Supernatural and Psychic Science Research Society

Shirone had enjoyed reading about the history of war among mages, but he firmly believed that magic didn't always have to be destructive.

I never learned magic with the intent of harming others.

He was curious about Iruki, but given the circumstances, it seemed unlikely that they would ever become close.

As it turned out, Iruki had indeed been placed on probation and was absent from class. While it was unfortunate for him, Shirone couldn't help but feel a sense of relief.

I wouldn't know what to say if we met again.

After an uneventful day, Shirone took his first official evaluation in Class Five. His score? An average of 41.

Still among the lower ranks, but improving every subject by ten points in just one month was no small feat.

The next day, students reviewed their results, stretching and tidying their desks.

"Whew, we can finally relax for a while. Should we grab something to eat before heading to the research society?"

"Good idea. I'm starving now that the tension's gone."

Groups of students left for their research societies, but Shirone had yet to join one.

I should head to the library and study some more. I can't believe my average is still in the 40s...

Though the results weren't satisfying, his progress felt steady. More importantly, knowledge was beginning to connect in his mind much faster than expected.

This is proof that my knowledge network is evolving. I just have to stick to it.

The realization gave him confidence. After all, he had finished reading all twenty books he borrowed just a week ago.

"Hey, Shirone."

"Hm?"

As he packed his bag, a female student approached him. In the corner of the classroom, her friends watched with curiosity.

"Is something wrong?"

"Not at all! My friends and I were talking, and we were wondering if you'd like to join our research society. We're studying teleportation magic, and we think having you with us would really boost our progress. Plus, it's closely related to photon magic."

"Ah..."

Shirone hesitated. He had received a few offers after advancing in class, but this was the first one that truly aligned with his interests.

Joining a research society was entirely optional, but being a member was never a waste of time. The school's grading system was divided into three main categories: practical exams, written tests, and project-based assessments. The latter required students to submit a research paper on a topic of their choice. Being in a research society significantly eased that burden.

Most students used this opportunity to finish their assessments efficiently, leaving them free to either return home during vacation or stay at school to refine their studies.

Shirone had previously researched various societies on his own. Studying with like-minded friends seemed enjoyable.

But in the end, he had always held back. His knowledge foundation wasn't solid enough yet. Joining too soon could be more of a hindrance than a benefit.

They might have extended an invitation because of his reputation, but he wasn't confident he could keep up once the real research began.

"I really appreciate it, but I already have something I'm working on, and I haven't seen results yet. I want to focus on that for now."

"Oh, I see. That's understandable."

"Thanks for thinking of me, though. I'm sorry for turning it down."

"Hehe, no need to apologize. Just let me know if you ever change your mind."

The girl smiled before returning to her friends. By Class Five, most students had matured enough to respect each other's decisions. Though, there were always exceptions—like Iruki.

Laughter echoed from the hallway as the girls left together.

Must be nice to have a group like that.

Shirone felt a small pang of loneliness. He had Rian and Amy, but Rian was at a different school, and Amy was in her final year.

"Hey, Shirone! Heading out? Let's go together."

"Nade."

He didn't even need to turn around to recognize the voice. Whenever he was the last one in the classroom, Nade would always show up to keep him company.

Being everyone's friend had its perks. On days like this, Shirone was grateful for Nade's kindness.

As they walked, they talked about magic and grades—topics Shirone loved. Nade had an uncanny ability to keep conversations engaging.

"The library has a lot of books, but research societies also have access to specialized texts. By the way, I saw you got an invitation earlier. Why didn't you join? That group is actually pretty solid."

"I don't think I'd have enough time."

"Fair enough. You need to focus on your theory scores first. Still, I'm jealous. I don't even have the motivation to do that."

Shirone tilted his head. "But you have plenty of friends. Wouldn't a research society be perfect for you?"

Nade grinned. "Oh, I never told you? I'm already in one. In fact, I'm the president."

"What? Really? I had no idea."

Thinking back, Shirone had never asked. He had assumed Nade wouldn't like being tied to a specific group.

"What kind of research society?"

"Haha! It's a bit embarrassing to say. We only have two members, including me."

"Wait, doesn't that mean you don't meet the minimum requirement? You wouldn't even get funding."

Official societies needed at least three members. Any fewer, and they weren't considered an official group.

"Well... our seniors all graduated last year. So, I kinda inherited the position. And honestly, it's a problem."

"Graduated?"

Shirone was intrigued. Societies with upper-year members weren't common. More importantly, if they passed their graduation exams, they had to be extremely talented.

"Mind if I check it out?"

Nade's eyes widened. "Really? I thought you weren't interested in research societies."

"I've always been interested. I just didn't want to be a burden."

"Come on, no need to be so serious. A research society is just a bunch of students hanging out and studying together. No pressure at all."

"Hmm… if you put it that way."

"Honestly, Shirone, you're kinda hard to approach. You're mature—too mature for our age. Most of us joke around, make mistakes, and goof off. Even in Class Five, there are troublemakers, but none of them are bad people. Try loosening up a little."

Shirone considered his words. He had always thought of himself as friendly, but now that he thought about it, both Rian and Amy had reached out to him first.

Was I always this tense?

Ever since joining the Ozendt family, he had rarely felt at ease.

Nade suddenly smirked. "Alright, I've decided! This is a special occasion, so I'll give you a tour of our research society. But no making fun of it, okay?"

"Really? I'd love to see it."

"That's the spirit! Come on, you're gonna love this."

Nade led Shirone to a secluded area northwest of the academy's central park. There, a maze of interconnected tetrahedral buildings stretched before them. The metallic structures were inscribed with magical runes.

Shirone was taken aback. "What is this place?"

Nade grinned. "Welcome to the Magical Archive Warehouse. Every kind of research material is stored here—including our research lab."

As they stepped forward, Shirone couldn't shake his curiosity. Just what kind of research required them to hide in such a place?

The sign on the door read:

Supernatural and Psychic Science Research Society.