It was a clear afternoon at the Imperial University square, with pollen dancing through the air.0

— … Starting today, I’m officially the former Chairwoman of the Mage Tower!0

Adrienne stood on the podium, giving her retirement speech, and the crowd that had gathered to listen was larger than anyone had expected.0

Although Adrienne might have looked too young and, sure, her wit had always been childish, she was an Archmage, which is why the mages of the Mage Tower, the imperial mages, and even the Addicts from the Floating Island had shown up to pay their respects.0

— I’ve been in this position for just over ten years now—hard to believe how much has happened, isn’t it?!0

Ten years sounded simple enough when Adrienne said it, but to me it felt strangely distant, like a stretch of time I’d never lived through in this world with her.0

— Our Mage Tower was really fun! It kept me busy in the best ways—I was never bored! That’s why I really liked it... but I guess no one can stay in one place forever!0

Adrienne said with a bright smile.0

— I’m glad I get to step down just when it feels right, and even after I’m gone, I know the Mage Tower of the Empire will keep growing brighter and brighter, even without me!0

Adrienne turned to look over at me in my direction while I stood on the same podium but a few steps apart from her side.0

— Now let me introduce who’s going to take my place!0

Adrienne announced, her arm outstretched toward me like it was the most natural thing in the world.0

— Please welcome our new Chairman, Deculein!0

Adrienne stepped back from the podium to the sound of applause, and I stepped up in her place, looking around the square packed with people as far as I could...0