"Today concludes the dungeon trials," said the old man standing on the stage, his voice carrying across the entire assembly.

The third-year students stood on the left, the second-years occupied the center, and the first-years were gathered on the right.

Everyone had assembled early that morning in the building connected to the gymnasium for a single reason.

The congratulatory ceremony.

Every year, those who performed well during the raids were praised by the Headmaster in front of the entire academy. Those who couldn't participate yet would watch from the sidelines, knowing that one day, it would be their turn.

For the younger students, this ceremony ignited inspiration and eagerness. For the senior students, it was an honor—one that would remain etched in their memories for the rest of their lives.

Edward's voice rang out once more. "While some groups failed to earn their first star, and others couldn't add anything to their achievements, know this, students—both I and all your teachers are proud of you."

William nearly yawned out loud at the familiar speech meant to lift the spirits of those who had failed.

He was never someone who could be swayed by sweet words or kind gestures. For someone capable of peeking into others' minds, it was only natural that he had grown into a cautious, guarded person.

In contrast, Kevin listened intently, his posture straight and eyes focused. Each word from the Headmaster seemed to kindle a fire within him—a determination to not stop here and to become a better version of himself.

"Now," Edward continued, "to the one who have genuinely impressed us with their outstanding performances and brilliance in battle."

As he paused, his gaze lingered briefly on William. For a split second, William was genuinely startled by the possibility that the man might call him out.

But then—

"Student Emma."

The old man's lips curved into a smile as he continued, "Not only did she step out of her shell by forming an entirely new team, she also proved that rigid stereotypes can suppress one's true potential. Just because Emma is a healer does not mean she belongs only on the backline. We witnessed a few days ago that even a healer can become an annihilator when it comes to protecting her friends and allies."

Thunderous applause erupted across the hall as countless eyes turned toward the girl in question.

The words drew reactions from many—including William and Kevin—but the silver-haired girl remained standing, her posture firm and expression sharp.

The frustration simmering within her was immeasurable. Once again, she felt the sting of an unfair judgment masked as praise.

Just as she was about to speak—

[No, Emma.] William's voice stopped her. [This is your moment. Please don't take away my privilege of seeing my beautiful lover admired by the world. Let them recognize what you truly deserve.]

Emma lowered her gaze and replied,

[I don't need their recognition. And I don't deserve this praise.]

[And I don't need it either.] His reply came instantly. [I don't give a damn whether they admire me or not. All I need is your attention—your praise, your approval. So relax… and let me be proud of you, just for a moment.]

What could she even say when he was being this stubborn and this gentle at the same time?

She finally moved, turning slightly to glance at William over her shoulder.

Their eyes met.

For a few fleeting moments, everything else vanished—the applause, the murmurs of the students, the looks of admiration. The world faded into nothingness until only the two of them remained.

Emma knew she couldn't have done this without him.

If not for him constantly reminding her that she was more than a first-aid kit. More than a fragile doll meant to be protected. If not for him pushing her forward and forcing her to take the lead… she might have never imagined herself as anything beyond a healer.

It was all because of him.

He had changed her in more ways than one.

As she saw him smiling at her—warmly, proudly—she couldn't help but mutter under her breath,

'Is there anything about you that I don't love?'

°°°°°°°°°

The night was calm and beautiful.

Normally, they weren't allowed to walk in the garden this late, but neither Emma nor William wanted to part ways just yet.

Why?

"Our lives are going to get busy starting tomorrow," Emma muttered, a hint of frustration slipping into her voice.

They would be sent somewhere—someplace unknown. The special training program arranged by the Great Hall was set to begin the next day, and along with William and Emma, five others would be joining as well.

"Well, at least we'll be together," William said, trying to sound optimistic.

But they both knew better. Whatever the Great Hall had planned, it would keep them occupied most of the time.

"What about Nana?" Emma asked, worry seeping into her tone. "The training will last two weeks. You met her yesterday, but if we don't see her for half a month… she'll be sad."

William hummed thoughtfully before replying, "I'll do something about it. There's no way I'm letting my child cry—even if I have to break a few rules."

Emma smiled faintly. "Well, I know they'll agree to your request, considering how important you are to them."

William huffed. "Forget about them. I don't want to ruin the evening talking about those people."

Emma tilted her head slightly. "Then how do you want to spend the evening?"

William hummed, then gently took her hand and pulled her toward a nearby bench. "First, sit here."

Emma complied, then turned to face him.

After a brief hesitation, William asked softly, "Do… you remember this place?"

Emma didn't need more than a moment. "The place where I saw you crying. The first time I saw the real William."

William's shoulders slumped. "Even though I told you I was trying to fool you with those tears…" He stopped himself, knowing it was pointless to continue. She already knew the truth. And she was right.

He *had* been crying that day.

Having Lizel—the only familiar face he had in the academy—humiliate him and abandon him had been the final push, the moment that broke him completely.

Emma squeezed his hand gently. "You know I'm always here to listen to you, right?"

William smiled at her and shook his head. "I don't have any depressing thoughts right now." He pulled her closer, wrapping his arms around her shoulders.

Then, in a soft whisper, he said,

"All I can think about right now… is you. My present. And my future."

°°°°°

A/N:- And….we head to the next arc. Thanks for reading.

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