ARTHUR LEWYWIN POV:
"You know you look like a pregnant woman who's about to give birth." Regis said in a mocking tone. My head snapped to the corner where he was lying down, as his vulpine eyes met mine. "Stop scowling like that. It's very unsightly for a princess to make such faces", he quipped.
Unable to respond to his childish remarks, I simply grunted and laid back on my chair. Resting my legs on the table, I blankly stared at the closed door, which lead to the training hall of my class.
"So...how long are you gonna stay like this?", Regis's voice spoke. Without giving him a glance, I replied. "Until I figure things out." I turned my head back to the wolf who was silently snickering at my response. "And what are those, 'things'?"
"Quit playing me with me, Regis. I'm not in the mood", my tone cold. "Wait, is this about Caera, again?" he asked.
I sighed as I took out the cylindrical relic in my hand to study its surface for what seemed like a millionth time. Still, the relic wouldn't budge; the lock wouldn't open. Though I was doing that physically, my mind was somewhere else.
Caera…
I couldn't help but think about our last interaction…if we could call it that.
Her uncharacteristic actions, some of which had heavily surprised me, lately. While I may have not known the Alacryan Noble for a long period, the times we spent together as companions, partners…we were able to understand each other's motives and intentions. If it wasn't for that clarity, I would have never taken a chance to get closer to her, someone with high potential to be able to harm my continent at any given time…
But…
Why is she getting closer to me? Why—would she…hug…me? And…and what's with that face that she had made?
I know she had been tasked to "get closer" to me by her blood. Perhaps her mentor had asked her to do the same as well, who I had a pretty good idea of her identity. Infact the only reason I let things play out this way was due to her involvement. If she hadn't helped me—spared my life…
But why would Caera act on it? I would understand if she had done it in front of her blood; to look convincing. Hell, I wouldn't have even minded half as much as I am doing now!
'Why are you getting so pissed? Quit thinking these unnecessary thoughts, its starting affect me.' Regis said, interrupting my train of thoughts.
Ignoring his words, I tried to figure out just what I can do…at this situation.
I wanted to trust Caera. And I think I do. But seeing her actions change all of a sudden, it felt off. It's no coincidence that it happened right after her visit to the Denoir's Estate.
My paranoia crept up on me as my mind weaved several possibilities on what could've caused Caera to act this way. While there were many possibilities that—I chose to ignore…simply because it sounded ridiculous even inside my head, I had a few suspicions that I would never accept, but I still considered them.
'You're serious! Just how would it be highly possible for Caera to secretly work for Agrona, than the possibility of Caera…actually liking you, hence she's acting the way she is.'
Tch. I clicked my tongue in annoyance. "Don't bother answering that question, because it was rhetorical. Or simply, idiotic and even I know that." He said out loud in a serious tone.
"Shut up, Regis. I'm not finding any happiness in having such thoughts. You and I both know that I trust Caera…more than anyone else in this continent… I had even considered telling her my…"—I stopped myself and shook my head in desperation—"…I'm just…worried." I finished in a soft melancholic tone.
I saw Regis's eyes widen at my last statement as his vulpine ears twitched. "I'm listening" he said. "Spit it out. What crazy theory do you have now, to push people away from your life huh? Is it that you're an old dude in a teen body? Or that you're emotionally disabled? Tell me already, I'm really curious as to see where this one would lie in the crazy scale."
Ignoring his mad ramblings, I told him the possibility that has been on my mind ever since Caera arrived back at the academy…and hugged me. "What if…Agrona is controlling her?" turning my gaze, I fixed it on the shadow wolf, to show that I wasn't playing around. He blankly stared at me with no reaction. Seeing that my companion wasn't satisfied by my answer, I continued. "You've seen all my memories. Agrona has certain ability to control his kin. You know how he used Sylvie… Now, I'm not sure how far his ability goes. Whether it is only applicable to his direct kin. Or if—"
"…he can control all the Vritra bloods." He finished in my stead. I looked at him with an impassive expression, but my insides were a mess as I wished—prayed, that it wouldn't be the case. Regis seems to understand that as he stayed silent pondering at my words.
Few bouts of silence lingered in the room before my eyes widened at Regis's latest thought. I turned around to see him, but he had his eyes closed as he casually laid on the floor. I wasn't sure if he intended for me to listen to his thoughts, but since I did, I asked him about it. "You think that if Agrona did have such powers then why didn't he use Nic—Elijah, to kill me when I was still a cannon fodder?"
After a few seconds of contemplating, I shook my head in dismissal. "No, it was never in his intention to kill me. He wanted me to join him remember? And I'm pretty sure that he had used Elijah to bring in Tessia, to use her a vessel. But since I had intervened and saved her in the academy, his plan failed."
"You may be right. But I'm still not convinced that our lady Caera is working for that snake man."
"I never said she's working, not on her own accord that is. But—"
"No, I'm not sure." He cut me off.
"Well, we just need to get the proof", I said. But my mind showed me another way." What if I just leav—"
Before I could finish that thought, my body screamed at me in a sudden panic to move…as I closely dodged a ball of purple flame that was thrown at my side…by my companion.
My eyes grew wide as my brows furrowed. "What the hell does this mean, Regis?" I yelled, uncaring of the students who were practicing outside this room.
"Yeah, what's wrong with you?" he asked. His tone breezy as if nothing had happened; as if he hadn't just thrown a ball of destructive flames at me.
I peered down at the shadow wolf, waiting for his explanation. But he simply averted his gaze and went back to lying on the floor as he closed his eyes. But soon a mental message came. 'Don't you dare even think of leaving her, Arthur.' His tone now, serious, more than he had ever been.
I grimaced. I couldn't help but ask him. 'Why—not?'
'Don't fucking ask me why. Have you really gotten that dense?'
Since I didn't, or rather…couldn't answer him, he continued. 'I don't need to tell you about the depths of risks that she had to take, just to keep your ass safe and away from all the prying eyes. If it wasn't for her, you'd be dead twice and you would've had to live inside some cave, hiding from the highbloods that you've managed to piss off in your leisure time in the enemy continent.' His gaze looked at me intently as he took a brief pause, while I watched him wordlessly. 'Just imagine what would happen if you managed to leave now? It would be alight if we simply leave back to Dicathen; but we both know that's not what you're planning. If you cause chaos in Victoriad…you can just God-Step, and get to safety; but what about the ones who had been helping you—following you? What do you think will happen to them? What do you think will happen to Caera? You think she'll be let off the hook? She'd get a peaceful death if she's lucky! But actually…she will be experimented on since we both know why. If her secret ever comes out—'
"Fine. I get it. Just stop it. I agree with everything that you said Regis. You know I do, and don't you think that is why—we should leave Caera behind, and just mind our own business? We don't need any protection, and the Victoriad is nearby. I'm not sure whether we really need to keep this on."
"Wait. Are you saying what I think you're saying?" he asked in response.
"I don't know. I clearly see no reason to involve her into our plan—our life anymore"
A sudden silence lingered in the room as Regis kept his silence and his thoughts unreadable. I knew he was pissed. He always had a soft spot for Caera…but sometimes it's necessary to do things that aren't very favourable for everyone involved, I said to myself.
"I don't agree with you. At least not until I hear it from the lady herself. I have a suspicion—no, I know that this isn't the only reason why you've taken this decision. I mean, Caera has been acting strangely for a while now; it didn't start now, and you clearly know that. You seem to be unperturbed by his bold actions earlier…but now, you're faltering? I know you Art, and I know that you don't take impulsive decisions such as this out of nowhere. You are only this naïve when it comes to emotions or romance. In this case I'm afraid it's both!'
"W-WHAT?!" I yelled out loud in surprise. "Why would you even think—like that?"
"Oh, I just meant that you might've just, caught some feelings for our Lady Caera. No big deal, right? Let's just swipe this under the rug and go take Caera for a relictomb diving. I'm itching to move my limbs, y'know?"
"Huh! Hey wha—", just as I tried to rebuke, a sharp knock at the door gained out attention. Quickly turning to Regis, I gave him the signal to get inside, before shouting at the door. "Come in."
Mayla, walked in as she fidgeted her fingers nervously. She looked at me as she spoke. "Professor Grey, there's a professor wanting to see you outside."
Professor? My mind immediately went to…Caera. But why is she waiting outi—
Mayla's corner of her lips twitched as she looked at me intently, as if she understood what I was thinking. "Um...Professor Grey, it's...not Assistant Professor Caera."
My face warmed up at her answer. 'Why would she think—'
Regis laughed inside my head. 'See! Even that young girl knows what's up! You're older than her, yet you suck...not even considering your past life that is!'
'Oh shut up!'
'Wait. Isn't that the girl, who got it on with that four eyes kid? Man, she's getting more 'action' than you do, Art. Maybe you should ask her for some lessons... She should be the professor here.'
Ignoring his words I looked at the girl in front of me. "You can go now. I'll go see who it is."
As I walked out of the room and to the training hall, there was an unfamiliar man, though I was able to figure out who he was. His dusky complexion matched that to one of my students, Valen of Highblood Ramseyer. 'He's no Professor, he's the Academy's Director', I confirmed inwardly.
When I reached the old man's position, noticing my arrival he spoke up. "Professor Grey. Sorry for intruding in your class hours. But we have a most serious matter to discuss."
"Which is?", I asked in a plain, uncaring tone but my mind was already spinning around at what or who had now caused a problem for me. 'Just hear the man out, will you? I swear your paranoia has gotten even worse Art'.
'Easy for you to say, I'm the one physically living in the enemy continent', I shot back as the Director gave a reply.
"As you'd know…the bestowment ceremony is right around the corner. I'm not sure if it's our luck, or maybe you've brought us luck…but the Melee Enhancement Tactics class has been selected to perform in the upcoming Victoriad."
I was a bit confused by his words. My mind went through the memory when Caera has mentioned to me about an event named Victoriad, where supposedly strong and capable mages around the continent challenges the current Retainers and the Scythes to take their positions. 'So why are these—kids, selected for the event?'
'Regis? Any idea?' I asked my companion.
'Well, the event is mainly focused on the challenges, but there are also other events that take place. It takes place for three days, and the challenges issued takes place usually at the last day. I'm not sure about the first two days as from my memories of Uto, he never seemed to have attended the entire Victoriad. He thinks it's a waste of time, so he would just come on the final day to spill some blood and kill his challengers in the most gruesome way.'
Taken aback by his unnecessary details, I tried to keep my face unreadable, not wanting to seek any attention to the fact that I'm not exactly aware of the most famous event in the entire continent.
While inside, I seethed in frustration. 'Dammit why am I always getting myself in this type of situation? If only I had all the knowledge about the continent or at least someone who had the knowledg—'
Regis's mocking laughter stopped my inner ranting. 'If only there was someone to help you…someone born in Alacrya; and is very knowledgeable about its culture; and very loyal, strong, and powerful; not to forget, is ridiculously hot, and caring; oh, and will follow you along, without questioning and protect you in times; but mainly, isn't annoying and doesn't blame you for her shortcomings... It's a shame that you don't have anyo—'
'Okay, okay. Shut the hell up. I get what you are saying… Y-You're probably right. So…I'll think about it…'
While he didn't respond back to my sudden declaration, I could feel his happiness and relief leaking through our mental link.
I could say…I felt the same. 'Maybe I'm wrong'
Immediately shaking out of my inner thoughts, I focused on the matter happening outside.
Although the Director didn't seem to notice my lack of response, as his face was in a panic, and he was sweating. Not wanting to arouse any suspicion, I immediately spoke up. "That is a great news. Which means I have my work cut out." I said in the same uncaring tone.
Director Ramseyer's eyes twinkled at that statement as he heavily nodded his head. "Yes, yes. I know it is going to be hectic for you. So, in consideration to that, I will assign you some assistants to help you manage and train the kids better."
I nodded back to his statement.
The director's face suddenly darkened as he closed in on our distance. Further leaning forward, he spoke in a hushed tone. "Grey, keep in mind that the bestowment ceremony would play an important role in boosting the abilities of the children. So please help them in every way you can to make sure they get accustomed to fighting melee combat."
Letting his words linger around for a few seconds, I spoke up. "Of course, these are my kids after all. I will train them to be the warriors that our High Sovereign is looking for." 'Your kids?' Regis laughed inside my mind. Fighting to keep my face from turning smug, I tried to end the unnecessarily long conversation. "If that is all, then please let me get back to work. I need to make a new training schedule for the kids."
The director nodded in approval as he turned around to leave. But before he could take a step, he stopped and turned his gaze back to me. Again, he leaned in on me and spoke in a whisper next to my ears. "I don't know who you are, Grey. But…you seemed to have gained attention from the higher-ups. I'm talking scythe level. Though I don't know if this is a good thing or bad thing for you. But I hope you will keep in mind that I care for my children's safety. So, keep that in mind while you train them."
He gave a subtle nod while his eyes flicked to his grandson for a second, before he turned to leave the training hall.
'Well, that was surprising. What do you think he meant by that?' Regis asked, his anticipation boiling up inside me.
'No clue.' I replied, as I walked out of the room. 'We'll find out during the Victoriad.'
'Okay. So why are you going the opposite direction? Didn't you say that you have to make a schedule for the kids training?'
'Okay we can go do that. I was thinking of going to see Caera and…have a talk. But since you want to make schedule for the kid—'
'NO! Fuck the kids. Who cares about them anyways? They're probably going to fight against us, so let us keep them weak. Now move your ass faster, so I can see my Goddess sooner.'
'Regis…seriously?' I shook my head at his words, but a subtle smile appeared on my face.
'Anyways, why are you so excited to see her? You know we only met her yesterday, right? If you be this way, she's going to misunderstand us.'
'Ah like I care about that. You see, I am pretty excited today. You are going to confront Caera, right?'
'Yeaaah…'
He chortled in response. I waited for him to tell me why, but he didn't. So, I had to ask.
'Why the heck are you laughing?'
His laughter stopped suddenly, as if he was waiting for me to ask him this question. He spoke after a short silence, his tone more casual than before.
'Well…if I'm right, you might be getting a new girlfriend by the end of the day! Hahahaha…'
I almost slipped on my tracks at his—ridiculous words. But oddly, my heart thumped faster. Ignoring the sensation, I stood back up and continued walking towards the classroom Caera was supposed to be in. 'Regis, you're so gross.'
'Sure, princess, whatever you say. But don't forget to thank me when you finally get to see Caera's b—'
'REGIS! I'm gonna kill you!'
'Hahaha. Well, i apologise for talking about your girlfriend, lewdly. I understand why you are angry. You can kill me if you want, but before I die, just let me see Caera's b—'
Before he could finish his sentence, I immediately pulled the shadow wolf from my core to my legs, as I kicked him out of my body. 'Hey! What the hell! Not cool!' A black smoke grazed across the marble floor, as it passed through several stone columns before it came to a stop.
The corridor was mostly empty as it was class hours, so no one had noticed the weird black smoke manifesting out of nowhere. Walking close to the smoke, I looked at it and spoke. 'If you keep talking like that, I'm going to leave you back in our room. And you won't be able to see Caera whenever I go out to meet her.'
Contrast to what I was expecting his reaction would be, his eyes actually brightened. While the will-o-wisp danced around, uncaring of getting noticed by someone.
'Uh Regis, what's wrong with you? Did you just hit your head or something?' I asked worriedly.
But the will-o-wisp didn't answer as it swirled around for a while before stopping in front of my face. 'So does it mean, we're not going to leave Caera behind?' he asked with excitement.
'Leave behind?' I asked in confusion.
'We are going to take her back with us, when we go to Dicathen, right?' he questioned, but it felt like he was giving a statement.
Pausing for a second, I gave his question some thoughts before answering. 'I-I am not sure about that, Regis. You're planning for something that's too far away. Did you forget that Caera doesn't know about our identity?'
'Tch. I know that. I'm not dense as you are. I assumed you would tell her the secret…now that you've made the decision to fully trust her.'
I was slightly taken aback by his words. 'Hey, I never said that. I only agreed to go see what is really bothering her. And to know the reason behind her latest actions. I-I don't know if I'm ready to tell her my secret…'
The will-o-wisp visibly shrunk in size as its comical eyes drooped.
Sighing, I spoke to make him understand. 'Regis…let's not rush things. Just think of this as the first step towards our future relationship'
As I finished explaining, I saw Regis's will-o-wisp form widen, along with its eyes. 'Hey what the hell are you doing? I'm going to get caught. What the hell is wrong with you? Came back inside now'
Regis's form floated up and down like a perpetual wave, as I heard him mutter something out loud.
"What? Get back!"
He then immediately lifted himself up to meet my eye level, as he shouted with a comical grin, making me flinch.
"You said…RELATIONSHIP!"