Nurturing the Hero to Avoid Death Chapter 9

Thanks a bunch to Lori C., Mich.e.l.le O., and Wilson H. for the tip!

3 years later.

I’m fifteen years old. My birthday’s in the spring. In another three years, the 'Starting Village arc' will end. That means after three more years of hard work, the G.o.ddess will probably return me to my world. Keyword, probably.

That better be it, G.o.ddess! Why haven’t you shown your face yet?! The silence is too cruel. What's going on?

Even after Granny Marie spent many days praying, she still did not pay us a visit. In fact, it’s strange she never contacted us. What does it mean—

Oh! Can it be… No way.

Is it possible she's in a situation barring her from keeping in touch with us? Is she in trouble? Could something unforeseen have happened to her?

I shudder.

Nonono. No way.

Besides waiting for her call, there’s not much else I can do. I'll just complain, I mean, pray whenever I'm at the church. That way, I can be reached as soon as possible.

My prior conversation with Marie has sparked a new addition to my routine. Now I visit the church most weekends, except when I have business at home.

One reason is so I can consult with Marie about future events, along with confirming and reporting the current situation to her. For example, to see if the G.o.ddess has met with her.

Secondly, Marie offered me a spare room dedicated for my defense research and materials storage. Naturally, the room is lockable and comes with a key. Both have been replaced recently in case. I have also linked a hand-made security device to it, so that no one besides me can enter the room. Well, in theory that's the case. Finally, I can store materials and completed defensive tools free from prying eyes!

Back at the lord's mansion, I've no privacy or a secure place to call my own. The butler and maids have master keys and can pretty much enter any room.

Another reason I visit the church so often is because of Lian's elder brother. He keeps chasing me. It's hard to relax. These days, his hand that frequently strokes my head has migrated to touching my shoulders and face, back and waist. It's frightening. It feels like I'm encountering perverts even at home. It's the worst. I can't even report it to the proper authorities since we're related.

Therefore, I feel safe at the church. Each time I visit I bring a box filled with donuts, cakes, and cream puffs, the kinds of confectionery the kids love. I've done my research. There's no mistake that these are their favorites. As such, the kids are now absolutely obedient to me. I've strictly informed them not to tell Alfred I'm at the church during the weekends. The job the G.o.ddess gave me is supposed to be kept secret. In fact, she has said that if I break that promise, the consequences will be severe.

Basically, carrot and stick¹. 

One time, I dreamed that in the dead of night, a blood-stained G.o.ddess turned up by my bedside… It more or less seemed like something out of a horror film, the fear the image inspired enough to make anyone burst into tears. Although it was bad for my heart, the effect were immediate. I doubled down hard on the kids.

If you kids run your mouth to Alfred, then I'll never bring sweets over again. I'm starting to feel like applying scare tactics will be more effective than threats. However, these children seem to be fulfilling their part of the bargain so far.

Every time I visit the church, they stick their hands out waiting for the sweets. Plus, they puff up in happiness whenever I praise them. I don't really understand kids, but I enjoy their company very much. Well, because kids love secret missions, just secret things in general, that might be part of the reason they don’t mind helping me out.

Despite being orphans, they're spirited and cheerful, and are rarely seen without smiles on their faces.

Granny Marie raises the children with love, at times kind and at times strict. I can tell that she enjoys watching them play. Such a sight is soothing, wiping clean the daily buildup of stress…

Anyway, Alfred heads out in the morning on weekends for his part-time job and doesn't return home until late at night. Rarely does he get half a day of break. I have his schedule memorized and taught it to both Marie and the children. Because I've confirmed this information before starting my weekly church routine, I’ve never b.u.mped into him, saving me plenty of stress.

On my way to church I sometimes encounter the village's elderly. However, they seem to think my visits are fueled by the itch to pray away my concerns. Every now and then, they will approach me with a kind expression. They will if I keep praying and doing my best, eventually the G.o.ddess will answer my call.

Since the villagers are usually busy with farming, they don't often pay the church a visit. So it doesn't really matter if they know I'm going there or not. For that reason, I spend my entire weekends at the church.

°•°•°

Sat.u.r.day rolls by.

According to the compiled report on Alfred’s schedule, he'll be at work all day and has been gone since the morning. There, there. This is great because I can't go to the church unless he's away.

Today's bribe are the newly-released triple chocolate scone and redberry and blueberry scone. I bought it at a famous bakery yesterday while coming home from school. They're  fluffy and just the right touch of sweetness. I'm fond of them as well and purchase them occasionally. The kids will definitely dig it.

In high spirits, I leave the residence with my luggage, skipping on the way. The butler thinks I'm heading to the library for some independent study. It's obviously a lie, but there's no one to doubt or confirm it.

Lian's family is apathetic to everyone besides themselves. Or rather, they practice the principles of laissez-faire, a family of egotists. His father often skips out at work, his mother is busy chasing the kingdom's latest beauty and fas.h.i.+on trends, and his brother is shadowing his father for the day to learn the ropes as his successor. But when it comes down to it, he's just going out to play.

Craning my neck, I take in the warm sun and crisp blue sky.  A few white clouds float over the horizon. Little by little, a wave of dizziness catches up to me. I drop my head and try to shake off the feeling. Maybe I'm mentally drained. I did leave the school late at night, after working on the alarm devices for the village. So far, I've created the first prototype. I tried testing it with a mouse-type demon, which I had caught past the village’s borders.

The risk of getting injured from a small demon is low. If I don't set up these traps, they won't attack. However, they'll target the crops, so the farmlands will sustain a ton of damage if I stand by idly. These mouse-type demons wreak havoc on the farms every so often.

During my test, the alarm device had sensed the mouse-type demon. For now, it's a success. The fruits of my hard labor. I sacrificed so much sleep for this and worked myself half to death!

That said, even though sleep is precious, increasing the village's defense is crucial as well. I also need to make several of these devices. Only one won't cut it.

I plan to expand the search range, increase the alarm's volume, and add an electric barrier to the second prototype. I'll call it "Alarm No. 2 (Electric Execution)." By the time I reach No. 5, I should be close to something with practical use.

Another thing on my list is drawing up a map of the village and marking the areas where demons will strike. Then I'll have to distribute them to the villagers as a disaster prevention measure. As long as I designate a few evacuation centers on the map, people should head there in times of need. It'll be a good idea to litter the perimeter of these shelters with demon traps and barrier devices. For these countermeasures to last a full night is my current goal.

The demons appear to be weak against daylight, movement slowing into a trudge as soon as the sun rises, and as such giving the villagers an opportunity to escape.　

I sigh. I need to be certain that I won’t collapse from dizziness. After careful consideration, I rule out that possibility.

Naturally, there's still a long list of things waiting for me to check off, as there will be a ton of demons swarming the village in the future.

As usual, Marie greets me with a smile after I knock on the church's doors, her cheeks reminiscent of apples. "Welcome, Mr. Lian! Hehe. The children have been loitering around as they eagerly waited for you."

"h.e.l.lo, Ms. Marie. Haha. Is that so?"

"Yep!"

Well, it must be because I'm always bringing goodies along. Sugar is very expensive in these parts.

Unfortunately, this country doesn't produce sugar. Since sugar trees only grow in tropical climates, we won't be able to make any sugar even if we try. For this reason, we have to rely on pricey imports from the south, which drives up the price of confectionery. Kids don't normally get a chance to taste them, let alone eat them every week.

Similarly, in my original world, the general public can't eat frivolously.

Noticing my presence, several kids that are playing in the courtyard rush toward me.

"Ah, it's Mr. Lian!"

"Mr. Lian!"

"Hooray! Mr. Lian is here!"

"h.e.l.lo," I greet them with a smile. "Looks like everyone's doing fine today, hm? It's good to be healthy."

The kids burst into laughter. The little shorties' cheeks flush pink, shy smiles showing on their lips.

Three little kids tug on the hem of my spring coat. All three sport a head full of brown curls, the one on the right with red eyes, the one on the middle yellow, and green on the left. According to Marie, from right to left are the elder brother, elder sister, and youngest sister, but to me, they're indistinguishable.

"Mr. Lian, pway!"

"Pway with!"

"Come pway!"

"Sure. In a little bit." I pat each of their heads, flas.h.i.+ng them a bright smile. Ohh, so cute. I feel soothed. "Now, now. Mr. Lian is a busy person, so he can't push himself too hard, okay?"

"See you later, Mr. Lian!"

"Later!"

"Yes, yes." I wave my hand and see them off to the garden.

Whenever I come here, it's always lively. Totally different from the deathly silence of Lian's mansion.

I hand the paper bag with the scones to Marie. "Today's tea desserts are scones. Here you go."

"Oh my. What a delicious scent! Thank you as always. But even if you don't care about such things, is it really okay for you to spend so much money on the kids?"

"It's not a problem. Especially since you're letting me use that room. Besides, I'm just buying what I want to eat, so don't worry about it."

As I smile, Marie laughs and her cheeks dye red. "Hehehe. Is that so? Then I will serve some delicious tea!"

"Great! I can't wait to try it."

"Yes! Please look forward to it. I'll be working on some doc.u.ments on the first floor, so if you need anything, please call out. I'll be able to hear it from the stairs."

"Okay."

"Tea will be served at noon!"

"Thank you very much."

I bring the lunch and Marie brings the tea. Although in the past she has told me that she would prepare lunch as well, I don't want to be too indebted to her. I'll be an idiot to have the church pay for my food expenses every weekend.

Waving goodbye to Marie, I climb the stairs to the second floor, heading for the laboratory at the back.

I place my hand on top of the ident.i.ty scanner, a transparent stone fitted in the center of a small box made of waterproof wood. I pour magic into the device until stone glows orange. Even in a world like this, where the concept of electricity and batteries do not exist, there are some fundamental rules that cross over. For example, appliances need energy in order to perform their intended function. In that same regard, magical products require magic in order to work in this world.

Well, that's only natural. That's only natural but…

Anyway, this is a world of sword and magic. Thus, I want to act as if this were a soft and hazy fantasy world, G.o.ddess.

I sigh after completing three Alarm No. 2's. Despite being the size of my palm, they're highly efficient and pack a huge punch.

All of a sudden, my vision goes dark. The dizziness fades away immediately, but my head feels as heavy as lead. Perhaps I used too much magic to power the security feature. My body's still slightly shaking, the symptoms similar to those of anemia.

I guess I should take a break for now, get some of that tea Marie's brewing. Pus.h.i.+ng against the desk's surface, I slowly rise to my feet, body swaying in the process. However, the feeling of falling flat on my face subsides once I stop moving, so I'm able to leave the room.

Finally, I feel better.

When I reach the bottom of the stairs, my legs give in and I'm forced to sit down.

How regrettable. 

My blood is drained of magic power. I can't move. Try as I might, I can't push myself to my feet, the limbs heavy and lame.

It's useless. I can't even twitch my fingers.

It can't be helped. Let's just rest a bit like this. Maybe after a while I'll be back to normal. I lean against the wall and shut my eyes.

"Hey. Are you okay?"

What the. For some reason, this voice sounds familiar.

No, no way. That guy should be at his part-time job by now. He's definitely not here.

"h.e.l.lo? Pull yourself together."

He shakes my shoulders.

Eh. What is it?

Why is it you? No, it can't be. I've already confirmed his schedule. He's supposed to be working all day. That's what I originally thought, but—

As soon as my heavy eyelids flit open, I'm greeted by the sight of familiar and bright golden strands. Symmetrical face. Furrowed brows.

It's Alfred.

I cry out in surprise. Why is here? Breaking free of shock, I try to shrink away but my back hits the wall. My head smacks into the hard surface, making me even dizzier.

"H-hey. You okay? What's going on with you? …Are you not feeling well?"

"W-what are you doing here…?"

"Me? Oh, during my part-time job, the grandpa who was repairing the roof with me slipped. I tried to save him and ended up falling and breaking my arm."

"Hah?!"

"Anyway, he's fine so I'm happy. He told me to go see the doctor and take the day off. So here I am."

For some reason, the fact that he can just say this without a care in the world makes me upset!

"The bone is f-fractured?!" Upon closer inspection, there are bandages wrapped tightly around his left arm. "T-that's right! I have a top-cla.s.s recovery item! W-wait a second, I'll g-give it to you. It's not strong enough to mend bone, but it can temporary reinforce it. Not to mention, offer some pain relief…"

As I thrust a hand into my jacket pocket, he suddenly restrains my arm.
"No need. Dr. k.u.ma already set the bone a while ago. As long as I don't move it around too much, it should heal without an issue."

Recovery items aren't some sort of panacea. They're things they can't heal. For example, bone fractures. However, there are more powerful remedies that can deal with serious injuries. Just be sure to dish out a lot of cash in that case. The common ma.s.ses? Don't even dream of getting your hands on it. Even the ones with deep pockets can't buy these remedies whenever they want.

That's why, there are people like Dr. k.u.ma, who can set bones without the help of these overpriced items. That's impossible to do unless one studies medicine and magic technique.

Alfred leans in slightly. "Won't it be better if you use it instead of me?"

"Me? No, I don't need it."

"Really? But your face… It's really pale."

Is that true? I don't really understand it myself. "No worries. It'll be back to normal after I rest…"

Even after I say that, Alfred's brows remain crinkled. Why's that? It's just magic deficiency. It's almost the same as having anemia. As such, recovery items can't offer any relief.

"Should I bring you to Dr. k.u.ma?"

"That's not necessary," I say, shaking my head. It'll be a pain to explain everything to him.

"Well then… Do you want me to take you home?"

"No, I don't want that. I don't want to go back." I've already told everyone at home I'll be at the library. If they see Alfred taking me home, that'll just raise too many questions. And I don't have the patience to deal with that.

Alfred sports an unusual and troubled expression. He lets out a sigh. "Then stay put at least. You shouldn't even walk to the living room—"

"Yes, yes. I'll stay right here. I should probably be better after resting a bit. Quickly return to your room. Don't forget, you're injured too. I don't mind if you leave me alone."

"I won't leave you. Because even when I had fallen in such a place, you…" Grasping my arm, he lends a shoulder to me to hold on to, but I shake it off.

Anyway, I just want you to quickly leave already.

It's too much of a ha.s.sle to elaborate any further. My head's spinning and my body doesn't move the way I want it to. I don't think I can successfully deceive him they way I am.

Oh, that's right. I need to spin a good story to Alfred explaining why I'm here. What's a good excuse—

"My father asked me to check and confirm if the church's management has improved."

"I see. It's fine if you don't talk anymore."

With great effort, I turn my head but am stopped short of a full round. Alfred's hand rests on my forehead, holding it in place.

"…You don't have a fever. On the contrary, isn't your temperature too low? It's really cold… Hey, are you sure you're okay? I think it's better to bring you to the doctor after all—"

"I'm not going. Leave me alone already!" As soon as I shout, Alfred's face grows sullen. His glare is sharp enough to cut.

Ahh, looks like he hates me now. Well, since he's disliked me in the past, it shouldn't be that big of a deal, right? Since there's no way to escape being disliked, this should be fine, right? Indeed. That's correct.

To be hated is part of my role. So, why am I shocked about this?

Right now, I want you to admit it. In any case, you hate me, don't you? I know at least that much.

"…Go to your room."

I say this, but Alfred stubbornly crouches before me, giving no hint of leaving anytime soon. He's pouting, brows furrowed and deep in thought.

"Could it be 'magic deficiency?'" he whispers.

In the past, Alfred suffered from an illness due to an opposite underlying cause. Unlike his, mine is the result of magic overuse.

"I wonder if I can transfer magic to you." He's still muttering something to himself.

Magic transfer.

As the name implies, this is the transfer of magic power from one person to another. However, there's no guarantee for success. If the magic between the two is not compatible, the act will cause more harm than good. In that regard, it's like a blood transfusion. You'll feel pain and discomfort if a rejection occurs. During that lesson in our intermediate magic technique cla.s.s, I tried performing a magic transfer with a cla.s.smate. I ended up doubling over with pain and felt ill afterward. That was seriously an awful lesson.

Thus, I shake my head to his suggestion.

"…No need. You're injured. Anyway, I'll be better in a flash. Otherwise, Ms. Marie and the children will worry about you…" And me too. I'll also be worried. Why are you always hurt? You realize you're injured but you hesitate to go to the hospital, opting to let it heal on its own because of your financial status. Well, it seems to work. Miraculous resilience as the future hero and all that.

Somehow, I manage to move my arms and thrust the recovery item into his breast pocket.

"I have an extra, so I'll give this to you. Thanks for being concerned for my sake. Oh, you don't have to worry. Unlike you, I'm rich. I have a ton at home and they'll just rot if no one uses them."

Just accept it. You forever-injured person.

Alfred looks at his breast pocket, then turns his attention to me. He's expressionless. As expected, I don't have a clue what he's thinking. Out of nowhere, he grabs hold of my wrist and rolls up my sleeve.

The place where his skin meets mine gradually grows warmer. It's like a hot compress.

No way.

"…Does is hurt? Does it feel uncomfortable?"

"What are you doing…?"

"It hurts?"

"No, it doesn't hurt but, you…"

"Are you feeling sick?"

"No, but…"

"…Then, do you feel okay?"

What's going on?

"…Yeah. Like the doctor said, the transfer of magic through the skin takes too long," says Alfred, a thoughtful look to his eyes. "And the amount is not enough. The sun's about to set."

He looks at me.

What? What are you looking at?

He says, "I wonder if through the mucous membranes is the quickest way after all."

Stop it.

He's not wrong; there should be an emergency procedure like that.

Artificial respiration.

He grasps my chin. I want to put a stop to it but my body doesn't move.

And our lips meet. I feel something warm flow into my mouth. It's kind of like when you drink sake.

Then Alfred tilts his face back slightly, breaking into a smile.

"…Looks like we're compatible."

In such a case, the magic powers mix well, permeating and blending with the body, giving both parties an intoxicating, pleasurable sensation…

When the professor had lectured about magic transfusions in cla.s.s, he smiled like a criminal during that section. There's no mistake about it. Perverted geezer confirmed.

He also said that the compatibility increases at night. But that information is unnecessary.

"I'm fine now so… Alfr—"

He presses his mouth against mine once more. This time, there's a huge burst of warmth.

"…Nngh…"

It's as though warm sake is being poured into my mouth mercilessly, in an endless fas.h.i.+on.

A terrible wave of intoxication crashes into me. Like heat, it is difficult to shape, and flows into me, crus.h.i.+ng all hopes of resisting. It enters in large quant.i.ties, swirling and coiling within the body at its own convenience.

That said, my body does not reject it. In fact, it gobbles it up like a dehydrated man in the face of water. I know that this is just the start, this act of greedily absorbing. I know this, but my body feels so hot and painful. Furthermore, my head is spinning. And burning up. Sweat flows down my skin like a waterfall.

It's hot, so hot. Trembles run through my entire body. I want it to stop. I'm already at my limit. I can't accept anything beyond this. It's overflowing. I've had enough. It has completely exceeded my capacity.

It's too hot and it hurts.

What is this? I really don't know.

But why is there pleasure mixed in with the pain?

Although the strength of the exchange is slowly waning, I still can't control my body. There is nothing I can do.

The lips that press against mine retreat. Opening my eyes, I'm greeted by trembling blue orbs, orbs that peer down at me. I lean in, face painted with surprise, throwing my arms forward to support myself.

He’s holding me.

Why does his body seem bigger than mine? Because of this, I really can’t move an inch.

After confirming my dazed condition, Alfred opens his eyes curiously and tilts his head. This b.a.s.t.a.r.d. What did you do? I can no longer raise my arms. I can't even twitch a single finger.

"…Huh? How strange. And here I thought the magic transfer was working fine."

Even though I'm pressing my lips tightly together, he somehow manages to spread them apart.

"…You… you suck at adjusting…"

"Adjusting?"

"The amount transferred… there was too much…" Every person has a set amount of magic they can hold in their body. Past that, and it will overflow, causing one to collapse.

Kind of like what's happening to me right now!

Muttering to himself, Alfred nods as though he understands what I said.

“That's no good. I see, so I gave you too much magic power. Yeah. Moderating the transfer is harder than I thought."

Speak for yourself! Your magic is strange.

By the way, why did I even let him use this method on me? That s.h.i.+tty geezer said the "mucous membrane contact" method should only be applied in emergencies. So why did he do it? Not only that, but why doesn't he seem worn out at all? What's he thinking? s.c.r.e.w.i.n.g around?

That b.a.s.t.a.r.d's so calm after kissing me—

Nononono.

"…You… Idiot… Fool… Better believe it…"

"It was wrong of me to do that. However, your temperature's gone back to normal. Before, you were way too cold. Like a block of ice. Ah, but then later, you started burning up. Yeah. I'm not sure… I should take you to Dr. k.u.ma after all—"

"I'm not going."

Summoning his willpower, Alfred quickly stops himself from saying anything, and instead responds with a sigh.

"…I'm fine… I just need to… lay down for a bit …. So calm down…"

"Are you positive?"

I nod. I've relaxed a little so as long as I keep still, the heat should fill my body.

"Understood." As soon as the words leave his lips, he scoops one hand under my knee and tosses me over his shoulder.

His body is as ridiculously strong as ever. However, his way of holding me is too forceful! Plus, the blood's all flowing to my head! Oh, my vision's growing dark…

Meanwhile, Alfred's climbing the stairs without a clue in the world about my current condition. Where are you taking us?

Cut it out already.

Despite having more complaints, I can't sustain my consciousness any longer… My last thought was whether he can finish carrying me up the stairs.

°•°•°

I wake up to an unfamiliar room. It’s dreary and slightly unpleasant, containing only the bare minimums. After scanning the area, I realize Alfred's not present. I place a hand on my chest, gently stroking it.

Perhaps I went out of character due to how distressed I had been.

No, you can't be serious!

This guy totally lacks common sense! I should have kissed one of my fangirls first!

I'm going to cry.

No, it's not the same. Right, that kiss didn't count. Alright. Finally in a better mood, I climb out of the bed. I tiptoe to the door to the living room, cracking it open just a little. Soft streams of light flow in.

Marie sits at the table alone, scribbling on some doc.u.ments. The children are nowhere in sight. Neither is Alfred.

When she looks up, her face morphs into the picture of surprise. The pen drops from her hand, the sound of impact echoing throughout the room. "…Oh my! Mr. Lian? Are you feeling better already? After hearing that you collapsed, I was seriously worried!"

"Y-yes, I'm fine now all because of Ms. Marie! So please don't worry too much."

"You say this but…" The look of concern remains.  "Are you sure you're feeling better?"

"Yes. Sorry to worry you."

"It's fine, it's fine. It's good as long as you're okay. I feel like a weight has been lifted from my chest," says Ms. Marie, placing her hands on top of her heart, a look of pure relief painted on her face.

"Anyway, where is Alfred?"

"Alfred? He's off at his night s.h.i.+ft. I told him to take a break yesterday, but it looks like he didn't listen. What a troublesome child."

"I-is that so?"

Thank goodness!! I’m practically leaping for joy!

Now that it's mentioned, I recall seeing this revision on part-time schedule report! His s.h.i.+ft's at a night bar!

Eh?!

Didn't he just break his arm?! Is he an idiot? What is he thinking? No, he's obviously dumber than me. His face doesn't match his foolishness!

"U-um, excuse me Ms. Marie. I should really head home soon."

"Oh my. Is that so? Maybe you should take your time…"

"I-it's fine! The sun's already setting!" Sure enough, it's pitch black outside.

Looks like I was out cold for a while. Probably slept soundly for half a day. Hey, hey. I was super tired.

After a moment of contemplation, Marie agrees with my decision. "Please take care of yourself. And please, give yourself a break occasionally. Lately, you've been looking very tired."

"Eh, r-really?"

"Yeah! You've been working too hard! It makes me worried about you. Please don't push yourself so much!"

"T-that's kind of…"

But Marie’s stubborn. "It's true. Please take it easy tomorrow. The body needs an occasional break. You'll collapse if you work without rest!" Puffing her cheeks, Marie points a small finger at me. Despite its size, the strength of its push was surprising.

"S-sorry."

"Hehe. Oh yeah, you're welcome to come by any day. You don't have to limit yourself to the weekend. As long as you say it's for wors.h.i.+p, even Al won't think it's strange. This church is open to the public after all."

"Y-yes…" Although I feel emotional from what she said, I manage to hold in my tears. Please don't issue a surprise attack with such kind words. Otherwise, I won't know what to do.

My head is clear on the way home. Moreover, my body no longer feels heavy. Perhaps it's due to sleeping half a day. Now I'm alert in the dead of night. In hindsight, pouring so much magic power into those Alarm No. 2's was a bad idea.

My brain is shutting down from recalling everything.

Anyway, sleep is important. From now on, let's make sure I don’t stay out too late.

°•°•°

Monday morning.

As soon as Alfred spots me, he heads straight in my direction, not paying the three lackeys around me any mind. Stuck in the cla.s.sroom, a public s.p.a.ce, I can't escape in the opposite direction. I'm stuck watching him come closer and closer, dread sinking in as I kick up a cold sweat.

He's here!

I'm begging you, please! Don't come any closer!

"Hey."

I click my tongue. "W-what?"

"Have you gotten better?"

"Eh? I don't know what you're talking about!"

He arches a brow. I wait for his reply, heart thras.h.i.+ng against my chest. If he's going to go on about what happened Sat.u.r.day, I'll just deny everything. That's right, wash it away without a trace.

'Oh, was there such a thing? I don't remember anything.' I feel like that's the best tactic.

So, ready when you are. I'll skillfully cut through your words.

Simulations of every possible path our conversation can take zip through my mind. Each lack a vein of subtlety. My impatience is flaring up.

That's why I say I suck at adlib and irregular development! 

"…You."

"W-what is it? Oh, cla.s.s is starting. How about you get to your seat?" That's right! I'm rus.h.i.+ng to my desk! So scurry off to yours too!

As he watches me, Alfred lets out a large sigh. What the heck. Such a rude guy. He actually sighed in front of someone's face.

"…Well, I thought you were okay, but…"

"You thought correctly! I am totally fine! …Thanks to your help…" I mutter the last part. Although it's true he had a hand in my recovery, thanking him bluntly is the worst!

Once the words my lips, no matter how soft they were, Alfred drops his jaw. Why is he smiling like that? Like he's teasing me. That's my trademark! You're not allowed to steal it!

In the blink of an eye, he draws close to my face. "…If you're running low on magic again, let me know."

I sputter. "W-what are you saying?! Just go sit down in your seat!" The three lackeys step between me and Alfred, forming a wall. I'm saved!

Never have I thought there'll be a day I'll depend on them so much!

"That's right, what are you getting so close to Lian for? This poor person really has guts!"

"You don't have permission to approach him!"

"That's right, that's right!"

Shrugging, Alfred returns to his seat with a laugh.

That's why you're such a bully! d.a.m.n it! I'll make you pay during the noon sword lesson. I'll wear you down until you can't stand.

Just thinking about it is making me giddy with excitement.

carrot and stick¹: Raws actually say "candy and whip" 飴とムチ, but I believe this phrase makes more sense in English.

24 pages, I kid you not. Holy. I’m so tired. As promised, chapter 9 is out roughly 2 weeks from chapter 8’s release. I’m arching my eyebrows at the “mucous membrane contact method” part. Pretty sure that’s just the literal translation. There’s probably a better way of saying it, which I’ll figure out after I edit this some more. Chapter 10 is 23 pages haha… It’s also in Alfred’s POV. I have a string of exams coming up since my break is practically over, thus the next chapter will be out in roughly 2 weeks (+1-3 days, maybe.) Next release for this blog, however, will probably be VD or Violant, depending on the length.

As always, if you enjoyed this chapter, please leave a like or a comment below, and rate/review this novel on NU if you can!

You can also add to my  wink wink.

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