Days had passed since the 'incident' with Kirara happened, and I haven't seen her since then. I joined the club meeting like usual, but the "Leader" herself was nowhere to be seen. I asked the girl named Latita, who was her close friend now and then about the pipsqueak's whereabouts, but she always gave vague answers. For example, make something up like Kirara was under the weather or she had other things to do. I pity that girl, she's terrible at lying….
Back to the club members' matter, I was shocked that they really did improve with their magic abilities. My bull-crap lectures really worked! And what's even great, my relationships with them really improved to where the most fragile ones stopped leaking after a few times I gave them lectures. it was hell before, Huhuhu… how touching… but still… I'm kinda worried about that pipsqueak. Just why did she avoid me like this….?
"P-p-please f-focus on t-the l-lesson, Ser F-Forham…" (Miss Eiri)
"Yes, mam!"
I answered her like a good student.
"Eeeekkk…!!" (Miss Eiri)
Is that necessary? Sigh… I guess I should have my tune tone down a bit to converse with her next time. But still… why am I finding her lectures are kinda boring? Not that I'm complaining about her abilities as a teacher, but there are many obvious flaws in the formula she teaches in this class. There are more competent formulas that had 70% more output if to be compared to those that she teaches right now, just like the ones that I teach…. Heh? this again, Why did I suddenly think like a genius? I guess it's just some random bullshit my mind conjures. I should take a nap like always.
…..(the lesson continues for some time)
(ring!)
"T-t-that's t-the l-lesson for t-today… eeeekkk!!" (Ms Eiri)
She's more assertive than her normal behaviour, it seems…. It must because of our misunderstand earlier. I pity Miss Eiri who is still frightened of me even though it's been a month-long since I join her class. Sigh… just what can I do to make her see me in a different light?
"Oi, you…!" (Dort)
Ah, shit… it's the pest again…
"Hmm?"
"Don't you 'hmm' me…! Duel, now!" (Dort)
"*Sigh… not interested."
"Why you!?" (Dort)
Hoh…? Did I touch a nerve there? I can see him pissed with his ass off seeing the artery bulging on his forehead as he looked down at me. What a pain…
(slam!)
The fuck! That spooked me! This bastard just slams the desk and I almost fall down from my seat... What the hell is this guy's problem? He's been challenging me to a duel for weeks now, but he didn't cross the line back then. But his provocations really are getting on my nerves in these days. Perhaps I should shut him for good.
"Fine… I accept your shit duel."
"Why you…!? oh you accept." (Dort)
ugh..... he's really a moron...
"Hah! Then-..." (Dort)
"But with the condition that you'll stop bothering me if I win. Deal?"
"Hah? As if that's going to happen!" (Dort)
This guy… I'm amazed by his bravado that it almost wants me to clap my hands. Even so, I need a witness for the duel to make him eat his words. Don't want mistakes to repeat itself.
"Then, I proposed the class as witnesses for the duel so that you will not go back to your words."
My words echoed the classroom and the air suddenly felt tense. Wha…?
.....(tense silence envelops the air as the students in the class were having the expression as if the world is ending on their faces)
"I'll be the witness for the duel. Don't involve the other in this matter, Ser Reed…!" (Remorth)
Now I become the villain for this narrative?! Well, technically, Reed was the villain in the game, but still… Did these guys plan these kinds of ploys since the beginning? I know these two were best buds with each other, but the way they support each other with the timing just astonished me to where it impressed me. But alas, now that the Prince declares he will be the witness in front of the class, this makes things easier for me.
"Sure. I had no qualms as to your Highness to be the sole witness. But make no mistake, if you take your attendant's side even if he loses the duel… I'll make sure you will regret it…"
(clatters!)
The class was in an uproar as to my remarked. Perhaps, I shouldn't go with my mouth earlier. How bothersome…
"Hear that…!? He disrespects the Prince!" (Jora)
"Demonspawn! No wonder everyone hates you!" (Ludicia)
"He's dead! Beat his ass, Dort! Make him regret disrespect His Highness!" (Risia)
"Eeekkk…! He's scary!" (Charyl)
Hahahahah…! Why did I feel good when they shoot their voices of hate toward me? Maybe I'm strolling the path of a villain now that their jeers didn't even make me feel bad. But…. It's kinda worrying though…
................>>
....(rumbling sound with cheers from the filled training area that was usually empty. But now, it was a similar scene to that when the Romans were attending a show in a coliseum)
"The hell is this?! Did someone leak this duel to the whole Academy…!?"
After the shitshow in the classroom earlier, I take my time to go to the training area where the duel was to be held. But when I arrived here, the sight of it shocked me! They filled the audience benches with students from all the first year and some of them looked like seniors in the second year. This place can fit up to a hundred people in one event and it's almost a third of the Academy students were here. The fuck!?
"Hahahahaha!! Isn't this grand, Demonspawn? All the students here are eagerly wanting to watch me beat the shit out of you. As expected of the hated man in this academy. You really let your reputation exceed you." (Dort)
What? Does this happen because of this prick's doings? I did hear some of the audience throwing mock and jeers toward me. Did all the students who attend here hated Reed's gut? I knew Reed was hated before because of his scum character build. But seeing this just makes my blood boil. I am not that Reed anymore, you bastards! Did they have to despise me to this extent? I don't even know many of them!
"I, Prince Remorth Varo Araeil, will be the referee and judge for this duel! The one that still stands after the other one is incapacitated will be declared the winner! And also, if the other party surrenders-..." (Remorth)
"No, Your Highness…! Surrender is unacceptable!" (Dort)
Huh?
"Very well. The duel will commence until one of you were to be incapacitated!" (Remorth)
Tch! Not even care about my thoughts, huh? Figures…
"Now, choose your weapons!" (Remorth)
The audience erupted in cheers as the Prince declare the rules of the duel. But suddenly they become more excited when the prick Dort conjured a long red spear from out of thin air. Wait, that spear looks familiar…
"I'll use this! My proud weapon and partner that already slew a bunch of monsters in the past. And soon, it will claim the Demonspawn's blood!" (Dort)
Now that's a dangerous claim, you prick... if I recall, that spear was the one he frequently used in the game, isn't he? What did he call it again? Xailot? Carrot? Nah... It's not important. He must pull it from his item box earlier. It's common for nobles to have those luxury items, Even Reed had one. Though there's nothing more useful inside his item box than a bunch of illicit items. Nevertheless, using an actual weapon for a duel like this, this prick had fallen to the lowest of scum…
"Kill him!!"
"Slaughter that bastard!"
"Teach him a lesson, Lord Dort!"
"I always wanted that bastard to be beaten to a pulp!
"Shame him! Make him squeal!"
"….. Alright! Place yer bets, people!"
Khuu… it pains my heart to be hated because of Reed's wrongdoings. But that last guy takes my interest a bit. Did they want to make money out of my misery? How shameful! Your students should study rather than gambling and such…!
"Wait a sec…"
I told the prick to wait for a bit before we started the duel. I must do this first. It's important!
"What's this? Getting cold feet, Demonspawn?" (Dort)
"Just wait a bit, fucktard… I haven't got my weapon in hand, aren't I? Just stay like a good Doggie for a moment while I fetch mine first."
"Why you…!?" (Dort)
I ignore the growling dog while waltzing towards the audience benches where I heard that interesting comment.
"W-what do you w-want…?" (dwarfien guy)
If I recall earlier, this dude was the one that collecting the bets, wasn't he? I pull out a bag of gold coins from my item box and throw it to him, who was almost missed it because of his shaky hands.
"All of that, for my victory."
...…(a crow passes above the Academy)
"Pff… ahahahhahahaha!!!"
The audience erupted into a burst of laughter as they heard my remark just now. The dwarfien guy shudders as the others went out with their mouth, throwing jeers towards me.
"Is he for real!? That's so funny!!"
"Did he really think that he could go toe to toe with the master spearman?"
"Whooohooo! That's gotta be a lot of money he just bet on! Oi midget! All of my savings to see him beaten to a pulp!"
"Wait! Me also wanted to bet against him!"
Kukukuku…. Laugh all you want, you bastards… I going to make you guys eat your jeers back after this. Just you guys-...
"Reed!" (smoll voice)
Wait… isn't that? She's here as well? Aren't this a bad time? But she somehow looked worried when our eyes met just now. Nah... If the audience knows she's involved with me, she'll get bullied worse than before. I turn my back from Kirara and walk towards the weapons rack.
"Hmm… if that prick uses a spear, then this will do."
I take a scythe from the weapons rack and tried a couple of swings to make myself comfortable with it.
"It's a little heavy on the upper side, but this will do~."
After giving a few more swings while walking towards the ring, Dort shoots his eyes towards me with bloodied glare while grinding his teeth in rage. Whoa… that will ruin your good looks, shithead, not that I'm jealous of them…
"Just how long you going to make me wait, you bastard!" (Dort)
"Calm down, shithead…"
Ah yes… his famous prideful and hot-headed character. In the game, he's really an annoying character, just like a typical hero protagonist that makes me want to puke. Though I don't know why is this dude was one of the top 10 most likeable characters along with the others… but It's a shame for the good looks with that shitty manners of him….
"Oi, your great Highness. I think we should start the duel now, seeing that your dog almost shat himself by 'holding a big one'."
I gave a menacing smile to the two. The Prince was agitated by my remarked but kept it covered with his usual calm expression. But I couldn't say the same for his dog though. That guy's eyes almost pop from their sockets. Haahahhaha…! It's really entertaining…
"Very well then… everyone!" (Remorth)
His loud voice silence the excited audience. With both me and Dort pointing our weapons towards one another, the Prince gives the go.
"BEGIN!" (Remorth)
As soon as the duel started, Dort came charging towards me with his spear, aiming for my head. He got speed and I commend him for that. But its-...
(CLANG!)
futile...
"Wha…?" (Dort)
It shocked him when our blades clashed with the others. It's true that Dort was a master spearman and had more training than Reed. But his attack had a fatal flaw that renders his skill useless. Why did I know about this? It's thanks to the videos I found online when I was doing my "research". There were some players that complain about their character that they were unable to defeat a certain boss in the game, and that boss' weapon of choice was a scythe. Even how much they tried to build their character, they could not finish the boss and always get beaten up. Then it came to me, I unknowingly found out the game plot holes, every weapon had its counter. Because of that, I play the game easier than the first time I played it.
"Dammit!
(CLANG!)
"Nope."
"The hell...? S-stop smiling like that, it's creepy!" (Dort)
Rude! Though I'm grateful that he uses his spear for this duel. Weapon type spear counter was a scythe. No matter how skilled you are with the weapon in hand, if you go up against the counter, it will render all the skills and power that you possessed, USELESS….!
"Hahaha… what's wrong *Backstabber? Where had your pride had gone to? Oh, I know! It's going back to your asshole, aren't they?"
(*Title)
"Y-you BASTARDDDD!!!!" (Dort)
...…(the duel proceeded as Dort's attack could not hit its mark)
(clank! clank!)
(at the audience who was witnessing the duel, some were bewildered while others rubs their eyes as they tried to comprehend the scene that they witness at this very moment)
"O-oi… is this real…?"
"I think my eyes are playing tricks on me…."
"The hell…!? Ain't Ser Dort the best fighter in this academy, even amongst the third year Elite students?"
"That guy held a Title of Master spearman, isn't he? Why did he seem to have a hard time dealing with the Demonspawn!?"
"Shit!! My savings!! My pops will kill me if I went broke!"
"D-did that Demonspawn hid his talent before?"
"Who cares about that! That fucker got us good! Shit!"
(earlier, the audience was cheering for Dort to finish their most hated enemy, Reed. But after witnessing the duel progression, Dort, who was expected to defeat Reed with ease, is now having trouble landing his attacks towards Reed who seems at ease while crossing blades with the Master Spearman.)
"Reed…." (Kirara)
(amongst the audience who want to see the downfall of the Demonspawn, one particular small fox-kin, clench her hands together in praying, and looks down to the ring where the duel was commencing with a worried expression. Her light green pupils are locked towards Reed. She closed her eyes to pray for Reed's well-being)
[please be safe…. I'm sorry for avoiding you recently… please be alright-...] (Kirara)
"Whoooooouuuuu!!!!!!!"
(the abrupt booming cheers from the audience interrupted the tiny fox-kin's prayer. The loud cheers hurt her ears horribly as she tries to hold them down because of her outstanding hearing abilities.)
"Why did… oh no… Reed!!!!" (Kirara)
(the tiny fox-kin falls down to her knees as she saw the horrific scene she had gazed upon. After a consecutive failed attack that Dort throws at Reed, one had finally found its mark. While bewildered, Dort lets out a loud satisfied laugh as his spear buries itself in Reed's abdomen. Blood dripped from the wound as Reed was groaning in pain. Though this is a terrible sight for our fox-kin, the other audience seems to have the opposite reaction. Screams of joy flew out from their mouth after seeing their hated enemy were wounded and seems to be heavily injured by Dort's thrust.)
[how can these people act like this? Just how much hatred they had towards Reed…? If only they knew he wasn't the person he was before… I should do something!] (Kirara)
(intending to stop the duel, the small fox-kin went up to her feet. But she got pulled away from an unknown person who was wearing a cloak.)
"Let me go! I mus… huh…? Why is…." (Kirara)
(the person puts her finger on her lips, gesturing to the Fox-kin for not exposing her identity.)
"Wait for it… the shows about to begin…" (Trysia)
...…(the training area airs was filled with the audience's loud cheers, celebrating Dort's inevitable victory)
"Hahahahaha!! How's that! Your petty tricks are worthless in front of my peerless skills!" (Dort)
Shit! What the fuck just happen!? Who's directing his "bloodlust"* towards me just now!? Because of that, this prick stabs my stomach! Damn them! It must be this prick and his shitty groups doing. Fuck! It fucking hurts!
"To think that you already stoop so low that you are using an actual weapon for this duel. Turns out that's not enough for you, aren't they? Using dirty tricks by making me let down my guard like that because this prick was weak? How disgusting!"
I was furious to know that they rely on these dirty tactics just to make me lose this stupid duel. They really did it now... I'll make them regret this, I swear!
"W-what nonsense are you spouting right now? I did no such thing!" (Dort)
don't you look like you are confused, you bastard!
"Bullshit! If you wanted to kill me that much, do so with your own hands, and not with the help of others!"
I pull the spear that was stabbed in my stomach and then hit the prick while he is still unprepared. The blow landed on his unprotected shoulders and he let out a shrieking scream of pain.
"Damn you! Striking me while I'm unprepared!?" (Dort)
You don't have the say on that, you bastard. Now that I created a distance from him, I gather all my strength to counter his rush attack on me. I'll make him eat my attack head-on! When the tip of his spear almost reaches my chest, I dodge aside with a hair's breadth.
"There's more where that came from…."
As he misses his thrust while looking all bewildered, I swing the scythe in a big crescent attack towards his exposed left side.
"
(swoosh… SLAM!!)
In a mere second, Dort was thrown towards the walls beneath the audience seats. His body got buried inside the broken rubbles on the concrete wall. Not long after, his body slowly falls down flat on the ground, knock out. Ack…!
"GAHH…!"
Shit. I got careless and ignored that I had my wound torn open because of that bastard attack earlier. Dammit… did it got ripped with my maneuvers earlier? I did twist my body for that attack. But alas… it's over… and why is this shitty Prince frozen looking like a statue?
"O-oi, shitty Prince… announce the winner…"
Fuck…! The wound got opened up and blood was gushing out like a faucet. I press the wound down, but the blood still flowing out. Seeing several videos about stomach wounds that I accidentally saw online back then just makes my skin crawl. I don't want my innards suddenly burst out from my stomach. That will be nasty!
"Oi! You hear me!?"
The hell with this shitty Prince! Rather than announcing the winner, he rushed towards his attendant, who was lying flat on the ground. Should I beat him as well?
"D-Dort is incapacitated… the Victor…. R-Reed Var Forham… Eli! Come down here and heal him, fast…!" (Remorth)
The audience, that were still bewildered by what they had just witnessed, was silent. But a moment later on, the audience slowly erupted with unsatisfactory for the duel result. Saying things I was cheating and coming up with the idea of me using a forbidden artifact to beat Dort. But the Prince shut the audience by claiming there was no foul play amongst us and I beat Dort fair and square. Oh, I see… they don't want their dirty plans to be known, did they? How aggravating! With the Prince's declaration, the unsatisfied audience points their anger toward me as I stood here in pain. This is really getting on my nerves… should I… no. It's better if I let some steams off first.
"Why don't you fuckers come down here and beat me, if that is what you wanted… well? COME ON!?"
Fuck them! I'll pound them all by myself! Though I don't mind killing one or two of them to vent the anger that I felt right now. What's this? Still looking with that look?
"What? No one? Then… SHUT THE FUCK UP AND DEAL WITH IT!"
My provocation is effective and the unsatisfied audience shut their foul mouth and tried to look away when I glared at them. But this is still not enough!
"You see that 'dog' there…? I think you all know that he had a Title of Master Spearman if I recall. But even with that, he was powerless against me earlier. And you shit want to provoke me? Saying that I'm cheating?! Then I'll give you a chance to prove me wrong. Come down here in this ring and tried to end me if you can!"
Not enough just yet! This feels good…
"Oh, If you worried that I'll use my father's name, then don't be… I promised that I won't be. But be aware… I'm in a foul mood right now. And I don't know if I could hold my self from 'accidentally' killing you…"
I gave a big smile towards them as a closing argument.
.....(tense silence)
"Eeekkkk!!!!"
"I'm out of here!"
"Shit! That guy ain't joking around!"
"My life is more important than my savings…"
"Run!!!"
Hahahahha….! Flee, you little shits! That's what you get by mess-...
(SLAP!)
Wha…? I suddenly got slapped? By whom…?
"Is this what you really want!? Is it!?" (Elise)
Oh, my… it's none other than the number one favourite character that was loved~ by everyone. Though the pain in my stomach was painful thanks to the prick's attack earlier, that slap she gave me was quite painful as well. And what's with that look she gave me right now? Why are you tearing up as if you were saddened by my state? Is she for real?
"My oh my… if it isn't my dear classmate who never speaks with me. Do you hate me also that you slapped me with all you got even though I was already injured? Thanks your dear friend."
"Quit the acts! Why can you be more of a human being for once!? Why is that you always make things worse!? Can't you at least be more of a person!?" (Elise)
"Did you seriously try to preach to me how to become a person? So, even in your eyes that I'm just a monster like everybody else, huh…? that's a shame… a shame really…"
"Wha…?" (Elise)
"You quit with the perfect character yourself. Gosh, that annoying trait I dislike most about you… No wonder I'm simping for the villianess... And can you please move aside, Miss "Perfect"…?"
Seeing that she was frozen after hearing my remarks, I gave up on waiting for her to move aside and went past her. But I stop near her and whisper out my irritation.
"I'm not someone as perfect as you, Elise…"
After venting my irritation, I walk out of the arena, leaving her standing there, frozen.
(clank!)
I throw the scythe near the entrance and proceed towards the hallway while pressing down my wound. Thanks to that traffic earlier, I'm starting to lose my footing as I felt my blood drain from my head. Is this what they called excessive loss of blood syndrome? Ah… there goes my eyesight… fuck. My wound… is not even… hur…
(thump!)
..................…..>>>
[!E# !E O#$!!!]
"!?"
Crap! I feel like shit! What's this? I'm in my room? well, not 'my' room but Reed's, though how did…
"Nnn…" (smoll moaning voice)
Eh? What's this? I can feel a weird but calming sensation in my palm. It feels like I'm touching furs. And why are my blanket swells like this? I quickly flip the covering to investigate the weird swelling on my side. Turns out, it's a naked fox-kin was sleeping next to me with only her birthday suit. I can see everything! Including the bushy tail and ears! My God! Why is Kirara sleeping naked next to me?! And where are my clothes?!
"O-oi… you tiny bombshell in disguise as a cute anime cat girl? Wake up!"
"Nnn… don't wanna…" (Kirara)
This twerp… aren't you ashamed of your actions? I'm not a lolicon, dammit!
"Ow, ow, ow, ow…. Staaapp…" (Kirara)
I pulled her cute cheeks to wake her up. It's not like I'm enjoying it! (maybe)….
"I suggest you stop with that." (woman's voice)
"Whoaaa…!! The heck!? Trysia? Where did you come from..!?"
She gave me a surprise there! My heart almost stops beating because of her sudden appearance. I noticed she was sitting on the chair near the bed while reading a book. Maybe...? Did she had been there all along?
"Please treat the little one with more care, Reed. She had used much of her Vitality to heal your wounds, you know…" (Trysia)
Wait… I remember I had a large wound in the stomach because of the duel. But when I check my stomach…
"What? There's, not even a scar...? How long did I pass out?"
"It's only the second day after your duel. And if it adds until now, I estimated the time was around 39-45 hours already passed. Not quite what I hypothesized, but a success nonetheless. My experiment was successful." (Trysia)
Did she just say "experiment"? Anyway, I turn my eyes towards the tiny fox-kin who was asleep on the bed and noticed some bag eyes beneath her cute closed tiny eyes. Guilt falls on my conscience as I regret my unreasonable acts toward this little angel earlier.
"Oh crap, oh crap, oh crap, oh crap, oh crap! I'm sorry little one…! Please forgive me…!"
I hug the little Angel tightly and repent my previous transgression towards her. Fuck me for being an asshole by pulling her holy cheeks earlier! That should punish me! Oh, crap… I'm sorry!!!
"Ahem! Are you sure you wanted to keep doing that…?" (Trysia)
"Scoff! if only you tell me this little Angel aid towards the sinful me earlier…. I did terrible things towards her and I'm regretting it…"
"Sigh… that 'Angel' you referring to is a grown woman, didn't you know? If you keep that up…" (Trysia)
"Wait… what do you mean 'a grown woman'? All I can see was a tiny girl… with cute fluff ears and bushy tail."
"Sigh… You really lose your mind and common sense after hitting your head, aren't you? Then let me remind you that Ferlien sub races such as fox-kin had a small body stature even after reaching adulthood. This 'Angel' of yours is a grown 20 years age's a woman who is in her marriageable period. If her clan finds out that she had an intimate embrace with another gender, safe to say that you both were already wedded." (Trysia)
(CRACK!)
Wha…? What is that cracking sound I just heard? This tiny Angel is a woman? Not to mention that she's in her marriageable age? Am I damaged…? Who am I….? Am I a bird…?
"Seeing you acting stupid like that really makes me believe that your head injuries really did a number on your psyche… what a shame… but enough about this. Get dressed. There is someone important who urgently needs to see you…
Look at me…! I'm a bird…!
(smack!)
....................>>
"I get I got lost it a bit earlier, but the smack on the head is really necessary? It's still pulsing, you know…?
"It's the only way I can bring your sanity back." (Trysia)
I got persuaded (coerce) by Trysia earlier to let Kirara with Sei tend to her. Just who is this 'important' someone that makes her drag me around like this? It caught my attention a bit, though.
After much walking and climbing stairs, we reach the President's office.
(knock)
"It's me." (Trysia)
I just got a déjà vu feeling when I heard Trysia said those words. Is that how people in this world greet themselves toward the room owner?
"Come in." (Alain)
Oh, it's the Pres… I heard he was away from the Academy before, but he had returned, I see. When Trysia opens the door, she gesture for me to seat on the couch where the press and another person in cloak were seated. I went towards the empty ones while the press poured me a cup of tea. How 'gentlemanly' of you…
"You had been good, as what I heard from Alain…" (low male voice tone)
My hand stops as I heard the man in cloak who were silent suddenly speak out. I didn't recognize the voice, but Reed's body reacted to them. I slowly lift my head to look towards the man in the cloak to find out his identity. The man lifts his hood, exposing his face. Oh, crap….!
"H-hello, dear father…."
Oh, shit!! It's Ruald, the Ruald Var Forham! The Lord General and an Earl! He had the face of a middle-aged man with a stern face with reddish grey hair and red pupils, just like Reed's is. A man to be known as a war hero, an honourably honest and a brave man, a Total opposite of Reed's. Though in the game, he doted on Reed by covering his heinous crimes, he's really a kind person in general. If you don't get scared with his usual demeanor. But why did this important person suddenly appear here In the Academy? Shouldn't he supposedly got his hands full protecting the border with the Empire is hostile with the Kingdom this year?
"Soo… why did dear father come to the Academy that's far from the border. Don't tell me you came here because you missed your prodigal son?"
Stay cool me… this guy is dangerous for now because I 'replaced' his dear son's soul. I should hide my agitation for my safe keeping. I strictly don't want this person to be my enemy If I wanted to lived…
"I'll have to disappoint you for that. The purpose of my visit here is to deal with the matter regarding, my son." (Ruald)
Hiiiiii…!! Did I got caught!? He seriously looking scary right now! Even the press was clattering his cup. Stay calm me… I did my best to stay meek as much as possible to hide my agitation.
"S-soo… you want me to go back to the territory after you kick me away from home…?"
With my fast thinking, I come up with the question according to Reed's memories. The other family members literally reject Ruald's decision to send Reed to the Academy here in the Capital. Thus, I come up with the conclusion that Ruald kicked Reed from the Earldom.
"If only it will be that was easy…." (Ruald)
Eh…? His pressure subdues a bit after hearing me said those earlier. He really did kick Reed's from home. Strike-...
"TELL ME, WHAT DO YOU DID TO MY BOY….?" (Ruald)
Hiiiiiii….!!! He lets out more tense aura than earlier! And his question pointed like I already spilled the beans! Fuck, how should I answer him!? I can't say that I had taken over Reed's as a whole, can I? I feel if I said that, he will cut me down on the spot!
"D-dear, f-father… w-why b-being s-soo h-hostile…? C-can't y-you s-see t-that I'm R-Reed, your s-son…?"
I stuttered a bit in the beginning, but I think I did a good job in the end. But still… can he let down some of his aura just for a bit? It's hard to speak when you feel threatened!
"Yes… you looked and sound like him, but I know my boy was an arrogant and despicable person. I knew him very well, and you didn't have his unpleasant manner. WHAT HAD YOU DONE TO HIM…?" (Ruald)
Hiiiiii….!!! He's getting more suspicious towards me!!! Dammit, think! I had Reed's memories, aren't I….? Shit, shit, shit!!! Come on, brain… think! Oh that…
"Wait! I know you had an affair with 3 other woma… hmmp!!"
Eeekkkk…!!! I'm dea… Eh? I thought he struck me down just now. Turns out, he grabs and closed my mouth, looking all nervous while dripping sweat from his forehead. I did it! I almost spilled his dark secret!
According to Reed's memory, this dude had multiple secret mistresses that he hid from his wife and the public. And why did Reed know about this, it's because he was caught In the action when Reed was just eight. It happens when his wife was away to her family visit with Reed's older siblings. Ruald thought that all the children followed the mother and brought his mistress to the family mansion to mingle with them. But little that he knows that the tiny brat Reed was hiding below the bed where he was in action with his mistress. Thought it was a horrid image that I don't want to remember, but it makes him believe I am Reed… But still. Just why did he do those things? Polygamy was common in this world, and even with his own wife, whom Reed's mother was fine by that. Though because of this, Reed always used this as leverage to pull Ruald's arms to hide his heinous deeds. I kinda pity this old man…. Fuck you, Reed!
"Hush now! You are that bastard whom is my son!" (Ruald)
Because of Ruald's suddenly erratic behaviour and claim, the Pres was bewildered for a moment but voiced his doubt a moment later.
"But my Lord! It didn't explain the 'weird' readings on his status!" (Alain)
Cmon, Pres… don't you see how this old man reacted and tries to cover his embarrassment? His dark secret almost got spilled, you know? Let the man relax for a bit…
"This bastard is my son through and through…! Theres nothing wrong with him!" (Ruald)
"My lord! This matter is serious! Please take more consideration towards this graved situation! If a word of these gets out, all hell will break loose! Even your family will be involved!" (Alain)
The Press still hung up on this matter regarding my status. I guess I should find out more about this…
"Uhm, Press… could you tell me what's wrong with my status? I was curious as to the matter as well."
After hearing my words, the Press quickly takes out an item that really brought me down the memory lane. Ahh… how reminiscing. Because of this tiny thing, I got depressed for a week long because missed the chance to gain it. A flat crystal-like small tablet that looks like a modern touch screen phone on the desk. I thought I will never see this thing in this world because it was a limited cash item. But it amazed me to see a real-life Crystal Connector in front of my very eyes. How did this old man possess a cheat item!?
(A brief explanation for the Crystal connector. it was a limited purchase item with the existence only by the hundred. This tiny piece of Crystal tablet that had a size not bigger than a palm was used as an appraiser tool to check deep information about everything. You heard that right. Everything! It's a cheat item that was after by the players of the game Realivese since its existence was known. Only the top 100 players with tones of cash could possess such a luxury item. Reil who spend tons of money to get this item was one of the unlucky lots that missed the opportunity.)
Why did I suddenly feel the need to cry? But anyway…
"Did it tell you that I had a unique status than Reed's was when you 'appraised' me?"
...…(silence….)
Shit! Did I say that out loud? Damn my mouth! Shit! Now they have gone back to being suspicious about me! Fuck this…
"W-what I meant was… sigh… why bother… I should come clean earlier if I know you possessed this thing…."
I gave up and started explaining to them the 'truth'. Though I mixed some lie to make not sound ridiculous and cut out the fact that I was a person not from this world. I made the story up that after the presume Reed bang his head on the sink, a hidden personality awoken inside me and tried to change my way, different from what Reed was. And as for my mess up status, I made up a story, telling that the personality had a memory of a person who lived long before the founding of the Great Kingdom and was an acquaintance of the Great Sage, Vormorth. To make them believe more to my bullshits, I said some things that's not commonly known by the public about The Sage's lifestyle that I've read online. How he got his knowledge, and what kind of person he was when he was still alive.
"I see… I heard some of it from my great, great, great grandfather who had a journal from that era. I don't know if it's accurate, but some of your stories match up…." (Alain)
Yes… yesss!! Believe more in my *bullshittiness!
(*not an actual word)
"T-then… are you still my son….?" (Ruald)
"Of course… I did have Reed's memories with me. Though some of it was still messed up because of our personalities merging. But worry not, dear father…"
"So, you say that you're both Reed and another person altogether?" (Trysia)
Oh… she finally joins the conversation…! I was worried when she stared at me with those suspicious gazes from the beginning of this discussion…
"If you put it into words like that, that's quite hit the mark…"
"I see….." (Trysia)
Ignore her sus gaze, ignore them sus gaze…. Away with the sus gaze!
"No wonder that sudden rise of magic capabilities with the chantless and high mana cap. Phew… I thought you had become a monster. But still…" (Alain)
"What!? You cast chantless magic!? Wait, ain't that just proved that you are a reincarnator, doesn't it?" (Ruald)
I hope you stop looking towards me with those gleaming eyes, old man. It's kinda weird… but still, this conversation is going in a good direction for me...
"Maybe it had something to do with the Tome of Vormorth, I think…."
I murmur to myself because I was curious about that-...
"WHAT….!?" (Alain & Trysia)
My ears! Oh crap! Did they hear that!?
"The Tome of the Gods!? Then that clears everything! Oh, what a find….!" (Alain)
Wai, wait…! That old man(Alain) suddenly lets out creepy aura. Should I be worri-...
"That's it! Lord Father… I mean, Lord General! I'm sure that you already heard from that old fool over there about my proposal for an engagement with your son! I hope His Excellency will accept this maiden's wishes! .... Fufufufu… if I got the hold of him, the tome is good as mine…. Fufufufu…." (Trysia)
Hiiii….!!!! Her inner desire is leaking out! What the heck happened to these two? Is that Tome really that amazing? though, it was a cheat item back then...
"No! Reject that offer, my Lord! Reed, I'll grant you access funds from the Academy and also my personal texts to create a new department for magic research! I'll make the board grant you a Title of Professor also, for freebies! A-and I will also build your own personal building for you to conduct your research with me as an assistant!" (Alain)
"Hah…!? Foolish old man who's a mad researcher! Dear Reed, I know you are an active young man and had much vigour in you. If we get married, we can go and have a journey together all around the world to unlock the secret of magic! And while at it, you can do whatever you want with my body! I had saved my virginity for this very purpose you know!? How about that?" (Trysia)
Ugh… both sides gave a tempting offer though… there are some merits if I accept the president's offer. Being a Professor is a great deal if I recall in the game. Being a professor is the same thing as being appointed as a Royal Magus. Safe to say that it will set my future if I was to be living in this world. But, I was tempted by Trysia's offer also, though I had to peek a bit of interest as to be wedded with her, the part she said about having a *journey all around the world was better. (*dude's is thinking about a dirty Journey… sigh…)
Why I had the feeling that someone just looked at me with a wrong impression just now… Nah... It's the wind, maybe…? A-anyway, could you please stop with the gentleman tea-sipping Ruald, dear father and help this son of yours? Sigh… guess it falls to me to decide….
"Calm down, the both of you. Though both of you gave a tempting offer, I'm going to reject them. Sorry…"
"WHAT!?" (Alain & Trysia)
Ugh… my poor ears… why did they have to shout like soo close?
"I'm still a student, aren't I? If the both of you come to me with those offers after I graduate, then I surely pick one of them. But since I'm still in the first year and new freshmen in the Academy, how could I shame my family's name by dropping out even before the semester's end?"
I hope this will be a sounding argument to stop these two from getting further with their intentions.
(bang!)
Hiiiii…! Uh, what? I thought it was the two who smack the table just now. Turns out, it was the silent Ruald who was the one that did so. The sudden act that Ruald just made bewildered the three of us. But to our noticed…
"Well done, my boy! Thats how you supposed to have lived your youth! Whatever your decision, I, Ruald and as your father, will support you to the best of my abilities! And as, THE BOTH OF YOU…."
The air around Ruald suddenly tensed up as he lets out a bloodlust. The two quickly stood straight when they felt his aura. Wait… aren't this…
"I don't have to remind the both of you of who I am, right?" (Ruald)
The two quickly nod as to Ruald's remark.
"By dragging me here while I'm busy maintaining our borders just because you lot wanted to control over my boy, how should I respond to this? I lost touch since I was away from the capital for a long time now. Should I go to his Majesty for this matter involving my son's future?" (Ruald)
The two shake their heads while having a cold sweat as Ruald said those words in a gentle yet domineering voice. This old man's aura is no joke, I tell you. Even though he didn't direct his bloodlust towards me, I still felt the pressure. He really holds the title of the Lord Commander which was one of the pillars that stood for this Kingdom's Sovereignty.
"If so, leave this room while I had a private conversation with my boy, understood?" (Ruald)
"Yess…!!" (Alain & Trysia)
I felt pity seeing the two rushed to leave the room. Though that I could do anything about it. They brought this upon themselves. After the two left the room, Ruald direct his attention toward me.
"Now that we are alone, I suggest I owe you an apology for what happen to you at the duel before." (Ruald)
"No wonder that bloodlust felts familiar… are you planning to get your son killed?!"
"I-its not like that…! It's just that… the way you acted was different that time and I was convinced that you aren't my son…"
"And you unconsciously let out your bloodlust towards me and that prick got the best of me…."
"I'm sorry…." (Ruald)
This old man… his air just changed from the scary one from earlier to the meek one that was looking like any other doting father… but he seems to regret his actions though…
"Pff… hahahahahh!"
"W-why are you laughing…? Stop scaring me…!" (Ruald)
"I laugh because of your sudden change of behaviour, old man… to think that you can act like such though you were like a monster earlier with those two… its funny!"
"Why you…! Sigh… a-anyway… back to the duel matter. If you get killed by that brat, I could 'handle' him to avenge your death, you know. Though as if I let my son die on the hands of that man's offspring… perhaps I should something about him after all…." (Ruald)
Talking about a doting father. But He sure said something dark just now. I should change the subject.
"A-anyway… how's the family back home?"
"Ah… that…." (Ruald)
He talked about the family back in the Earldom. Reed's mother was against Ruald's decision to send Reed to the academy and she gave him cold shoulders since then. What makes matters worse, the second daughter, Talisa, the problem child, was becoming more depressed after knowing that they hid the information from her with Reed's departure and had locked herself in his room since. But not all of it was gloom stories. The first daughter and the eldest, Reina, were to be wedded with a Baron from the branch family in the coming month. Though, according to Reed's memories, the eldest daughter was a hardcore bro-con. There were unspeakable things that happens between them. This too caused the second daughter becomes a troubled child. It shivers me that Reed had done those things with his siblings…
"And here I was worried that I had to wed my daughters to my own son…" (Ruald)
This is one of the weird practices that were permitted in this world, inbreed marriage between siblings. Though it didn't have the same impact as the ones that happen on earth, but still… From my viewpoint, that is just nasty!
"P-please throw away that thinking for the sake of your beloved son, dear father…"
"Sigh…." (Ruald)
"Then again, I was wondering why did you didn't take your mistress as your official wives. I doubt that mother will think bad about it. She did say that you should stop with the secrets, didn't she?"
This pique my interest since I earlier. It's common for a nobleman to take multiple partners in this world. Even the commoners had several spouses. Just why did this man didn't act like so?
"Y-you see… sigh… I guess I couldn't hide it anymore. It's because I found it exciting to cheat on your mother. Even though she already knew about it… s-she to go behind my back, you know…?!" (Ruald)
Ahhh… this man was those types of dude, who likes "NTR"*…. It scares me if I end up like him in the future since Reed had inherit his genes… I pray I won't fall into that rabbit hole like him….
As the time passes by, we continue to have a conversation just like a father to his son. Though it makes me quite warm in the heart to talk with a person whom I can call my father that I didn't have the chance on earth. Is this how it feels…?
.................>>>
It was fun talking with Ruald. But they cut it short since they needed him on the border because of the Empire's hostility that can spark a war between the nation at any moment's notice, he left with the Earldom personal Airship in the evening while the three of us bade him farewell.
"I'm glad one of us is happy…" (Alain)
The gloomy elfien finally spoke after the awkward silence since we escort Ruald earlier. He was dejected because the two of them were persuaded (threaten) to let me live my life as a student by Ruald.
"I should get back to the office and snap back to reality… ugh… my old bones are aching again…" (Alain)
He really looked depressed, isn't he? But I can say the same with the beauty next to him. Rather than beauty, she looks like a withered flower…
"Y-you alright…?"
"Fine, fine… I'm fine… I am just disappointed by your choice, that's all… it just that… sigh… never mind… if you got horny and needed some company next time, come and see me… I'm fine being you knocking me up…." (Trysia)
She still hasn't given up on that. Though it was tempting, but isn't she just too direct about that matter? I'm glad that Alain had already left the scene and its only the two of us standing on the airship platform. Though the scene of the sunset felt romantic, I don't feel the slightest after hearing her remark. After giving her an awkward response, she left the platform looking similar to the one she did earlier.
"Well… that was awkward as hell…."
...…(wind blows)
Brrrr…! The wind getting cold as the sun was closing down on the horizon. I should go back to the dorm likewise…