[Short Story] A Sly Fox Exploits a Good Goat

In place of a preface:
 
At no+e, I aim to write raw, unpolished stories that come to mind, without any genre constraints, as I please.
However, it has been pointed out that I have yet to produce any substantial works.

Therefore, this time, I have written a somewhat ironic story.

 
 
Amidst the whirl of applause and acclaim, tonight's glamorous show drew its final curtain, and the dazzling lights dimmed. Standing at the heart of the stage wrapped in silence, Foxer gazed with contentment at the vibrant collection of the season's main pieces, displayed like a series of flags. His innovative style and unique use of materials had already become the industry's mainstream.
 
In the shadows of that stage stood Wilgort, who had served as Foxer’s assistant for many years. To bring Foxer’s fantasies to life, he spent his days drafting patterns, sewing, and experimenting with various methods. Foxer, grateful, often remarked, "Without Wilgort, not a single one of my works would have seen the light of day," and held Wilgort's exceptional talent and skill in the highest regard.
 
Wilgort reflected on the days gone by. Though it was long ago and his memories were hazy, he nostalgically and proudly recalled betting on this young designer, who, though unknown, was striving hard.
 
With relentless effort and daring challenges, Foxer ascended to the ranks of a global fashion brand. His name and brand graced the covers of countless fashion magazines and garnered millions of followers on social media, becoming universally recognized. Yet, behind this glory, Wilgort felt a vague, dim loneliness. Despite his significant contribution to Foxer's success, it was well-known that he never stepped into the limelight.
 
One day, Wilgort mustered his resolve and confided his thoughts to Foxer. "Foxer, it was I who turned your designs into reality. I wished for more recognition." Foxer, with an unchanged expression, calmly replied, "Yes, you are right. Without your presence, none of my designs would have materialized. I am grateful. However, the key lies in the idea that birthed those designs. And it was I, not you, who conceived those ideas."
 
Foxer acknowledged Wilgort's dedication but asserted that the key to success lay in his own talent and efforts. He believed it was he who had discovered Wilgort's abilities, maximized them, and brought them to fruition in tangible forms.
 
Wilgort found no words to counter Foxer's assertion. The special Foxer company commemorative tie, only worn on special occasions, suddenly felt tight around his neck as he listened to the designer's words. Realizing he could no longer remain under Foxer, he decided to leave the atelier. Confronted with the limits of the belief in inherent human goodness, he was left with nothing but deep disappointment and a sense of frustration.
 
Wilgort moved to another brand and continued to work diligently, but he could not find the same sense of fulfillment he once had. He was frustrated with his inability to take the next step, not knowing where to best utilize his abilities, and continued to wander. At the same time, Foxer's confident and risk-taking brilliance seemed even more dazzling. It was like a star shining brightly in the night sky, yet never illuminating him as it drifted further away.

 

Greetings, I am Kuzei Ryosei, a novelist who delves into a diverse array of genres, spanning from the historical to the contemporary. My aim is to enchant readers with tales that breathe life into history and explore the intricate issues of modern society. I warmly invite you to reach out to me.