Chapter 55: CHAPTER 54 - Reckonings and Revelations (4)

The news of the court case quickly circulated throughout the school, casting Ichiro in a new light. Students looked at him with a mix of curiosity and interest, and some began approaching him, seeking friendship or connections, now that he was perceived to have gained both wealth and power.

"Did you hear? He's living independently now."

"The Takahashi family is supposedly falling apart because he left."

"Well, money can't change the fact that he's just an ordinary person."

Despite his newfound freedom, Ichiro still grappled with the reality that he had yet to develop magical abilities.

Akihiko noticed the concern on Ichiro's face and inquired, "What's wrong?"

Ichiro hesitated before responding, "The mock battle is next week." The prospect of the upcoming mock battle seemed to weigh heavily on him, overshadowing the recent turn of events in his life.