Smarter than most people

Anything that she said right now would only increase Joseph's self-loathing, and he would think that she was pitying him.

As Aria was wondering what to say, Joseph spoke again, "At least, that was what I had decided till yesterday."

Aria looked up surprised, had the stubborn Joseph Scott actually changed his mind. Joseph had somewhen dried his tears as he continued, "Then yesterday night, you forced that long ass speech on me. And I have got to say, even if you are barely able to move and are under the influence of heavy medicine, you still make valid points."

Aria rolled her eyes and smiled, "I was under no influence, and yes. I am smarter than most people, even when I'm barely able to move."

A hint of a smile appeared on Joseph's face as he muttered, "So humble." and continued in a normal voice, "Yeah. After listening to you I realised that shutting everyone out and cutting myself off had been a very bad decision indeed. At a time when I should have been taking care of Helen, White and you, I was wallowing in self-pity."

"Better late than ever." Aria said, and that seemed to be the end of it.

The two of them talked normally for a few minutes.

Joseph told Aria about all that had happened in the academy while she had been unconscious. He mostly filled her in on the fights that had taken place on the third day of the start of the session, and the training sessions that had been newly incorporated in the study regime, seeing the danger the students might be in, now that the night warriors were active once again.

Hearing all this, Aria of course whined about not being able to attend classes and regretted all the training sessions she would miss. And somehow, after all this, Joseph ended up promising Aria to teach her.

"We can't do anything about the practical courses, but I can easily tutor you in the theory subjects. That way, you can take those exams once you get out of the hospital. Gives you more time to focus on practical training once you're well." Joseph said.

Aria wasn't so happy about the scheme. "How on earth will you find the time? What about your own classes?" she asked.

Joseph rolled his eyes and said, "Please. You know I've got more than ample time that I waste away roaming the forest. Time that I get from not attending my classes."

Aria: "Then you have no credibility. How can I take classes from someone who doesn't attend classes himself."

Joseph: "I'm your best . . . ., no wait. I am your only option. If you want to waste your time while in the recovery ward, be my guest."

Aria sighed and slightly pouted upon hearing this, and Joseph knew he had won. He lightly patted her head and stood up.

"I'll take my leave now. Class begins tomorrow." he said, turning around.

Aria frowned as she called out, "Umm . . . Joseph. . . "

"Yeah. I know. I know." he replied without turning around, "I'll get them both here after lunch, just make sure you convince Miss Anhao to let them in at the same time." And he walked away.

Aria nodded towards Joseph's retreating back as she fell deep in thought, pondering over her best course of action.