A new school year had begun, and with it came the season of the culture festival.

This year, the Academy introduced a new system:

A school currency called Magi.

Students could earn points through test results, extracurricular activities, or school jobs, and spend them on food, attractions, or goods inside the Academy.

“Ehehe, look, Rei! I saved up this much!”

With a proud grin, I pulled out a pouch packed full of polished silver Magi coins.

“…You really did save a lot…”

“Of course! I worked hard at deliveries and extra lessons! And today’s the day to spend them—it’s the culture festival!”

The Academy grounds had been transformed—food stalls lined the paths, magic-powered attractions sparkled, tunnels of light shimmered, and fire performances roared.

All of it could be experienced with Magi.

Our first stop was the baked goods stand, its treats kept warm with mana.

I melted at the scent of chestnuts and butter, while Rei silently bought three and stuffed them into his mouth.

“Rei… can’t you share at least one?”

“…No. I was in line before you, so they’re mine.”

“Why you—!”

We bickered as we wandered through the tunnel of lights, tackled the wind maze, and played to our hearts’ content.

But in the rest area, I noticed a few students sitting glumly.

They had no Magi left—and couldn’t buy anything.

“…Kinda sad, huh,” I murmured.

“Well, that’s what effort gets you. A lot of them skipped their extra lessons,” Rei replied flatly.

“Hmm… yeah, but still…”

After a moment of thought, I made up my mind.

“Alright! Time to splurge!”

I marched straight to the grandest dessert stall on campus.

Their sign boasted: Special! The magically rising ultra-giant cake!—a dazzling whole cake that looked like a jewel.

“I’ll take that one!”

“That’ll be eighty Magi, all together…”

“I’ve had enough! I’ll pay it all!”

The silver coins spilled across the counter, and with a beaming smile, I claimed the cake.

Rei stood gaping as I carried the massive confection back toward the students.

“Come on, everyone! Let’s share!”

Surprised faces lit up as children gathered.

One by one, I handed out slices of the huge cake.

“It’s delicious…”

“Thank you, Mai!”

Smiles spread like ripples.

Watching them, Rei let out a chuckle.

“…Mai, you really are a magical girl.”

“Hehe, right?”

That spring, the festival of culture came with magic, effort, and just a little kindness.

Macikado Mai, age eight—her cake bought with Magi filled not only stomachs, but hearts as well.