New Students

Even after serving as headmistress for so many years, Thalia's behavior remained somewhat "indiscreet."

The funeral crowd had only just dispersed when she plopped herself down right next to the tombstone.

"I must be a very incompetent teacher, right? I had hoped you would make a name for yourself, yet you ended up resting here forever.

You were clearly more outstanding than anyone else, and I even found you the greatest backer in this country. Besides, I didn't sacrifice my virtue, so you don't need to turn your head and walk away whenever you see me.

I just wanted to tell you that success isn't the only path one can take."

"Ahem... what kind of nonsense are you spouting?"

Franz had been somewhat moved at first, but he couldn't help himself once she reached the end.

"Why haven't you left?"

"I had to stay and hear if you were speaking ill of me. Pereni's situation was my oversight; there were issues with both the confidentiality protocols and the security arrangements.

I didn't expect such a thing to happen."

Franz felt very self-reproachful and guilty, but he needed people.

Thalia understood Franz quite well.

"You don't need to blame yourself too much, nor do you need to worry that I'll throw in the towel. This is my job, and it is my destiny.

Here is the list you wanted; I hope you can keep your promise.

As for Pereni, she was excellent; the only thing she lacked was perhaps the 'big picture' you often speak of."

"I will."

Thalia leaned against Franz's shoulder and began to carve the epitaph.

"Here lies a reformer who tried to change the world, but thus far, the only thing she has changed is her own state of existence."

It had been such a long time;