Chapter 12: Birthday Exam
I haven't seen Slyph since.
I thought I'd be able to see Slyph sooner, or later. She was already following Roxy around for a few days, and I don't think our meeting was that bad, in my opinion at least. I thought it would just be a matter of days 'till I saw her around. I was wrong.
It seems I was the only one that felt that way, considering I haven't seen her since, from up close or afar.
"Rudy, come inside, it's your birthday party," Roxy says from the house's entrance.
Right now I am sitting on top of the fence surrounding the house, wondering if I'd see that young girl any moment now.
Guess not.
I suppose it's for the best. I wanted to apologize, but… part of me thinks it's for the best if we don't meet. I don't think befriending her is good for her, or for me in many senses of the world.
Somehow I just feel her life would be better without me. Her parents might live this go-around.
I still feel bad for bullying her.
Should I make a wish on the cake?
I jest, there is no cake, the cake is a lie. Medieval society, so no cake. I think. If not then why is there no cake?
"Coming," well I'll leave depressing thoughts for later, it's my birthday and all.
As curious as I am to the whereabouts of the little elf girl and why she was following Roxy around, I can't do anything about it.
I could look for her, but no matter how I think about it…
That's a flag right?
I shouldn't raise flags with five year olds. Then again, I shouldn't bully them either…
I'll at least see if I can return the coat through Laws, I can find him easily enough just gotta…
"..."
For the nth time today I am stockstill stuck in thought.
Right… I really don't know much about village life.
It then occurred to me that except for a few people whose faces I recognize, I don't really know their names. I really don't know anyone outside the household.
"I'll have to rely on sensei one more time," I said under my breath.
"Rudy!"
"Coming!"
/
"Happy birthday!"
Paul congratulated me with a sword apparent in his hand. Lilia, and Zenith hovering behind him in the background.
"This present is for you," he passed the sword over. A real sword. Unlike the practice one I usually spar with. This one is made of metal. It's a tad heavy, but wieldable.
The start of my hero's journey?
In this world there are three birthdays worth celebrating: The 5th signifying you are not a baby, but a child, the 10th signifying you are a young man, and the 15th signifying you are an adult. I am five years old.
Feels odd.
Realistically, I knew it was coming, doesn't make it feel any less weird.
I was a bit of a loner in my past life, so birthdays weren't exactly a big thing during my later years, even less when I withdrew into myself. Combine that with the five years I've lived in this world, and yeah, it's been a while.
Happy birthday?
"Thanks."
"Ahem," he coughed in to his fist in a way to gather my attention. "Well, you may be too young to wield that sword properly, but a man has to carry a sword in his heart to protect those important to him," Paul says eloquently. With his chin held high, and his eyes closed; he's doing his best serious impression. "You have to be prepared to defend those who are dear to you. You'll have a wife and kids of your own someday. It will be your duty to protect them. You can't get full of yourself just because you know a little magic. Magic is bad in close combat and can't keep up with fast-paced battles."
Excuse you. I'll have you know I've been taking it easy on you old man, let's see how you feel when I throw you into the stratosphere.
"Swordsmanship has the advantage there. If you master-"
"Too long!" Zenith interrupted with a half hearted chop to the top of Paul's head.
Thank you Zenith. I'll reward you with hugs.
"Therefore, you'll have to store this blade away, until the day you can beat your papa properly, and have grown into your own," he quickly ended.
"My turn, here, because Rudy likes books," she takes a knee, as she looks at me at eye level, giving me a leather bound book.
"Ah," I received the book. I do read a lot of books, and I do remember an early period where I was hungry for knowledge. But… it's more of a means to an end, than anything else.
Don't get me wrong. Reading a history lesson of this world is interesting, every once in a while, but… it gets boring quickly. In this world it's not fantasy, but fact, so rather than reading a fantasy story filled with love and adventure it's more like I'm reading a wiki.
In short, although I enjoyed reading in my past life, not so much now.
"Thank you mom," I took the book in her hands.
She gives me a sad smile.
…damn…
I think it's noticeable that my enthusiasm isn't as high.
This is why I can't spend time with her. I'm a horrible liar, and it's too easy to hurt her feelings.
Taking a step towards her, I prepare to right my wrongs, reaching up to her cheek, I lean in and give her a kiss "Thank you very much mom. It makes me very happy to get such a heartfelt gift."
Truth; although I am not enthusiastic about the gift, it doesn't change the fact that it's one of the first gifts I've received in years. A gift from someone that genuinely cares about me. It's very important to me.
Books are expensive, you know?
I'll cherish it.
"Oh," she claps her hands together. "What a good boy you are!" She hugged me tightly.
A few minutes of hugging later, Roxy appears before me in her place.
"I created this a few days ago. Rudeus' adventurous personality, combined with his talent for magic, had me forget that a staff of some kind is usually imparted on to their students to perform intermediate magic. My apologies." She presents her hand to me. "Here. A bit late, but from your teacher," she reveals a wand.
"That's a magic stone. It acts to amplify mana…" Roxy then went on an explanation on what the wand is, and how it's tradition for a master to make one for their student. It will be very useful.
"Thank you very much teacher," I thanked her for it.
Like with Zenith, like with Paul, I really mean it. I am truly thankful.
I turned my head for a moment to check on Zenith's expression, it seemed she wasn't bothered by my enthusiastic response.
Roxy pats my head acknowledging my response.
"Rudy, I'll hold your graduation exam tomorrow," she said.
I see, so it's that time…
"Yes! I'll do my best master!"
I can't say I'm not sad. Or rather I shouldn't. I already have so much to be thankful for, but… the party has to stop eventually.
I got used to having Roxy around, that she has become a part of my life. It's hard imagining that one day she wouldn't be there, but she's reaching the limit of what she can teach me, and at the end of the day, she is my teacher, she was going to leave eventually.
Still though it's hard.
Regardless, we both have to move forward, one step at a time. I'll try my best, Roxy. Truly.
/
The moment of truth is here. We are in an open field outside the village.
I'm getting ready to perform the exam. This would mark the first time I've actually exited the town's boundaries, not including the forest.
"It should be fine if we're here," she directs our horse to a tree.
It's been a lifetime since I've had the memories of this place as a book, and for the life of me I can't remember the name of Hitogami's apostles. There was weasel face, punching oni, and masked guy, but I'm sure there were more, but, funny enough, I keenly remember miscellaneous scenes like this one right here.
Specifically the horse being struck by lightning.
Funny what the brain can remember. Can't remember certain things to save your life, but you can easily remember useless tips of trivia. Like this horse being struck by lightning.
"Ah sensei, do you mind if I take out my sword real quick."
'Luckily,' I'm carrying my metal blade with me, and stab it a few feet away from the tree, into the ground.
If I remember correctly metal conducts electricity, so this should be fine, right?
You owe me one horse.
Roxy looks at me quizzically, but continues with her lesson.
"I'm going to use the saint ranked water attack magic, Cumulonimbus. This technique is a magic that creates lightning strikes with violent rain."
"Yes."
"Please copy what I do."
Saint ranked water magic. The spell that qualifies a person as a saint ranked magician, and Roxy's trump card.
I can't deny I'm a bit excited to see what higher tier magics look like in real life. Advanced magic was already pretty fun, but saint class is what separates the talented from the prodigies.
So exciting!
"Because I'm only demonstrating, I'll just maintain the spell for a minute before dismissing it, and then… You pass if you can make the rain last for an hour."
"Yes!"
"I'm starting," Roxy raises her hands to the skies. "Oh great water spirit, the son of the lightning emperor who ascended to the skies! Fulfill my wishes, rain down your ferocious blessings, and show me your strength to this tiny existence! Let your godly hammer strike the anvil, and demonstrate your authority, and devour the earth with water! Ah, the rain! Destroy and wash everything away! Cumulonimbus!" she chants, thrusting her rod into the sky.
As she said, it lasts for a minute. The sky darkens and heavy rain starts falling. As well as the gathering of electricity.
"Bang!" The sound of thunder is heard, as it just struck a piece of metal.
That's loud! How the hell did that horse survive that last time! I'd go deaf if not dead from that.
The horse is spooked, I can hear it neighing, lord knows I would be too if I just realized I almost died. It tries to run away, but luckily it's tied to the tree, and is far safe and sound.
"Uwawa… that was close…" she mutters.
"You have no idea," I muttered too.
She turns her head toward me. "I'm going to give Caravaggio some extra protection," she says before walking off, and casting a rock dome over its head. "Oh, well. No harm no foul," she finishes the dome. "Alright now you try it," she says trying to keep her dutiful demeanor.
"Honestly sensei, the serious look doesn't-"
"Hurry up!"
"Yes!"
I know my limits. Best not to push her buttons right now.
"Oh great water spirit…" it is my first time, and as per usual for all first time castings, I cast the full spell, as sensei displayed. In order to shorten it, and then cast it silently, first I have to familiarize myself with the original version."...Cumulonimbus!" I casted.
Just like her, the winds increase, the clouds darken, and upon my last shout, it rains, and then…
It stopped.
"Not bad Rudy. One more time," my sensei ordered from my side, now leaving the earth dome she had the horse in.
"Oh great water spirit… Cumulonimbus!" I repeat the process one more time, the mana gathers for a second and then similar to before heavy clouds, and heavy rains begin, and it continues for a bit longer.
"Good Rudy, now keep up your concentration, and-" the clouds dissipate before she finishes her sentence.
It hasn't been five minutes.
"...don't forget to keep up your concentration. Again," she ordered.
And so I did.
Again, and again.
Even had lightning from time to time. But never lasting more than 15 minutes. Eventually I was running dry, and it was getting late, and we had to call it a day.
"...Rudy… it's time to go home…"
"No, wait! I got a bit more. I can do a bit more! Just give me a-"
"Rudy!" She grabs my shoulder gently, betraying her worried look. "It's enough Rudy. Not everyone casts in one day. It's fine. Simply-"
She stops as she turns my chin to look at her. She's a bit blurry.
My vision that is.
I reach for my eyes, it's not exhaustion, I'm familiar with that feeling. There's tears in my eyes.
"Dammit," I said in a low voice. "I wasn't ready."
Hugging me tightly in her tiny arms, we stayed like that a moment, before we separated.
We gave up that day and went home.
/
Failure.
You'd think it's something I'd get used to, thanks to my past life.
It isn't. Still hits hard.
So I hit back. "Rasengan," I blasted a tree for enteenth time.
It looks like someones been rubbing it with sandpaper 100 times.
Another failure.
After that pitiful display of magic, we continued the exam another day.
And another… and another… we've given it four shots, but are not seeing any results.
It's the end of the week now. Taking breaks in between teachings it's been eight days since the first test, and the lack of progress that was annoying at first is now just infuriating.
Where did I mess up?
Because Roxy didn't want any repeats of my past incidents we stopped at half reserves, and only do the exam every other day, but all that does is make my failures sting harder.
"Where did I go wrong?"
The protagonist did this on his first try, and yet I couldn't do it after fifty.
What the hell is going on?!
"I'm stronger. I can wield a sword," I pulled out my blade letting my magical reserves a moment to rise.
"I even have Toki! So what is it about the old protagonist that he can perform that spell, and I can't…"
Swing. Thud. I struck the tree with my blade, venting my frustrations.
"Is it plot?"
Swing. Thud.
"...Is it destiny?"
Swing Thud.
"Is it talent?!"
Swing. Thud.
An overwhelming sense of inferiority envelops me, and it's driving me mad. I hate it. I have an overwhelming amount of talent, or so I am told, but I can't do what I want. I can't cast the Rasengan, I can't summon the heavens, and even if I'm humored; being told that it's not expected that a child can cast saint class magic on his first try… I know better. I'm not a child.
I know the truth. And the truth is; that is all a bunch of hew-wey. You say impossible, I say improbable. Even if you says not to worry, that it'll take time, I know what I could and can't do, and I know otherwise, and yet…
I can't!
In a world of magic and might, what is possible is usually dictated by one's will, and my will says I should. A certain protagonist could do it after all, so I should as well, yet…
So… maddening…
I train relentlessly, in both sword and magic. If it was just a little mishap like being unable to hold the spell for half hour, I could make out the difference with the fact that I split my time in training both sword and magic.
But 10 minutes? That's not even half.
I expected a gap, not… 'this.'
I did everything like Roxy showed me. Did the incantation, got a feel of my surroundings, and tried to replicate the phenomenon. Emphasis on tried.
As for Rudeus, the original, he just one shot it. Because ofcourse he fucking did. All he did was…
"...remember a weather special on how clouds were formed… shit…" I hold the pommel of the sword stuck in place as I unstuck my mind.
It really was that simple, or rather… It was that complex.
That's right…
And like that, everything became so clear.
I was so frustrated by my own shortcomings, that I forgot that the original had a better understanding of physics than I did.
"Science is a cheat, isn't it," I pull out my blade still stuck in the tree, and sheath it away. Taking out my hand I look down at it, remembering the reason I chose to do magic this way in the first place, preparing to cast I let the mana whirl, and, "Rasengan," a whirlwind appears in my hand before dying off.
"Right…" I look back at the tree I've been unleashing my frustrations on. Pathetic.
Magic 101; the mind and the body are one. A disgruntled mind leads to a disgruntled body, creating terrible spells.
Frustrations… when I tie my abilities to my emotions, of course mental distress would be a factor. Unlike the previou Rudeus Greyrat, my emotions are more tied to my mana then his, so my weakness is doubled.
The only thing holding me back is myself.
"Let's fix that."
I lost my cool back then, and this is the result. The expression it's all in your head is appropriate.
The original Rudeus casted through Knowledge, he simply knew more than I did.
I can not replicate the same feats using the same methods. I never had in the first place. And in my confusion, in my rush, I missed something obvious.
I'm not him.
I cast through my feelings. I use my little scientific knowledge as the building blocks, a beginning for my spells, but ultimately, I rely on feeling the spell out to get the results.
All getting frustrated did, was cloud my senses. If I had split my magic by training in the sword as well as magic, then I split it in three by adding worries into the mix… and kept on dividing it by getting more and more anxious with each failure.
Like a snowball of insecurities going down hill and making an avalanche.
At least it would have. I stopped just in time.
"...is this why Roxy gave me breaks?"
Opening my Palm, I will the mana into a form, and a small whirlwind appears. Bigger, and brighter than before, before dissipating away.
"How embarrassing. An adult I may be, but mature I'm not… should have figured this out immediately, instead of throwing a tantrum. I owe her one… I'll give her some candy."
My mind cleared, I packed up my sword and went to where I left my coat, specifically Slyphs coat, hanging and went back home.
Just one problem.
"It's gone now…" looking at the tree where I know I for sure left her coat hanging. All I see is a tree.
…I didn't notice anyone around.
Bending my knees, I cast a wind blast on the ground, and jumped, letting the wind carry me over the trees. Landing on a high branch, I grab it and look around for any thieves, only to see… a small figure in the distance dashing her way out the forest.
"Really was out of it," I said to myself as I saw the mop of green hair run away. "Well, at least I gave her coat back… in a way. Never did get to apologize though."
Hovering down, my worries have lessened. In every sense of the word.
With a lighter heart, I left.
I can't wait to take the exam once more.
/
I'd like to say that with the power of shonen protagonist I was able to face my exam the next day, and pass on my first try. Probably throw in an epic scream or two.
But no, life doesn't work that way. It took a while.
Over the series of days, now that I have gotten over my inferiority complex. I was able to calmly take the exam, and expand on my time a little every day.
In order to maximize my results I had Roxy perform the magic herself, and see If I could find any shortcuts like the other mc did. It definitely helped.
Until-
"Oh great water spirit, the son of the lightning emperor who ascended to the skies! Fulfill my wishes, rain down your ferocious blessings, and show me your strength to this tiny existence! Let your godly hammer strike the anvil, and demonstrate your authority, and devour the earth with water! Ah, the rain! Destroy and wash everything away! Cumulonimbus" I casted
Waited one hour… and succeeded.
Fuck yeah, eat your heart out Raiden!
"Congratulations Rudy, you passed." Roxy congratulated.
I-I did it…
"Yes!" I throw a fist into the sky striking a pose.
Poses are cool, let me be. I just spent two weeks stretching my magic control, as well as my knowledge on weather phenomena. If I had more time, I'm sure I could make the storm feed into itself like 'he,' did.
But all things must come to an end.
"I'm going to miss you," Roxy voiced out.
"Yeah," I agreed.
I'm gonna miss you too.
/
It was a quiet trot on the way home.
For a moment we didn't really know how to address each other, I had failed enough times on that final exam, that now that the moment has finally come we both didn't know quite what to say to each other. We didn't have any last minute things to say, or speeches prepared. I think part of us, both of us wanted me to fail just one more time so we could keep hanging with each other.
Or maybe that's just me.
Regardless, we trotted along contently on Caravaggio's back.
I thought of asking her where she goes next, or something along those lines.
"Is that…"
Didn't need to though, as something suddenly appeared along the dirt road. I noticed something ahead of us.
A very familiar coat.
"Sensei, I'm going ahead," floating away, I got off the horse, and with a leap, launched myself several feet ahead. Reaching the body, it indeed was who I thought it was.
"Heal!" I casted immediately.
It's Slyphy. And she's bleeding…
Roxy reaches my side a moment later, checking her body for injuries as I envelop Slyphy in green lights. Taking a look around I noticed a food basket in skaters, and a rock laying just a short distance away. A splash of blood on it.
I reach out for the rock.
"It hasn't oxidized yet, it's fresh…" and cast heal one more time just to be on the safe side.
"It looks like someone struck her, and ran away," Roxy uncovers her hood revealing her green hair, being shocked for a moment.
Green hair is a taboo hair color. If she had a gem on her forehead, she would be the spitting image of the Superd's, the most feared race in this world. In this world there was a time when the Superdians went on a massacre and because of it, ever since green haired people are seen as a bad omen.
Because of that, Roxy hesitates for a moment as she checks her forehead.
Superstitions are hard to get over I suppose.
"I see…" she breathes out. "It appears it was only surface level, the injury isn't as bad as it looks," she replied.
I breathed out a sigh of relief at that news.
Having green hair Slyphy has gone through many troubles, and it seems, she continues to go through them, even if I'm not aware of them.
Who the hell would hit such a young girl, and just leave her there?
If I hadn't been training would anyone have found her? Could she have bled to death? This is…
This wasn't supposed to happen.
Then again, neither was she supposed to go out looking for Roxy sensei. I had thought of avoiding Slyphy, because of some awkwardness, on my part, but I didn't think not doing anything would result in her bleeding by the road.
My life might not change with or without Slyphy, but Slyphies life has already been affected by me, if only indirectly.
The butterflies keep flapping.
I can't deny it.
My presence is making butterflies, and it won't always be for the better. The least I could do is help her out.
I guess this is the crux of too much knowledge…
I'm not a hero, and don't want nor plan to save everyone, but… when you KNOW that someone is suffering, and when they're in front of me like this… well, the guilt is burdensome.
"Power, and responsibility, was it…" I think of a certain famous spider-man quote.
"Rudy?" Roxy questioned as I carried Slyphies unconscious body.
"Ah, sorry, I was distracted."
"I understand. Do you know her?"she questioned.
"In a way…"
"That's good. We can take her home."
"... I don't know where she lives. I only know of her through reputation."
"I see." She gets up from her kneeling position, and goes next to the horse. "Let's take her back home. Your mother can take care of her in the meantime, while your father can find out where she lives."
"Mmm."
That was the plan anyway.
I carry her towards the horse.
"Mm… Papa…" Slyphy says with half opened eyes.
"No… just sleep now, you'll see your papa soon. Heal," I brush her hair with a finger.
Unconsciously, Slyphy hugs me a bit tighter as I heal her.
We travel speedily back home
That's right, she's just a lonely girl looking for a friend.
I'm an ass.
"Slyphy…"
"Hmm?" Roxy hums.
"Her name. Her name is Slyphy…"
"...I see…"
'I just wanted to talk to her,' was it… well, a promise is a promise.
"Sensei, I have a favor for you…" an idea sprouts in my head.
It's not much, but I can still make amends. I never did apologize for taking her coat.
Hopefully she'll like my present.
Chapter 13: Students
Splash.
Ah, refreshing.
Just behind magic, swimming might just be my new favorite activity. Can't deny it. It's good for stress relief, while still getting a good workout. You get to work out all your muscles, get a cool feeling of water on your body, and train your lungs simultaneously. Being a mage, as well as a swordsman, all these aspects are attractive to me.
As well as attractiveness you know~ I hear swimming is good for your skin.
Hey, it would be a waste to not use up all these good genes I got from my parents.
Splash.
That and boredom, now that I have to give Roxy and Sylphy their couple hours of magic 101.
Yeah, had her name wrong the whole time.
Her name is Sylphy. Short for Sylphiette not Slyphy. My mistake. I feel I should apologize to her, but it's not like she can hear what's in my head, soooo… no harm no foul?
Splash.
One more lap to go. Just a bit more…
At the moment, besides the fact that swimming is liberating, I'm letting Roxy and Sylphy have their moment together. It took a little convincing, but I was able to convince Roxy to stay a little longer just to meet her, and give little Sylphiette a few magic tips.
They've been pretty close since.
I think they both look at each other as the sister they never had.
Or perhaps that is just me being optimistic as I look at them from far away?
After the initial confusion of having an injured girl in your house wear out, Paul got Sylphy on his horse after Zenith was done checking her over and took her safely back to her home. Luckily this village is small and everyone knows each other. It's not that difficult to find her home.
Unless you're a shut-in like me, but I'm working on that.
Taking advantage of the situation, I got Roxy alone, and asked her the favor.
…it was tricky, but it all worked out.
Thankfully, Roxy sensei has a good heart. She is a little afraid of showing it, and I had to make a few concessions, but I've gotten a good enough read on her that I know how to push her buttons.
Besides… Sylphy is adorable, how can you say no to that sleeping injured face.
I might have played dirty.
Just to be extra sure; I told her about Sylphy and her circumstances.
Like I said, a sweetheart.
Sometimes sensei just needs a little push.
Then again don't we all.
Splash.
Done!
"Uwaa! So much better!" I ran a hand through my wet hair. "I feel so much lighter," I step out of the water, drying myself off, and change clothes.
Done with my morning routine, I decided it was time to see where those two are in their lessons.
/
Ah, their lesson is over…
Finally reaching the open field I was a little late to the party as the town's favorite, mine at least, resident green and blue haired duo had just finished their lesson.
It's really easy to find them thanks to their hair color.
"Ranoa's university doesn't require high social standing or pride. Even if you have some crazy theories, you will not be rejected as long as the logic is correct. Also, due to the acceptance of various races, there is also research done on magic unique to specific races. If Slyphiette wants to start on the road of magic, I would suggest entering the magic university."
Their lessons were over, and Roxy was recounting tales of her past again.
"Really?! Various races?!" Sylphy questioned, ears twitching. An unconscious habit I noticed she does when she's happy or excited. It's cute. On that note, they also droop when sad. Also cute.
They've gotten closer.
The deal's specifics were that I would like for Sensei to teach Sylphy magic for a bit, and to talk to her. Not a full blown tutelage like me, as that would be asking too much, and I don't think I could convince her to hold back her life just for me, but I was still able to get her to agree, and hence get closer with her.
That's what I'm mostly interested in.
I won't tell Roxy that though.
She was skeptical if Sylphiette would even have the talent for magic. She was pleasantly surprised.
I later convinced her that regardless of whether she has a talent or not I will compensate her as a favor, and would pay everything back, and well… the results are this.
Looking at them from afar you wouldn't think they've only known each other a few weeks.
"Really. Slyphiette would make a fine addition to Ranoa," Roxy told her.
Sylphy just stares at the horizon, at the Red Dragon mountain range, with a wide smile on her face.
It was worth it.
"I see you guys are done for the day?" I walked up to them. Waving, I intruded on their little playdate. Roxy waving back in turn.
"Rudy, you're done swimming?" Roxy asked.
"Yeah, lessons going well?"
"Very much so, she patted Sylphy's head, bringing a small blush out of this pure girl. "I would even say her talent in magic might even trump Rudy's."
Oy, that's a tall order, I'm quite talented as is… but I can see it.
As expected, Sylphy's taken to her lessons like a fish to water.
Will you look at that, so cute~
…but she isn't kidding… that girl is taking to magic at an insane rate, and that's saying something considering I'm quite insane myself.
Rhetorically I mean.
I was hoping the lessons could take longer so she would deepen her bond with Roxy more, being a good friend, and making a happy memory for her childhood. A recompense for my earlier transgressions.
But she really is talented.
So this is the difference between talent and knowledge, huh.
"Is that so, what does my cute underclassmen have to say, huh?" I ask Sylphy.
She hides her face in Roxy's arm hiding away from me, her blush reaching her ears.
Kya! I raised a flag! Loli get!
Just kidding.
I won't be raising any flags with her anytime soon, after all… I'm terrifying…
Apparently…
Yeah… that's the main reason I had to make myself scarce during their little lessons. Despite my best intentions I'm… well… I'm 'scary.' Her words not mine.
My head hurts, but not as much as my heart… innocence hurts…
"Rudy, what did I say about making that face?"
How rude! I only have this face you know.
"...I'm sorry," I apologized regardless.
Apparently, I have a scary face… at least to Sylphy.
I'd ask her why, but… I kind of have an idea why.
In any case It's hard to speak to her, from her side at least, but It's gotten easier lately. That said, she's still keeping her distance. When I asked Roxy what Sylphy told her about me that made me so scary, she said…
'I saw Rudy blow up trees,' 'I saw Rudy laughing maniacally,' 'saw Rudy chasing sensei' 'Rudy made lightning.' 'talking to himself in the forest…'.
…and other things along those lines… I really didn't make a good impression.
My deepest apologies.
I take a look at her snuggled against Roxy's arm.
Well, it wasn't about me in the first place so it's fine.
Turns out the situation really was as simple to fix as a conversation. All she really wanted was someone to talk to. While Sylphy was working up the courage to talk with Roxy sensei, when she heard the rumors of a Blue haired demon. She came to greet her. I can only guess what was going through her mind, but I think she found some sense of camaraderie coming from Roxy, as a fellow colored haired girl, with a demon nickname.
Well it's her species, but I doubted she knew that.
The problem was I was there though.
For a socially awkward child, me and my wild antics are a bit much. Hell, I might be a little too much for your average person, let alone someone so shy.
And the one time she did talk to me I… well… enough said.
"I-It's alright, I know Rudy doesn't mean to be scary," Sylphy said from beside Roxy.
Ouch, innocence hurts.
"...Is my face really scary?"
I really hope not.
"N-no no, Rudy is handsome. I'm just not used to your face being so close," she blushes, turning her head away.
I'm not sure if that's a flag, or if she's just trying to raise my morale, regardless it worked.
My mood is better!
"He he, right~ I'm so handsome it's scary."
"So easy…" Roxy whispered.
I don't want to hear that from you!
With their lessons concluded, sensei and I, walked Sylphy home before going out to the open field from the final exam, and continued working on that Cumulonimbus spell.
My parents don't know about me and Roxy's deal, so we're using the timeframe in which Sylphy learns the basics, to perfect the Cumulonimbus spell, bit by bit. Needless to say, I'm trying to get it to feed into itself like it's supposed to.
I accidentally made a tornado the other day. It's a good thing sensei is right next to me.
"Destroy and wash everything away! Cumulonimbus!" Skipping the useless chant, I have already familiarized myself with the spell, and so jumped straight into incantation.
It lasted an hour, without my input. Cool the atmosphere then funnel the air current.
"…a spiral tornado will bring the clouds upwards," Roxy said as she looked at the sky, before smiling upon me. A happy smile this time unlike the others. "Congratulations once more Rudy."
"Yes!" I pumped my fist to the sky.
Poses are cool.
Finally, with a little more effort, a few more struggles, and more time than I expected I became a Saint class mage.
"...how long are you going to hold that pose for?" Sensei said, walking away Sylphy on her coattails, literally. "We're going home."
"Couldn't you let me have my moment?!"
"You've had it the moment you casted this spell! Now you're just showing off!"
"Aaaahhh! And to think I was going to miss you!"
"I'll miss you too!" She yelled, before noticing what she said, her eyes growing wide, before covering them with her hood and turning away.
"Eh? Did you just-"
"L-let's go idiot disciple. You'll make your parents worry." She walked a little bit more briskly as she made for my house.
"..."
It looks like we both caught the other a little off guard, but… yeah…
"I'm going to miss these days," I whispered to myself, before following her and sharing a meal, Sylphy included.
It won't be everyday that we can share the fun between all of us.
/
Unfortunately all things must come to an end.
Slylphy's prodigious talent has finally come to bite her. I could only hold onto Roxy sensei for so long, and after succeeding with my own teachings, it was only a matter of time before she finished the basics.
We had to say our goodbyes.
"Roxy, it's fine if you want to continue staying in our home. There are many things I haven't cooked for you…" Zenith said.
"That's right. Even if your job as a home tutor is over, you have done many things for us last year. The people from the village will definitely welcome you." Paul seconded.
"Does sensei really have to leave…" Sylphiette's gentle voice carried in the wind, as she gently tugged at Roxy's sleeve.
Outside my house, by the dirt road everyone is saying their goodbyes. Roxy is popular with everyone in my house, and they're trying to keep her, if only a little longer.
Fools! That's not how you bribe her. At least offer her sweets everyday. And a surfboard!
But in all seriousness, we can't keep her here. She had to go sooner or later. I should just be thankful she took up my deal in the first place.
Bending down, Roxy gets on a knee so she could look at Sylphy at her eye level. "It's alright this isn't forever. I still have to show you that university. We'll definitely meet again."
"Besides…" she whispered something I was unable to hear into her ear.
Sylphy looks at me then back at sensei, and nods her head profusely.
"I'll write to you soon. Look forward to it," she stands back up.
"Thank you for your offers Mr and Mrs Greyrat, but this situation has let me realize my weakness. I will tour the world and polish up my magic skills." She then looks at me and Sylphy. "I can't have my students getting too far ahead of me now, can I?"
"Rudy," she turns to me. "It most certainly has been… an experience. Regardless, I'm glad you were my student. Don't do anything reckless now that I'm not here. Keep Sylphiette company. And try not to drive your parents crazy."
"Ah, sure?"
With a tired smile, "You are definitely unique Rudy," she… complimented me?
"Thank you?"
Taking something from her satchel she grabs my hand, before dropping an amulet on it.
I looked at it quizzically.
"It's a Migurd protection amulet. If you ever come across a hostile demon, you can present this with my name. You might come to an understanding… probably."
That's vague, but probably, is better than nothing. "Thank you very much."
"Here…" She hands me a piece of paper to go along with it. Moving her head close to my ear she whispers, "read this in private," before standing, giving me one last look, and one last smile, before turning away, and walking down the road she came.
And just like that… she was gone.
Now I'm simply wondering if I'll ever see her again.
On one hand, being next to her, I risk falling for her, and consequently dying because of it. On the other hand, I could never see her again and guarantee my safety.
I have to admit, despite the fact that her literal existence is a death flag, but… I really enjoyed her company, and as such, I can't deny the possibility of falling for her isn't zero.
I took a peek at Sylphy, by my side, and then in turn turned to look at the household in which my family is in.
I can't do that.
I remember Sylphy's unconscious form. Bleeding at the edge of the road…
I don't want to go back to treating people like characters from a story I read.
I want to be true to myself, and as such I don't want to make a decision based on a hypothetical, or what could be. I don't want to go back to treating people as writing on a sheet of paper, and acting based on information I got from fiction.
The disingenuous nature of it all… it disgusts me.
I am aware of the Butterfly effect, and things are bound to happen. I've had to come to terms with that. I lived in this world long enough to know, not everything will work out as it's supposed to. I can't control that. But I can control myself.
I want to treat people, the way I want to. Not because it's the 'right' thing to do. Not because it's in a script. Not because it's a calculated decision towards a grand future, but because it's what I want to do.
I want a friend. I want the people around me to be in good health. I want to be true.
If it happens, it happens. If it doesn't, it doesn't.
And If I could... I would like to meet her again... someday.
I stayed there for a long moment, just watching, until her figure diminished, and I couldn't see her any more.
If Sylphy didn't have to go home, I'm sure she would have stayed there 'till dusk. Paul took her by the hand, and took her home.
"Come along Rudy," Zenith beckons me home. Simply me and Zenith, she grabs my hand, and leads me away as well. "You know… I once came from the Millis continent. If you had once told me I would be living in the northern continent, I would have said that's impossible. It's funny what life brings you." She squeezes my hand. "I'm sure you'll see her again."
"Mmn." I hummed. I know what she's doing, but I'm just lost in thought at the moment. Letting go of her hand I made for upstairs where I could lay down and think.
There were-NO ARE, many complications around us, but I can without a shadow of doubt say that at the least, she is my friend.
The funny thing about being reborn in a new world, is that everyone treats you, as you look, a child. Reasonable, but infuriating.
But around Roxy, it was simple, I could be myself. With my parents, that's an impossibility, no matter how 'genius,' your child is, there is a limit to how much you could believe. A divide needed to be made, before they realized something and because of that, I avoided them. I'd rather be alone and true, than around them and fake.
And then there was Roxy.
With Lilia I could be myself, even if she thinks there's something off, she accepts me for who I am regardless, but I can only hang around her for so much time of the day. I hate to admit it, despite this life being so peaceful, but… I'm lonely.
Then Roxy came in.
I know she knows some things off about me, and she knows I know she knows, but she's never said a thing.
I thank her.
Roxy is a quirky woman, a bit on the clumsy side, with a heart of gold. I enjoy our talks, I enjoy our experiments. It's fun when we're having successes. It's fun when we're having failures, especially the failures, but overall I'll just miss having her around.
She rescued me from my loneliness. She saw me for me, and never asked me to be someone else. She became my friend.
I'm going to miss her.
"Parting ways is always difficult isn't it?" I whispered as I closed the door to my room. Crashing onto the bed I now have the privacy needed to read the note Roxy went through the trouble of sneaking for me. "Pfft-" only to do a spit take immediately after.
As expected of Shishou.
The note she left me was a bill.
That's right we'll meet again. After all, I do owe her a lot…
In the sense that I owe her a lot of money.
"Pff-fhaha, gotta love that loli!" I yell out like a madman, tears of laughter escaping the corners of my eyes.
Tearful goodbyes sure don't suit us.
I imagine her flying through Asura, enjoying the view, and-
Wait a minute… the view…
Did I ever tell her about the panty flashing thing?
Getting lost in my own little world I sometimes forget about the little things.
"…I'll treat her to something sweet next time I see her."
Bullies
"How about that one?" I questioned.
"A boar."
"That one?"
"An arrow."
"That one?"
"Roxy…" Sylphy answered.
Hmm, dejavu.
We're laying on the ground, cloud watching.
Yep, totally bored.
After Roxy's departure a few weeks ago, things got a little awkward between us. It's not like I scare her, I hope, but there we have trouble talking to each other at times. Luckily we're making strides in the right direction, but it's a challenge.
In any case, It was left to me to take over Sylphy's lessons. Awkward moments aside, I've taken over Roxy's duties in teaching her. Already, knowing the basics, I simply had to get her to intermediary magic level.
Of course I still had to teach writing and arithmetic, but who cares about that.
What do you think, I'm teaching Sylphy to be a poet?
Jokes aside, we're able to breeze through the lesson easily enough, not just the magic ones, and hence we have several hours left where we have nothing to do.
"Rudy," she pulls at my sleeve. "You promised you were going to teach me to fly."
"Technically it's more like floating, and you have to wait. Until I'm sure you got intermediate magic down, you're not flying anytime soon."
"B-But-"
"Should I write a letter to Roxy?" I teased. I couldn't write a letter to her even if I wanted to, I don't know where she is.
She doesn't know that though.
"But why though…" she pouted.
"Because falling is painful."
"Fine…" she continued to pout.
Yosh, my disciple is the cutest.
I patted her head.
"Although, this is kind of boring."
She nods her head vehemently at my confession.
What happened to my shy Kouhai?
Although, she's not wrong.
"I was kind of saving it for when you mastered intermediate magic, so you could do it yourself, but I guess you can just follow my lead," I stood up and offered her my hand, which she accepted.
"Did Roxy ever tell you about Shield sledding?"
/
"That was fun, and we can do that every day?" Sylphy asked.
"As soon as you finish your lessons."
"Yay!" Sylphy cheered.
We had a fun time. Until Sylphy had her FUN-damentals down, not using magic in dangerous ways, I would perform the magic, and she would perform the steering, as we would go up and down the hills.
That's right, up. Magic is awesome!
"Glad you had fun. Try not to pass out from excitement," I walk her back home.
She sure had fun, from the wide smile across her face, and occasional ear twitches.
Sure have come a long way from, I was too scary to talk to.
As I was thinking that her smile stopped, and she stopped for a second.
"Sylphy?"
I am about to ask her why the sudden stop, only for the question to die in my throat, as she jumps to my side, hugging my arm tightly. She is trembling a little. Looking down she's avoiding my eyes.
Ok, this is strange. I can barely get her to look me in the eye when talking, but this is…
Looking down the road where she was looking earlier, I see what she was seeing, or more accurately, what she's avoiding seeing.
A group of children, ages 5-10, are walking around playing with sticks, hitting them across each other as they play a game of pretend.
I guess they're playing knights.
"I see…"
Right… there was that issue.
"I wonder which of you threw that stone…"
"Rudy?" Sylphy questioned.
Putting two and two together, I can read between the lines. Now then…
"Sylphy, can you let go of my arm for a moment."
She looks at me with a distraught expression. Her ears drooped. All the while squeezing my arm even tighter, if unconsciously.
Please stop that. It's super effective!
"It's alright," I place my hand gently over hers. "I won't abandon you, I just want to… 'talk,' with those guys real quick."
Reluctantly, she lets me go, albeit slowly.
I made my way towards them.
Alright time for some diplomacy.
Standing before the group their heads turned my direction as they finally noticed me. Looking at each other in confusion, I hear a whisper or two between them, as they're probably trying to figure out who's friend I am.
Answer: not yours.
"ALRIGHT, FAT ASS, DUMBASS, AND NPC, GET YOUR ASSES OVER HERE," I calmly stated.
Definitely calm. I am the embodiment of serene.
"..." x4.
Even Sylphy seems to be surprised by my CALM demeanor.
Alright, seriously, let's calm down.
Breathe in… Breathe out…
Honestly this whole situation pisses me off.
The bullying issue is annoying, but the segregation is abhorrent. At the end of the day the ones performing it are children, and I suppose they can be forgiven, but… it still pisses me off.
It's a tricky situation. Don't get me wrong their actions are wrong, but considering the time period, they could almost be forgiven for their actions. At the end of the day, a brat is a brat.
Almost…
That all changes when blood is spilled.
Part of me should thank them. For if it wasn't for that incident with the stone and Sylphy I might never have befriended her, and… well, I don't know what would have happened, but I don't think Sylphy would be smiling like she was a second ago. For better or worse she showed me that my existence is making a butterfly effect.
In Sylphy's case, worse…
When I held Sylphy in my arms that day I decided that I would help her out, and when I truly thought about what that meant, I realized that I needed to teach her. As her future didn't look that bright, from my point of view.
In the original timeline, she would have known magic, and hence survive being summoned 100 feet in the air, and left to free fall. In this one… no one has taught her a thing.
Well, until me.
So yeah, thank you for helping me help Sylphy, but besides that, I owe you nothing.
Please go fuck yourselves, sincerely yours, Rudeus Greyrat.
Sylphiette aside… I wished Lilia was as frustrated by this whole situation as I was. Feeling guilty after the whole Sylphy thing, I've been spending less and less time with her, and have been focusing on Sylphy predominantly. If anything… She looked kind of happy that I was hanging out with Sylphy more.
…couldn't you be just a little sad. Just a little…
Now I have all this pent up frustrations, and no one to let it out on. Oh, wait! I do…
Oh woe is thy~
I don't know which one of you did it, but my conscience won't let me sleep, if I don't correct a potential sociopath in the making if I could.
"You three bullied Sylphy, didn't you? Apologize," after calming myself down, I repeated myself more reasonably.
"...who?" one of them asked.
"Her," I pointed back to the girl behind me a few feet away. "Apologize to her now."
"The demon?" "Seriously?" "aren't you that knight's kid?" came three different responses. None of them, the answer I am looking for.
"..." I'm waiting.
"Get lost," one of them waves his stick vehemently.
"We'll tell everyone that you're allying with demons."
"Who knew the noble master was a traitor, ha!"
So annoying.
"Hey you, your name's Ada right?"
As I said before, it's funny what the brain will remember, and what it won't. For the life of me I can't remember the name of all these useless characters, but I do remember that on the day Sylph was bullied by three people the fat one was named Ada.
That's about it.
"...do you mean my mom?"
…well, mostly remember…
"Ah… sure Ada's kid-"
"My name is Soma-"
"IT DOESN'T MATTER WHAT YOUR NAME IS! Anyways, you!" I point at him. "Who threw the rock?"
"...what rock?" he crosses his hands.
I cast a fireball to the side, making a small blast.
"The one that hurt Sylphy, give me a stupid answer again, and I won't miss."
I'm not gonna cast it on him. I'm angry, not murderous.
But he doesn't know that.
"No no no it wasn't me!"
"Who did?"
"That was…" he hesitates, turning his head creakily away from my eyes.
Really loyalty amongst thieves was it?
"Remember what I said about stupid answers," I say once more.
Ada's eyes flicker to another in their group in response.
"It was him!" he pointed to one of his friends.
"What?! Liar, it was you," he countered. "After she fell down and-"
"He's lying it was all his idea, honest."
"What, no!" the third that was silent until now interjects. "You were the one that threw the stone, me and Soba had nothing to do with it."
Honor among thieves? Yeah right.
"Well two votes to one," I get closer, getting in his personal space. "Was it you that threw that stone at Sylphy?"
"So what if I did, she's just a demon," he looked down at me, his hands crossed.
Uwaa, so dumb, but at least you make this simple.
I go over to the kid in question, and reach for him, 'asking' him, "Apologize."
He hits my hand away, and strikes me with a fist.
"Idiot! That's what you get for picking a fight with someone bigger than you!"
Idiot. Now it's just self defense. Thanks for making this easier.
People tend to reveal their real selves when they think they're in control. Give them a little power, and see who they are. So I didn't dodge and waited.
I look at him once more, causing him to flinch. Before grabbing his collar, "Trace on," and start picking him off the ground.
Don't underestimate the strength of a five year old that trains and has reinforcement magic. I could probably pick up a small adult.
"Apologize," I glared.
"D-d-don't wanna…" he mumbled.
Have it your way.
Pride is all well and good, but you gotta have power to maintain it.
"Fly," I cast the flight spell.
On the fat boy that is.
"Aaaaah!" He's sent flying. I caught the stick he was holding.
Then a sudden updraft is brought about to my spell, and sends him up in the air, and up… and up…
Well you get the idea.
I'm not gonna kill him, but he doesn't need to know that. The only thing I have to worry about is that he doesn't go splat. Twirling the stick I concentrate the wind, making his descent easier, cushioning his descent.
Three seconds later. "Aaaaaaah!" He hollers as he comes down. The wind between him and the ground slowing his descent, and my own will softening the blow as he 'crashes' lightly.
"Apologize," I look down on him. "Then scram, and never show your face in front of us again."
"I'm sorry! I'm sorry!" he gets up and bows two times before turning to leave. I hook his escape with the stick.
"To her!"
"I'M SORRY!" he turns to Sylphy, and bows his head deeply.
"Leave." I hit them with the stick on their rear end.
He and his little gang leave.
Leaving me and Sylph alone.
Finally it's done.
"No one bullies Sylphy except me."
/
Sylphy [POV]
Today was one of the most fun days I've had since Roxy left. I thought as I came back from shield surfing. I didn't know one could have so much fun.
…I didn't know a lot of things.
Back when I heard there was another demon running around, I decided I wanted to meet her. I was lonely, and if I'm lonely, then maybe she was too, and then maybe, just maybe… we could… We could be friends. That's what I thought back then. So I went to find her, and I did.
One day, when I went to the fields…
/
"Miss Roxy, could you help us water the crops again?"
"That is fine. I trust you have the acquired payment."
"Of course!"
"Very well, Oh great water spirits…" The winds bellowed, and as the clouds changed color, soon a small amount of rain appeared over the fields, "...Nourish and Cleanse all, Rain Dance!" A stream of colors appeared over their heads.
A rainbow appeared.
"So Beautiful…"
Roxy-san is amazing…
That was the day I first saw her. And the first day I saw magic as something amazing.
"Sensei, I thought they didn't have enough copper on them?" A boy asked.
"I also accept other forms of payment, if they are appropriate," she held out a bag towards him, as he peeks inside.
"...Louring in Roxy with sweets, I worry about your future sensei," he says.
"Enough of you," before taking a hit from her staff, "bartering is also an appropriate form of payment. Anyways, let's get back to your lessons," she took out a piece of bread which she happily munched on.
"Hai~" The boy rubbed his head.
/
I would later get to know them properly. Roxy was the young noble's tutor sent here to teach him magic, and the boy following her around was that noble. I've seen him a couple times before, but he usually avoids people.
After that show I knew I had to talk to her, but there was a problem: she was never alone.
She was always with that noble's son.
So I waited, and waited… but never found a chance. Not finding the chance I needed, I decided that despite my shyness, I would swallow the fireball and talk to the noble's son first.
…It didn't go well… and things just kept not going well…
One day while I was thinking whether I should give up, or try to find away around the boy I now know as Rudeus, I ran into a group of boys… and they… hurt me.
I was taking food to daddy, when it all happened. They threw mud and insults at me, but I just tried to ignore it, hugging the basket close to my chest, but then I felt a sharp pain on top of my head. I was struck by a rock. It hurt.
I hate it. I hate it, hate it, hate it, hate hate, hate.
Why does everything keep going wrong?
But… even so… when I woke up, my world got a little better.
I met Roxy.
A throbbing in my head, a little dizzy, someone picked me up, and glowed green lights around my eyes. I didn't know what was happening, but when I woke up everything had changed.
I met Sir Paul, Lady Zenith, and Rudy. It was a new day for me. My lonesome days were finally over. I finally found a friend!
At least I thought I did.
I wonder what a friend is?
I wish I had asked Roxy that. We're friends, I'm sure, but… she's not here anymore.
One day we'll meet again, until that day, it's just me and Rudy. Rudy's great, I don't hate him, not at all, but… it's just… Rudy is… difficult.
Roxy sensei said he was the one that healed me, and carried me all the way home, so I know he's nicer than he shows, but it's still hard to believe. I've gotten over my fears of Rudy, mostly, and he's been teaching me a lot about magic, and shortcuts, but it's still a little difficult to imagine him being that kind. That and talking to him.
I'm not scared of him… I'm not… but…
When Roxy sensei left, I was scared. Scared that everything would return to the way things were. Back to when I was alone. That… that is scary.
Despite my fears though, Rudy didn't leave. I was happy. So I thought I'd try my best too. We read books, watch clouds, or played 'I spy. It has been fun, but the quiet is a bit uncomfortable sometimes.
It's not as easy as it was with Roxy.
It's weird.
The boy I was scared of, always screaming, and running around could be so quiet. I didn't think it would be like this when Roxy left.
Well, until today. Today things changed once again, and I'm happy to say those awkwards days are coming to an end.
Rudy taught me something new. It's not flying, but it's fun too. Surfing that is! But the best part was the after.
We're like, actually, talking! You know! Like friends!
Not only did we do a shield surfing, although it's a barrel lid, but we talked after as well. No awkward pauses today! Just talking and playing. We had a blast!
Friends do that right? Run, play and talk! That means we're friends now right? Do you ask friends if you're friends? Mommy, what do I do?
I was worried that the color of my hair would be a problem for Rudy. Roxy sensei was a demon so I thought if anyone could be my friend it would be Roxy, and then, then…
Maybe I should ask him after all.
Getting ready to ask him. 'They,' appeared, and my worries returned as well.
I hate this… maybe I really am cursed.
I knew my hair was a curse, but I didn't know why? People don't like girls with green hair.
Maybe this is the curse of the Superb thing? Will Rudy leave me alone too?
I unconsciously grabbed his sleeve.
Please don't go.
As I was lost in thought, I felt Rudy's hand sliding away. "Rudy?"
Are my happy days coming to an end?
"Sylphy, can you let go of my arm for a moment," he says as he holds my hand. My grip tightens around his arm.
"It's alright. I won't abandon you, I just want to… 'talk,' with those guys real quick," I let him go.
It was fun while it lasted.
It's not fair.
Mommy always said that someone would come along, like those knights in fairy tales, and sweep me off my feet, but fairy tales don't come true for people like me.
Beautiful princess's get happily ever after. Green haired demons get… It's not fair…
"ALRIGHT, FAT ASS, DUMBASS, AND NPC, GET YOUR ASSES OVER HERE!" Breaking me from my thoughts, I hear Rudy scream at the top of his voice. My previous worries were forgotten.
"..."
W-w-wawa-what are you saying?!
Worried that Rudy would be more interested in making friends with guys than a girl like me, or someone that doesn't invite trouble like I do. I staggered at Rudy's words.
So did the boys.
Never would I think that Rudy would bully the bullies.
"Apologize," he ordered.
"...um Rudy you don't have to…" I begin to say, before Rudy gets struck by a fist by Soma.
As I was about to tell Rudy it's ok, and he can let them go, Rudy got punched.
You just punched my friend?!
"Idiot! That's what you get for picking a fight with someone bigger than you!"
You're the idiot! No one punches my friends!
My fists are shaking, but then… something ridiculous happens.
"Fly," Rudy casted, and…
"Aaaaah!" a human boy was sent flying into the sky.
Ah… that's right… There's a reason why I was scared of Rudy…
The memories of the boy attacking trees, flying while laughing maniacally, and making a thunderstorm goes through my head.
That's right, Rudy is a saint class mage. Um… this is bad right?
Luckily my worries were for not, as I could feel the mana circling again, like before but this time rather than sending him, it's acting like a pillow and slowing him on his fall down.
Rudy is scary but not evil.
Moments later the bully is forced to apologize, and runs away.
"No one bullies Sylphy except me," Rudy stated.
This is good. Wait! Nonono, that's not good! Rudy, what are you saying?!
He also threw someone into the heavens, that's bad right?
"Rudy… wasn't that a little too much?"
He gives a disgruntled look. "No. He left you bleeding, if anything I was too gentle…" he grumbled.
Eh?
"U-Um that's true, but won't you get in trouble?"
"..." He stops in his tracks for a moment, looking at me with a frown. "Why?" He pouted. "I'm not the one that lets a cute girl bleeding on the road."
C-cute?!
"Well, whatever, I'll deal with it when it comes," he added nonchalantly, before walking away.
"Y-y-you will get shunned by others!" rushing after him I push through my embarrassment. "Won't you get lonely?!"
"Not a chance. That's why I have you."
Heeeeeeeh?!
"Besides," he finally stops walking and turns to face me, "all the people that care about me already know me, right?"
"...r-right…"
That's right, there is one thing Daddy said about friends as well, friends are there when you need them most.
"Rudy is kind," I whisper as I get closer to him. We walk all the way home in peaceful silence.
The sun was setting by the time we made it home.
"...Thanks for walking me home… and… everything." There's really too much to be thankful for.
It's a secret, but Roxy sensei told me that Rudy convinced her to stay a bit longer for my sake. I believe her now.
Thank you.
"Don't mention it, what are friends for?"
Right… friends… we're friends.
I look at Rudy.
He is standing with his back facing the sun holding the barrel lid(sled) that we were using a second ago to play with under his arms, and still carrying the stick he stole/borrowed from the bullies.
He… kind of looks like a knight…
"Oh… just a thought, but those guys might make things bothersome for you if I'm not there, so I'll be adding self-defense lessons to your studies, ok?"
"Ah… sure," waking up from my daze, I agree.
That's fine with me. I don't know what defense lessons are, but it sounds like a good idea.
"Hmm," he holds the stick over his shoulder, as the sun shines on his back, a habit he usually uses with his practice blade
Sword, shield, and magic… a knight… a slightly scary, very awkward, but very kind knight.
"See you tomorrow," he says.
"See yah…"
I can't wait.
/
Rudy [POV]
"I wonder if I should have left the lid at her place…" As I made my way home, I wondered If it's the student or teacher, who should hang on to the equipment.
I'm looking forward to a bath.
Even if I didn't work up a sweat, I did work out some stress, and a good bath always helps me relax.
Thank god for magic. I can warm up any batch of water in seconds.
On my way home, I noticed my father's figure at the entrance. He didn't look happy.
"I'm home."
Sitting by the doorstep is my father. He has his hands crossed over his chest, and looks at me with a scowl on his features, as he gets up.
I groaned internally.
This is going to be… pleasant… I'm really going to need that bath.