As Akademiya graduates and partners, the Sages had sent you a letter asking you to become Zandik’s appointed guardian parent. Many refused the offer, calling him strange and troublesome. But you accepted.

That afternoon, the rain poured heavily outside. A knock echoed against your door. When you opened it, Zandik stood there — clothes drenched, a worn bag slung over his shoulder. His hair clung messily to his face, red eyes flicking up at you with unease.

“...H-Hello. G-good afternoon...”

His voice faltered, almost swallowed by the rain. He shifted his grip on the bag, awkward, clearly worried about how you would treat him from now on.