I was reading at my usual spot in the lounge on my day off when Alec and Rock came in. 

“What are you reading?”

Alec asked as he sat down on the sofa next to me. Rock stood like a shadow behind his master and quietly listened to our conversation like usual. 

“I’ve been researching how to process magic stones. I heard this topic isn’t covered in school.”

“Really?”

“I asked sensei about it earlier. They told me that only specialised craftsmen know how to process magic stones and that ordinary mages aren’t taught how to process them. Even the books don’t give specific instructions on how to do it.”

I pointed at the stack of books on the table and frowned a little. 

“I heard that processing magic stones isn’t popular in Traus, but there are too few books on this topic. This might be because the technique was introduced here too late. I don’t think there’s much research going on about this topic.”

“You want to be a mage engineer, right Aime?”

“Yeah, because it sounds interesting. Look.”

I leaned my upper body towards Alec and showed him what I was reading. 

“Magic tools can activate multiple spells at the same time. So, flying would be possible with one magic tool. So, it might be possible for people who can’t use magic to fly.”

For example, what if I could really make a flying carpet, so people won’t get sore butts when they make long trips? 

What if we could fly over mountains, oceans and go anywhere we wanted to go?

The world would be a much more enjoyable place. 

“It would be easier to get around. We can regain body parts that we’ve lost, just like with Giedt’s artificial eye. Maybe we could solve other inconveniences in the world too. I’d like to learn how to process magic stones.”

I believe there are many dreams buried in the unknown. 

“That’s just like you.”

“Will you support my dreams?”

“Of course. There’s no one who doesn’t want to support you. You always want to make people happy, so people will help you if you ask.”

Alec said with conviction in his blue eyes.

“――― I’ll do my best to help those who help me.”

There are less than six months left until graduation. 

After learning as much as I can and getting stronger, I intend to use everything that I have gained so far and everything that I will gain in the future to open up new areas that have yet to be explored. 

There are many things I want to do. 

I am sure I will be able to move forward even on the road less traveled with my great curiosity and friends who are willing to go along with me in my reckless pursuits.