Wandering the Slums

Through the Eyes of Eric, Now Elise

I lost?

Me, who acquired the body of an elite male and invincible magical powers, lost?

And to the duo of my former self and a drop-out boy?

Impossible!

I obtained this body through the use of forbidden magic.

That simply cannot be.

After the confrontation, I found myself despondently showering.

Miserable.

To think I had discarded my identity just to become stronger.

It’s as if I’ve perfectly lost to Eric, to the original owner of this body.

Then, that Chopin had the audacity to speak to me.

"You’re just starting to feel the heat. Use this as nourishment for your growth. I'm growing every day too."

As if I should accept such condescension from him!

The nerve!

Damn it!

I shouldn't be dwelling on such trivial matters!

Staying in the Dragon Class is merely a means to an end.

I have important work to do—for revenge.

It’s the final task in gathering scandals about Congressman Amadeus.

With this, I can throw him behind bars!

Quickly, I get ready and decide to head out.

"Clara, let’s go."

"Yes!"

It seems my seriousness is transmitted to her too.

"Sorry for always involving you in dangerous tasks. But this will be the finishing touch."

"I’d follow you anywhere if it’s you, Eric."

How reassuring.

I skip school and head to the dark alleys of the slum.

This is where I should be able to meet the informant.

I approach an old man wearing a tattered hat deeply pulled over his face.

"Kraiss. I heard a woman named Kraiss might be around here."

The old man doesn’t respond, perhaps asleep.

"Let's go."

Just as I decide to leave, the old man starts to speak.

"Kraiss? What do you want with Kraiss?"

"Whatever the matter, I need her to come with me."

"You’ve stumbled upon a truth you shouldn’t have reached."

The old man begins muttering something under his breath.

"Clara! Run! It’s a capture spell!"

It was too late when I shouted.

Ropes sprouted from the ground, swiftly binding both Clara and me.

Damn it.

What is this?

I should just slice through it with a Whirlwind Spell.

Then, gas sprays us.

"Cough! Cough! Damn it! A trap?"

"Indeed, I had anticipated your arrival here. Now, sleep well."

After all this effort, just one step away.

I lose consciousness.