Today, the headmaster's figure seemed particularly forlorn. It was a rare sight, reminiscent of his demeanor after the inter-academy competition.

"The academy is open to all who wish to learn. The differences in one’s bloodline do not dictate opportunity, and nationality does not determine results."

At least his despondence hadn’t dulled his intellect, as his speech was perfectly reasonable. The academy didn’t discriminate against commoner students or give special treatment to foreigners. What a noble sentiment.

Yet, for some reason, despite the correctness and sincerity of his words, they evoked a strange sense of pity. To an outsider, it might …