Life Gallery 14 - Searching For Peace

Scene: Meditation Training

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH STUDY HALL – DAY

The hall is quiet, with dim lighting setting a peaceful atmosphere. Ludociel sits cross-legged on the ground, her wings folded behind her, a picture of serenity. Fenix, Hugo, and Shizuka follow her lead, though each of them expresses a different level of focus.

Fenix (playful, yet genuinely curious): "Her Majesty the Queen teaches us. What an honor! For I, Lord Fenix Tepes, will remember this forever. Such a regal privilege bestowed upon us mere mortals!"

Ludociel (sighs, glancing at Hugo): "Is he always like that?"

Hugo (shrugs, trying not to laugh): "Kinda..."

Shizuka (deadpan): "Totally."

Ludociel (shaking her head, but with a soft smile): "Well, let's start with the basics."

She straightens up, her expression becoming more serious as she gestures for the others to focus.

Ludociel (calm and instructive): "When you use your superpowers, you convert your life force into a form of energy called mana. That mana is what fuels the transformation, allowing your abilities to manifest. But the real challenge is in how you control the flow of that mana."

She turns her gaze to Hugo, her eyes gentle yet perceptive.

Ludociel (thoughtful): "Some, like me… or Hugo, have difficulty controlling that flow. It can be for many reasons—trauma, a birth defect, or sometimes, the lack of natural talent."

Shizuka (thinking to herself, surprised): "The Queen thinks she's… talentless?"

Ludociel's serene face hides the weight of experience behind her words.

Ludociel (continuing, gently): "For that reason, we have to find our own way to maintain control over our mana. Staying calm, keeping your mind centered, can make all the difference in how you wield your power."

She folds her hands together in her lap.

Ludociel (sharing her wisdom): "My way is through meditation. Not everyone finds peace in it, but it's a method that can work wonders if you're willing to try."

Fenix (still playful but now genuinely curious): "Inner peace… hmph, doesn't exactly sound like my kind of thing, but I'll give it a whirl. For you, oh wise Queen Ludociel!"

Ludociel ignores his theatrics with practiced ease.

Ludociel (encouraging): "Close your eyes. Focus on your breathing. Feel the mana within you. Don't try to shape it or control it yet—just be aware of it, like a river flowing inside you."

The group follows her instructions. Fenix, surprisingly quiet now, settles into a more serious demeanor, though his regal posture remains intact. Shizuka, naturally calm, adapts quickly, her breathing steady and controlled. Hugo, on the other hand, struggles at first, his brow furrowing with effort.

Hugo (mumbling, frustrated): "It's… hard to keep it still…"

Ludociel, sensing his struggle, speaks softly.

Ludociel (reassuring): "It's not about making it still, Hugo. It's about acknowledging it, letting it flow without trying to fight it. You can't force it to obey—you can only guide it when you're at peace with it."

Her words sink in slowly. Hugo closes his eye, breathing deeply, trying to calm the fire of mana swirling inside him. Bit by bit, he feels his body relax, though the swirling energy remains just beneath the surface.

Hugo (mumbling, frustrated): "These feelings…"

Ludociel (reassuring): "If you succeed in finding your inner thoughts, it would be the shape of your power, the flow of your mana."

Fenix (quietly, surprising everyone with his sincerity): "You know, I think I feel it… this calm… it's strange, but it's not so bad."

Shizuka (nodding, more in tune with herself): "I hear… the creaking sound of a river… of rain drop… it feels peaceful…"

Ludociel smiles softly, pleased with their progress. But then, Hugo suddenly shouts.

Hugo (mumbling, frustrated): "Ugh… Argh!!!"

Ludociel (surprised): "Huh? Hugo!! Are you alright?"

Hugo opens his eye. He is gasping uncontrollably. 

Hugo (mumbling, frustrated): "I feel… hot… like standing at the edge of a volcano…"

Ludociel watches Hugo with a mix of concern and understanding. She has seen this before—the raw, untamed energy that burns inside someone not yet fully in control of their power. She moves closer, her voice calm and soothing, trying to anchor him.

Ludociel (softly): "It's okay, Hugo. Don't fight it... don't try to control it just yet. Focus on your breathing. In and out. Steady, like the rhythm of the earth."

Hugo clenches his fists, struggling to steady himself. His black flames feel like they're simmering beneath his skin, threatening to explode outward. His breathing is labored, as if every breath fans the embers of a fire he's barely able to contain.

Hugo (gritting his teeth): "It's too much... it's always there, burning, like it's alive. I can't stop it..."

Ludociel (firm, but still gentle): "You don't need to stop it. You need to accept it. That flame is part of you. Acknowledge its existence, don't fear it. The more you push against it, the stronger it becomes."

Shizuka, who has found her peaceful space in the sound of raindrops and rivers, opens her eyes slightly, casting a concerned glance at Hugo. Her quiet demeanor hides the fact that she can sense his struggle deeply.

Shizuka (whispering, calm): "You're pushing too hard, Hugo. Let it flow like water... it'll find its way."

Fenix, eyes still closed but more attuned to the moment, murmurs in agreement.

Fenix (low voice): "The blood drips slowly, Hugo. Drop by drop. You can't force it... just like you can't force yourself. Let the flames flow like my blood... freely, naturally."

Hugo, still trembling with the effort to maintain control, focuses on their words. Slowly, he tries to imagine his flames not as a threat, but as something integral to him, something he doesn't have to conquer. His breathing starts to calm, the inferno within him slowly dimming to a dull glow.

Ludociel (firm, but still gentle): "Remember, peace comes in many forms. Meditation is just one way. You'll each find your own path."

Scene: The Mind of Nature

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

The classroom bustles with quiet energy. Students sit at their desks, scribbling notes or exchanging hushed conversations as Professor Aster writes a complicated formula on the board, explaining the delicate balance between life force and mana conversion. The walls are lined with charts and diagrams—everything from intricate dungeon mapping to theories on controlling superpowers.

At the back of the room, Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix sit together, half-paying attention. Hugo fidgets, clearly preoccupied with something else. Shizuka quietly watches the lesson, though her attention is drawn to Hugo's unease, while Fenix leans back in his chair, arms crossed, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Hugo (leaning toward Shizuka and Fenix, whispering): "Hey... I've been thinking about what Ludociel said. You know, about finding inner peace to control my flames. But... I don't know where to start."

Fenix (grinning, leaning in with a playful smirk): "Ah, yes! Inner peace, a noble pursuit for mortals. But your liege here is a vampire, Hugo. I doubt my definition of peace would help much. I find tranquility in the stillness of the night... and perhaps a crypt or two. Cemeteries aren't exactly the peaceful gardens you might be looking for."

He winks, clearly enjoying his own dramatics.

Hugo (deadpan, with a sigh): "Yeah, that doesn't really help, Fenix."

Shizuka (quietly, but gently): "You're pushing too hard, Hugo. Sometimes the answer isn't about force but about letting go."

Hugo turns to Shizuka, curiosity in his eye.

Shizuka (softly, her voice like a breeze through trees): "As a half-elf, I've always found peace in nature. The forest, the way the wind moves through the leaves, or the quiet sound of a stream running over rocks... they all have a rhythm. They're not trying to force anything—they just exist. It's about being part of something greater, letting it guide you."

She glances toward the window, where the light filters through, casting shadows of the academy's courtyard trees onto the classroom floor.

Shizuka (smiling softly): "Maybe for you, it's not about fighting the flame. It's about understanding it, listening to it. Nature has a way of calming the spirit. You might find that connection helps you."

Hugo (thoughtful): "Nature, huh? I've never really thought about it that way. I've always just... fought against the fire inside me."

Fenix (grinning, trying to lighten the mood): "Well, not everyone can be as serene as our dear Shizuka. Though I'll admit, there's something calming about her elvish wisdom. But! For me? I'd say inner peace is overrated. Embrace the chaos, my friend. It's much more fun."

Hugo (smirking slightly, rolling his eye): "Yeah, I'll pass on the cemetery meditation, Fenix."

Shizuka (gently): "I know it sounds simple, but it might help. Spend time outside, away from all the noise. Let the wind carry your thoughts away... Maybe you'll find that calm you're looking for."

Hugo takes a deep breath, her words sinking in. He nods, his tension easing just a bit.

Hugo (smiling softly): "Thanks, Shizuka. I'll give it a try. Anything's better than feeling like I'm about to explode all the time."

Professor Aster (turning back toward the class, noticing their conversation): "Hugo. Fenix. Shizuka. I hope what you're discussing is relevant to mana flow control. Care to share your thoughts with the class?"

Fenix (grinning, confidently standing up): "Oh, absolutely, Professor! We were just discussing the finer points of how different environments—like crypts—can aid in finding one's inner peace and mana flow."

Shizuka shakes her head, a small smile tugging at her lips, while Hugo just sighs, trying to hide his embarrassment.

Professor Aster (raising an eyebrow, unamused but intrigued): "Crypts, you say? How... enlightening."

He gestures for them to sit back down, turning back to the board.

As the class resumes, Hugo's mind lingers on Shizuka's words, her description of nature flowing through his thoughts like the streams she spoke of. Maybe, just maybe, he could learn to let his fire flow like water.

Scene: The Search for Self

EXT. RESERVATION PARK – DAY

The reservation park is serene, a sprawling expanse of towering trees and lush greenery. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the ground. Birds chirp in the distance, and the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze adds to the peaceful atmosphere. Hugo, Andrea, Shizuka, and Fenix sit on a large blanket, having a picnic. Plates of food are scattered around, though Hugo seems distracted, his mind elsewhere.

Hugo (sighing, frustrated): "I don't get it... How am I supposed to find inner peace in all this?"

Andrea (leaning back, his posture relaxed): "You're overthinking it, Hugo. You can't force it."

Hugo glances at his older brother, then back at the trees, clearly agitated by his failure to connect with the peaceful surroundings. The others watch him closely, sensing his frustration.

Hugo (frowning): "I've tried everything. The meditation didn't work. Nature's nice and all, but... I still don't get it."

Andrea (thoughtful): "The answer to inner peace? Oh, that's easy."

He turns to look at Hugo more directly.

"What is it that you like to do the most?"

Hugo (blinking, caught off guard): "I... I don't know."

Shizuka (surprised): "What?"

Hugo (looking down, a bit lost): "I... don't know..."

Andrea's eyes widen slightly, genuine surprise on his face. The words sink in deeper than he expected.

Andrea (a bit shaken, voice soft): "You don't know what you like?"

Hugo (thinking, confused): "From birth to now, I've always tried to please our parents... I wanted to see them happy... why weren't they happy? But now... they're gone, and it's because of me..."

His voice lowers, full of regret and uncertainty.

"I don't know what I like anymore."

A silence falls between them. Andrea, clearly saddened, watches his younger brother wrestle with the weight of his guilt.

Hugo (nonchalant, almost hollow): "If I had to choose... it would've been to make Father and Mother happy."

Andrea (softly, almost pained): "Hugo..."

The heaviness in the air is palpable, the weight of Hugo's words leaving an impact on all of them. Fenix, however, won't let the moment end in despair. He grins, breaking the tension.

Fenix (smiling, teasing): "Hey, that's no good, Cyclop."

Shizuka (gently but with energy): "That's right, Hugo! You have to find something for yourself. You can't find inner peace if you don't even know what makes you happy."

As they talk, both Fenix and Shizuka grab Hugo's arms, one on each side. Their warmth and energy startle him.

Hugo (surprised): "Hey! What are you two doing?"

Fenix (laughing, playful): "Your liege, Fenix, cannot let his favorite Cyclop live an unfulfilled life without knowing anything!"

Shizuka (giggling, nudging him): "Exactly! You can't find peace if you don't know what makes you feel alive. We have to help you find that!"

Fenix (grinning, his energy infectious): "Let's go do lots of things! Adventure, exploration, whatever! I'm sure you'll figure out what you love and who you want to be!"

Hugo, despite himself, starts to smile. The lightness in their tone, the warmth of their presence, begins to break through his internal struggle. Their words, though playful, hold a deeper truth that Hugo can't ignore. The first genuine chuckle he's had in a while escapes his lips.

Hugo (softly, but with a hint of relief): "Alright... I'll give it a shot."

Fenix (dramatically, standing up): "That's the spirit! Let's find your passion, my dear Cyclop!"

Shizuka (smiling warmly, standing with Fenix): "We'll be with you every step of the way."

Hugo, sitting between them, looks up at his friends. For the first time in a long while, the weight on his shoulders feels just a little bit lighter. The warmth of their friendship, their insistence that he matters beyond just being useful, begins to fill the cracks in his heart.

Andrea (watching them, smiling softly): "Looks like you're in good hands, Hugo."

The group stands together, looking out at the peaceful park ahead of them. Though Hugo still doesn't know what he loves or who he is, he feels a small flicker of hope—maybe, just maybe, he'll find his way with them by his side.

Scene: Fiery Epiphany

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH STUDY HALL – AFTERNOON

The study hall is silent, filled with the calm energy of meditation. Ludociel's serene presence anchors the room, her wings folded peacefully behind her as she guides Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix through another session. The light filtering in from the windows casts long shadows across the floor, creating a soft, almost ethereal atmosphere.

Ludociel (softly, instructive): "Focus on your breathing... Let your mind be still. Allow your mana to flow, without resistance. Feel it, but don't force it."

Shizuka, always composed, settles into her meditative state easily, her mind filled with the gentle rhythm of raindrops and river creeks. Fenix, while more restless, finds solace in the steady drip of imagined blood, a reminder of his own power.

But Hugo is different. He feels the flames burning within him, hot and intense. They've always felt wild, untamable, as if they would consume him if he wasn't careful. He clenches his fists, struggling to find the peace that everyone else seems to embrace so naturally.

Hugo (frustrated, gritting his teeth): "Why can't I do this...? It's always there... burning."

Ludociel opens her eyes slightly, sensing his turmoil. She doesn't move, but her voice is calm and reassuring.

Ludociel (gently): "Remember, Hugo, you're not here to extinguish your flames. You're here to understand them. The fire inside you is a part of who you are—it's not something to fear."

Hugo exhales, trying to focus. His breathing steadies, but the heat within him feels overwhelming. Then, through the silence, he hears something that pulls him back from the edge of his frustration. It's not the sound of rain or the drip of blood. It's the soft laughter of his friends—Fenix's playful teasing, Shizuka's calm encouragement. Even Ludociel's gentle patience. He thinks about their smiles, the warmth they bring to his life. And for the first time, he feels something shift inside him.

Hugo (thinking, eyes closed): "What if... this fire isn't something to be afraid of? What if it's... something beautiful?"

The black flames inside him don't seem so hostile anymore. He imagines them not as destructive, but as something passionate, something fierce and alive. His breathing slows, and for the first time, the fire within him begins to take shape. It's not wild and uncontrollable. It's a vibrant, burning flame—a symbol of strength, of passion, of life.

Hugo (softly, in awe): "It's... beautiful."

In his mind, he sees it clearly now—a flame that burns hot and strong, but not to destroy. It's a flame that represents power, resilience, and something deeper—something that connects him to the people he cares about. It's the flame of his will, his desire to protect, to understand, and to create something meaningful.

Ludociel watches him closely, sensing the change. A faint smile touches her lips.

Ludociel (gently, pleased): "You've found it, haven't you?"

Hugo nods, though his eyes remain closed. His breathing is steady now, and the flame within him no longer feels like a threat. It feels like a part of him—a part he's finally ready to embrace.

Hugo (softly, with a smile): "Yeah... I think I have."

The quiet smiles of his friends, their laughter, their support—it all helps him realize that his fire isn't something to fear. It's something to cherish, something that represents who he is and what he can become.

Fenix (grinning, eyes still closed): "I told you, Cyclop. It's not about fighting the fire. It's about letting it burn... the right way."

Shizuka (nodding, her voice soft and calm): "You've found your peace."

Hugo opens his eyes, a calm determination settling over him. The flame inside him still burns, but now, it feels... right. It feels like home.

Hugo (smiling, for the first time in a long while): "Thank you... all of you."

Ludociel's gaze lingers on him, her eyes filled with quiet pride.

Ludociel (softly, warmly): "Remember this moment, Hugo. It's yours. And it's just the beginning."

As the session comes to a close, Hugo sits in the quiet stillness of the study hall, feeling more at peace than he's ever been. The fire within him hasn't gone away—it's still there, burning bright and fierce. But now, he understands it. Now, it's something he can guide. Something that can help him become who he's meant to be.

Scene: Peace in Chaotic Flame

EXT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – TRAINING GROUNDS – EVENING

The training grounds are quiet, the sky a deepening blue as dusk settles over the academy. Hugo stands in the center of the field, his body tense, arms crossed, eyes narrowed in concentration. Black flames flicker faintly at his fingertips, controlled but restless.

Shizuka and Fenix approach from the edge of the field. Fenix, as usual, saunters in with an air of nonchalance, while Shizuka moves more quietly, watching Hugo closely.

Fenix (casual, smirking): "Still playing with fire, Cyclop? Don't tell me you're actually starting to like the heat."

Hugo doesn't look up immediately. The flames flicker out as he exhales, shoulders relaxing slightly.

Hugo (low voice): "I wouldn't go that far."

There's a weight in his voice that's hard to ignore—less frustration than before, but still heavy with something unspoken. Shizuka tilts her head, reading the subtle shifts in his posture.

Shizuka (calm, measured): "But you're not fighting it as much anymore."

Hugo's eye flicks to her, then back to the ground. He shrugs, as if it's not worth discussing, but there's a shift in his tone.

Hugo (quietly): "I'm... getting used to it."

Fenix (leaning in, teasing but not unkind): "Getting used to it, huh? Does that mean you're finally figuring out what to do with all that energy? Maybe you'll stop scowling long enough to actually have fun once in a while."

Hugo glances at Fenix, the ghost of a smile on his lips, but he doesn't fully engage. He's still guarded, still uncertain about how to express what's changed inside him.

Hugo (gruff but not hostile): "I'm not exactly aiming for fun."

Fenix rolls his eyes but doesn't push. There's a rare understanding in his silence as he leans against the fence, watching Hugo with a thoughtful expression. Shizuka steps closer, her voice soft but direct.

Shizuka: "You've been quiet lately, Hugo. Something's different."

For a moment, there's no response. Hugo tenses, as if searching for the right words. He isn't used to explaining himself, not like this. But for once, he doesn't push them away.

Hugo (slowly, choosing his words): "I guess... I'm not fighting everything as much. The flames, the... thoughts. It's not like they're gone, but I've stopped trying to crush them. I'm just... letting them be."

He pauses, his brow furrowed. The admission feels strange, unfamiliar on his tongue.

Hugo (quietly): "It's not peace, but it's something."

Fenix and Shizuka exchange a glance—brief but significant. Shizuka, ever the steady presence, simply nods.

Shizuka (understated, approving): "That's something."

Fenix breaks the moment with a dramatic stretch, a grin spreading across his face.

Fenix (playful): "Look at us, getting all deep in the middle of a training field. If you're done with the self-discovery, Hugo, maybe we can blow off some steam the proper way. You've got enough firepower for a decent spar, don't you?"

Hugo shakes his head, but there's no frustration this time. Only a quiet acceptance of the invitation.

Hugo (smirking): "You really want to take me on right now? I'm not holding back."

Fenix (laughing, stepping into the field): "Good. I wouldn't want you to."

Shizuka watches as the two ready themselves, her expression calm but knowing. She doesn't need to say anything more. The silence between them carries the weight of what's been left unsaid.

As Hugo ignites his flames, the flickering embers don't feel like a burden anymore. They feel controlled—part of him, but not all-consuming. And in the clash that follows, there's a sense of understanding, not only of his own power but of the subtle bond that has grown between them. They don't need to talk about peace or friendship. It's in the way they stand beside him, without asking him to change or explain any further.

Scene: Peace in Solid Formulas

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ACADEMIC BRANCH CLASSROOM – MORNING

The academic branch classroom is filled with natural light streaming through large windows, illuminating the clean whiteboards and organized desks. Mathematical equations and diagrams cover the board, creating a visual symphony of numbers and formulas. Professor Halvorn, an eccentric yet brilliant mathematician, paces the front of the room, his hands waving animatedly as he writes a complex formula. His excitement is palpable, almost contagious, and the students watch him with a mix of intrigue and amusement.

Professor Halvorn (energetic, eyes gleaming): "Ah, numbers! The purest, most unchanging language of the universe! You can feel it, can't you? The equations, the constants—they are the very essence of reality itself!"

His hands wave dramatically as he writes a massive equation on the board:

E = mc²

Professor Halvorn (turning toward the class, eyes gleaming): "This… this little equation is a doorway. It speaks of energy, mass, and the speed of light. Three concepts that, when put together, form one of the most elegant and powerful truths in the cosmos! It's not just a formula—it's the language of existence itself!"

He gestures dramatically at the equation, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

Professor Halvorn: "What does it mean, you ask? Why do we hold this formula as sacred, as if it were the very key to life itself? It's because this—" (he taps the chalkboard) "—is the code that defines everything. The stars in the sky, the air in your lungs, the very love you feel in your hearts... all of it can be reduced to energy and mass. Think about that!"

Alexei and Floria sit side by side near the window. Alexei, with his usual calm, listens intently, a small smile playing on his lips. Floria leans slightly against him, a soft, affectionate look in her eyes as she watches him.

Professor Halvorn: "And when I say 'everything,' I mean everything. This isn't just about physics, my friends. This is about love. About existence. Think about the speed of light. It's not just a number—it's a universal constant, something that never changes no matter where you are in the cosmos. It's absolute, with it, we can find even the absolute peace of the universe!!!"

He turns toward the class, pacing slowly, his voice taking on a more philosophical tone.

Professor Halvorn (reflective): "Just like love, you see? Pure, unwavering love—the kind that exists beyond time and space. When you multiply it by mass—by the weight of your emotions, your experiences, the people you care about—you get energy. The energy that drives everything. That's why E=mc² isn't just a formula. It's a reflection of the universe itself."

A few students glance at each other, surprised at the sudden comparison between love and physics, but Alexei is unfazed. He understands the metaphor completely.

Alexei (whispering to Floria): "See? That's the beauty of it. Everything in the universe follows this rule. Even love is bound by these constants."

Floria looks at him, her smile softening.

Floria (playfully): "Do you always have to see the world in equations?"

Alexei (grinning, but with a serious edge): "It's not just equations, babe. It's the certainty. The peace of knowing that there's a structure, a formula that governs everything. No matter how chaotic life gets, there's always something that's absolute. That's why math is my answer."

Professor Halvorn continues, his hands waving passionately through the air.

Professor Halvorn: "Consider this, too—the speed of light! It's not just a random number; it's a limit, a boundary for the universe. Nothing can go faster. It defines our reality, just as surely as our emotions define our experiences. And when mass and speed meet? When you multiply them together, you get energy. You get the force that powers stars, that ignites worlds, and that drives us forward in life. Energy is existence. It's the pulse of the universe!"

Alexei leans back slightly, his gaze drifting to the formula on the board. His mind works through the equation as though it's second nature, but there's more to it for him—something deeper.

Alexei (thoughtfully): "Everything can be calculated. Everything has a solution, even if we can't see it yet. That's what I love about math—it's the key to understanding the universe. Numbers don't lie."

Floria watches him, her expression a mix of admiration and affection. She reaches out, gently taking his hand under the table.

Floria (softly): "You always find answer in logic. I find mine in you."

Alexei's eyes soften as he turns to her. There's a quiet understanding between them, an unspoken connection that echoes the professor's words—like mass and energy, they're two parts of a whole.

Professor Halvorn (his voice rising in excitement again): "And remember, this equation—this simple little formula—it's not just theoretical. It's practical. It's the reason we can harness nuclear energy, the reason we can even dream of traveling to the stars. But more than that... it's proof that the universe makes sense! That no matter how vast, how complex, everything is connected. Everything follows the same laws!"

He pauses, looking around the room, his eyes shining with fervor.

Professor Halvorn (smiling): "That's why math is the language of the universe. It's not just numbers and equations. It's the very fabric of existence. It's how we make sense of the infinite, how we find our place in this chaotic, ever-expanding reality."

Alexei, hearing those words, feels a sense of validation. This is why he trusts math—because it provides answers, clarity, and a solid foundation in a world that often feels unpredictable.

Floria (whispering): "You've always believed that everything has an answer, haven't you?"

Alexei (nodding, his voice quiet but sure): "Because it does. Even if we don't know it yet."

They exchange a glance—one filled with love, understanding, and mutual respect for the different ways they approach life.

Professor Halvorn (suddenly grinning): "So, my dear students... what does E=mc² mean to you? It means that everything you do, everything you feel, every moment you experience... it all has weight. It all has meaning. And it's all part of the grand equation of life. It is… the universe' way of finding… Absolute Peace."

Scene: Andrea and Alexei

INT. CONVENIENCE STORE – NIGHT

The convenience store is dimly lit, the flickering overhead lights casting a cold glow over the narrow aisles. Andrea stands behind the counter, his body sagging with fatigue, his uniform wrinkled from hours of labor. His eyes are distant, lost in thought, as the door chimes softly with a new arrival.

Alexei steps in, his posture relaxed but oozing confidence. He casually grabs a drink from the cooler, striding over to the counter with an exaggerated air of ease. His sharp, emerald green eyes lock onto Andrea, a smirk already tugging at the corner of his lips.

Alexei (smirking): "Look at you, big brother. The mighty heir reduced to this... how poetic."

Andrea's gaze flicks up, meeting Alexei's with a mixture of surprise and frustration, but he says nothing at first, ringing up the drink with a tense silence. Alexei leans on the counter, clearly enjoying the tension in the air.

Alexei (mockingly): "This place suits you. Quiet... low profile. Not exactly the life of an ex-manager from GGG, though, is it?"

Andrea lets out a slow breath, his voice strained but controlled.

Andrea (quietly): "I'm not a Gentoshi anymore. Not after what happened."

Alexei's smile falters slightly, but his cocky demeanor never fades. He straightens up, his expression turning more serious, though there's still a playful edge to his voice.

Alexei (glancing at him): "You left the family. For the one-eyed demon."

Andrea's hands still for a moment, but he doesn't look up. He shrugs, his tone controlled, but there's anger behind his words.

Andrea (angry): "That demon is my brother."

Alexei's eyebrows twitch. His voice sharpens, cold and biting.

Alexei (cold, biting): "I'm your brother too." (he leans in slightly, lowering his voice) "You didn't just leave Hugo. You left all of us. Left me."

Andrea finally looks at him, his eyes tired but sharp, as if the weight of the line goes beyond what words can express.

Andrea (firmly): "You weren't the ones exiled."

Alexei's lips twitch into the slightest smirk, but there's no humor in it, just rage and sadness. He leans against the counter, his voice lowering.

Alexei (mockingly): "So that's it? You think you're some kind of hero now? Rescuing him... your little act of rebellion. Is this your version of justice, big brother?"

Andrea's expression hardens, anger simmering beneath the surface. His voice rises, cutting through the tension like a blade.

Andrea (angry): "Justice? Yes. I do it because it's right, because it's decent. And above all, because it's kind. That's it… just kind… You would've cast him aside like trash. I couldn't stand by and let it happen."

Alexei raises an eyebrow, his smirk faltering only slightly. He crosses his arms, leaning back as if daring Andrea to continue.

Alexei (mockingly, intrigued): "Kindness, huh? That's rich. You gave up everything—our family, your future—for kindness and justice? Don't tell me you're losing your edge, Andrea."

Andrea slams his hands down on the counter, his eyes burning with intensity.

Andrea (fiercely): "If I had left him, he would've died. But going with him... there's a chance he might live. I couldn't let him rot while you all sleep peacefully at night, pretending none of it mattered."

Alexei's eyes narrow, his smirk shrinking, but his voice remains calm, with a biting edge.

Alexei (taunting): "So noble. So self-righteous. And yet here you are, working in a convenience store, clinging to some fantasy of justice. While the rest of us... well, we're doing just fine without you."

Andrea grits his teeth, his knuckles white as he tries to keep his anger in check. He's too tired for this, too drained from the endless grind, and now, Alexei's arrogance is pushing him to his limit.

Andrea breaks down, his gaze turning cold.

Andrea (cold, calm): "Oh, yeah… I'm living in a fantasy of justice… just like you, Mr. Golden Child."

Alexei is taken aback by Andrea's cold gaze. He grits his teeth but doesn't respond. Andrea continues, his voice colder.

Andrea (cold, calm): "As the last child, Mom and Dad loved you. While Hugo was the black sheep, all because of himself having a birth defect. And you joke that I abandoned everything for a lost cause... but look at you, Mr. Ex Golden Child. You were the canary trapped in the cage of affection."

Alexei's eyes darken as Andrea presses on.

Andrea (cold, calm): "You rebel, but it's all just an act. Even your so-called love for Floria—just another way to play against them. But you always crawl back to that cage."

Alexei clenches his fists, but Andrea's voice remains steady and unyielding.

Andrea (cold, calm): "But now you're free, thanks to the demon you claimed to hate. Free to do whatever you want. At least I had the courage to choose my own path. You'd still be in that golden cage if it weren't for him."

Alexei glares, fire in his eyes only to be met with Andrea's cold icy gaze.

Andrea (coldly): "So know your place, golden canary."

Scene: Comfort in the Storm

INT. LYSANDER'S APARTMENT – LATE NIGHT

The door slams shut as Alexei storms into his apartment, his jaw clenched, still seething from the confrontation with Andrea. The cold words echo in his head, each one digging deeper into the insecurities he tries so hard to bury. His hands shake slightly as he tosses his keys onto the kitchen counter, but before he can let the anger consume him further, a soft voice cuts through the tension.

Floria (softly): "Alexei? Is that you?"

She steps out from the living room, her dark hair loosely tied back, her eyes filled with warmth and concern. She approaches him slowly, sensing his mood without needing to ask.

Alexei exhales sharply, trying to steady himself. He forces a smile, though it doesn't quite reach his eyes.

Alexei (gruffly, trying to sound casual): "Yeah... it's me."

Floria watches him carefully, her brow furrowed as she steps closer, her hands gently brushing his arm. She can feel the tension in his muscles, the storm he's trying to suppress.

Floria (concerned): "Rough night?"

Alexei looks at her, his cocky exterior crumbling in the presence of her warmth. He lets out a frustrated sigh and pulls her into a gentle embrace, burying his face in her hair. She doesn't say anything, just holds him, letting the silence soothe the weight of his anger.

After a few moments, she leads him over to the couch and sits down, patting her lap with a playful smile.

Floria (softly): "Here. You look like you need this."

Alexei raises an eyebrow, a hint of his usual smirk returning as he lies down, resting his head in her lap. He closes his eyes, feeling the tension slowly melt away. Her hands run through his hair, soft and calming, and for the first time that night, he feels at peace.

Floria (teasing, shyly): "Hey, babe, don't look at me like that... I'm shy."

Alexei opens his eyes, his gaze softening as he looks up at her. Despite everything—despite the anger still simmering inside him—he can't help but smile.

Alexei (cocky, playfully): "Why not? My little babe gives me an awesome pillow lap, and I'm just thinking of how beautiful she is. I'll look at you forever, babe."

Floria's cheeks flush a light pink, but she laughs softly, her fingers continuing to gently comb through his hair.

Floria (teasing): "You're such a flirt, Alexei."

He grins up at her, the earlier rage now a distant memory, replaced by something warmer. But as he lies there, staring up at her, Andrea's words slip back into his mind.

FLASHBACK: INT. CONVENIENCE STORE – NIGHT

Andrea's cold voice echoes in his head.

Andrea (coldly): "Even that girl you claimed to love, Floria, was just an act of your rebellion. Another way to defy mom and dad."

Alexei's jaw tightens, his fists clenched at the memory. His older brother's words had stung in ways he hadn't expected—questioning his love for Floria, reducing it to mere defiance. As if it had all been part of some game to him. But as he looks up at Floria now, the anger fades, replaced by something deeper.

INT. ALEXEI'S APARTMENT – LATE NIGHT (PRESENT)

Alexei's eyes soften as he watches Floria, her gentle expression calming the storm inside him. He reaches up, brushing a strand of hair from her face, his voice quieter now, more sincere.

Alexei (thinking, gazing at her): "Rebellion or not... it doesn't matter anymore. Mom and Dad are no longer here. I don't need their approval. I love this woman. I want to be with her for the rest of my life... that's enough. More than enough."

Floria notices the shift in his expression and blushes slightly, her eyes meeting his. There's a vulnerability in his gaze she rarely sees, but she welcomes it, her heart swelling with affection.

Floria (softly, smiling): "What's on your mind?"

Alexei's smirk returns, but there's a tenderness behind it now. He reaches up, resting a hand on her cheek.

Alexei (gently, playfully): "Just thinking about how lucky I am. And how much I love my awesome pillow."

Floria giggles, leaning down to press a soft kiss to his forehead.

Floria (teasing): "Well, your pillow loves you too, babe."

Alexei chuckles, but there's a warmth in his laughter now—a warmth that only she can bring him. For the first time tonight, the weight on his chest feels lighter. He closes his eyes, letting himself drift into the comfort of her presence, her hand still softly running through his hair.

INT. ALEXEI'S APARTMENT – LATER

The anger that had followed him home slowly ebbs away, replaced by the quiet understanding that Andrea's words, as sharp as they were, no longer define him. He isn't trapped by the past anymore. His family's expectations, their judgments, their rules—they don't matter now.

All that matters is here, in this moment, with her.

Alexei (thinking): "I love her. I choose her. And that's more than enough."

As Floria hums softly to herself, Alexei drifts into a peaceful sleep, her warmth surrounding him like a shield from the chaos of the world outside.