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At the gate of St. Salaius Middle School, crimson petals from the Dragon Tree showered down. Seniors gathered in front of the gate to celebrate our enrollment, each handing out flower decorations crafted to resemble the Dragon Tree’s blossom.

“We’re matching, Leafa.”

Alfe, adorned with a flower decoration at her chest, bounced happily. I thought she’d be nervous for the freshman representative speech, but unlike in elementary school, Alfe seemed remarkably composed.

“Well, since freshmen are the ones wearing the flower decorations, aren’t we all matching?”
“Mgggh…”

Pointing this out, Alfe emitted a small, almost growling sound, then stopped in her tracks.

“Okay, then let’s do this.”

Gathering the Dragon Tree flowers fallen onto a shrub, Alfe chanted softly.

“What are you—”
“There, done.”

Alfe opened her palms, revealing two loops woven into heart shapes.

“Now, it’s just you and me matching, Leafa.”
“I can’t keep up with you, Alfe.”

Her ability to immediately shape her imagination into reality, fueled by her magical prowess and the necessary aether, was truly remarkable. Impressed, I nodded, and Alfe proudly entwined her arm with mine.

“I’ll leave the major role at the entrance ceremony to you, then.”
“Sure thing. It’s a promise.”

Alfe snuggled against my head affectionately. She always had this habit of rubbing her cheek against mine, but with our height difference now, it might be a good idea to treat my hat with some friction-resistant coating.

Lost in these thoughts, a familiar voice came from behind.

“…It’s heartwarming to see you two getting along so well, Alfe, Leafa.”
“Ms. Anais! Mr. Lionel too!”

Alfe, quick to sense their presence, turned around with a cheerful voice.

“Will you be attending the entrance ceremony?”

Ms. Anais nodded deeply at Alfe’s inquiry, then continued in her gentle tone.

“Indeed. We’ll be teaching here starting this spring.”
“Huh…? That means…”
“Let us get along once again.”

Smiling at the shocked us after the surprising announcement, Ms. Anais and Mr. Lionel bowed their heads. We followed suit, lowering our heads in respect.

“It brings me great joy to be able to witness the growth of such outstanding individuals… Ah…” Mr. Lionel hesitated, seeming awkward. “…Leafa.”

“Yes?” It was probably about my Aether Overproduction Syndrome. I could tell from his expression, so I maintained a solemn face and met the teachers’ gaze.

“We’ve heard about it. We’ll do our best to support you, so please don’t hesitate to talk to us about anything, no matter how trivial.”

Having Ms. Anais and Mr. Lionel, who have been watching over our growth since elementary school, in middle school was reassuring. Perhaps if it was decided hastily after hearing about my condition, then Alfe and I might be under immense pressure.

“…Understood. Thank you very much.”

Since everything was just speculation, I decided to behave like a child. The feeling of gratitude remained unchanged.

Leafa Naga Rjuna:

Alfe Clifford: