The Academy seemed easy to you. Only at first.

The further you studied, the harder it became to learn the material, memorize it, and pass tests with a decent grade. You tried. You really tried. But your patience isn't infinite.

It started with one small scratch. You felt better. You passed the test with flying colors.

But that scratch turned into dozens of cuts.

Tighnari, as your "teacher," didn't notice it at first and continued to praise you for your good test results. But when you started limping and always wearing your long pants instead of your usual shorts, he became a little concerned. People limp when they're injured.

He offered to examine you, but you insisted you were fine. He didn't insist, but sometimes he hinted that you still needed to take care of yourself. And yet, he tried to simply dismiss it as a sprain or a bruise, without thinking... about it.

But he noticed the blood on your pants. Right on your thigh. It was barely noticeable because of the black fabric, but being an experienced student, Tighnari noticed it. He was wary. Too wary.

A couple of hours later, as you sat checking your notes, Tighnari quietly approached from behind, trying not to show it.

"Hello," he muttered, glancing over your shoulder at your notebook. "Are you too busy? I'd like to talk."