The next day, Kenneth and Rika made their way to Nero's office, their steps quick with anticipation. As they outlined their plans for the mystery-solving club, explaining its purpose and potential, Headmaster Nero listened intently, his fingers steeped in front of him. His expression was calm but thoughtful, his sharp gaze flicking between the two of them.

  When they finished, Nero leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing slightly as he considered their proposal. “It's an interesting idea,” he finally said, his voice steady. Kenneth and Rika exchanged a brief glance, relief flickering across their faces.

  “But,” Nero added, leaning forward slightly, “I have one condition.”

  Kenneth tensed instinctively, his cautious nature kicking in. “What is it?”

  Nero's gaze rested on them. “You need to recruit two students from the Practical and Theory division,” he explained. “If this club is to investigate the magical mysteries of this world, you'll need perspectives beyond the Special Division. Otherwise, it might become too exclusive.”

  Kenneth nodded, understanding the Headmaster's point. Although their club was open to all divisions, the fact that every member so far hailed from the Special Division did make it seem intimidating for others to join. He could see how the inclusion of students from different divisions would make the club more approachable and diverse.

  “We understand,” Kenneth replied firmly.

  After leaving Nero's office, Kenneth and Rika found Ash, Aine and Lucian waiting for them in the corridor. They group turned toward them expectantly, and Kenneth wasted no time filling them in on the Headmaster's condition.

  “So, we need two members from the Practical and Theory Divisions?” Ash asked, folding his arms. “That's going to be tricky. Most students are already committed to other clubs.”

  Rika nodded, tapping her chin thoughtfully. “Yea, finding people who aren't busy or already tied up might be tough. Do you guys know anyone?”

  Lucian, who had been leaning casually against the wall, finally spoke up. “There is someone from the Practical Division who hasn't joined a club yet.”

  Rika's eyes lit up. “Really? Who is it? Do you think they'd want to join us?”

  Lucian's expression remained neutral, though there was a faint edge of hesitation in his tone. “She's… currently working with my family. I could speak with her and see if she's interested.”

  Before anyone could react, Rika's excitement bubbled over. “Lucian! You're the best!” she exclaimed, throwing her arms around him in an enthusiastic hug.

  Lucian stiffened, clearly caught off guard. His usual composed demeanor faltered, and for a moment, he seemed completely at a loss. “I… I didn't agree to anything yet,” he managed, his voice quieter than usual.

  Pulling back, Rika grinned at him, completely unfazed by his awkwardness. “Still, you're a lifesaver. I thought you weren't interested in our club, but now I'm counting on you!”

  Lucian cleared his throat, his face faintly flushed. “I'll… see what I can do.”

  “Now we just need someone from the Theory Division,” Aine chimed in. “Someone who can provide a more academic perspective.”

  Kenneth nodded, the idea already on his mind. “I was thinking the same. Someone from the Theory Division could definitely help us connect the dots with magic history and concepts.”

  Aine leaned forward, curious. “Any ideas? I’m sure there’s someone who’d be perfect.”

  Kenneth hesitated for a moment before speaking. “Actually, there is someone,” he said slowly, his voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty. “But… I think I need to talk to him myself.”

  Ash raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Why? What’s the deal with this guy?”

  “There’s a misunderstanding between us,” Kenneth admitted, glancing at the ground briefly before looking back up. “It’s something I need to clear up. I think he’d be a great addition to the club, but I can’t invite him without sorting things out first.”

  Rika exchanged a glance with Aine, her curiosity clearly piqued, but she simply smiled. “Sounds fair. Go for it. If you think he’s the right fit, then it’s worth trying.”

  “Thanks,” Kenneth replied, relieved by their support. “I’ll handle it.”

  Aine gave him a sly grin. “This sounds like it’s going to be interesting. Let us know how it goes, okay?”

  Kenneth chuckled, feeling the weight of their expectations. “I’ll let you know once I’ve talked to him.”

  ＊＊＊

  After school, Kenneth lingered near the Theory Division, pacing as he waited for Joash. His mind was filled with all the ways this conversation could go wrong, but he had to try. Soon enough, he saw Joash walking alone down the hallway. As soon as their eyes met, Joash visibly tensed, turning slightly as if to avoid him.

  “Joash, wait,” Kenneth called out, moving toward him. Joash hesitated but continued walking, his pace quickening. Not willing to let the chance slip away, Kenneth stepped in front of him, blocking his path.

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  “We need to talk,” Kenneth said firmly. “I know you feel like I betrayed you, but there’s been a misunderstanding, and I want to set things straight.”

  Joash looked around, his eyes darting to see if anyone else was watching before sighing in resignation. “Follow me,” he muttered, leading Kenneth to his research room.

  Once they were inside, Joash wasted no time getting to the point. “I don’t see what there is to clear up,” he said, his voice edged with frustration. “You’ve been chosen as the successor, not me. That’s what’s clear.”

  Kenneth winced at the bitterness in Joash’s tone, but he stood his ground. “It’s not like that. I didn’t take your position. This is just temporary—until the Ultimate Fire matures.”

  Joash crossed his arms, his expression tight and unreadable. “And then what? What happens if Fireon doesn’t need another successor after that? What happened to me?” His voice cracked slightly, betraying the hurt he was struggling to contain. “Do you know what it’s like to dedicate your whole life to something, only to watch it slip away?”

  Kenneth shifted uncomfortably, the weight of Joash’s words pressing against him. “I don’t have all the answers, Joash. But I never wanted to take anything from you. I didn’t ask for this—I didn’t come here to replace you.”

  Joash’s eyes narrowed. “Maybe you didn’t ask for it, but that doesn’t change anything. Everyone looks at you now. You’re the Fireon successor, and no one even remembers me. Do you know what that feels like?”

  Kenneth’s chest tightened. “I can imagine,” he said softly. “But I don’t want it to be like this between us. You were the first person to help me when I came into this world. You didn’t know me, but you went out of your way to guide me. I’m grateful for that. I always will be.”

  Joash’s gaze faltered for the first time, the hardened mask he’d been wearing cracking ever so slightly.

  Kenneth took a step closer, his tone earnest. “I didn’t choose this, Joash, but I’m trying to make sense of it—just like you are. I don’t see myself as replacing you. To me, you’re still the true heir of Fireon.”

  Joash’s posture stiffened at Kenneth’s words, but his expression softened, uncertainty flickering in his eyes.

  “I can’t do this alone,” Kenneth admitted. “You’ve spent your entire life researching Elemental Revival and studying the Ultimate Fire. You know more about it than I ever will. Just because I have the power now doesn’t mean I’m the right person to lead. I need you to be part of this. Together, we can rebuild Fireon the right way.”

  Joash stared at him, clearly torn. Kenneth could see the emotions playing out in his eyes—resentment, doubt, and maybe a glimmer of something softer.

  The silence between them stretched, heavy with unspoken feelings.

  “I was actually going to invite you to join a club we’re starting,” Kenneth said, breaking the tension. He kept his tone light but sincere. “It’s a mystery-solving club. We’re planning to look into magical cases, mysteries, that kind of thing. And, honestly, I think you’d be perfect for it. Not because I feel sorry for you, but because I respect what you know and what you’ve accomplished.”

  Joash’s gaze flickered up, meeting Kenneth’s. For a moment, he said nothing, as if weighing the truth in Kenneth’s words. Finally, he spoke, his voice measured. “You really want me to be involved? Even after everything?”

  Kenneth nodded without hesitation. “Absolutely. Your knowledge and skills are exactly what we need. I can’t think of anyone better.”

  Joash exhaled slowly, the tension in his shoulders easing just slightly. “I don’t know, Kenneth. It’s… a lot to take in. I’ll think about it,” he said finally, his voice quiet but not dismissive. “But don’t expect things to go back to how they were.”

  Kenneth offered a small, understanding smile. “I wouldn’t. And whatever you decide, I’m glad we had this talk.”

  Joash didn’t respond immediately, but there was something in his expression—less guarded, more contemplative—that gave Kenneth hope as he left the room.

  ＊＊＊

  In the classroom, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. All five members were present, joined by a new recruit from the Practical Division. Standing before them was Elena, a composed girl with inherited Light Magic. She gave a polite bow, her calm demeanor contrasting with the group’s lively energy.

  “I’m Elena. It’s an honor to join the club,” she said softly, her tone measured but genuine.

  Aine, ever cheerful, immediately waved her hands dismissively. “Oh, no need to be so formal! We’re all teammates now.”

  Rika smirked, unable to resist teasing. “Elena, what’s your relationship with Lucian? I mean, I’m surprised he even has someone willing to put up with him.”

  Lucian sighed audibly, fixing Rika with a withering look but choosing not to take the bait. Meanwhile, Elena seemed unbothered by the remark. She met Rika’s gaze steadily and offered a small, polite smile.

  “I’ve known Lucian since we were children,” she explained simply. “Though I serve his family, I wouldn’t say we’re… friends.” Her tone was matter-of-fact, neither self-pitying nor defensive.

  The room grew quiet for a moment as everyone digested the statement. Kenneth caught Lucian glancing at Elena briefly, though his expression remained unreadable.

  Aine, ever the mediator, clapped her hands together, breaking the silence. “Well, friend or not, we’re all on the same team now. And that’s what matters, right?”

  “Right,” Kenneth added, stepping forward. “Welcome to the club, Elena. We’re glad to have you.”

  Elena nodded slightly, her expression softening. “Thank you. I’ll do my best.”

  As the conversation flowed, Ash turned to Kenneth, catching the subtle flicker of worry in his expression. Kenneth had yet to mention the member he was responsible for recruiting. Though the others trusted him enough not to press, curiosity lingered in the air.

  “President,” Ash teased, his voice light but nudging, “where’s your recruit? Or did they bail on us?”

  Kenneth opened his mouth to respond, but a knock at the door cut him off. All eyes turned as the door creaked open, revealing Joash standing in the doorway, his posture hesitant but composed.

  “Sorry I’m late,” Joash said, stepping into the room. His gaze swept over the group, briefly meeting Kenneth’s before landing on the others.

  Kenneth exhaled softly, a wave of relief washing over him. “Everyone, this is Joash Barnett from the Theory Division.”

  The room went quiet for a moment, and then Rika’s eyes widened in recognition. “Wait, the Joash? The guy who turned down the student council? Kenneth, how did you pull this off?”

  Aine chimed in, laughing. “He’s turned down practically every group that’s asked him! What changed, Joash?”

  Caught off guard, Joash rubbed the back of his neck, a faint smile forming. “I was too buried in research at the time,” he admitted. “But this club’s focus aligns more with what I’m passionate about. So… here I am.”

  Ash leaned back in his chair, grinning. “So, we’ve got the infamous Joash on board? Kenneth, I’m impressed—you must have some serious persuasion skills.”

  Joash shot Kenneth a quick glance, his expression softening slightly. Despite everything, he had chosen to be here, and maybe that choice wasn’t as difficult as he had imagined.

  “Welcome to the team, Joash,” Kenneth said warmly, his words sincere.

  The others nodded in agreement, offering smiles and waves. Joash hesitated, then gave a small nod, feeling a flicker of something unfamiliar but welcome—belonging.