The Moonlight Swordsman



Aizel's gaze lingered on Seraphine for a moment before he put his attention elsewhere.

"What do you mean changing softie?"

"Nothing, just ignore her,"

"ALL RIGHT EVERYONE, BACK TO YOUR SEAT PLEASE...."

As the professor began to speak, everyone took their seats and prepared to listen.

However, Aizel's focus shifted to a woman approaching the platform.

She was wearing the deep institute robe, and her light blue hair cascaded down her waist. Aizel couldn't help but notice the woman's striking light blue eyes and smile as she looked at everyone.

She appeared to be no older than Vespara.

"For those who don't know me yet, let me introduce myself first.

"I am Zaxi Kingsley."

"It's good to see some new and fresh faces every now and then," she said, after noticing the Aizel group and smiling at them.

"Now first, let us discuss more about the kingdom,

"We already know it was founded by Cedric Felgura, but did he build the kingdom alone?

"No, there were many great mages who helped him build our kingdom.

"Today they are all known as the Major noble families. Every past generation has helped Cedric Felgura build our Kingdom."

"Now who will tell me about the magic crystals?"

Lysandra's hand shot up in the air, and Professor Zaxi nodded, indicating she could speak.

"Magic Crystals are formed naturally in caves, some underground abysses, and mountain areas. They contain a higher and purer quality of mana inside them.

"They are very useful in potion making, for the use of magic inscriptions, and in making armor, weapons, and artifacts. They are the main currency among the higher-grade mages."

"Excellent," the professor replied.

"Once you all reach Grade IV and beyond, you will hardly use any gold or silver coins. You will be mainly dealing in magic crystals every day.

"And it is not just for our kingdom; you can visit any place in Xelgar and magic crystals will always be the main currency for high-grade mages."

Hmm, so those pink crystals are magic crystals," Aizel pondered. How wonderful would it be when I am able to make those crystals with just my imagination? Hehe, I can't wait to grow more." A smile crept on his face.

"Now I have finally got permission to take all of you for a group assessment. Though it was a headache considering the recent developments, we will still be departing in the evening.

"I am sure everyone will love some real-life activities,"

As Professor Zaxi continued the lecture, explaining various aspects of the kingdom, its agriculture, and land distribution, Aizel found his mind drifting away.

When the lecture ended, he was the first to leave the classroom, eager to avoid any further interaction with Seraphine, Hazel, and the new member of their group, Isabella.

"Did something happen to Softie?" Hazel asked, glancing towards his departed figure.

"Is he always like this?" Isabella asked.

Seraphine left the class without a word in response.

Hazel sighed.

*****

The atmosphere in Felgura City was calm, but Tidalheim was in chaos.

The prince and his entourage were gathered in his private room at the restaurant, their faces etched with frustration and fury.

They had just received news about the recent events in Chester Town.

The news that David was still alive and had been exposed as 'The Common Man' came as a double shock.

Leah's uncle, now the last surviving Rosewell, had the worst expression of anyone in the family. He sat there in stunned silence, as though his whole spirit had left his body.

"How is it possible? How can he be alive after all that? And where the fuck did he get the artifact to erase mana from the surrounding?

"I want that artifact; do everything in your power to catch that bastard. He is making fun of the whole kingdom.

"We will become a joke in the Interkingdom tournament in front of everyone if the situation stays like this.

"You all know what will happen then, right?" The prince frowned.

"Don't worry prince, I will make sure to catch him soon with the others," the headmaster of the institute replied.

"I hope you will keep your word, Elric,"

"You can rest assured, prince." Elric Crestfall replied.

The tense meeting came to an end, and the prince departed with his royal mages, leaving the others behind. Elric let out a deep sigh, knowing there would be more work for him to do now that the meeting was over.

As the sun began to set, Aizel and the rest of the group prepared to embark on their group assignment.

Although uncertain about what it would entail, Aizel remained determined to take advantage of every opportunity to further develop his unique power and become stronger.

"Are you also looking forward to the assignment?"

Aizel was lost in his thoughts when Isabella's sudden movement jolted him back to reality. She had approached him and was now standing right beside him.

What is the deal with this lady here? Is her family behind this? Or is she genuinely trying to become my friend?" Aziel thought.

"HMMM..." he replied with a deep hum.

"I hope I can follow you in the assignment."

"Why?"

"So I can become strong just like you," she replied with a smile.

"How will following me will make you strong?" Aizel asked, a little interested to see how she would answer.

"My mother has always taught me that following a great leader or a king is the right path to becoming strong and kind."

"But what if the king is cruel?"

"I said, a great leader or king, 'GREAT'."

"I see what you are trying to say here," Aizel said. "You really think I am some kind of a great leader or king?"

"Of course, you have all the qualities,"

"Why not, Soren? He believes he is the true king of the kingdom."

Isabella's expression contorted into an odd one after hearing Aizel's words, while he suppressed a chuckle.

"By the way, where is that idiot? I can't see him here today."

"Oh, he is taking care of the riot group near Alcoberg town."

"Well, I can imagine how that will go." Aizel thought.