Journey to Discovery

One day, as Rei was leaving the school after discussing the syllabus and organizing the classes, he noticed a group of girls bullying a boy with azure hair, greenish-blue eyes, and a feminine appearance. The boy was cowering, clearly distressed, as the girls taunted and pushed him. Without hesitation, Rei intervened.

"Leave him alone. Who are you to bully him?" Rei's voice was firm, his gaze sharp.

The girls, knowing Rei's misogynistic veiws on girls and the authority and the respect he commanded, backed off but not without expressing their displeasure. "Who does he think he is?" one muttered as they walked away. Another glared and said, "We'll deal with him later." another said "He just happens to get some recognization and now thinks he is a bigshot"

Rei ignored their comments and turned his attention to the boy. Gently, he helped him up and led him to a nearby building where they could sit. "Those girls are bullies," Rei said, his tone softening. "No need to pay them any mind." He carefully patched up the boy's bruises using a small first-aid kit he carried.

"What's your name?" Rei asked as he worked.

The boy hesitated, his cheeks flushing. "My name is Ly—I mean, my name is Luster," he stammered.

Rei smiled warmly. "Wow, that's a very pleasant name. Here, all patched up." Rei thought "He is just the kind of person I need a timid boy who would act as my assistant when I would navigate this world. If anytime I need a scapegoat he could act like it"

Luster looked down, still blushing. "Thank you. One day, I'll return your kindness."

Rei laughed lightly, brushing off the comment. "Oh, no need. I'm just happy that you're okay."

The next day, as Luster was leaving the school, Rei grabbed his hand. Luster's eyes widened in surprise, his cheeks turning red again. "What are you doing?" he asked nervously.

Rei chuckled, holding his hand firmly. "Oh, come on. We're going to sit there," he said, pointing to a shady spot under a tree. Despite his initial shock, Luster made no attempt to resist. His flustered expression only deepened as Rei led him to the spot. Rei decided to make him his assistant and use him as a scapegoat when required and in return he ensured Luster's safety from bullies.

As the days passed, Luster's bond with Rei grew stronger however Rei was still looking at Luster as a tool. Rei also immersed himself in creating new ways to approach the education in school and make some changes to gather funds for the school repairs. This newfound routine caused Rei to leave the house earlier than usual, which didn't go unnoticed by his parents. While they were pleased to see Rei taking his studies seriously, they also worried about his intense focus. His father often commented on how much of a prodigy Rei was, while his mother fretted over whether he was pushing himself too hard.

One evening, during dinner, Rei's mother brought up the topic. "Rei, dear, your father and I have been talking. We're so proud of how well you're doing in school. You're even leaving the house earlier than usual, eager to get there. Hanna, you too are helping him. We're proud of you both."

Hanna smiled at the praise, but a flicker of sadness crossed her face. She longed for Rei's acknowledgment, hoping that her silence about his activities would eventually earn his attention and approval.

Rei's father nodded in agreement, his smile filled with pride. "Yes, it's wonderful to see you two so dedicated to your education. We're just a bit worried, though. Are you sure you're not pushing yourself too hard, Rei? We don't want you to burn yourself out."

Rei felt a pang of guilt but masked it with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Father, Mother. I'm fine. I just… I just really enjoy learning."

His mother's smile faltered slightly, but she nodded. "Well, as long as you both are happy and healthy, that's all that matters. We're just proud of you two, Rei and Hanna."

Hanna nodded silently, resolving to continue supporting Rei in the hopes of earning his recognition.

As the days turned into weeks, Rei's bond with Luster deepened. While Rei still saw Luster as a tool Rei had formed some kind of attachment with Luster however that attachment was not so strong as to make Rei give up on the idea of using him as a scapegoat. While protecting Luster gave Rei a sense of purpose and joy he hadn't felt in years it was still far from melting his cold heart that came from staying in prison for years. Luster, in turn, grew more comfortable around Rei, his initial shyness giving way to a quiet trust and admiration.

Rei's parents continued to marvel at the change in him, unaware of the true reasons behind it. For Rei, the growing connection with Luster was a small but significant step toward healing old wounds and finding a place in this new life.

As the days passed, Rei's bond with Luster grew stronger. Observing Luster's determination despite his lack of magic capabilities, Rei decided to teach him the basics of spirit arts. If Rei was going to use Luster in future he needed to groom him to get stronger and powerful enough to save him from any danger that might come his way. Also Rei believed that with a stronger body and disciplined mind, Luster could excel in ways others wouldn't expect.

One morning After the classes were over Rei took Luster to the area where he usually trained, Rei handed Luster a written exercise regimen designed to strengthen his physical and mental endurance. "Hey Luster this will help you get stronger," Rei said, the tone encouraging yet firm. "Spirit arts require more than just willpower; they need a body that can endure the strain. Follow this, and you'll see results."

Luster's greenish-blue eyes sparkled with gratitude. "Thank you, Rei. I'll do my best. I won't let you down."