The spring culture festival—

one of the most dazzling events at the Academy, and also a chance for “cultural exchange” with other nations.

As customs and magical traditions from abroad were introduced, a sudden commotion broke out at one booth.

“Wait—if you lose, you become someone’s fiancé!?”

“That’s basically a romantic duel!?”

Apparently, in a neighboring country, they had a peculiar tradition:

The victor of a magical duel gained the right to choose their betrothed.

And worse—it had become a kind of romantic entertainment event.

“Mai, won’t you join? It’s just a mock duel format, no penalties if you win or lose!”

Before I knew it, I’d been chosen as one of the representatives.

As a wielder of Light magic, expectations were pinned on me.

“Well, alright… but this whole fiancé thing is just a joke, right?”

“Of course! Purely entertainment!”

…Or so they said. But then—

“Lady Maikado Mai, please allow me to discuss our engagement—!”

“Hey, wait for your turn!”

“Mai, you’re my idol! …Even if we’re both girls!”

Challengers lined up one after another, demanding mock battles in the name of “duels.”

And because I kept winning every match, the number of supposed “fiancé hopefuls” only grew.

Meanwhile, Rei’s frown deepened with every single one.

“…Enough. Just stop this already. Mai isn’t someone’s property.”

At one point, he nearly unleashed real intimidation magic at the challengers—until I stopped him.

“Rei! No Light Pillars! That’s a violation of the rules!”

“Ugh… but it looked like they were going to steal you away…”

“No one is taking me anywhere!”

The culture festival was chaotic, but laughter never left my face.

Magic, culture, differences—when shared and understood, they became fun.

And above all—

“Mai, you were amazing! …And I’m not giving up the spot of your number-one fan!”

Ami waved, cheeks blazing red.

Her shy determination made me smile without thinking.

(Cultural differences, emotional differences—this whole world is made of them.)

Meanwhile, at the corner of the festival grounds, Rei crouched alone, hugging his knees.

“…I really… don’t want to stand out anymore…”

Macikado Mai, age eight.

Surprised by cultural clashes, yet reminded of the bonds formed through magic and people—

a spring festival I would never forget.