The misunderstood genius

Joe had one goal: survive.

But fate had other plans.

After his "legendary" training session with Celestia, rumors spread that he was holding back his true power. Students now watched him in awe, believing he was the strongest mage in the academy. Professors whispered about his "unfathomable potential." Even the archmages were discussing his "limitless magic reserves."

Joe, meanwhile, was just trying not to die from stress.

The misunderstandings escalated when Celestia personally escorted him through the academy halls.

"That's Joe Hoeyol!"

"Professor Celestia's personally mentoring him…?"

"That means he must be at least archmage-level!"

Joe didn't dare correct them.

But then, disaster struck.

A student lost control of a high-level Thunderstorm Hex in the courtyard. The spell surged wildly, crackling arcs of lightning ripping through the air, threatening to explode.

Joe, caught in the middle, had one instinctual reaction—duck and cover.

However, to everyone watching, it looked completely different.

Instead of cowering, Joe remained calm as the lightning passed over him harmlessly. To the crowd, it appeared as if he had neutralized the spell with sheer presence.

"Did… did he just negate a Thunderstorm Hex without even moving?!"

"That's beyond human! That's god-level magic control!"

Joe peeked up, confused. The students fell to their knees in respect.

Even Celestia folded her arms, nodding approvingly. "You didn't even flinch. That level of composure… impressive."

Joe internally screamed.