Chapter 81 The True Identity

Chapter 81 The True Identity

Cecilia Blackwood's POV

After Magical Power Studies ended, my mental state was completely off—I'd even describe it as being in a daze.

Otherwise, I wouldn't have been unaware I was running a fever, ultimately forcing Kane to carry me to the medical wing.

To help me regain my strength, Kane bought me loads of food and even laid out his treasured gemstones before me.

I knew he wanted to cheer me up, but I truly couldn't accept them—I hadn't done anything to deserve his gifts.

Though I successfully refused the presents, Kane insisted on taking me flying with his flight magic!

Yes, no one could refuse the chance to fly through the sky, and I was no exception.

Kane stood behind me, steadying me as we soared. I could clearly feel his solid chest and familiar breathing.

I had to admit, it was incredibly reassuring.

"I'm going to speed up now. Get ready," Kane said softly.

"Okay, I'm ready!"

The next second, our speed increased tenfold—I felt like we were moving even faster than the academy shuttle!

Star Ring Academy of Magic stretched out beneath my feet. Looking down, I spotted the cafeteria, the academic buildings, and most incredibly—birds flying through the air!

The bird's feathers were beautiful, displaying three different colors. I felt it was the most stunning bird I'd ever seen—probably because I'd never observed one from such close proximity before.

The wind stung my face slightly, but I relished the sensation.

After about ten minutes, the flight ended and Kane and I landed back on the hill.

"That was amazing! This is my first time experiencing what it's like to fly. Thank you!"

Kane shook his head gently. "It's nothing. As long as it lifts your spirits, I can take you flying anytime, anywhere."

"Really?"

"Really!"

Kane's gaze was sincere—I knew he wasn't lying.

"Great, then it's settled!"

"Though if you could teach me the secrets of flight magic, that would be even better!"

If one day I could fly to Grandfather's side, I couldn't imagine how delighted he'd be.

But strangely, Kane didn't agree.

"What's wrong? Are you unwilling to teach me flight magic? Or is there some restriction—can't flight magic be taught privately?"

If that were truly the case, I wouldn't pressure Kane.

Kane shook his head. "No, there's no such restriction. It's just that flight magic is rather dangerous. If executed improperly, you could get seriously hurt."

I waved my hand dismissively with a laugh. "It's fine, it's fine! When I was learning to ride a bicycle as a child, I fell several times—learning flight magic can't be worse than that!"

"It's settled then. In a few days when we have time, you'll teach me flight magic."

"Alright."

"You must be hungry. Let's go to the cafeteria together."

I quickly shook my head. "No, no, no! I still haven't fully digested my last meal. If I eat again, I'll burst!"

"I've made up my mind—there's something I need to tell you. Though I don't know if we can still be friends after I say this."

"But I feel that no matter what, I can't hide things from you or lie to you."

No one knew the internal struggle I went through to say those words.

I was terrified of losing Kane and afraid I wouldn't be allowed to stay at Star Ring Academy, but some things ultimately couldn't remain hidden.

Perhaps before long, everyone would know my identity—but I didn't want Kane to be the last person to find out.

Kane spoke each word deliberately. "No matter what it is, it won't affect our friendship."

I gave a bitter smile. "It's not as simple as you think. You might even choose to cut ties with me."

"Absolutely impossible!" Kane's words were practically forced through gritted teeth. I could feel the determination in his tone.

"Alright, I'll tell you why I won't release my power. It's because I'm a witch—something everyone avoids like the plague!"

"The witch identity alone makes people recoil in fear, viewing me as some kind of freak. I came to the magic academy to learn spells that could suppress a witch's power."

"But I finally got to take Magical Power Studies, only to be required to release my power first."

"I'm terrified. I'm afraid I'll be expelled from the magic academy, and even more afraid of losing you as a friend. That's why I refused Mr. Darlok's demand."

I got it all out in one breath and slowly lowered my head.

If there were two earplugs available right now, I'd use them without hesitation to block out my own ears.

I wanted to hear Kane's answer, yet I was afraid to hear it.

As it turned out, I'd worried for nothing. Kane stepped forward.

"I don't care what your identity is. I only know you're my friend."

"Besides, being a witch isn't your fault. As for being seen as an outcast—that's not your concern either."

"In everyone's eyes, a Dark Mage is an outcast too, but you didn't shun me. You still chose to be my friend. So what right do I have to despise your identity?"

I nodded emphatically, the weight on my heart finally lifting. "Thank you. But you have to promise me one thing—keep this secret. I don't want to leave Star Ring Academy of Magic just yet."

"I promised Grandfather I'd find a way to suppress the power within me. I can't go back like this."

"And I don't want to live that 'invisible person' life anymore. I want to be normal—someone who can walk freely in the sunlight!"

I used to merely find my life somewhat tedious and boring, but now I'd experienced what it felt like to stand in the sun—I didn't want to go back.

Even if I had to return, it would be with a new identity: a mage from Star Ring Academy!

Kane thought for a moment. "It seems we'll have to find a solution ourselves."

I frowned slightly. "Find one ourselves? What do you mean?"

Kane explained, "If you're hoping to find answers in Magical Power Studies, it's nearly impossible—because you can't release your power, you'll just keep getting thrown out of class."

"So we have to rely on ourselves to search, and the faster the better. Ideally before the next Magical Power Studies session."

I nodded repeatedly—Kane truly understood me. I hated skipping class, couldn't even accept it.

But quickly, a troubled expression crossed my face. "That's too difficult. There are only two days until the next Magical Power Studies class. How is that enough time?"

Kane pointed toward the library. "I think we should head to the library."

"Okay."

Arriving at the library, we searched shelf by shelf, hoping to find a way to suppress the power.

Of course, it would be best if we could transform witch power into normal mage power.

Several hours passed, and as afternoon classes approached, we'd made zero progress.

"We can't keep searching. We have to get to class."