ʋօʟʊʍɛ 2, Part 4: Happy Years - Juxtaposition

~10,052 words

|RUDEUS GREYRAT|

When we returned to the mansion, Ojou-sama sat on the floor as she had just lost all energy. Her body seemed to be in a heap after the tension had been released. The maids ran to Ojou-sama in panic. Looking at the maids intending to help her, Ojou-sama knocked away the outstretched hands and stood up shivering like a newborn deer.

She stood up with her arms beneath her chest like the Deva King. She seemed to have regained her aura after reaching home. The maids stopped moving after discovering her strange posture. Ojou-sama suddenly pointed her finger at me and said loudly.

"It was a promise before we reached home! I can talk now right!"

"Mmm, yes, you can talk now Ojou-sama."

I felt that I failed after hearing her extremely loud voice. An incident to this extent wouldn't be able to bring a violent and arrogant child back. Especially after that first brawl to the death. My entire body was trembling. Perhaps Ojou-sama had realized that. Thinking that I'm only good with talking, but actually very weak.

Will I be embarrassed in front of my brother who has just been making fun of me all the time?

Most probably.

"I'm especially allowing you to call me Eris!" But Ojou-sama's sentence threw me by surprise. Her tone was vague.

She was talking to the both of us.

"Eh?"

"I already said I'm especially allowing you to call me that!"

----- That means. Is it, Ok? I can be a home tutor? Wo-woah, are you serious!? D-did I succeed? That's amazing!

"Thank you very much, Eris-sama!"

"You don't need to add -sama! Call me Eris!"

Eris imitated Ghyslaine and maintained that posture while sitting down on the ground with a plop. With that, I became Eris Boreas Greyrat's home tutor.

"You too! Joker Greyrat or whatever your name is!" Eris spoke by pointing her finger at my twin brother. Julian looked at her in surprise, cocking his head to the side, like a cute little curious puppy.

"No." He replied. I let out a long, tedious sigh. This is going to be hell.

Brace yourself for the chaotic shenanigans!

(***)

----------------------------------------Status-----------------------------------------

Name: Eris Boreas Greyrat

Profession: Granddaughter of the lord of Fedoa

Personality: Violent

Talking to her: It's not completely impossible

Language: Only able to write her name

Math: Only addition

Magic: Is interested in it

Sword: Elementary ranked in the Sword-God style

Etiquette: Boreas's style greeting

People she likes: Grandfather, Ghislaine

People she wants to punch in the face: Julian Greyrat. (for rejecting to being on better terms and calling her loud)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(***)

The air was thick with tension.

I had 2 good NEWS and 1 bad NEWS.

The 2 good NEWS are that I have been employed as a tutor for the Boreas household and that I have reunited with my rogue brother who left house at a young age and has 'not so surprisingly' made a big name for himself.

I mean, he is my twin. Of course, he's destined for greatness, heh.

Anyways, the bad news is that he is being scrutinised by the entirety of the Boreas household at the moment. Right now, I was sitting beside Julian. He sat with his back comfortably against the couch, his eyes closed while his shining golden hair rested peacefully over his forehead, just above his lashes.

Philip sat in the seat in front of us. Meanwhile Ghislaine stood in the corner of the room, her hand on the hilt of her sword. I haven't seen her this on-guard until now. The atmosphere surely was stark contrast to Julian's calm face as he sat with his usual stoic face, comfortably drinking the hot tea. It oddly seemed like he was trained in Japanese tea drinking etiquettes but that might be me overthinking things.

"So, you're the Greyrat who has been wreaking havoc these days. Paul's second son." Philip initiated the conversation as Julian put his cup down. The cup produced a subtle clack against the glass table as he looked up at Philip.

"I am not sure what you have been hearing about me, but in regard to the second segment of your statement, I am the second son of Paul Greyrat, yes." He replied, his voice low and firm. His clothing sure made him look like some sort of Royal Prince sitting among his noble servants. Wait, never mind that, how did he grow so much taller than me? There's like 9 inches difference between us, dammit!

"Oh, you don't have to be modest. You're quite famous almost everywhere. It's hard to not recognise you. Although, despite being from the same family, I am a bit sad you rejected our invitation so many times." Philip spoke with a smile.

"I never received your invitation. If I did, I'd have accepted the Lord's invite," Julian deadpanned, his expression stoic and serious.

AND LO AND BEHOLD!

He's pulling out the classic poker face of fibbery!

I've seen that face of deception countless times during our childhood. No way am I falling for it again. I am on to your case, you steroid using fuck!

"Oho? I guess that makes sense." Philips replied.

Minus respect points. How on earth did this guy fall for his lies? Well, I've spent all my life with him so I guess I can say I know when he's lying and when he isn't.

"Do you like girls?" Philip asked, seemingly obsessed with the topic once again. Out of the blue, just like before.

"I do," Julian responded, with an enthusiasm that could put a yawning sloth on a Sunday afternoon to shame.

"How much?" Philip pressed on, crossing his fingers and narrowing his eyes at Julian. Seriously, dude? Are we really going down this path? Are we measuring love with a ruler now? Come on, Philip, let's save the intensity for more important matters, like deciding who gets the last slice of pizza?

Oh well, pizza doesn't exist here. Never mind.....

"Enough," Julian responded with a casual shrug. "But not the loud and obnoxious type. I prefer my eardrums and my sanity intact." He playfully poked Philip's pride, leaving it gasping for air like a fish out of water. Boom! Verbal KO right to the ego. Bro really verbally assaulted his daughter on his FACE. Talk about a tank top wearing woman beater. Or in this case, verbal assaults but eh, who's keeping tabs.

"Ahhh..." Philip's voice fizzled out, his expression resembling a deflated balloon, disappointment etched across his face. It seemed like he had been harboring secret dreams of tossing his daughter, Eris at Julian. Goodness gracious, I wouldn't wish a whirlwind like Eris on anyone, especially not my dear twin.

"Can I go now?" Julian asked, keeping his hands on his knees.

"Would you consider it if we were to offer you a job of training sword along with Ghislaine to my daughter while your brother teaches her magic. Of course, we would pay you a hefty sum." Philip shot one last, desperate arrow at pulling Julian into his obvious schemes.

"Money is not the issue here." Julian replied.

Is it not?

Philip seemed to be having the wrong idea, so Julian spoke again. "And the problem isn't your daughter as well. I have been away from my family for quite some while now. I do not even know about the genders of my newborn siblings. Instead of earning more money, I want to spend some peaceful time with my family. That's all." He explained and Philip let out a sigh of exasperation.

"Well, if it's that way, it can't be helped. But you're free to accept this offer anytime in the future."

This guy.......he really isn't backing off.

"Hm. Thanks." Julian replied and stood up.

"Well. Ghislaine would show you the way out." Philip spoke up.

"That won't be necessary. I want to speak to my brother for a while and I'll see myself out after that."

"Hmmm. Well, as you wish. He is not allowed to contact his family during this time, but I guess I can allow this once. Would you like to owe one to me?"

"Well, I guess I won't be talking to my brother then."

"Ahaha, I was kidding. You're free to do that. I will take my leave."

With that said, Philip and Ghislaine left the room.

Julian turned and looked at me, his form towering over me. "I'll be the better brother to our siblings."

This little shit..........

Well, regardless, its good he hasn't turned into some dragon slaying maniac. He seems perfectly normal to me, even after witnessing the brutality of real world at such a young age.

(***)

It has been a month since I have taken up the job of a home tutor. From almost the very start, Eris was unwilling to attend classes. When it comes to math and reading, she will immediately disappear into thin air and wouldn't appear until it was time for swords lessons.

There are of course situations with exceptions. She will only pay full attention to the magic lessons. The first time she used the spell Fireball, I can't find any words in my vocabulary to describe how happy she was. And while she looked at the curtains that were burning intensely, she said, "One day I'll cast huge fireworks like Rudeus."

I extinguished the fire, and strictly warned her not to use fire magic when I'm not around. The ignited curtains' light cast a glow over her. No matter what angle you view it from, she has a face of an arsonist, but she looks quite spirited to learn. Just basing on her looks, her other subjects should be fine.

That's what I thought, but my prediction was completely off the mark. Eris hasn't the slightest interest to come to class when it comes to language and Math. If I teach her the lesson, she will immediately run away. If I try to catch her, she punches me before running away. If I continue to chase her, she will turn around and beat me up before continuing to run away.

I think she understands the importance of Math and language due to the incident that happened a while ago, but it seems that she still really hates it with a passion. When I complain to Philip, he indifferently shrugs it off with, "It's also the home tutor's job to make the student listen in class."

I can't refute that. I started to find Eris. Even though Ghislaine comes earnestly to learn language and Math, she's ultimately a companion. How can I teach Ghislaine alone?

Also, how come even Ghislaine is curious about Julian? I swear to the god that I don't believe in, he's a natural DONKAN playboy.

Anyways, it's not easy to find Eris. Compared to me, who just came one month ago, Eris has stayed here for many years. Her familiarity with this area compared to me is just too large a difference. Don't even talk about hide and seek. The previous home tutors have expended tons of effort on this matter.

However. No matter how big the mansion is, the area is still limited. In the end, she still can be found. The teachers who found her got beaten by Eris without exception.

At first the teachers quit over this. But there's also a home tutor who in reverse beats Eris. Violence against violence. It was something that I initially planned. But that teacher got attacked in the middle of the night by Eris with a wooden sword and received injuries that would have taken months to heal, and therefore quit over this.

The only one who can fend off Eris's day and night attacks is Ghislaine. I have no confidence in fending her off. Even if I do find her, I'll be destined to be sent to the hospital. If it's possible, I don't want to look for her. I don't want to be beaten beyond recognition.

If she attends magic lessons, isn't it okay to just teach her magic? But Philip ordered me to teach her Math and language. He also says that it must be around the level of what I teach her in magic. Even stating, "Compared to magic, other classes are actually more important."

I can't argue against that. Perhaps I should re-enact another kidnapping incident. Kids who don't listen have to be punished.

When I thought about that, I finally found her. Her whole body buried in the hay located in the stables, with her stomach revealed to the air, sleeping comfortably. "Fuuu~...... Fuuuu~......" She was in a deep sleep. That face is really like an angel's.

But, if you're just lured in by the outer appearance, that's a Devil Reverse. That is if you get punched by the Devil's fatal fist, and then vomit huge amounts of blood. Yet when it comes to that, I must wake her up. In any case, I pull Eris's shirt down to cover her stomach to prevent her from catching a cold.

In the meantime, I massage her chest area. My hermit living in my heart gives out an assessment.

"Hmm I see, it's still only AA, but the chance of growth is very high. When she grows up she will rise to above E grade. You need to massage them every day for them to grow. This is also part of training. Hoh, hoh, hoh."

Thank you very much, mister hermit. After I thoroughly enjoy it, I greeted her in a small voice. "Ojou-sama. Please wake up, Eris Ojou-sama. The time for the pleasant Math class is up."

She didn't move at all. Well, I have to hand it to her. It can't be helped that the panties are taken off from kids who don't listen, you know? I slowly reached for her loose dress, and at this time.

"!" An exclamation point appeared over her head like in a pokémon game when you have a random encounter. Eris's eyes suddenly fluttered open. Her gaze slowly moved from my hand on her thigh, to my face.

"Grrrrr" A face that had the signs of sleeping was now accompanied by the grinding of teeth. The next instant, Eris raised her fist. The face!? I quickly brought my hands to block the face.

"Guuuh......!" Alas, the impact came from my solar plexus. I kneeled down in agony. There's no Reverse. There's only the Devil.

"Hmph!" With a snort, she kicked me again. Stepping over me, Ojou-sama left the stable.

(***)

I have no other options. I turned to Ghislaine for help. Even though, from Paul's mouth, Ghislaine's brain is also made of muscle. From her recent attempts at learning Language and Math, her persuasion level will surely be higher. If it's her, Eris should listen.

This is my easy way out. Ghislaine expressed an indifferent attitude from the start, but I use water magic and cry to plead with her, and finally got to her to reluctantly agree.

She's so easy to bluff.

The price?

All I have to do is convince Julian to go all out against her. Shouldn't be that hard to convince him, right?

(***)

Right, show me what you got. We never discussed it specifically, and I left everything to her. Ghislaine's actions started during the magic lesson's break time. "I used to think that the sword in my hand was enough."

She suddenly started talking about the past. She used to be a spoiled brat, and found a teacher who accepted her, and how she became an adventurer, the first-time having comrades ----- A long introduction and the tale spinning from there... all of them are a troubled past.

"When I was an adventurer, everything was left to others. Weaponry, armors, food, expenditures, the daily necessities, contracts, maps, directions. The importance of the weight of filling and carrying a water bottle, the maintenance of fire coals, the torch sealing the use of the left hand... These are the important things that I found out after leaving my comrades."

Based on her story she left her party 7 years ago. In other words, it's because Paul and Zenith left to retire in a rural place, and thus the party disbanded. Even though I noticed signs, but to think they are really from the same party.

"Even though there are other party members' thoughts, but Paul's who in charge of the vanguard and the only healer Zenith, have left the party. Even if the party doesn't disband, they will split up in the end. That's a natural thing."

That's a 6 men party. Warrior, swordsman, swordsman, magician, priest, thief. If you use the professions to explain, it's that kind of combination. Even though Ghislaine was only a Sword Saint during then, her attacking power was still very high.

Warrior (Unknown): Tank

Swordsman (Paul): Tank and attacker

Swordsman (Ghislaine): Attacker

Magician (Unknown): Attacker

Priest (Zenith): Healer

To add on, the so-called thieves, using Ghislaine's words, are in charge of miscellaneous stuff. From opening locks, checking for traps, constructing camps and trading with the merchants. A literate person with a flexible mind, usually handled by smart people. These people are usually from merchant families.

"Calling them treasure hunters would be correct right..."

I said that, but Ghislaine snorted, "That fellow always steals the party's fund to gamble, calling him a thief is good enough."

"Stealing from the fund, wouldn't he get beaten up when he's discovered?"

"No, that fellow was very talented in gambling, and he always won money and return. It was very seldom that he would lose below half of the funds. When times were tight, he tends be also very prudent."

It seems to be something like that. But even if you can increase the funds, how can you forgive something like that... I can hardly understand it. I don't mean to brag, but I have never got the bad habit of gambling. Although I spent over ¥100,000 on the internet.

Well, there's already a Paul who's loose with women in the party, the ethics in the overall party probably isn't that strict. Everyone has a different baseline. There are more rules when there are more people.

"But what's the difference between Swordsman and warriors?"

I asked that as I'm slightly interested. If they are in the front lines, there shouldn't be a need to differentiate.

"If you use a sword and your style belongs to the 3 main styles, you're a swordsman. Like your brother. He is a swordsman trained in North-God. Although I am surprised Paul's son of all people would be so proficient in it. Anyways, anyone else who uses a sword and doesn't belong to the the 3 main style, you're a warrior. Even if you are from the 3 main styles, you're a warrior if you don't use a sword." She paused, as if thinking something, "however, strictly speaking, your brother isn't exactly a swordsman. He uses magic along with the three styles. Not sure what the term for it is since not many people opt for this approach."

"Ehh, a swordsman actually has something special like this."

Or rather the 3 styles are special. The technique that Ghislaine used was incredible. I don't even know when she used her blade. Just moving a little, and the opponent's head rolled like a dice. After I ask her about it, it seems that it's named as 'Light of the long sword', a secret technique from the Sword-God style.

Was that what Julian used all those years ago against Paul? Does his magic involvement makes him a Magic-Swordsman? There were a lot of unanswered questions about Julian. I was curious. I wanted to know more.

"Then a knight is?" I asked, trying to get these thoughts that would only make me feel bad about my progress away.

"A knight is a knight. If you're under the kingdom or lord's employment, you're a knight. The educated ones know language and math. Some of them know simple magic. But most of them come from nobility, and their pride is very high."

They are educated because they attended school, probably.

"Was my father a knight at that time?"

"I'm not too sure about that, I remember Paul called himself a swordsman."

"Oh~"

Eris's eyes seemed to be glittering and she listened attentively. She will not ask me or Ghyslaine to bring her to a nearby dungeon, right? This really made me uneasy. Compared to adventuring, I would rather to be surrounded by girls and have an Eroge-like lifestyle. Ah, oops, the original plan is to let Ghislaine talk about the importance of Language.

I let my curiosity get the better of me without me knowing and cause her to divert from the topic. But the fortunate thing over this unfortunate incident is, Eris coming in the second day with her asking for Math and Language lessons.

This is all thanks to Ghyslaine. After that she continues to talk about her troubled past. Just listening to her will make stomachs get upset, but thanks to that, Eris might have already recognized that this must be something to be learned. Although it's possible that she's attending classes to listen to Ghislaine's stories, finding it to be interesting. In any case, it's good enough if it works out.

I did consider about the possibility of doing this earlier... but, without that incident, I think that Ojou-san wouldn't listen a single word from me. Before that incident, she used a look like she's looking at ants. So that time is not a wasted effort.

No matter, ending like this is good enough.

(***)

First of all, as the first lesson, I taught her the basic arithmetic operations. Because Eris has gone to school, and hired home tutors, she still knows the basic addition.

"Rudeus!"

"What is it, Eris-kun." I pointed to Eris who raised her hand vigorously.

"Why is it necessary to learn division?" She doesn't understand the importance of division and subtraction. Before that, she was very poor in subtraction. I always feel that she will get stuck at the changing of digits and give up math.

"Instead of talking about the importance, this is basically just the reverse of multiplication."

"I'm asking you what use this has."

"Alright, if you have 100 silver coins and you need to share with 5 people, what should you do?"

"You're talking the same stuff as that previous teacher!" Eris smacked the table with force. "That is why!? Why!? Do you need to share!? Is there a need to share!????" Ah, yes, the children who don't want to learn will have excuses like this. But truthfully this really isn't important.

"Who knows, go ask the 5 people. It's only convenient when you want to share equally."

"You said convenient, that also means that you don't need to use subtraction right?"

"When you don't wish to use, of course you don't need to use it. But not wanting to use and not being able to use, these two are very different indeed."

"Mumumuu..." When I said the words "can't use", the prideful Eris shut her mouth. But this isn't solving the problem right now. If I let her continue with this line of excuse, there's no need to learn Math anymore. At this time, I can only rely on Ghislaine.

"Ghislaine, did you have problems when it comes to dividing equally?"

"Hmm, there was once when I lost some of my food supplies and wanted to distribute the rest of my food over a few days, but I failed. In the end, I didn't eat and drink for 3 whole days. I thought I was almost dead. Halfway through the road, I really couldn't stand it anymore, and picked up the monsters' dung to eat, and caused a stomachache. I resist the urge to vomit, pain in the stomach and the diarrhea, and I still needed to fend off the surrounding monsters----"

The past story lasts for 5 minutes, making my stomach twist. She sounds like the conventional Chinese parent with all that made stuff about going to school on one foot, without shoes, walking mountain and traversing deserts just to attend chemistry. I listened to it with a pale face, but it seems that to Eris' ears, this is a heroic tale. Her eyes are glittering as if there are stars in them.

Oshi No Ko~~~~~~ ahem.....

"So, I wish to learn division, please continue to teach." Since Ghislaine has already said something like that, Eris can only become obedient. The Sauros family seems to have much affection for the beast races, even if they don't show it, Eris also keeps on approaching Ghislaine.

If it's from Ghyslaine, Eris will listen obediently. Like a younger brother following his elder sister, no matter what she does he will imitate her.

"Then, we will progress with the boring repetition practice. Please answer all of these questions. If you don't understand something, please ask."

(***)

Things progressed step by step just like this. Ghislaine was exceptional as a teacher, as well. She will----- point out where I didn't do it right and give her sincere opinions. Paul pointed out mistakes, as well, but he only stated that it is not right. Never even implicitly suggesting what my mistake is, he did not teach me how to get it right.

Today is the same as usual; Eris and I were holding swords facing each other, training and receiving guidance simultaneously.

"Remember the pose when stepping out and keep your eyes on the opponent."

Crack. The wooden sword in my hand was knocked away by Eris' wooden sword.

"If you step out earlier than the opponent does, look closely at the direction where the opponent moves, and cut in that direction. If you're slower than the opponent, he will escape from the sword's path."

Unable to react, I was hit squarely by Eris's sword. The heavy impact passed through the defensive armour stuffed full of cotton, and effectively transfered to my body.

"You must react to your opponent's steps and eyesight to predict their actions!"

I got hit again.

"Rudeus! Don't use your mind and think! Just think where the enemy will step to and swing the sword!"

Do you want me to engage my brain cells, or should I just sit back and let my muscles do the thinking? Oh, the expectations we have of a muscle-bound brainiac like Ghislaine.

"Eris! Don't stop! The opponent hasn't given up yet!"

"Yes!"

There's a clear difference between us. Eris made a vivacious reply. I construed her reaction as meaning that she has energy remaining; unfortunately, I do not have a drop of vigor left. Admittedly, this girl has enough energy to thrash me incessantly. She demonstrates this until Ghislaine stopped her.

While not as proficient as Julian, she seems to have a knack for the sword. Not allowing me to counter-attack, Eris seems to be trying to vent her anger that had accumulated in the Math class.

Damn it.

But this month I have felt the rise in my abilities quite clearly. Having Eris, who is around my level, as a competitor has been a great help. No matter what it is, having someone around your level will substantially aid your growth. Although Eris is a hair's breadth stronger than me despite our similar abilities, her strength is relatively insignificant compared to Paul, Julian or Ghislaine.

I can still understand what the opponent does. If I can understand my opponent, then I can defeat him/her. I was hit earlier with that strike, so I will guard on that area. I do a deliberation based on my aforementioned syllogistic reasoning. Against Paul, the difference in ability is too much so my prudence vacillates. I am incapable even following his moves, so I get knocked out rather pitifully and quickly.

For Julian, it was a rather different case as I couldn't outwit him. It wasn't a matter of skill or anything else. It never got to that point. It always ended with a sour feeling of me dancing on his fingertips. Even being a little kid, his battle IQ is at a point that if he told me that he was Changez Khan in his previous life, I won't be surprised.

Even if I were listening to Paul's advice, there's too much of a difference in the basics, so it can't help at all. Hence, I have always questioned my every move.

When Ghyslaine taught me something, even if there's a problem like the one mentioned above, I understand her explanations well enough to make do. But she talked about countering and handling at the same time, so I hesitated when using a technique. But, with Eris as an opponent, there will inexorably be different results if I do something different or use tricks.

Even though I hesitate, the difference in technique is minute and I can still attack her.

Perhaps it won't work the second day, or Eris will use a different technique, but the things that couldn't be done yesterday are accomplished today, or the techniques that have not been experienced yesterday are shown today, with the small incremental experiences adding up, we are definitely growing.

As expected, having a rival has great advantages, with overlook-able demerits. There's a target to chase and surpass is all. Perhaps the ability value has only increased by 1 or 2 points, but to the people whose differences are very slight, this is of utmost significance.

Without our conscious knowledge, we have become stronger. But in terms of growth, Eris is much faster. If you let a goat and lion train together, of course the lion will get stronger quicker than the goat. But having been trained by Paul and never once beating Julian, at least in a sword fight ever since I began to walk, I feel unsatisfied by this.

"Rudeus is still not good enough!! How are you Joker's brother!?" Eris crossed her arms and looked condescendingly at me lying sprawled on the ground. In the end, she got scolded by Ghislaine.

"Don't brag, Eris. You have been learning the sword for much longer. Also, his brother is good at sword, but Rudeus is better at magic. Don't make unfair comparisons." Only during the sword lessons will Ghislaine call her name directly. She said it's a must.

"I got it! Rudeus is wayyyy better at magic!"

"As you say."

Only my magic standard is recognized by her. I don't think I am better at magic than Julian. Its just sometimes I get the feeling that his reserves are much lower. It might be because my own reserves are quite high, in comparison, his reserves seem much low.

"But it's really strange. Rudeus's reactions become slow when the opponent attacks him..." Ghislaine spoke.

"Because I'm scared. I'm afraid of the opponent in front of me attacking me." Just as I finished speaking, my head got smacked by Eris with a punch.

"What are you talking about! You're useless! Because of that you're being looked down!"

"No, Rudeus is a magician. This is enough." Ghislaine immediately added in, but in the end, Eris nodded like a know-it-all.

"Is that so? Then it can't be helped!" Eh? Why do I have to be hit?

"I'm sorry, I don't know how to correct your bad habit about your legs trembling. This is something you need to overcome yourself."

"I got it." As I am now, my legs tremble regardless of who I am facing as an opponent. I still have a long way to go.

"But after I began to receive Ghyslaine's instructions, I have definitely been improving."

"Paul belongs to the instinctive type, he's not good at teaching others."

An instinctive type! Ah, so something like this also exists in this world.

"What is this "instinctive type"?"

"Any person who does not grasp techniques consciously, and instead chooses to rely on his gut feelings and instincts is an 'instinctive type'." I answered her question, and Eris immediately pout. She probably belongs to the instinctive school.

"What's wrong with being instinctive?"

It's really difficult to answer Eris's questions in the first place due to her obstinate characteristic, but now I am asked whether being an "instinctive type" is good or not. Because we are learning the technique of the sword right now, I let the teacher answer. I looked at Ghislaine.

"It's not that it's bad. But even if one is talented, if one doesn't use his mind to think then one won't become strong. In addition, the 'instinctive types' are not suited to teach others either."

"Why aren't they suited to teach?"

"Because they do not understand the techniques that they use. And if one doesn't understand everything, one precludes the prospect of learning a subsequent harder technique."

Based on the Sword-King, everything up to the advanced rank are related to the basics. Only by establishing all the basics, and by being able to handle different situations with different reactions, can one become a Sword-Saint. To climb higher up, one can only rely on tiring diligence and talent. In the end, it's still talent.

"I also belonged to the instinctive type, but after I began to think with my mind and got the theory down, I became a Sword King. Your brother, however, is the rational type. From the way he talks and executes his attacks, he seems to have an iron-clad grip over the basics. North-God has a disadvantage against Sword-God. Even then he was able to put on a resistance against me who is up a rank from him."

"That's amazing." I'm impressed from the bottom of my heart. While I knew about it, it was still good to listen from Ghislaine about it. I somehow am able to know the disparity between us. Its hopeless in simple terms but it can be compensated. Correcting the actions that have always been done and succeeding in it.

This isn't something that can be easily accomplished.

"Isn't Rudeus a Water-Saint ranked magician?"

"I'm actually the instinctive type... But magic and the sword techniques are different, as long as you have magic you can do it."

"Oh, is that it... But, the basics are important too right?"

"I understand that. But rather, it's because of my teacher teaching well that I was able to become saint ranked."

Come to think of it, I always remind myself that the basics are important, but I heavily favor the "Voiceless incantations". So, what's the basics of magic? Roxy's classes were more towards development rather than the basics. All things considered, Roxy is also a genius type, and doesn't really favor the basics either.

Hmmmmm...

"In any case I don't plan to become so strong, so it's okay!"

Eris interrupted my thoughts with her confident line. In middle school, I said something like that about not becoming number 1 and didn't put in effort. I planned to correct her thoughts.

"But I will try hard to become strong like Ghislaine and Rudeus."

Unnecessary. She has a clear target. She's different from the past me.

(***)

After the lessons from morning and afternoon were over, it was time for a break. That day, I decided to head to the library. That's because I saw Eris and Ghislaine carrying magic teaching materials, so I thought the library might have a magic textbook. Because I didn't know where the place is, I let the maid with dog ears bring me there.

"Ah."

As I bumped into Philip's wife, Hilda, on the road, I couldn't help but notice her striking resemblance to Eris. With her flaming red hair and a chest that could rival a tsunami, it seems like the apple didn't fall far from the... err... well-endowed tree! Looks like we can expect great things from the growth of her daughter. Talk about a family lineage that's really, um, blossoming!

I was once introduced to her, but I didn't really interact with her. Let me think, I think it's a single hand placed on the chest...

"Madam, today's a good day..."

"Tch."

Hilda scoffed at me and ignored my greeting. I froze in the same posture.

"Rudeus-sama..."

"No, it's okay."

The maid with dog ears tried to console me, but I stopped her with my hand. But I still received a little shock. Did I get hated by her. But I didn't seem to do anything right...

Come to think of it she doesn't have any other child other than Eris. No, I feel like if I find out and there's really one, and if the case is worse than Eris, I feel like my job load will multiply 3 or 4 times. I can't dig my own grave. When I reached the library, I saw Philip in there.

"Are you interested in the library?" Philip looked expectantly at me. Although, I don't know what he's expecting.

"Hmm, yes slightly."

"Then go ahead and take your time." I accepted his offer, and looked around the library, but there was nothing I was hoping to find. I was hoping to find a magic textbook like the one Roxy had, but all the documents are related to politics and are restricted from being taken out of the library. Magic textbooks are rare in this world, and it's not like you can find one anywhere.

It did not go well at all. But I find some History books in the corner. If I'm free I'll skim over them.

"By the way, Rudeus?"

"Yes?"

"Sorry for what happened when your brother was here."

"Uh, it's alright. If anything, I am sorry if he came across as rude. He is really good and warm at heart. Just not really good at socialising with people other than his family."

"Oh, that is understandable. Although, I do not want to make you upset as well. I do not doubt your capabilities. I did not actually need him for tutoring. He is a Greyrat after all. I needed him for something else but that brother of yours' is too shrewd. He probably caught on to it. I am surprised he is Paul's son."

"And what else did you need him for?"

"Don't worry about it."

"Uhhh.......okayyy?"

Well, that was weird.

(***)

After a day's work, I was in my own room preparing material for tomorrow's work. Basically, it's questions for math and listening notes for language--as well as the practice for teaching magic.

I didn't prepare a learning schedule, and if I don't have anything else to teach within these 5 years it will be trouble, so the lessons are not progressing too fast. In any case, to prevent anything unclear, I carefully reviewed the plan for education.

It was the same feeling when I taught Sylphy. Magic practice is very important. Because I don't chant when I cast magic, I keep forgetting the mantras. The only time when I earnestly memorized the words are from the detoxification and healing magic, and I have never memorized Attack Magic.

The teaching materials are the same as the textbook in my home. Eris and Ghislaine also have that. Based on the explanation, there were hundreds of books that went on sale that were written a thousand years ago.

Before the appearance of the book, there's a need to find a teacher to learn from, and the so called teachers are mostly able to only use all the elementary ranked magic. One can find a teacher after much trouble, but there's nothing to be learned, cases like these are plentiful.

Even though it's on sale, the books available are really low in quantity, and even if you sell them in the market, the people who aren't interested in magic will not take a look at them.

There's no printing technology in this world either. This book that sold in a large volume was 50 years ago. Thanks to the materials that can be cheaply bought, the numbers of magician have increased by a great amount. The magicians are conquering the world... no, but amongst the Asuran nobles they are taught a substantial amount.

But, what's the reason that led to the increase of the magic materials...

I think as I flip the pages, and written on the book was [Published by Ranoa's university.]

They are really good at business. Just like that, the days as a home tutor, quickly flies by.

----------------------------------------Status---------------------------------------

Name: Eris Boreas Greyrat

Profession: Granddaughter of the lord of Fedoa

Personality: Violent

Talking to her: She will listen a little

Language: Able to write her family names

Math: Has trouble with subtraction

Magic: She wants to work hard on it

Sword: Elementary ranked in the Sword-God style

Etiquette: Knows the common greeting

The people she likes: Grandfather, Ghyslaine

The people she hates: Julian Greyrat.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

|THIRD PERSON|

>Throwback to the cave when he killed the dragon<

In the dimly lit room, Julian sat across from his injured teacher, Roxy. His face was devoid of any discernible emotion as he carefully attended to the wound on her head. With precise movements, he conjured a gentle stream of healing magic, directing it towards the injury. The ethereal glow enveloped Roxy's wound, mending the damaged flesh with a touch of otherworldly grace using the medical knowledge from his previous world.

His stoic expression remained unchanged, betraying no hint of concern or emotion. It was as if he was performing a routine task, detached from the gravity of the situation.

Roxy stirred uncomfortably as the sheets over her rustled while her eyelids fluttered open as consciousness slowly returned to her. Confusion clouded her gaze as she took in her surroundings, her memory fragmented like shards of glass. She attempted to sit up, but Julian's calm, stoic presence held her back gently.

"Take it easy, Roxy," Julian's voice was as serene as a tranquil lake. "You sustained a heavy injury, but the healers took care of the most of it. Stay still just in case." He lied.

Roxy's brows furrowed, trying to piece together the fragments of her memory. The concept of battling a dragon seemed unreal, like something from a fantastical dream. Her voice trembled slightly as she voiced her confusion. "A dragon...? How did I end up here? It feels like everything happened so suddenly. What happened to you?!! Are you okay!!!????"

Roxy held Julian with both her hands, clinging to him as she tried to look over his body for any bandages or bruises. She cupped his face into her palms, trying to see if he had sustained any injury on his face.

Julian's gaze never wavered; his expression still as impassive as stone. "You were injured during the battle. A rock fell from above and you lost consciousness. I brought you here to ensure your safety. The details may be hazy for now, but I assure you, everything will become clearer in due time." He paused as Roxy kept looking at him, her eyes screaming the same question over and over again.

"Bu-But the dragon?" Roxy stammered, the headache invading her.

"I killed it," Julian stated as a matter-of-factly, his tone betraying no triumph or pride in his accomplishment. "It was an infant dragon, so I am fine. I was able to dispatch it because it was not even matured."

He lied, once again. The dragon was mature; however, it wasn't old enough.

Roxy's eyes searched Julian's face for any flicker of emotion but found none. Doubts began to creep into her mind, uncertain if the young man sitting before her truly cared for her well-being or if his assistance was merely a duty to fulfill. She couldn't help but wonder if there was more beneath Julian's calm facade, hidden depths of emotion that she longed to uncover.

Her thoughts spiraled into a private introspection, questioning the depths of their relationship.

She couldn't understand it herself. Why was she so interested in finding that out? Why did it matter in first place?

Julian made Roxy lean back as he clutched her one hand into his own and hovered his hand over head, trying to remove any residual injury.

"Thank you," Roxy finally whispered, her voice tinged with vulnerability. "For saving me..... For being there..." her voice came out in shallow breaths.

The boy nodded in acknowledgement, his gaze never leaving her. The silence stretched on, as if time itself had paused in this fleeting moment.

As Julian continued to tend to Roxy, their conversation drifted towards less pressing matters. The room filled with an uneasy silence; the air thick with unspoken thoughts. Roxy found herself growing shy in Julian's presence, her heart pounding with uncertainty. She wondered if Julian could see through her façade, if he had any inkling of the feelings she harbored within.

Feelings that she was uncertain of.

Why did she feel this way? She didn't know herself.

To her, it wasn't love. After all, the only man she wanted to fall in love was someone who would save her when she's in peril in a dungeon.

But......

Wasn't that exactly what happened just now? She didn't realise it just yet.

A hesitant smile tugged at the corners of Roxy's lips, masking the turmoil within. She decided to broach the subject delicately, testing the waters of Julian's emotions. "You know, Julian," she began, her voice soft and tinged with a hint of vulnerability. "Through our battles together, I can't help but feel a connection, a kind of bond."

Julian's gaze briefly met Roxy's, his eyes reflecting a glimmer of intrigue, though his expression remained unyielding. He spoke with measured detachment, as if carefully choosing his words.

"I value our partnership," he replied evenly. "But I think such sentiments are... muted? It's not that I lack the capacity to care, but rather that I struggle to fully comprehend the complexities of such sentiments." He replied, honestly this time. But the amount of lies he had spew from that exact mouth made it hard to believe.

Inwardly, Julian remained an enigma to Roxy, his emotions hidden beneath a veil of detachment. His mind was consumed by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and strength, leaving little room for sentiment or affection.

Or that is what she thought.

Roxy's heart sank slightly at Julian's response, her inner monologue spinning with doubt and insecurity. Was she merely projecting her own desires onto a person who remained resolutely distant? Did Julian's seemingly unfeeling nature mean that her hopes of something more were simply wishful thinking?

Where did her hopes lie? Where did she intend to take this relationship with her former student? What was her wishful thinking when it came to Julian in particular?

She wanted to know more, yet, fear and doubt held her back, like invisible chains binding her heart.

Her inner turmoil was interrupted as Julian's voice continued. His tone was tinged with an unexpected warmth. "However, I can assure you, Roxy, that my dedication to your well-being were unwavering during our expedition. Whether it is through battles or in quieter moments like these, I will always be here to support you."

A flicker of hope ignited within Roxy's chest, tentatively breaking through the clouds of doubt. Perhaps there was more to Julian than met the eye, a depth of feeling that he struggled to express. She realized that love and caring could manifest in myriad ways, and perhaps Julian's stoic demeanor masked a devotion that ran deeper than words could convey.

Or was all of this "sudden soft side" a hidden ploy?

Who knows?

Only Julian and Julian alone knew that.

She understood it as well. The boy wasn't normal. The day she laid her eyes on him, she knew the little boy was bad news. Yet, despite all that, she felt a natural inclination towards him.

Was she into manipulative bad-boys?

Maybe.

Finally, unable to contain her thoughts any longer, Roxy spoke softly, her words laced with vulnerability. "Do you... care about me? In what way?" She asked with every ounce of her strength, yet all that came out of her mouth was a whimper.

Julian's face remained impassive, as if contemplating her question. The weight of his silence hung in the air, filling the room with a palpable tension. And in that moment, Roxy's heart felt as though it might burst from her chest.

Why did it beat that way?

Even Roxy didn't knew.

Or rather, she couldn't understand it.

Her lack of experience or comprehension of this state of mind was a new experience for her, hence, resulting in her not being able to put a finger on it.

The answer never came. Instead, he just kept looking in her eyes.

In a silent understanding, they both kept looking at each other. She didn't knew what it meant, yet a part of her felt dejected already.

After a while Julian changed the subject and started to talk about the loot, he had gathered from the Boss Room. As the conversation drifted into a comfortable zone, Roxy's inner monologue quieted. She gazed at the boy, her heart filled with a mixture of admiration and affection. And though he may be emotionally reserved, she knew that their connection was unique and meaningful in its own way.

Everything was precious in its own way.

It was not always necessary to take a desired shape. Not everything goes to plan or one's desires. After all, this was how life outside of stories was. The stories that had made up Roxy's imaginary realm; they didn't make up the real world.

She understood it now.

After a while, Julian brought up the topic of loot to her.

Roxy's gaze fixed on her former student, curiosity glimmering in her eyes. "Tell me, Julian," she inquired, "what did you find in the Boss Room? Any valuable loot?"

Julian's expressions changed for the first time as he began to recount the spoils of his hard-fought victory. "In the depths of the Boss Room, I discovered a treasure trove of gold and other ornaments. Among them, a Teal-colored sword caught my attention." He explained and took out a sword sheathed inside a rather average looking scabbard.

Roxy's interest piqued as she listened, realizing the potential value of such a weapon. She reached out for it and retrieved the sword, its hilt adorned with intricate engravings. "Julian, I believe this sword that you found.... I've read about it somewhere, but I can't recall," she said, extending it towards him. "It appears to be a high-value weapon."

"Is it?" Julian asked nonchalantly.

"Yes." She replied as a matter-of-factly. "And you should definitely take it and use it."

Without a flicker of excitement, Julian accepted the sword, his eyes carefully scrutinizing its craftsmanship. He nodded in acknowledgment, silently appreciating the gift, though his emotions remained concealed beneath his calm exterior.

As he accepted it, Roxy started to go down a spiral of thoughts again. However, in the midst of her internal musings, Julian's voice broke the silence, his words simple yet impactful. "I found something else amidst the loot," he stated, his tone unwavering. He produced a small ring from his pocket, its delicate design catching the light. "I thought it might look good on you so I separated it from the sellable items."

Roxy's eyes widened as she accepted the ring, her cheeks flushing with a mixture of surprise and shyness. She couldn't help but marvel at the thoughtfulness behind the gesture, even if Julian's emotions remained elusive. The ring glimmered in her hand, its significance resonating deeply within her.

'What is the meaning of all this?'

'What is wrong with him?'

'Why does he act like 2 completely different people at the same time?'

There were questions in her mind. But she decided to let them be unanswered.... for now.

In the gentle dance of their conversation, Roxy's thoughts whirled with uncertainty. Did Julian truly care for her, despite his emotional detachment? Or was his expression of gratitude and the gesture of the ring merely a reflection of his respect as a student? Her inner monologue wavered, caught between hope and doubt.

Meanwhile, Julian's calm demeanor was a shield against the storm of emotions swirling within Roxy's heart. To him, the ring and the act of sharing the spoils were merely logical gestures, recognizing the value Roxy held in his life. His thoughts centered on honing his skills and forging ahead, the realm of emotions an enigma he had yet to unravel.

Roxy was intrigued now.

She wanted to know him more.

She wanted to travel more.... with him. Peel his layers away, one by one, like an onion.

However, her dreams came to a crash as Julian spoke after a long pause of comfortable silence. "I will leave this place one week from now. I plan on visiting my family." The weight of his declaration settled in the air, reverberating through Roxy's ears like a series of detonating bombs. Yet, she maintained a façade of calmness, concealing the emotional turmoil that swirled within her.

Internally, Roxy grappled with conflicting emotions. Part of her admired Julian's commitment to his family, recognizing the importance of those bonds. Yet, another part of her felt a sense of loss, as if an abyss threatened to swallow the connection they had forged. It was a bittersweet revelation, a juxtaposition of longing and acceptance.

As the silence lingered between them, Roxy's mind raced with questions. Would their paths diverge after this week, leading them on separate journeys?

Would their shared moments become mere fragments of memory, tucked away in the recesses of herr hearts?

The uncertainty gnawed at her, stirring a whirlwind of thoughts within.

With measured composure, Roxy broke the palpable silence. "I understand," she murmured, her voice tinged with a blend of resignation and determination. "Family is important. Take this time to reconnect with them. You can always come back to..." her voice was cut of as she once again saw Julian looking at her with the same blank look as before.

What did it mean?

Nothing pleasant.

She knew at least that much.

"Right? You can come back always. I'd love to go on an expedition again." She spoke, hiding the tremble in her voice.

Julian nodded, acknowledging her words with a small inclination of his head.

In the midst of their interaction, Roxy found solace in the unspoken language of shared glances and gentle gestures. Each passing moment, she sought to etch those moments into her memory, a mosaic of fragments that would sustain her during their time apart.

Would it be the last time?

Probably.

Does she want there to be a second time?

Definitely.

>A WEEK LATER<

The day of Julian's departure arrived, casting a somber aura over the surroundings.

As the sun cast its warm golden glow across the lawn, a bittersweet atmosphere hung in the air.

Julian, observed the scene from a window in the distance. His gaze settled on Roxy, her face etched with a tinge of sadness, her eyes mirroring the weight of their impending farewell.

A heavy sigh escaped Julian's lips, the sound a whisper amidst the quietude of the morning. He recognized the longing in Roxy's eyes, the unspoken desire for one last meeting, a moment of connection before their paths diverged.

He couldn't relate to it. But he knew exactly what was happening.

Without a word or a glance, Julian turned away from the window, his resolute footsteps carrying him towards the stables.

The crisp morning air greeted him as he approached his loyal steed, Kalajav, standing tall and patient. With practiced ease, Julian mounted the horse, his movements fluid and calculated.

As he prepared to depart, Julian's gaze involuntarily drifted back to the lawn, where Roxy sat, her eyes still fixed on the distance. A complex web of emotions flickered within him.

Or so the thought of it happening. He tried to convince himself. Convince himself that he felt regret, longing, and a trace of melancholy mingled beneath his stoic exterior. Just like a normal human. He had a desire too.

To feel naturally.

But expression remained foreign to Julian, his mask of detachment unyielding. The years of cruel discipline had eaten away all his emotions, leaving Roxy to bear the weight of her unspoken yearnings alone.

With a final nod to himself, Julian urged his horse forward, the rhythmic sound of hooves blending with the gentle whispers of the wind.

Roxy, standing by the window now, watched as Julian disappeared into the horizon, her heart heavy with a mingling of emotions. A sense of longing tinged with acceptance settled within her.

|JULIAN GREYRAT|

With all said and done, I was now ready to go back to my family. I had completed the labyrinth dive with Roxy. Although, it ended up in a rather uncanny way, it was better for me to leave without a notice.

It's better to nip the evil in the bud. Love was a form of evil. A form of vulnerability. It could provide strength like fighting for someone, granting a momentary purpose, but doesn't that exactly is the root cause of all the fight? If it wasn't for that, would you be fighting with your life on the line? Because of someone else?

If the answer is yes, then arguably, its fueled by something that I have yet to experience.

Then, if that's how things are, who am I to judge?

Exactly.

To classify love as an evil, as a source of inherent vulnerability, is to acknowledge the inherent risks it entails. But it is also to overlook the transformative power it possesses, the ability to elevate individuals beyond their limitations, to inspire them to acts of courage and selflessness. For it is through the crucible of love that souls are tested and shaped, their resilience honed, and their capacity for compassion and empathy expanded.

For me, to judge or condemn love would be an act of intellectual arrogance.

How is all of this related to anything going on now?

It isn't.

I am just anxious to meet my little baby siblings.

Why am I anxious?

Because I've never been an older brother.

Despite being a twin child, I came out a few minutes later giving Rudy the right to call himself older.

How should I act around them? Are the boys? If they are, should I be harsh and make them learn sword and magic? Or are they girls? If they are, then, should I let them do whatever they want?

Oh well, I guess I will know once I knock on this door and go inside.

Well, here I go.

"J-Julian?"

A voice spoke from behind. As I looked back, I saw a familiar face. Dusty brown hair and green eyes with a mole. A rather arrogant look that had contorted into a mix of confusion along with tears in his eyes.

Emotional drama?

I think I was in for a ride.

Do I regret coming back suddenly now that I have my biological father hug me like a bear and cry out loud while his snot stained my robes?

Definitely.