Chapter 20: Lesson (1)
Chapter 20: Lesson (1)
Truthfully, it was somewhat expected. After all, there was a limited pool of people suitable for this type of work. Luna, the academy's top applicant, grinned at Sivar who was closely following her.
Since it wasnt official enrollment but a field experience, his outfit was simple: a white shirt and comfortable brown trousers. Once he put on his shoes, he appeared to be nothing more than an average handsome man. His overall facial features were akin to those of East Asians, with his noticeably pale skin as a distinguishing feature. Particularly, his red eyes exuded an aura of mystery, making him all the more attractive at least until the meaning behind those red eyes was understood.
So much to figure out.'
While Elvin's assignment to supervise Sivar was unexpected, it didn't matter much to Luna. After all, her main goal was to unravel the true identities of Sivar and the mural she had discovered in the cave. His origin was unclear, and the cave mural only added to the enigma.
Moreover, according to Ellie, within just a week, Sivar had learned to write short sentences. Although he couldnt speak yet, his ability to communicate in such a short period was a testament to his extraordinary potential.
But why did he choose Professor Godin?'
Such a thought made Luna smile again at Sivar, who was curiously exploring his surroundings. Currently, Luna is heading to Professor Godins lab with Sivar. Meanwhile, Elvin was planning to seek permission from other professors.
It was just before the start of the class, so they occasionally bumped into other professors. Each time they did, Luna politely greeted them, and the professors warmly welcomed her. However, most of them merely glanced at Sivar before moving on.
With such incidents, it wouldnt be surprising if rumors spread.'
And its not only about the memorial tower. Rumor has it that Sivar climbed up to the top with his bare hands.
No one understood why he climbed it or what was going through his mind as he did. What they did understand, however, was that Sivar's physical abilities were far more incredible than expected.
The memorial tower was designed with special materials and magic, making it difficult to control magic as soon as one touches it. Essentially, you have to climb it barehanded, and Sivar was able to accomplish it easily.
Luna was very curious about his limits and continued to ponder upon them.
Knock knock-
"Come in~"
Permission came from behind the lab door after Luna knocked. Luna paused for a moment before opening the door. The strong smell of books wafted out as soon as she did. Luna quickly scanned the messy interior.
It would be false to say that it was clean. Paper, books, and pens were strewn everywhere.
Godin's desk was no different. Numerous books were piled up, reflecting his burning desire for exploration.
"Luna? And behind you is"
Professor Godin, who was seated at his desk, trailed off. Luna understood why because, quite unexpectedly, Sivar had accompanied her. To make matters worse, they didnt share pleasant memories. Hadnt Sivar responded strongly to Godins prank?
For these reasons, when Godin showed a nervous expression, Luna greeted him with politeness.
"Hello, Professor Godin. I came here because I have something to discuss."
"Hmm It seems like it involves Sivar, doesn't it?"
"Yes. The thing is"
Luna explained to Godin everything that had happened up to this point.
The more he listened, the more peculiar Godin's expression became, until he finally reached a state of flustered astonishment.
"So, Sivar chose me? Why?"
"I'm not sure myself."
"Hmm"
In the meantime, Godin looked at Sivar, as if to ascertain whether he had understood the conversation. Sivar faced him expressionlessly.
Godin was utterly befuddled as to why Sivar had chosen him.
It made sense given their unfavorable first impression. It wasn't something that could be easily described in a positive light.
Normally, Sivar should have been on guard around him.
As this thought crossed his mind, Godin asked Luna with a concerned tone,
"He doesn't consider me his prey, does he?"
"I I certainly hope not."
Luna cast a nervous glance towards Sivar, considering the plausible-sounding notion.
Of course, Sivar had absolutely no intention of hunting Godin. If anything, he was eager to get along with him.
But there was no immediate catalyst for them to get closer, so he stayed still for now. He could work on establishing a good relationship slowly.
"I suppose it would be best for him to introduce himself first. His name is Sivar, correct?"
Upon hearing this question, Sivar nodded. Godin appeared slightly surprised.
It made sense given that it hadn't even been a week. Sivar showed that he could understand their language in such a short time.
Godin made eye contact with Sivar's vivid red eyes and shrugged nonchalantly.
"My name is Godin Erebus. I'm in charge of magic. Nice to meet you."
As Godin introduced himself, Sivar bowed at the waist, greeting him with the utmost respect.
Lunar knew that Ellie had taught him the behavior, but Godin didn't.
Godin was surprised by the complete transformation from a wild person to a more civilized demeanor, in just a week.
"Wai-, did he just greet me?"
"He just mimicked the greeting that Ellie taught him. I heard that he follows The Principal's and Ellie's words."
That wasn't true. Shibal grumbled inwardly, wondering what misunderstanding she was under.
While Sivar was complaining in his mind, Godin wore an expression of fascination.
"I see. Basic greetings are essential for easier integration of Sivar. Ellie has taught him well."
"It's regrettable that some things can be learned by teaching and others can't."
"He'll learn gradually through adaption."
Godin then offered his help whenever they needed it, showing kindness to Luna and Sivar, despite his suspicious appearance.
"Oh, the lesson will start soon, right? You must be tired. Would you like some coffee?"
"No, it's alright. We must leave now."
"Okay. See you later."
Godin cheerfully sent them off with a bright smile.
Luna bowed her head, and Sivar followed suit, providing a courteous nod.
Godin was more than content with this, but Sivar's next action stunned him.
As Luna walked out the door, Sivar waved at Godin.
If his earlier greeting was formal, this one evoked a sense of familiarity'.
Caught off guard by this unexpected action, Godin beamed back at him.
"Take care."
As he returned Sivar's wave, Sivar pivoted and stepped out of the room.
Just as he did, Luna looked back, although she was unable to discern exactly what Sivar had done.
I need to get to class now'
Now that their discussion with Godin was over, all that was left was to attend class.
She was worried whether Sivar could stay calm, secondary to Elvin explaining to the teachers.
When Rod and Ellie were teaching, he was quiet, but it was different during class. The professor couldn't look out for everyone.
The only time they would care about Sivar would be if he caused an accident.
Given his reputation as a dangerous character, it was hard to predict what would happen if he caused an accident.
"What are you two doing standing there?"
"Huh?"
While she was pondering, someone called Luna. They turned their heads to see a man as young as Godin with brown hair and a smiling face, but his incongruous short hair gave off a bizarre sense of discord.
"I know classes are about to start."
"We were thinking of going to class soon."
"Really? And who is this next to you?"
The man moved his gaze from Luna to Sivar and frowned. He seemed to know who Sivar was through rumors, but his expression was anything but friendly.
Then, gesturing toward Godins lab, he asked in an irritated tone, "Do you have any business with Godin?"
"Yes. The Principal asked me to help Sivar adapt."
"Yeah? If so, why did he choose such an uninteresting guy?"
Luna made a puzzled face at his comment. She could understand if he was sending a stern look towards Sivar like Elvin. But there was no reason to insult Godin. Though his appearance caused misunderstandings, he was a very good-natured person.
Meanwhile, the professor looked at Luna with a subtle smile and then spoke kindly.
"Would you mind asking The Principal again? Not Godin, but me."
"Excuse me, but what's your name, professor?"
"You don't know me?"
"No."
At Lunas confident response, the professor's reaction was quite off. However, Luna didnt know who he was.
It hadnt been long since she enrolled, and each class had different professors. Moreover, growing up in the countryside and entering with only ability would naturally slow information acquisition compared to others.
"Well Still, you came from afar, so you may not know. What's your hometown? I just know you were the top entry student."
"I'm from Calis, the Hwan Empire."
"Never heard of it. Anyway, my name is Delphoi. Like Godin, I'm also in charge of magic studies. Oh, but don't treat me the same."
At his response, Luna nodded. Yet, she still didn't know who he was.
Regardless, she didnt like him talking trash about Godin and his brusque manner.
She had learned from her teacher that those who talk behind others backs usually lack in character.
So, she simply meant to greet him briefly and go to class.
"I see. I apologize, but we have to go in first. We don't have much time before class starts."
"Before doing that, could you please answer me? If you speak kindly to The Principal, I can help in some way."
"That's okay. Professor Godin is a wonderful person as well. Well go now. Sivar, let's go."
Why was he so persistent?
As Luna resisted frowning, she moved her steps. His incongruous short hair was strange, and more than anything, his slander against Godin wasn't likable.
She doubted if he was a professor. It seemed suitable to figure out who he was later.
For now, getting out of here was a priority.
"However, I"
Just as Luna was about to make her move, Delphoi reached out and tried to stop her. Then, at that instant, an unexpected situation occurred.
Squeak!
"Aaaagh!"
The quiet Sivar had grabbed Delphoi's wrist and twisted it.
Although it seemed like a light grab, Delphoi's scream suggested a significant amount of force.
If he twisted it anymore here, his joint looked like it was in severe danger.
"What the Sivar?! What are you doing?!"
Luna, taken aback, shouted at Sivar after seeing the situation.
Despite her shouts, Sivar blankly continued to twist Delphois wrist.
"You, you can't let go of this right now?! This barbarian Ahhh!"
Delphoi threatened with a haggard face, but it was no use. Sivar twisted his wrist even more in return.
The situation finally ended when Luna could calm them. However, Delphoi's wrist didnt look good.
It was already starting to swell at the wrist, it seemed to have a problem with the ligaments.
"What's this uproar Professor Delphoi?
At that moment, Godin, who had heard the commotion, appeared opening the door.
He looked at Luna and Sivar with a puzzled expression after looking at Delphoi holding his wrist.
When Godin asked Luna to explain the situation, she looked at Sivar. Yet, Sivar simply looked at Delphoi expressionlessly.
"Damn I heard you're the top incoming student, it looks like birds of a feather flock together."
""
"Try your best with the savage whos no better than him. Worthless guy."
Delphoi left nothing but harsh words before passing them holding his wrist.
Or so he tried.
Crash!
"Oof!"
He managed to look awful before falling.
As Delphoi was passing by Sivar, Sivar tripped him without anyone noticing.
Pfft.
Luna chuckled at this humiliating body gag. It wasnt just laughter, it was more a mocking laugh.
It didn't seem blunt as she puffed up her cheeks trying to hold it in, it looked like something a mischievous child would do.
In the meantime, Delphoi looked battered as he got up and ran away without looking back in a hurry. It was a highly shameful sight.
Even though a commotion had broken out, Luna, as if she didn't care, greeted Godin whod just come out of the room.
"We will also get going now. Professor Godin."
"Ah, y-yes? Ah Be careful."
"Sivar, let's go."
As directed by Luna, Sivar moved his legs.
Godin watched the two of them head to the class to start their respective classes and quietly closed the door.
"Sivar."
"?"
As Luna was heading to the classroom, she stopped and looked at Sivar for a moment. Against her gaze, Sivar too made eye contact.
The act of Sivar holding Delphoi's wrist just before. How did that happen out of nowhere?
When he was quiet even when Ellie used to joke around occasionally. But this time, he completely grabbed Delphoi's wrist and twisted it.
Did he sense some suspicious intentions from Delphois actions? If so, how did he feel?
"Hmm No. Let's go."
She stared at Sivar for a moment and easily let it go.
If he sensed it according to his wild instincts, it would make sense to an extent. Of course, its just conjecture.
I did well entrusting this death.
She became more curious about Sivar.
******
What a waste. Instead of merely twisting his wrist, I should have completely gone all the way and broken it.
As I followed Luna from behind, these were the thoughts that ran through my head. Delphoi, the professor, is every bit the embodiment of wickedness his actions suggest.
Around him, there's a prevalent air of elitism, fueled largely by his adherence to the so-called elite route. By all accounts, he could be the poster boy for elitist villains.
Even though he hardly looks like an elite.'
His ways are a stark contrast to Godin, who I knew earned his place as a university professor through sheer hard work and research.
I still wonder how he managed to become a professor.'
But then, considering his past demeaning actions towards Luna, it comes as no surprise that he is nothing but trash. And not just any trash, but the type that cannot be recycled or reused.
Up until now, he's built a reputation for bullying numerous students based on their grades and has been known to occasionally harass female students as well.
This inevitably gets framed on Godin. He's around the top if you're talking about non-renewable trash.
Fortunately, Godin's false charges do not last long, but they leave the same irreversible damage to the victimized female student.
To make matters worse, that female student was the daughter of a high-ranking noble, and it even developed into an international conflict.
Who was that female student?'
I remember she had quite a lot of importance, but I can't remember. I know she was a child of a high-ranking noble.
One might wonder why someone with that background would dwell on Delphoi.
The plot is simple. He gradually tempts them with their grades and then brings them to his research lab for counseling.
I dont need to say what happens after that. He stands out among many pieces of trash, so I remember him clearly.
I'll remember if I see his face.'
Even with these thoughts, I followed Luna closely.
Students passing by the hallway were looking at us with peculiar expressions, but I calmly moved on.
Then we arrived at the classroom where our classes were about to begin.
When Luna opened the door to the lecture room, a familiar scene caught our eyes.
It meant a typical university classroom. Morning sessions were theory lessons, afternoon sessions were practical training.
How do I know? Because Ellie told me. She shared various things since we could communicate.
Did she say there were about 100 incoming students divided into three classes?'
I remember that ten people each from the upper, middle, and lower ranks were mixed to make three classes.
Honestly, even if it is called an entrance ranking, it doesnt mean much beyond the top five. To begin with, the entrance exam itself is a disadvantage for mages.
What is important is what happens after that. Interest varies depending on the changes in ranking that will occur afterward.
Non-combatants are picked up directly by the professor. In Ellie's case, she collaborates with a professor of herbal medicine.
"Hey. Hey. Look over there."
"Huh? What? Why is that person coming here?"
"Can't be true, is he enrolling?"
With my unexpected appearance, the classroom filled with buzzing chatter in no time.
I was not bothered since I had anticipated this degree of attention. Luna was the same.
She looked around for an empty seat and flinched. I turned my gaze to where she was looking.
There was a conspicuous space, unlike other parts. It was on the outer side of the middle line.
At the end of it, a woman was sitting confidently.
That person'
Red hair that looked as if it could burn and deeply colored green eyes. Fierce-looking features with sharp eyes.
Lastly, a dark brown skin tone that can be regarded as the symbol of her race.
The Tatars' princess, Kara, was looking at us with an amused expression, her chin in her hand.
Now that I think about it, we were in the same class.'
Most characters who have a significant presence are in the same class as Luna. No need to pay much attention to the other classes.
In the meantime, Luna locked eyes with Kara and then turned her gaze to scan the room for available seats.
However, there were no seats left. Only around Kara was there a space.
Which implies we had no choice but to sit next to her.
"Out of all the people"
Luna muttered with a troubled voice. It seemed that sitting beside Kara was quite burdensome for her too.
Even in the original works, the protagonist sat next to Kara. That served as a catalyst to slowly become friends.
Moreover, her personality is not bad either. Most of the violent incidents up to now were provoked by those who disparaged her.
There's also the vibe of her being ostracized.'
Since no one approaches Kara, I know there's a natural emergence of this vibe.
In reality, she might feel quite bitter about it. Though, for now, shes acting as though it doesnt affect her.
Anyway, it was a fact that we were to sit next to Kara. Luna seemed to have accepted this fact as she slowly made her way towards the seat.
Step by step, step by step.
As we moved, all the gazes in the classroom were directed towards us.
Naturally, people's eyes were bound to gravitate towards the peculiar combination.
The princess of a newborn country thats scorned for being barbaric, the top-ranking freshman, and the hot potato wild man.
Hmm. Just looking at it, it's indeed a bizarre combination. Even if I were them, I'd want to watch.
"Sivar. Sit here."
Finally arriving at the seat next to Kara, Luna gestured for me to sit. Taking her cue, I sat down.
Kara, seemingly disbelieving of what had just unfolded, greeted us with a cynical tone.
"Hello, friends. You came a bit late today?"
"As you can see, I had to go somewhere with Sivar."
"Really? Anyway, why are you looking after that guy? Didn't The Principal have him?"
""
Luna only smiled at her, not offering any response. Looking at her tone, one might think that she was stirring up an argument.
But that was not the case. She only asked out of genuine curiosity. She did not instigate any row.
If one were to ask why her tone was that way, it's just her natural way of speaking.
A bit like how a certain regional dialect might sound argumentative. It has that kind of vibe.
"Could you stop ignoring me? I'm getting upset."
Again, this was not metaphorical but her genuine feelings. She felt offended by Luna.
There is a reason why Kara is known to be ostracized. Although she appears tough, she is quite sensitive on the inside.
But Luna, oblivious to such nuances, replied in a pointed voice.
"Don't I have no obligation to tell you?"
"Uh That's true."
Kara nodded, seeming to be convinced by Luna's answer.
As you can see, she is not a havoc-wreaker. It's the rudeness of the civilized people that made her become so.
She was originally polite and formal when speaking, but because people acted rudely at first, her language also twisted in that manner. That's why she uses informal language now.
Considering that her conversation with Luna was going relatively smoothly, it seemed like they had gotten a bit closer.
"Then let me ask him instead. Your name is Sivar, right?"
Kara cast a question at me, who was sitting on the other side of Luna.
I blinked my eyes and then pointed at myself.
"Yeah, you, you. What's your name?"
"Sivar is indeed his name."
"Hey guy, did you really live in the wild?"
Instead of me, Luna responded, and Kara ignored her and asked her question again. Luna, too, looked at me at the same time.
I fell into thought for a moment not knowing how to respond. It felt strange to answer with "Shibal".
So I gestured that I wanted to borrow a pen. If I had a paper and pen, I could at least write sentences.
When I gestured for a pen, Kara asked in an anxious tone.
"What? Can't you speak?"
"Shibal."
That's not it, but Kara frowned at my response.
"What? You do know how to? Are you messing with me?"
"Shibal (No)."
"He can't speak other than that."
" "
Kara's expression got even weirder at Luna's response.
Then she shifted to a different question with an awkward expression.
"Uh I didn't know that. But seeing as you understand, it looks like he taught you well?"
I vigorously shook my head. It wasn't Luna who taught me, but Rod and Ellie.
Seeing such a response, Kara's face brightened a little. She must be thinking that we are finally having a conversation.
"Really? Then who taught Ah, but you can't speak, right? Can you write then? It looked like you wanted to borrow a pen just now."
I nodded my head. Then, Kara reached out her palm towards me.
Luna, who was sitting in the middle between us, looked back and forth at us, seemingly a little flustered.
Even she seemed to have a hard time figuring out what this situation was.
"I don't have a pen either, so write it on my palm. Like this, with your finger. Got it?"
"[Like this?]"
As per Kara's request, I wrote on her palm with my finger. I'm not sure if I wrote it properly.
Anyway, it felt hard every time I wrote on her palm. It was toughened by rough fights from the past.
"Yes, that's right. That would do. It seems you've learned the common language."
[Yes.]
As our conversation progressed smoothly, Kara flashed a satisfied smile.
Her ferocious atmosphere was overshadowed by her beautiful appearance.
"Who taught you to write? Or did you already know it?"
[Rod. Ellie.]
"I'm not sure who Ellie is, but you mean the Principal, Rod taught you? He must have quite some time on his hands. What about this?"
[Familiar. Help.]
"Familiar? Oh, the adaptation period? What? You're going through an adaptation period, too? It was hard for me, you must be having a harder time."
"Um"Ne/w novel chaptš¯’†rs are p/u/blished on no/vel(/bin(.)c/o/m
Just when we were smoothly carrying on our conversation, Luna, who had been sandwiched between us, intervened.
Naturally, both Kara and I turned our heads towards her.
Luna looked at us with a confused look on her face and blurted out a somewhat dumb question.
" What are you guys doing right now?"
"What?"
Kara replied with a look on her face as if she had heard something peculiar.
"We're just having a conversation. Can't you see?"
"A conversation "
Despite Kara's frank response, Luna's face didnt seem to relax. She looked like she still didn't understand.
Regardless, Kara turned her palm towards me and continued with her questions.
"I saw you fighting once, you're really good. How did you become so strong?"
[Living. Eating.]
"Living would mean surviving and eating hunting? Surviving and hunting That's a very you' answer. By the way, do you know my name? Don't you?"
[Don't know.]
"My name is Kara. It's originally longer than this, but for convenience never mind. You can't speak anyway. I'll show you how it's spelled."
Our conversation' went on for quite a while.
"?"
Only Luna was stuck in the middle with a confused expression on her face.
THIS CHAPTER UPLOAD FIRST AT NOVELBIN.COM