If I Were To Be Given A Choice, I Would Save You Again; Ophelia

Trip

Luna’s PoV

How did I end up at the academy? I told Juliet and Gunther that I would never step my foot here, but somehow Gaia and I were invited to this hell hole by the headmaster.

“Are you girls excited? It’s rare for someone with my stature to guide children into this grand establishment. Look, everyone seems curious about why I’m here with two eight-year-olds.” Mariana smiled as she guided us through the large hallways.

What a scene. Did these young witches and wizards think they could act high and mighty because they’re students here? It was my idea to build this school. They’re learning based on what I have studied and researched. There were many trials and errors, but I did everything for a better future. What I’m seeing right now is a bunch of knows who think they’re on top of the world.

What were the headmaster and lecturers thinking when they accepted students that have no talent in magic? Is it because their parents paid extra? What sort of requirements and tests that the students have to take to be here?

“I thought this academy was supposed to be the best in the empire. I am disappointed.” For Gaia to say that- I am a bit surprised.

“Why? Is it because you could see how low their mana is? I am surprised that a child like you could see something like that.” I smiled at Mariana.

“All of the top five students in our school could see other people's mana perfectly. I’m sorry, but if we combine our powers, the academy would be in big trouble.” That’s just how powerful the top five students are. Even I was shocked when I saw each of the students' potential.

Especially Gaia’s.

I didn’t expect to see Gaia’s overwhelming power when she was only six years old. Our first duel was when we were first enrolled in school. The teacher was having a hard time stopping us from killing each other. But- we were having fun.

“Gaia, do you prefer to use a wand or a staff?” Mariana asked. Gaia decided to show Mariana her want.

“What about you?” I showed my hands.

“Your hands? Does that mean you could perform any spells and arrays without incantation?” I nodded. It would be weird for me not to be able to do such a simple thing. After all, I was the one who introduced magic into this world. It was I who wrote the first grimoire.

“I’ll be damn. Aren’t you a bit jealous of Luna’s power, Gaia?” Gaia shakes her head no.

“Why would I be jealous if I can work my way to be better? There’s no such thing as jealousy. Besides, Luna is a great teacher. She helps other students with her knowledge.” Mariana smiled at me. I’m not too fond of it when she smiles like that, though.

“I see. That’s enough information for one day. Now, do you want to see the cafeteria? We have sweet and sour ogre eyes, grilled dragon mean frog stew, and even mushroom bay soup.” Gaia and I couldn’t believe what we were hearing.

“We would like a glass of water.” Mariana sighed.

“We have normal food too.” We followed Mariana to the cafeteria. As we walked, I noticed that the original design of this academy didn’t change from when it was first built.

“Are you reminiscing the golden days when you were a student here, your majesty?” I’m not even surprised that this woman knows who I am.

“What are you implying, lady Mariana? Why would you call a commoner, your majesty?” Mariana laughed.

“No reason. Anyway, is it normal for Gaia to order your food?” Eh? I didn’t realize that Gaia went to get some food.

“Excuse me.” I stood up from the table and went to see what is Gaia doing.

“What are you having?” I asked while looking at the food that was on display. Finally, Gaia ordered a soup, and I decided to have beef stew.

“Eat up, get some energy. It’s going to be a long journey for us.” Huh? What sort of plan does this woman have for us?

I thought we only needed to see the academy. It’s futile to ask Mariana where our next destination is. One thing I hate about her is that my hypnosis doesn’t work on her. Is it because she had hundreds of years of experience in her hands? Or is it because she has such great power that could dispel any spell that could be used on her.

Mariana- I tried to find more information about her and what sort of power she has through books, but nothing seems to be giving me the things I want to know. All the scholar did was make this woman look good for the press. The only thing that I know about her is that she could change day to night and night to day. To even do that, Mariana would need an immense amount of mana.

“What’s wrong?” Mariana asked me as I kept staring at her.

“You tell me, lady Mariana. I feel like we’re being kidnapped. Where are you taking us?” Mariana keeps a smile on her face.

“I’m going to show you a place where magic was born. Aren’t you curious to know how you have such great power?” Gaia and I shake our heads no.

“Oh my- you two are boring. Every student who followed me would change their mind and enroll in this academy. Why is it hard for you two to accept my offer? You don’t even have to pay the fee. The ministry will provide everything.” I smiled at Mariana, who finally broke out from her character.

“We both wish to stay in the village. Simple as that.” I watched Mariana scream in frustration as we continued to eat our food.

“Be careful. We don’t want the head of the ministry of magic to lose some of her hair.” I smiled as Gaia chuckled. I hope this is enough to make Mariana stop getting us into the academy. But is this what Gaia wants? I know she said she didn’t want to be here, but her talent would be wasted if she stayed with me.

We’re friends, but I wouldn’t want to be the reason for stopping Gaia from being a great witch.

“Are you okay?” Gaia nodded her head.

“It’s what I wanted. Besides, I wouldn’t want to leave my only friend alone.” Gaia smiled. Well then, so be it.