Having dispelled the darkness, the raven Patronus flew back and landed steadily on Aaron's shoulder.
Rogue stared wide-eyed at the incredible sight, standing frozen in place for quite a while before finally recovering.
"Coach, I want to learn that."
"Hm? What should you call me when no one else is around?"
"M-Master." Rogue's face flushed red. "I want to learn that."
"Doesn't it seem difficult now?"
"This magic is too great. No matter how hard it is, I have to learn it," Rogue said firmly.
That had been the grandest and most unforgettable sight she had ever witnessed in her life. If she failed to learn the Patronus Charm, she would regret it for the rest of her life.
Aaron smiled faintly, highly satisfied with Rogue's attitude.
"Do you know why I'm making a beginner like you learn such difficult magic?"
"Uh..." Rogue thought for a moment. "To turn things around at a crucial moment?"
"That's only one reason. More importantly, only kind and righteous people can successfully cast the Patronus Charm.
"In other words, learning this magic is equivalent to obtaining proof that you belong to the side of good."
"I don't quite understand."
"Normally, you won't need to use the Patronus Charm. But like what just happened, once you use it, you're essentially exposing yourself as a mage—albeit one branded as kind and righteous.
"Besides, the Patronus Charm isn't part of this universe's magical system. Once you expose yourself, someone will definitely come looking for you.
"When that happens, you can subtly reveal that you work for Gaius, then take the opportunity to join that faction. As for everything else... blame it all on the contract. You can't say anything anyway."
"I think I understand a little now." Rogue was clearly stunned by this devious maneuver, and said