A New Path

It seemed to have numbers written on it—probably a report card.

Could it be that she had bombed the midterms and was called here for a scolding?

The possibility crossed Ash's mind in an instant, but it was quickly dismissed when Teacher Naveen's next move proved otherwise.

He didn't scold her.

Instead, he picked up the report card on the desk and handed it to her.

"You've made significant progress recently," Teacher Naveen said, a rare smile softening his usually stern expression. "I thought you'd stay in the bottom for a long time, but thankfully, you've shown courage and come out of your sadness. That makes me very happy."

Ash knew that Teacher Naveen was referring to the death of her grandmother—the one who had raised the original Ash six months ago.

Because of her grandmother's passing, the original Ash had spiraled into a deep depression.

Her grades had plummeted, and by the time Ash took over, she had nearly starved herself.

Now that the "Ash" sitting in front of him was lively and motivated again, it was only natural that Teacher Naveen was delighted.

But Ash couldn't possibly respond to his comment.

She couldn't tell Teacher Naveen that the reason she had managed to escape the grief of losing a loved one was because the soul inside had changed, could she?

With no other option, Ash lowered her head and pretended to study the report card to avoid the topic.

Seeing Ash suddenly go silent, Teacher Naveen assumed his words had unintentionally reminded her of painful memories.

In order to shift the focus, he changed the subject.

"Actually, the reason I called you here isn't anything serious… I just wanted to ask if you're planning to take the practical exam for the Beast Master Department."

This time, Ash couldn't completely hide the surprise on her face.

"Teacher Naveen, why do you think that?"

Did she really look like someone who wanted to take the practical exam?

Why is it that every time someone meets her, they either advise her against it or assume she's thinking about it?

Does she really look like he wants to take the Beast Master Department Practical Exam?

Ash felt a little bit frustrated.

But the expression on her face, to Naveen, seemed like a cover for her inner nervousness and unease.

Was she afraid that he would try to persuade her to give up?

Naveen couldn't help but laugh.

"I'm meant no harm."

"I noticed that your grades in the subjects related to Spirit Beasts have improved quite rapidly recently. I thought you were preparing for the written portion of the practical exam, so I called you over to ask if you've encountered any difficulties and if you need help."

With that, Naveen pulled out a file folder from his drawer and handed it to Ash.

"This contains information about all the Spirit Beasts available for adoption at the Spirit Beast Reserve in Solvale Town. You can take it home and study it carefully."