they capitalize on guilds like ours when we're vulnerable—especially with all the scandal going on. They charge an arm and a leg for junk that falls apart the moment you really need it."

Hugo stands silently, staring at the ruined sword, his mind reeling. The mention of Gold Gigant Garment stirs something deeper within him—after all, it's his family's company. His relationship with his family has always been complicated, especially after his exile. But hearing Allenstein criticize them so harshly makes him feel uneasy. The pressure of the other trainees watching him, combined with the failure of the sword, weighs heavily on his mind.

Hugo (thinking, spiraling): "The GGG… my family's company. How can it fail so easily? Does everything connected to them just… fall apart?"

The trainees continue their training around him, but the murmurs of doubt and the weight of his failure press down on Hugo, making him feel small. Allenstein, sensing his internal struggle, keeps her expression neutral, but she doesn't press further. Instead, she lets the weight of the moment do the talking.

Trainee 3 (whispering to another): "He couldn't even handle a basic enchantment? Eagle Step deserves better…"

Hugo glances around at the faces of the other trainees, each one a reminder of how far he still has to go. His insecurities gnaw at him, and though he doesn't say anything, the doubt in his family's legacy—combined with his frustration at his own limits—starts to eat away at him.

Allenstein notices his silence and steps back, her voice soft but deliberate.

Allenstein (gently): "It's alright, Hugo. This isn't your fault. You deserve better tools, better training. With us, you'll have what you need to truly control your flames."

Hugo says nothing, but the words linger in his mind. The combination of his family's perceived failure, his own inability to control his power, and the allure of Eagle Step's promises all swirl together, leaving him conflicted.

Scene: Friendly Invitation Denied

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CAFETERIA – AFTERNOON

The cafeteria bustles with energy as students chatter, eat, and share their daily struggles. Hugo sits with Shizuka and Fenix, poking at his food absentmindedly. Shizuka notices Hugo's distracted expression and nudges him with her elbow.

Shizuka (smiling): "Hey, Hugo, we're thinking of grabbing some food outside the academy this weekend. There's this great ramen place downtown. You in?"

Hugo hesitates, glancing down at his barely touched meal. The idea of hanging out with his friends is tempting, but the thought of training at Eagle Step gnaws at him.

Hugo (shaking his head, forcing a smile): "Ah, I'd love to, but I really need to focus on training this weekend. Maybe next time?"

Fenix (teasing, grinning): "Come on, Cyclop. Even vampires need a break once in a while."

Hugo (awkwardly, with a forced laugh): "Yeah, well... I'm behind on some stuff. I need to catch up."

Shizuka exchanges a glance with Fenix, her smile fading slightly. She senses something off but doesn't push further.

Scene: Brother Invitation Denied

INT. HUGO'S APARTMENT – NIGHT

It's late, and Hugo sits at his desk, studying notes on combat techniques. Then suddenly, Andrea comes in.

Andrea: "Hey, little brother. I'm thinking of grabbing some takeout and watching a movie this weekend. What do you say? We haven't hung out in a while."

Hugo (apologizing): "Sorry, big bro. I've got a ton of training to do this weekend. Next time, for sure."

Scene: Brother Invitation Denied

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CLASSROOM – AFTERNOON

Class has just ended, and students are filing out. Shizuka catches up to Hugo, who seems to be in a rush to leave.

Shizuka (raising an eyebrow, curious): "You're leaving early again? You've been doing that a lot lately."

Hugo looks at her, clearly flustered.

Hugo (awkwardly): "Oh, yeah. I've been doing some extra training... trying to get ahead, you know?"

Shizuka (skeptical): "You're training with Eagle Step again, aren't you?"

Hugo freezes for a second but nods.

Hugo (defensive): "Yeah... I mean, it's good for me, right? I need to catch up."

Shizuka (surprised): "Catch up? With who?"

Hugo (defensive): "With you, and Fenix, and everyone else… I am a transfer student, alright. I need extra training!!"

Scene: Friendly Notice

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH HALLWAY – DAY

Fenix and Shizuka walk together through the hallway, casually chatting, when they spot Hugo walking ahead of them, clearly distracted.

Fenix (calling out, grinning): "Cyclop! We're heading to that new café after class. You coming?"

Hugo slows down but doesn't turn around immediately. When he finally responds, his voice is hesitant.

Hugo (without turning around): "Can't... I've got training."

Shizuka exchanges a concerned glance with Fenix.

Fenix (teasing, but with a hint of concern): "You're dodging us an awful lot lately. What's going on?"

Hugo (turning, smiling weakly): "I'm just... trying to catch up. I'll hang out with you guys next week, promise."

Shizuka narrows her eyes slightly, suspicion starting to take root. She nudges Fenix as Hugo hurries off.

Shizuka (quietly to Fenix): "He's been avoiding us a lot, hasn't he?"

Fenix (sighing): "Yeah... something's definitely up."

Scene: Eagle's Allure

EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – TRAINING GROUNDS – EVENING

The trio finds themselves back at the academy's training grounds after a long day of classes. The sun sets, casting a warm glow over the grounds. Hugo stands off to the side, his mind elsewhere, while Shizuka practices with her water manipulation. Fenix sits nearby, leaning against a tree.

Hugo (breaking the silence, suddenly): "Do you guys... ever think about joining Eagle Step?"

Shizuka stops mid-move, the water in front of her freezing instantly. Fenix glances at Hugo, raising an eyebrow.

Fenix (grinning, though curious): "Eagle Step, huh? You thinking about getting us to join your little club, dear Cyclop?"

Hugo shrugs, trying to seem casual, but there's a nervous energy to him.

Hugo (awkwardly): "I mean... yeah. They've got great training, and... well, you've seen how they are."

Shizuka, still holding her stance, looks over at Hugo, her brow furrowed.

Shizuka (reluctantly, slowly): "Eagle Step has a lot of scandals lately... But if it's what you think is best..."

Fenix, sensing the hesitation, steps in with a lighthearted grin.

Fenix (laughing): "Alright, dear Cyclop. If that's your decision, I, Lord Fenix, will support you in this grand adventure."

Shizuka, however, isn't as easily swayed. She drops her stance, the ice melting at her feet as she walks over to Hugo, her expression more serious.

Shizuka (sighing, hesitant): "Just be careful, Hugo. I'll go with you, but... something about Eagle Step still doesn't sit right with me."

Hugo remains silent, the weight of their words sinking in. Even though they're agreeing to come with him, their lingering doubts only fuel the uncertainty building in his chest.