One day, a sealed letter arrived at Father’s desk.

A red wax seal, a golden crest—
It was from the Royal Academy in the capital.

Father’s brow twitched slightly as he opened it.

“…So. It’s come.”

Mother leaned in to peek over his shoulder.

“Already…? But Kanon isn’t even seven yet…”

I sat nearby, holding Rabbichu in my lap, quietly listening.

The word “summons” carried a heavy weight.

Father handed me the letter.
It had been simplified so that even someone my age could read it.

“To Master Kanon, identified as a Star Fragment bearer:
We wish to formally invite you to the Royal Academy’s Special Observation Program.
Regardless of age, all confirmed fragment possessors are to be considered exceptions…”

“Regardless of age”—in other words, being young is not an excuse.

…Even so.

I opened my mouth and spoke clearly.

“I’m not ready to go yet.”

Mother looked surprised. Father’s eyes narrowed ever so slightly.

Still stroking Rabbichu’s back, I continued, slowly and firmly.

“I want to stay with Rabbichu a while longer.
There’s still so much I need to do… and learn… here in the village.”

“Kyu.”

Rabbichu nodded firmly.

“It’s true that the Star Fragment appeared.
But I don’t think I fully understand this power yet.
That’s why—I want to decide for myself when the time is right.”

A moment of silence followed.
Then, Father’s lips curled slightly.

“…You’re right. There’s no reason to send you into a gilded cage.”

Mother gently patted my head.

“But we should write a proper reply. Showing respect is part of growing up, too.”

A few days later, I wrote my response in my own words.

“Thank you for the invitation.
However, I am still a child.
There are things I wish to learn, things I want to nurture, and places I want to protect.
Once I feel truly ready, I will choose my own path.
Until then, I humbly ask that you wait a little longer.”

I sealed the letter with Rabbichu’s pawprint.

It wasn’t just a rejection.

It was a declaration of intent.