Chapter 5: Man of Justice

Edward sat at the head of the Magic Council’s meeting room, his authority palpable as he gestured to one of the mages.

“Summon Bell quickly,” Edward instructed firmly.

The mage left to fetch Bell. After a brief wait, the door creaked open and Bell entered, his expression tense but controlled.

“I’ve been waiting for you,” Edward said, his tone brooking no argument.

“My mission ran longer than expected. Did you need something?” Bell inquired, his voice steady.

“Our information unit has reported that Sora has been attacked,” Edward replied.

Bell’s eyes narrowed. “So you want me to protect him?”

“Yes,” Edward confirmed.

“I will not protect a criminal,” Bell retorted, his tone resolute.

Edward’s gaze remained unyielding. “My Judgement power suggests that you might need to be part of his team. This could lead you to the goal you’ve lost sight of.”

Bell scoffed. “You know as well as I do that a swordsman whose power is lacking can never become a Wonder Mage.”

“That’s a misconception,” Edward countered. “In this world, willpower is the most powerful force. It is what drives individuals to rise above their limitations.”

Bell was unimpressed. “These are just empty words.”

Before Bell could argue further, Edward threw a small pouch toward him. “My orders are absolute. You cannot refuse this task. For now, serve Sora as a secret agent. Afterward, you may choose your own path.”

Bell caught the pouch and frowned. “What’s this for?”

“It should only be opened in times of great difficulty. It will show you the importance of your power,” Edward explained.

Bell left the room, deep in thought. He pondered how, if Edward hadn’t provided him with such aid, he would never have accepted this mission. Who helps a criminal, after all?

Lost in these thoughts, Bell saw a petty thief trying to escape after snatching a purse. In a swift motion, Bell drew his sword and left a small cut on the thief’s leg, apprehending him effortlessly. As he continued on, he reflected on his commitment to justice and his vow to uphold it, even if it meant sacrificing his life. If Sora committed even a single crime, Bell swore he would personally see to his end.

Standing outside Hachin’s residence, Bell knocked on the door. An irritated voice called out from inside, “We are closed today. Please return later.”

Bell’s frustration grew. He was about to leave when he heard Hachin shouting from within. “My mistake! How could I forget? I had an ad in the newspaper for a receptionist!”

Hearing this, Bell’s anger flared. His eyes locked onto Hachin, who, meeting Bell’s fierce gaze, returned the glare with equal intensity.

A tense atmosphere settled between them. Hachin, struggling to suppress a smirk, said, “It seems Edward has dismissed you from the Magic Council.”

Bell responded with a shrewd smile. “Nothing of the sort. Edward sent me to protect you. After all, what can a retired old wonder mage do to protect himself?”

Hachin’s expression hardened. “Oh, you think I’m weak? Prepare yourself; I will fight you.”

Bell’s smile remained as he met Hachin’s gaze. “Fine, old man. But don’t complain later if your back starts aching.”

Hachin retorted, “If I win, you’ll have to work as a receptionist. And that’s free of charge.”

Bell replied, “We’ll see about that. But how did you think you could win?”

The two adversaries made their way into the inn and proceeded to the backyard, each brimming with resolve as they prepared for their impending confrontation.

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