Chapter 1.15 — Confusion, Confrontation & A Certain Lady

  A loud voice echoed through the hall from Tess’s office.

  “What do you mean, I’m expelled ” I widened my eyes as I held up the paper.

  Tess was expressionless. “It's as it says… you cannot continue your attendance due to not being qualified. Also, the Marquess relieved you of your duty as Lady Anja's tutor.”

  A vein popped in my head as I frowned… staring her down—well, as best as someone could stare down a tower!

  “Do my other qualifications not satisfy you? Did I not live up to your expectations?" I folded my arms, my vein pulsing hard as I tried to compose myself.

  “You already know that,” Tess said coldly, folding her arms.

  Ohh, she’s not gonna play this game?

  I moved close, putting the paper on the table. “Then this is invalid.”

  Tess sharpened her gaze as she towered over me, her hands slightly tightening around her arms. “You really want to force it out of me? You might be seven years old, but I know you're not stupid.”

  “How terrible of me to force a lady to be honest.” I leaned back, smirking.

  “You’re gonna be a terrible man when you grow up.” Tess said with a hint of tremble in her voice, slightly pouting.

  I slid the paper over to her. “An inconclusive appraisal only means there are some things I cannot do… I’m sorry that you and the Marquess wasted your time trying to get me into the Royal Academy—but you don’t need to expel—”

  —Tess slammed her fist on the table. “No, it means there's no place for you, not here, not anywhere!”

  I widened my eyes.

  Seriously, I knew knowing your Nexus Discipline was important, but I didn't realize how deeply it tied to your whole identity.

  Actually… It makes sense.

  If they don’t know your Discipline, they can’t know what you're good or bad at. They don’t know what jobs you’re suited for, or even how to train you.

  It's kind of not knowing your blood type.

  Tess sharpened her gaze.

  “Even if you weren't old enough to fully take the test—the runes and spheres would have flickered and fluctuated between different colors and sizes, never fully settling.

  But yours? Nothing. As if the Orb didn't even recognize you.

  That’s why they think you’re cursed, that’s why I have to do this!”

  Her voice cracked and echoed through the room.

  Then silence… as we, for a moment, stared at each other.

  I let out a deep sigh. “See, was that so hard?” My lips curled into a grin.

  “Huh?” Tess looked at me, her expression turned from anger to surprise.

  “Geez… I'm not that stupid, just don't give me some vague stupid reason for throwing me out!”

  Tess froze as she blinked, processing the situation—then.

  “Pff… hahaha!!” Tess fell down into her chair as she broke out in laughter.

  My eyes drifted over to the door. ”You can come out now, don’t hide.”

  The door slowly opened as a figure peeked in, it was Ann—hiding.

  “Umm, I’m sorry.” Ann spoke with an embarrassed voice, “I don't want to intrude."

  “You know, you’re not supposed to see me anymore?” I raised a brow.

  Tess calmed down as she gestured to Ann, “You can come in.”

  Tess then turned towards me as her face turned serious.

  “I know you disagree with this letter. But as a public person I cannot state the truth, as to why you are being expelled. It could be used against the orphanage if it's proven to be false!”

  I frowned as I showed her my discontent with the situation, “I know, but I just cannot agree to this.”

  Ann sighed and looked down at the floor. She paused for a moment, and I could feel her sadness weighing down on her.

  “You're not the only one suffering, you know?” Tess' voice hardened as she curled her hands together as if she were about to pray, lifting her clasped hands to cover the lower half of her face.

  “For the sake of this orphanage I have to let you go, not only as a student but also as my apprentice!” Tess' voice slightly cracked as she tightened her hands—hiding her expression.

  Ann’s eyes widened as she leaned in. “Why?—why do you have to—”

  “—I don't want to… but just like your father—if Leo stays here it will be seen as a sign of bad omen… we will lose all funding from both the village and nobles—and what do you think would happen to the children without homes?” Tess stared at Ann with a firm gaze.

  Ann's shoulders slumped as she came to the realization.

  Tess turned her head towards me. “I’m sorry, but I cannot run that risk. Also, this will be the last time we see each other.” She spoke softly as she slowly turned her gaze away.

  I froze in place as I could barely contain my anger, my blood was boiling as I tightened my fist as hard as I could… the backwards thinking, the superstitions—

  being thrown out as garbage just because you don't fit in.

  As I was standing there fuming, it was quite obvious—I was not happy… then, I felt a hand on my shoulder.

  “It’s alright, you still have your family… and me, I promise I’m not going to abandon you.” Ann said with a warm smile as her soft voice cut through my anger.

  My anger began to subside as I regained my composure as I nodded. That’s right, I still have people who care about me.

  “Master, thank you for everything.” I bowed to Tess and turned, walking away not looking back.

  ***

  As we walked away from the orphanage I looked back for a brief moment as I remembered the first time I met Tess… even though she was intense, she truly cares for this place. That's why I need to respect her decision—no matter how much it sucks.

  Soon we arrived at the village market. Despite Ann hiding her face under her hood from the moment we left the orphanage, I could see her uneasy expression lingering—well, of course; she was defying her father by being here with me.

  As we walked around the people froze, whispers began to travel through the market. “Hey isn't he?”, the murmurs spread further, “a dark haired boy? He’s the cursed one.” Their voices trembled as they stared and pointed at me, like some freak show!

  Ann looked around concerned as she glanced at the people through her hood with a concerned look… I thought that maybe she was afraid someone would recognize her, since the Marquess's daughter strolling around town—might cause unnecessary attention….

  Well guess what—that’s my job now!

  “Uhm… shouldn't you also hide under a hood? I don't think I would be strong enough to protect you if something happened” Ann's voice trembled as her eyes drifted around, concerned.

  I widened my eyes as I stared at her.

  Ohh, she's just really concerned about me—aww, she's really a kind girl…

  Then I remembered the fate that awaited her, but that far in the future… maybe she can avoid it…

  As I was lost in thought, still staring at Ann, the whispers around us grew and jolting me back to reality. I gritted my teeth looking around as those village idiots kept staring at us…

  You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.

  My blood began to boil as I gripped the handle of my sword tight, trying to compose myself… Ann shouldn't worry about me being the one who's attached, since at that moment I was the one who wanted to attack those stupid villagers…

  I took a quick glance around me expecting them to mock me, but to my surprise—the villagers looked more uneasy as it was, as if they're scared.

  Ahh, no Leo, calm down… I can't act on impulse.

  I sighed as I loosened my grip on my sword—then it suddenly hit me…

  Wait, what was it Ann's father said at the temple gates?

  My lips curled into a sly grin as I sneered.

  “Don’t worry Ann—this will be good training for them.” I puffed up my chest.

  Ann tilted her head, she was clearly confused by my statement. As we walked some more, it became clear that the whispers and rumors had spread throughout the entire region as almost everyone stared and pointed at me… to say I was angry is an understatement, as I really wanted to punch everyone in their stupid faces!

  After a while we had finally arrived at the inner market. I turned my head to Ann as a smirk formed on my lips. “Let me show you what I mean.”

  I walked into the market as I began talking to the vendors. All of them froze as they followed me with their eyes—but I didn't care… as I spoke to them casually, buying whatever I needed.

  “A little bit of this, a little of that… is this enough to pay, or?” I asked in a calm voice as I moved through the different stalls.

  Ann’s face slowly turned from worry to surprise, as every vendor complied with my demands without any incident.

  After buying whatever I needed, I met up with her and we continued our walk.

  “I can't believe you just did that… weren't you afraid?" Ann was awestruck.

  “Ohh, did you think something bad would happen?” I grinned.

  "Well, I mean, wouldn't people get attacked if others thought they’re cursed? Or be thrown out?” Ann spread her arms as she gaped in disbelief.

  I took a deep breath as my smirk only grew bigger. “Yes that is true, the reason why they don’t dare to do anything… is because of you, or more precisely—your family!”

  She titled her head as Ann didn't completely follow for logic.

  “Remember what your father said at the appraisal ceremony, that he would take full responsibility! So why do you think people are leaving me alone?” I waved my index finger as if I was giving a lecture.

  Ann’s eyes widened as the light bulb in her head went off. “Ahh, of course… because father let you go and don't do anything… they can't do anything to you!”

  “Bingo… since the Marquess has done nothing, letting me go freely—the people under his territory cannot oppose him… so his earlier declaration was intentional.” I explained.

  “Wait, are you saying father knew this would happen?” Ann placed her hand on my shoulder, as we momentarily came to a stop.

  I furrowed my brow, “No he couldn't have, he was probably expecting the appraisal with the Seer to be different… but nonetheless, it's because of his actions that I know I'm safe—at least in this region.”

  “Also, we cannot be seen together or that protection will disappear…so we have to—”

  “—I won't let that happen!” Ann shouted with a firm voice, “even if father were to find out, I will keep you safe… I promise."

  I widened my eyes as I was caught off guard by her resolve… Before realizing it I let out a small chuckle, “very well.”

  Ann smiled, then looked down for a moment as if to process the situation.

  “So what now?” She asked as she raised her head.

  I raised a brow as I gave her a slight smirk.

  ***

  At the outskirts of the village, we stepped inside Simon's clinic. I still remembered the last time I was here—Jen had knocked me out cold.

  Yep, I can still feel the bump on top of my head.

  Inside was the usual mess, with shelves overflowing with herbs, books, potions and other mingled items. The floor was drowning in paper, and the smell of burnt chalk filled the air. Simon seemed like he was brewing something.

  Honestly, I'm a bit worried for Simon. He looked like someone who hadn't slept for years, with bags under his eyes and messy hair as he looked at us.

  “Ahh, you finally came… so, what can I do for you, Leo?” Simon looked up as he adjusted his glasses.

  I leaned in, “I need your help with something. Can I count on you?”

  “Hmm…” Simon paused for a moment as he was in deep thought, “So, she went through with it then?”

  I tilted my head, “Wait, you knew?”

  Simon nodded, “Tessaria might not be a noble, but given her position she has to know how to make tough decisions… besides, she came here earlier for my advice.”

  Ann’s eyes widened in shock. “Wait so it's because of you she exiled him?” She gritted her teeth.

  “She only asked for my advice, it was ultimately her own choice… despite her having limited options.” Simon’s expression unchanged as he pushed his glasses back up.

  “Besides, Tess did ask me to help you if you came asking.” Simon said with a slight grin.

  “Wait master asked you to do that?” Ann leaned back in surprise.

  I raised a brow, "that's awfully kind of you? But are you sure you want to help someone who’s cursed?” Slightly gritting my teeth.

  “Those are mere superstitions, from what I understand there is no evidence to suggest that you are truly cursed! Besides, I don't have anything to do with noble society anymore, so rest assured—there’s no problem associating myself with you.”

  “Do you have any idea why my appraisal showed nothing?” I folded my arms as I asked curiously.

  “No, I've not been able to find any explanation, but honestly—you’ve always been an intriguing case ever since Jen and Grey found you… so don't worry, I'll lend my assistance to the best of my abilities.” Simon placed a hand over his heart.

  “What do you need Leo?” Simon spoke as his face turned serious.

  Ann turned her head towards me as she looked curiously on, about what I was going to say.

  I took a step closer to Simon as I handed him a piece of paper.

  “I need this from the Prima Library.”

  Simon's expression remained unchanged as he read the content.

  “I see… I'll have this for you shortly.”

  I nodded as Ann and I left the clinic.

  “What did you ask for?” She scratched her head, still confused.

  “Ohh… just something I'm working on for Tess.” I lifted my head, staring at the sky.

  “Wait, but didn't she say it was the last time you’d see each other? How are you—”

  —I placed my hand on Ann’s shoulder. “Just trust me on this, okay.”

  Ann nodded slightly, a hint of hesitation in her movement.

  I smiled. “Also, I need your help with something.”

  ***

  A few days later…

  —Cleinwalth Home Orphanage—

  I stood alone outside the door, knocking as a familiar voice called out from the other side.

  Tess’s expression turned to shock the moment she realized it was me.

  “What part of this is the last time we met—didn't you understand?” she gritted her teeth as her voice slightly trembled.

  Ignoring her remark, I closed the distance between us.

  She furrowed her brow as she shook her head.

  I stopped an arm’s length away. As she towered over me, her gaze became cold.

  She folded her arms—as if challenging me to a dual.

  I reached into my cloak and pulled out a book and held it up right in front of her face.

  “Here, I borrowed this for you.” I handed her the book with a slight grin.

  Tess hesitated for a moment, then, with a confused look, she accepted the book.

  “I don’t know what you're doing… but this is going too far, Mr. Nachman.” Her eyes were cold.

  “Ohh, don’t be like that… this is my homework—remember? The one you gave me after scolding me so hard.” I raised both hands, shaking my head.

  Tess tilted her head, her expression turned into more confusion.

  “Your homework? But that’s not relevant anymore.”

  My grin grew wider as I looked down, trying to hide my excitement.

  “Ahh, yes that’s true… but Tess—I know what you’re doing!” I raised an eyebrow.

  “Huh? What I’m doing… I don't quite understand what you mean?” Her tone hardened as she towered over me, looking down on me.

  I sighed. “Weird symbols, the Prima Library, getting me into the Royal Academy as a Language Scholar… it all fits quite nicely when you think about it.”

  Tess took a deep breath and remained composed. “There, you’ve done it, you speak utter nonsense… how does any of those relate, especially with this book?”

  I nodded as I took the book from her and turned to a certain page. The text was barely visible, and the symbols were old and almost unreadable to the naked eye.

  As I scanned the content, I took a pen-like tool that I've borrowed from Grey and slowly hovered it over the page… a bead of sweat rolled down my face as I muttered the steps.

  “Wait, it’s that tool used for carving Manashells?” Tess leaned in with a surprised look.

  I nodded. “Yes, but please don't disturb me. If I make a mistake, it will all be for nothing." My voice slightly trembled as I felt my stomach twisting.

  Crap, my hand is shaking… Come on Leo, calm down—you’ve solved this before in the game, remember? I already went through my game-notes last night, so I just need to follow the plan…

  I composed myself as I took a deep breath. “It's not called hard mode for nothing.” A slight smile formed on my lips as I began scratching out some of the symbols.

  I then handed the book back to Tess as she held it open in her arms… She shook her head, still not understanding what was going on… “I don’t…”

  Immediately, I scratched over the last symbol, and energy suddenly surged out of the page. The text glowed like fire, and unknown symbols manifested, surrounding us as a hologram.

  Tess shot up straight—her eyes frantically scanning the room trying to process it… “It can't be… This is—”

  I slammed the book shut, and the symbols vanished as I yanked the book out of her hands.

  I spun around. “Well, you don't need this, I guess.” I looked back as I walked away.

  But before I reached the door, a hand grabbed me by the shoulder, stopping me.

  I glanced back. Tess’s expression turned desperate as she panted heavily from the sudden exertion. She looked away as she suddenly realized what she had done and quickly retracted her hand.

  Tess took a deep breath as she straightened her posture, composing herself.

  “Maybe… we should talk?”