Hello, this is Corita.
I remember the first time I posted this series in the winter of 2020. I was trembling because of just how cold it was. Before I realized it, two years had passed and it was already the summer of 2022. Time sure flies by fast.
During the nineteen months I uploaded The Extra's Academy Survival Guide, a lot has happened to me—personally and to the story.
Actually, this is the first time I've written a novel this long.
Two hundred fifty chapters and an average of 10,000 Korean characters per chapter. But normally, novels can go for around 400 chapters… Now that I've finished this story, my respect for established writers has grown immensely.
Just how many hardships have the established writers who have done this over and over gone through?
As this was my first time, I can't even begin to imagine.
I've thought a lot about how I should write my postscript after I finished the novel completely.
However, now that I've truly finished it and am writing my postscript, I'm not really sure what to write.
I would first like to greatly thank the readers. The reason I can continue to write something like this is because there are people who enjoy reading it.
I imagined writing a stereotypical thank you with all sorts of flowery language, but the longer I expressed my thanks, the less sincere it felt.
So, I won't keep on talking about it. After all, it's an obvious fact, so there's no need for me to go into much detail.
Thank you so much to everyone who read my novel.
I have never once forgotten that the reason I can keep on writing what I want is because there is someone who will read it.
Since you've read The Extra's Academy Survival Guide, I'm sure you've realized it as well, but there are still a few things left over.
The story of the Ultimate Wind Spirit in Pulan. The story of the old fox, Slogg, in Oldek. And the secret between Zellan and Glockt that still remains unsolved.
The protagonist Ed Rothstaylor has reached an excellent ending to his story, but he still lives as an outsider in another world.
I think I will continue telling the story of Ed Rothstaylor and the relationships around him as he completely settles into living in another world.
As for the side stories… They will probably be written as I see fit, just like back when this story was first uploaded for free. In fact, back then I felt as if I was able to concentrate on my writing the most.
There were many times I hit my forehead because there were many things I ended up regretting and realized later, as I ran out of time to write.
Still, I will try and write with the mindset that I should upload at least one chapter every three days, just like I did back then.
However, rather than making a confirmed promise with the readers… For now, I will keep this as a promise to myself.
After taking a week off, I will see you again on Monday, June 13th, with Yennekar Palerover's Side Story: Wind Flower.
Even though the story was long and there were days I was absent, thank you for reading my story until the very end.
I love you.
(2022. 6. 4.)
From, Corita
-x-X-x-
Side Story 1: Wind Flower (1)
People from Pulan called the pansies that bloomed along the mountain ridge 'Wind Flowers'.
Since everyone in the village had been calling it that for as long as she could remember, Yennekar had also called that beautiful flower Wind Flower since she was a young girl.
As you walked down the open mountain ridge, you could feel the warm sunlight shining through the clouds in the blue sky. It was easy to feel as if time had stopped.
When she was a young girl, Yennekar would joyfully hold onto her picnic bag and walk down the bridge with the wind sweeping across her cheeks.
Whoosh.
The wind gently brushed against her skin and fluttered her pink hair. Feeling that special early spring wind hit her body, she was filled with a refreshing sensation that was hard to describe in words.
Raising her head, she could see the top of the mountain, which was white with snow.
Cows grazed on the edge of the ridge on the other side. Walking down the road, she watched butterflies flap their wings as they flew by. She sat down on the nearby grass to take a break. She listened to the pleasant chirping of birds as she looked up at the open sky once more.
Looking at the peaceful and romantic landscape in Pulan, it was as if you were living in a world where all worries and anguish were gone.
Yennekar Palerover was born and raised in such a fairytale land.
She didn't realize how much of a blessing that was, but she was at least aware that her everyday life was joyful.
If she had someone she loved, she wanted to walk down that road with them… She then shook her head, wondering what such a thought meant.
Yennekar was still young. That meant her entire world was also much too small. At that moment, all she cared about were her family and neighbors.
All of the beloved people she kept deep in her heart as they lived together happily in Pulan. It was hard for her to think of wanting to introduce that sight to someone else.
That was because everyone she knew was already well aware of just how beautiful the scenery was.
The girl brushed her fingers through her hair as she reached her hand out towards the sky. The sunlight fell between her fingers, tickling the corners of her eyes.
She was to leave for Silvenia Academy next year.
Leaving the beautiful town of Torren behind, she was to go off and enter a new world. Yennekar might have been young enough to live in that rural village up to that point, but the life ahead of her was long and wide.
She would be lying if she said she wasn't nervous, but the thought of going to new places and meeting new people made her heart beat faster.
It was a feeling she couldn't experience while she was stuck in Pulan, helping at the ranch.
She breathed in the fresh air, putting her mind at peace.
She then looked up to see the wide-open mountain ranges of Pulan.
That peaceful, fairytale-like land would be the starting point and ending point for the girl named Yennekar Palerover.
After heading out into that vast world, meeting many new people, and experiencing many new things, only then would she finally be able to return.
The girl's journey was like a round circle, always leading back to the start. She closed her eyes as she leaned against a fence set up by the roadside.
The beautiful flowers were swaying gently. The flowers that bloomed there swayed their heads with the wind all year round. That was why they were given the name "Wind Flower."
* * *
"I have to go to Pulan this week."
The afternoon Yennekar returned to her mansion, Ed Rothstaylor arrived and made a statement that was like a bolt out of the blue.
Even though Yennekar was treated as the mansion's owner, she had yet to fully adapt to her noble status.
Over the past two years, she had gotten somewhat used to it, but for a girl born and raised in a rural village, some things were still too difficult for her to handle alone.
So, from time to time Ed Rothstaylor would visit her house to help maintain it. She figured that was once again the purpose of his visit.
From her point of view, it was nice to be able to see him again, but… His unexpected remark forced her to put down her teacup for a moment.
"…Huh?"
For a moment, Yennekar doubted her ears.
Ed Rothstaylor needed to go to Pulan. That single, short, simple sentence wasn't fully processed at that moment.
"Before break ends, there's some work I need to take care of. It seems I'll have to personally go to Pulan to finish the research about the ultimate wind spirit."
"O-Oh… I see, Ed. Th-Then… Are you going near Torren Village?"
"That's why I came to talk to you. Since I'm going there, wouldn't it be better if I could bring along a local? I'm sure you're well aware of the ins and outs of Pulan. After all, it's your hometown."
Yennekar swallowed, her mouth feeling dry.
It had been almost six years since she left home. Four years at Silvenia Academy and two years within the Rothstaylor Estate.
She'd gone back to see her family before, but she'd never been to Pulan with Ed Rothstaylor… She couldn't help but break out into a cold sweat.
It was understandable.
The intimidating stare of the people in Pulan fell upon everyone equally, regardless of rank and class. When she visited the previous year, rumors about the two of them had already gotten out of control.
What started as a mere marketplace rumor had avalanched out of control. Now, pretty much everyone within the village saw the two of them as a couple. A good-natured man and a beautiful woman in a fated relationship that the heavens called for.
Rumors were terrifying. In particular, after Orte and Saila went to Acken Island and learned about her relationship with Ed, they became ever scarier.
Last year, when Yennekar visited, she was overwhelmed with the rumors and questions. However…
She never bothered to stop or deny them, but that didn't mean she agreed, either. That was because she didn't particularly hate them…
She couldn't say anything because she was shy. Without even realizing it, when she heard people talking about the rumors, the corners of her lips naturally rose…!
She knew it wasn't true, but she knew it wasn't right for her to support the rumors that were only growing larger and out of control. However, human emotions weren't something that you could control.
She couldn't help but feel good upon hearing those rumors. Regardless, Ed Rothstaylor was busy managing his own house and his job at the school.
He wasn't someone who had the energy or felt the need to care about the various rumors that circulated in a small town in an isolated region in Pulan. Why would the young master from the most powerful ducal house on the continent pay any mind to such a small local rumor?
That was how Yennekar Palerover rationalized her actions to herself.
"I already arranged for a carriage, so let's go together next week. I'll leave the management of your estate to Bell."
However, it was time for her to pay for her sins…
Yennekar struggled to calm her breathing and put on a smile.
Then she said, "I-I see… You need to go to Pulan. Haha… This will be your first time there, right? You will be really surprised when you go. It really is like a fairytale. The scenery is really beautiful… Hehe… Hehehe…"
But that doesn't mean you should go!
Although they were comfortable with each other, technically, Yennekar Palerover was a mere vassal of Ed Rothstaylor. Being directly beneath him, they were bound by a clear hierarchical relationship.
The only reason they were able to have a casual and pleasant conversation as they did back at Silvenia was all thanks to Ed's discretion. Thanks to his kind heart, he didn't want to have an uncomfortable relationship with her, thus allowing the two of them to have casual conversations.
However, it was impossible to truly break free of that hierarchical relationship. Ultimately, she was still beneath him. So, whatever Ed wanted to do, she couldn't do anything about it.
Of course, Ed would never dare order Yennekar to do something that would make her uncomfortable or put her in a difficult situation. However, when it came to something related to his work at the school or a public matter, it was inevitable that he would have to prioritize it over Yennekar's situation.
In other words… that meant Ed would definitely go to Pulan. And there was no way for Yennekar to stop him.
There was only one thing she could do.
"Ed… Uhm… I'm sorry!!! I'm sorry! But right now, in Torren… It's…!"
Ed frowned as he looked at Yennekar, who was suddenly apologizing with her head lowered.
* * *
The silence that remained for a while was quite heavy.
Yennekar sat facing Ed with her eyes closed and head bowed.
After hearing her explanation, Ed pulled the end of his magician's robe as he gathered his thoughts for a moment. He then opened his mouth.
"To sum it up, everyone in Torren Village thinks that the two of us are lovers, right…?"
A bolt of electricity ran down Yennekar's spine upon hearing those words.
Yennekar was flustered, having to fan her face with her hand for a moment. That embarrassed reaction of hers was still the same, even after so many years. In the first place, how else could she react?
"But how did things become like that…?"
"You should know since you met my parents… They're rather—well, they are people who like to gossip, so things sort of snowballed out of control, and… I'm sorry. I didn't know what to do."
In truth, it would be more accurate to say, "I didn't do anything," but of course Yennekar wouldn't say that.
It was only natural that she was embarrassed. No matter how close they were or how often they spoke, there was a limit. She couldn't possibly openly confess that she wanted to be with him like the rumors said.
Yennekar certainly desired to overcome that wall between her and Ed, but it was something that was difficult for the two of them to cross.
The most apparent issue was their difference in status.
There was a nearly unbridgeable gap in status between Yennekar, a baroness who was born as a commoner and barely managed to receive a bit of territory, and Ed, a young master born to a duke who was granted the protection of the royal family.
The person Ed ended up with was a crucial political issue that could ultimately affect the entirety of House Rothstaylor. It wasn't easy for Yennekar to simply step her foot into this arena.
Ed also knew that Yennekar felt pressure because of the difference in their status. So, he never forced her to work more than was necessary.
However, Yennekar didn't want to be protected by Ed under the title of Baroness forever.
Wouldn't it be better to use the opportunity of the rumors in Pulan to overcome that wall between them?
She came up with a strange possibility she would normally have never even imagined. She swallowed her dry saliva at the thought.
"I-In fact…th-the rumors have already spread so much… So, if I tell them it's not true—if I try to suddenly act like they aren't, they will just ignore me and think I'm a liar…"
"Is that so?"
"Yeah… Of course, I didn't want them to come up with those rumors, but… before I knew it, they had grown out of my control…"
"Can't we just tell them that we simply have the relationship of a vassal and lord?"
"I don't know… I don't think they will say anything. However, I'm sure that they will pity me on the inside…"
After thinking about that fact, Yennekar started to get a headache.
"Ah, our Yennekar must be so lonely… I can't imagine…"
"After all, Young Master Ed is an incredible and reliable man… It makes sense she would feel that way towards him…"
"I'm sorry… Yennekar…! I didn't realize your loneliness…!"
"You must have been so lonely! I guess you are of that age now!"
"But you're still young, so don't start worrying about becoming an old virgin! You're a noble and talented woman… There's no hurry for you…"
"Yennekar… I understand… You must have not wanted to lie about this either…"
"I would rather die…"
Thinking of the villagers' compassion and pitiful gazes, Yennekar pulled her hair.
"I imagined it as well. It's so suffocating that even I feel like throwing up, Yennekar."
"It's… fine… Since this is for your job, I'll take care of myself… Don't worry about it, Ed…"
Ed stared at Yennekar with a pale complexion. He sighed deeply as he threw the papers he was holding onto on the desk.
"Then I can just go along with it. That'll be fine, right?"
"Hm? What do you mean, Ed?"
"I'll just go along with it so that the rumors seem true. Since this is also directly related to your authority and image as a baroness… I can do at least this much…"
There was no reason for him to go along with the rumors to such an extent, but Ed still considered Yennekar special to him.
"So, I'll act according to the rumors this time. We can then both work on clearing up the rumors slowly, so your authority won't be undermined."
"R-Really…?"
"Yeah. It's not difficult for me to do. All we have to do is show the villagers how close we are, right? We can just act like usual then."
It was unusual for a mere baroness who was just given her title to have a casual conversation with the young master of House Rothstaylor.
"So… What are the rumors specifically about? I'll do whatever I can, so tell me."
Ed Rothstaylor was merciless towards his vassals and servants who made mistakes, but he was particularly merciful towards Yennekar Palerover.
Yennekar herself was well aware of that fact. She was so thankful for Ed's consideration towards her that tears started to form in her eyes.
"So…"
However, for Yennekar to say exactly what those rumors were was no different than torture.
"So…"
Yennekar fiddled around as she played with her fingers, lowering her head. Talking about the rumors that were snowballing out of control—she couldn't help but blush.
However, Ed Rothstaylor could only wait for her to speak.
"So…they said things about how we always walk around with our arms interlocked… Or how you kiss my forehead every time we make eye contact…"
Yennekar remained silent.
"When we are in a carriage together, we hold each other close… How I lean my head on your shoulder…"
"Why are there so many rumors…?"
"Rumors never make any sense in the first place…"
"But all this time, you never tried to deny them…?"
"I'm sorry!! I made a mistake!"
Ed moved his bangs to the side in disbelief. He needed time to organize his thoughts.
However, there was no need for him to think of things in too much detail.
"Alright, keep talking."
"I'm sorry… I'm feeling a little hot, so I need to take a short break…"
"Alright, please take your time."
"Uhm… Well… All of the other rumors are similar to those. Holding hands and kissing in secret… And at night… Uhm…"
Yennekar blushed further.
"…I'm sorry! This one is a bit too obscene."
"You did a good job keeping your sanity despite those rumors. You must have been embarrassed."
"Those villagers always cross the line when it comes to these things…"
But in truth, even though she was embarrassed, she also smiled and curled her toes just imagining such a newlywed life. Of course, she didn't tell him that.
"Well, I have a rough idea of the situation. Even though we can't do everything, we can at least give some credibility to those rumors if we show them that we are 'close.'"
"Y-Yeah…"
"But if we don't deny these rumors, don't you think they will just grow bigger after this? This isn't going to be a cure, but rather a poison, no?"
"That's not true! If we can just show them that 'our relationship is close', then they will realize that the rumors were just exaggerated and not all of it was true… And this way, my authority won't be ruined… This way, they won't think I'm a liar and they'll stop making up such ridiculous rumors…"
Yennekar's parents, Orte and Saila, were also well aware of the fact that they were just good friends.
So, when eyewitness information was gathered, the fact that Ed Rothstaylor and Yennekar were simply close to each other would be accepted as the truth.
That way, there wouldn't be a stigma that Yennekar was suffering from loneliness and made up those lies. All they needed to do was partially confirm those rumors.
"A-Alright then…"
Ed took a deep breath, understanding Yennekar's situation.
"I'll do my best to help you, so please help me with my research as well."
"Y-Yeah… But I'm not sure how much of a help I will be…"
"I'm sure you will be a great help. And Merilda as well…"
Yennekar glanced down to look at the papers Ed had brought.
It was information on the ultimate wind spirit, Tyrcalaques.
Traces of that giant bear spirit that was said to have become a part of nature and was supposedly located in the high mountains of Pulan.
The giant bear spirit that used to rule over Pulan was now the subject of Ed's research.
Was the wind that passed through the ridges of the alpines of Pulan traces of that ultimate wind spirit?
Looking at the research journal Ed had bought with him, Yennekar started to think that the research would also be important to her as well.
Pulan's winds were both warm and cozy.
Yennekar Palerover had grown up in the arms of that wind ever since she was a baby.
"By the way, since we're going to act as if the rumors are true, I think you're going to suffer more than me."
"Wh-What? Me? You're the one who is going to have to suffer more… Why would I suffer?"
"It's just that if you act embarrassed like that, wouldn't it look suspicious?"
Yennekar Palerover was completely weak when it came to men. Especially towards Ed Rothstaylor. Just by feeling his skin, an electric bolt would run through her body, making her wriggle around in embarrassment.
However, if she acted like that when they held hands or he kissed her forehead, it would definitely be considered a strange reaction. If she started to suddenly bleed from her nose and was unable to overcome her embarrassment, suddenly pushing Ed away, it would definitely raise suspicions.
"For now, I think you should get used to skinship."
"R-Really? You think so? I never thought of that, but if that's what you say, then I'll have to put in my best effort. I don't want them to be suspicious of us, and you're always right about these things, so I guess I will have to prepare myself."
"This is the problem. You're already starting to ramble."
"B-But… What can I do when I'm not used to it?!"
Ed scratched his chin for a moment in thought. He then walked towards her.
"I think the only thing we can do is have you get used to it through experience."
"What?!"
Before she could say anything, Ed ruffled her bangs, revealing her forehead.
Yennekar was breathing heavily, but she stopped herself from pushing him away. There were countless rumors about him always kissing her forehead every time their eyes met, so she really did need to practice so that they could act as naturally as possible in front of them.
Even though she understood the logic behind it, it was still too big of a wall to overcome for the innocent Yennekar.
Ed Rothstaylor was a veteran who had gone through countless life experiences since he was born. He wasn't the type to get nervous over some skinship with a woman. Rather, he didn't hesitate to get close to Yennekar with the mindset of helping her.
Yennekar's entire face was flushed with blood, but right before it started to pour out of her nose…
Right at the moment she told herself that she didn't hate the situation, closing her eyes tightly…
Partially nervous and partially in anticipation, waiting for that warmth to press against her forehead…
Knock, knock.
"Excuse me. Master, about the situation as Baroness Yennekar is away from her position…"
After a gentle knock, Bell Maya entered the room, witnessing the situation.
Looking at Ed holding up Yennekar's bangs, up close to her forehead… Bell Maya was silent.
"I will be back in thirty minutes."
Quickly lifting the hem of her skirt to curtsy in respect, Bell closed the door firmly and left.
Ed and Yennekar were left in silence as they slowly regained their senses.
* * *
Bell Maya exited the room as she shoved her head into the hallway wall. She pressed on her temples.
I have worked as a maid since I was young. I've already been doing this for seventeen years now, and yet…
She always took care of her work quickly and reliably. Despite living by her motto, Bell Maya had briefly gotten distracted and made a huge mistake.
How could I…? What a novice mistake…
Normally, when such a romantic and emotional connection happened, it's because the two of them were unable to overcome the tension and heat between them.
However, as soon as she showed up and the two of them looked her way, they seemed to have regained their sense of reason. Bell swallowed her scream with a sense of pity.
That innocent girl Yennekar was about to overcome that wall, but she must have fallen back to her usual embarrassed self…
It was a reasonable mistake that was impossible to predict for regular people, but… For Bell Maya, who was always perfect, it felt like a massive mistake.
Haa… Let's calm down…
While it was a shame, Yennekar was still going to accompany Ed to Pulan. There were going to be plenty more opportunities for her to make progress.
In fact, Bell also felt a sense of reassurance upon seeing that they were already about to come into close contact with each other.
Because Ed was Bell's master, she would be glad to see him with anyone. However, she couldn't help but feel partially biased towards Yennekar.
However, Yennekar was a bit too innocent and naive when it came to romantic relationships. She needed someone to give her a push.
The problem was that Tanya Rothstaylor would never let that happen.
Tanya was doing everything she could to manage the relationships around Ed. She wanted him to continue bringing all sorts of important individuals close to the house. In regards to the revival of House Rothstaylor, she couldn't help but pay close attention to who her older brother was close with.
Mistress Tanya… I wonder what she will think of this…
Bell tilted her head for a moment.
From Bell's point of view, all she had to do was help Master Ed Rothstaylor with whatever he did…
Bell thought to herself that with Yennekar and Ed being close to each other over the long journey to Pulan, they would surely be able to climb over the wall between them. In fact, it would be harder not to.
Ed Rothstaylor had recently been so busy traveling between Acken Island and the Rothstaylor Estate…
So, if he is able to go on a relaxing journey to a romantic and beautiful land like Pulan with Yennekar… Wasn't that game over…?
Bell scratched her chin, lost in thought for a moment. She then shook her head.
It was all pointless for Bell to think about.
All she had to do was get ready to send Ed and Yennekar off to Pulan. That was her duty as a maid.
Remembering that, Bell fixed her outfit as she walked down the hallway.
-x-X-x-
Side Story 2: Wind Flower (2)
Spirits had no concept of death.
Even if their throats were cut or their abdomens pierced, no matter how much they bled out they would simply return to a fluid state, recovering their magic power over a period of time.
After resting and recovering their magic power over a period of time, they would eventually be able to manifest again for their respective Elementalist.
However, they did have the concept of a lifespan. While there was no concept of death, there was lifespan… One might be confused as to what that meant.
It was a bit difficult to say that spirits necessarily died, but that didn't mean that they were technically alive, either.
According to scholars in the field, there were different ways to refer to such a concept. However, it was most commonly known as "natural regression."
In order for a spirit to exist in the world, it needed the magic power of an elementalist with spiritual resonance. If they were unable to raise their rank or they ran out of magic power, the spirit's soul would remain in a fluid state, becoming a part of nature.
Sometimes, they might become a part of the flowing water or the blowing wind… Whatever the case, that natural regression was a part of their lifespan. They simply reverted back to a part of nature before eventually starting a new life of sorts as a low-ranking spirit.
However, after going through that natural regression, the memories they previously had ceased to exist.
Thus, they were in a constant cycle that was difficult to differentiate between an entirely new life and a continuing one.
That was the life of a spirit.
* * *
"Going all the way to Pulan to investigate a spirit that's a bear the size of a mountain. Aren't you working too hard? You were just given the title of professor not long ago."
"I need to work for how much I was given. In fact, no matter how hard I work, I can't repay what I have received. So, don't worry about it."
Two men were smoking in the garden in front of the new Trix Hall.
Ed Rothstaylor didn't have a habit of smoking, but after hanging out with Professor Kaleid for work, he started smoking every so often.
Professor Kaleid, the head of the department, was wearing a fancy and well-decorated magician professor's robe. He roughly threw the tobacco he smoked onto the ground.
"What did you even steal from the school to act like that?"
"Tanya was the one who held the negotiations, not me. So, there's no point in asking me. Either way, since I was told to go on this business trip, I'll just have to go and do my work. You have no problem taking over while I'm gone, right?"
While Ed Rothstaylor was away, Kaleid had taken over his duties as an advisor. That was because Assistant Professor Trayciana was not yet capable of doing her duties on her own.
Professor Kaleid hated working more than necessary, but he could only frown. He didn't say anything in response.
Ed Rothstaylor got along with Professor Kaleid quite well after becoming a professor.
Everyone else was always respectful and nervous in front of Ed, as he was a well-respected nobleman. However, Kaleid was someone who never cared about differences in authority or manners.
After all, Silvenia Academy was a place where the virtue of learning was prioritized more than status. There was no need for Kaleid to show Ed any particular respect, especially because he was his senior.
However, there weren't many people who were strong-minded enough to be able to treat the young master from one of the strongest and most powerful houses on the continent so casually.
Because Professor Kaleid had already experienced so much over his life, he was able to talk to Ed without hesitation or worry.
"I was planning to drink today… But that's ruined. Ruined."
"It would be better if you didn't drink so much when school starts. Aren't there more people watching you now that you're the head of the department?"
"That's true, but… How can I say no to the sweet taste of alcohol? And look at you, taking after me. Don't smoke this stuff… It's not good for your body."
Sitting down on the bench in front of Trix Hall, he put his arms on the backrest as he looked up at the sky.
"When life is tough, alcohol tastes even sweeter. There will be a day when you can tell the difference between the liquor distilled from the Goron Mountains and the wine from the Pulan Mountains. What's that saying? Life is still sweet, so the alcohol tastes bitter? Someday, you will understand that, too."
Ed looked at Kaleid with a pitying expression.
"What's with that expression?"
"If you keep acting pretentious, the students will start spreading bad rumors about you."
"P-Pretentious?! Do you think it was pretentious…?!"
"Why are you suddenly talking about how alcohol tastes sweet when life's hard…?"
"I thought that line was pretty cool though…"
"You sound like an alcoholic who has nothing to brag about besides your alcohol tolerance. At least in front of the students, hold back a little. It's important that you maintain your image and authority as the head of the department."
Ed could say anything he wanted to Kaleid.
Even though Kaleid was his direct superior, Ed still had his influence and status.
Because of that, strangely enough, there was a balance between them. They could both talk to each other without hesitation or worry. Others might see such a relationship as exhausting, but Ed rather enjoyed it, as there weren't many people whom he could talk to as such.
"You're quite harsh! Even though I'm the head of the department, look at you calling me a pretentious drunkard! This is why the alcohol is sweet."
"Whatever. I submitted the reports and finished handing my duties over to you, so I'll get going."
"Alright. Seeing you take care of your job as a professor, your duties as a researcher, and even your title as a nobleman… You are so very busy."
"If you know that, do your share. I'll get going."
Ed lifted his briefcase, which was full of papers. He then waved towards Kaleid to say goodbye. It was nearly time for his carriage to arrive.
"Hey, Ed."
Kaleid suddenly called out to Ed, who was about to walk towards the stairs that go down the hiss Trix Hall was on.
"You're a decent guy."
Kaleid Roxster was the current head of the department who spent half of his life on the battlefield and in a lawless region. After becoming a war hero, he eventually became a professor at Silvenia.
He didn't shave, was always drinking in the middle of the day and smoking. He was treated as an old man who was constantly scolded not only by the other department heads but even his junior professors.
But even though he acted like that, he was still a good person.
"Don't end up like Glast or Zellan."
Professor Kaleid exhaled the smoke from his tobacco as he spoke to Ed, who was looking back and holding onto his briefcase tightly.
The three heroes of the war against the non-humans.
Inquirer Glast, Outlaw Kaleid, Amputator Zellan.
Glast had passed away and Zelan was rumored to be wandering around the world, disillusioned with life.
Both of them were Kaleid's comrades who fought alongside him on the battlefield, where their lives were constantly at risk.
Kaleid thought back to his comrades, whom he didn't end things well with.
"I've seen too many decent guys end up unhappy and miserable for the most absurd reasons," Kaleid lowered his head. "So, I'm hoping you won't do the same."
Ed stared at Kaleid for a moment. Slowly, he started to smile in disbelief.
When the dragon that roared in the sky quieted down and the stage, which seemed to last forever, had finally come to an end, he confirmed the end of that story by surviving a day where it wouldn't be strange if they were to die at any second.
Everything else was just an after story.
They lived happily ever after—that was how most children's books ended. The story always came to an end with that one sentence, and Kaleid wasn't asking for anything more or less.
"Thanks for worrying about me."
How else could Ed respond to him?
After saying his thanks, Ed began to make his way down the hill.
Professor Kaleid was left alone as he leaned back on the bench, looking up at the sky with a grin on his face.
"I must be worrying over nothing."
* * *
"P-Professor Ed… After trying the elemental resonance theory you mentioned last time, my magic power resonance has definitely improved… It was difficult for me to accomplish this on my own, so… Uhm… I wanted to thank you…"
I was reading a book and waiting for the carriage to arrive at the entrance square in the commercial district.
After notifying Professor Kaleid, I was ready to head straight for Pulan. The coachman I had hired in advance was on his way to Acken Island from Baroness Palerover's estate with Yennekar.
Once Yennekar arrived, we were set to take a half day's rest before departing for Pulan. Yennekar must have also been quite excited about it, as it would be her first time back on the school grounds in a long time.
"S-So… I… uhm… Have a gift for you…"
While I sat near the fountain, a student I was familiar with came over and started to fidget around while talking to me.
She was the girl who always sat at the very front of my elemental studies class, listening to my lectures with bright eyes.
Since I was only human, I couldn't help but show more affection towards students who showed a good attitude in my classes. Seeing her work hard reminded me of myself when I was a student, so I gave her some advice regarding elemental magic.
The girl had neatly trimmed bangs with a small hairpin. She held out a small box to me rather hesitantly.
"I-I'm not that skilled, and… I'm lacking in many ways, and… It might not be to your liking…!"
"…"
"But I still wanted to give you something in return… What you taught me was really helpful, so…I just wanted to show my thanks…"
I reached out to accept the beautifully wrapped box.
"I see. Thanks. You're Fiora from House Kelcus, right?"
"Yes! You remembered my name…!"
"I remember the names of all of the students I am in charge of. However, giving and receiving money or personal gifts like this can cause issues, so it would be better to refrain from doing so from now on. However, since this doesn't seem like money or anything like that, I will gladly accept it with my utmost sincerity."
"Th-Thanks you…! I hadn't thought of that. I'm sorry if I was a bother!"
"No, of course you weren't a bother. I was just telling you as a precaution. Thank you for your gift."
After giving my honest thanks, she continued to stand around, fiddling with her fingers.
It seemed like she wanted me to open it there.
It wasn't a difficult request. However, the moment I was about to open the box…
Neigh!
Clip-Clop.
The sound of a tired horse slowly approached.
After finishing the entry procedures at Silvenia Academy, a large carriage came down the road leading to the entrance plaza in the commercial district.
The engraved cosmos of Baroness Palerover's house that was on the carriage wasn't particularly flashy, but it did look expensive.
The carriage stopped right in front of me in the bustling commercial district, and the door slowly opened.
Baroness Yennekar, master of the House Palerover, slowly stepped out.
It was a name that every trained Elementalist in the empire knew well. Yennekar Palerover, who was a genius elementalist who acted as the shield of Rothstaylor, drew everyone's attention nearby.
I wasn't surprised, as I saw her often, but to the other students in the square, it must have been a fascinating sight.
Because of her modest nature, Yennekar Palerover didn't like to wear flashy dresses.
Rather, she preferred wearing a modest blouse and skirt that was embroidered with various flowers.
The embroidered flower patterns on her outfit were still gorgeous enough to maintain her dignity and status as a noble. However, the dress was still relatively simple, making her look less intimidating.
Yennekar held her skirt up as she stepped down from the carriage, looking around. Silvenia Academy had changed quite a bit since she was last there.
"You're here, Yennekar."
"Ed!"
Yennekar had a bright smile on her face as she came towards us. However, suddenly looking over at the blushing girl next to me, her expression briefly stiffened.
And when Fiora looked up, seeing the legendary Elementalist suddenly appear, she also froze.
"Who is this…? Ah, is she one of your students?"
"Yes. This is Fiora from House Kelcus in the Northeastern Plains. She's a star student of mine. Say hello."
The opportunity to meet the great Yennekar Palerover was something she could have never imagined. It was a great honor for Fiora.
However, Yennekar looked down at the box in my hand, then back up at Fiora, who was acting shy… She then broke into a cold sweat as her eyes trembled.
"E-Ed…are you really close with your students?"
"No, not particularly. But I don't mistreat them, either. After all, they're the kids I have to teach."
"I see… Of course… Thank you for giving a present to the young master of Rothstaylor, Fiora…"
"P-Pardon…? Ah, yes of course…"
Yennekar thanked Fiora, although her eyes still trembled as if she were afraid of something.
After greeting each other, Yennekar continued to stare at Fiora as if she were deep in thought. She then turned her head towards me.
"E-Ed! We have to act like we always do! Just like how people sleep and breathe, we need to act like we always do!"
"What?"
"Ahaha, Ed. You silly…! You already forgot….? Alright, here… My…forehead…"
Despite everyone looking our way, Yennekar still came over and lifted her bangs, putting her forehead right toward my nose.
Now I understood what she was getting at. She was trying to get me to kiss her forehead, which we had been unable to do so far.
It was strange that she would boldly try to push her forehead towards me in a place where so many people were watching.
No matter how many times we tried, she would get embarrassed and start bleeding from her nose… But maybe because we were heading to Pulan soon, she was starting to try even harder.
Since Yennekar was going to be helping me with my research, it was only right that I helped her as well.
So, I slowly wrapped my arms around her shoulder as I gave her forehead a kiss.
Yennekar had become as hot as a furnace in that brief moment. She let out a gasp as she blushed. She fidgeted around while holding her wand with both hands. It looked as if she was barely keeping it together.
When we first kissed, I remember that she was the one who came onto me first… Just how much courage had she gathered back then? Seeing the way she was acting now, made me want to applaud her for what she had accomplished back then.
"This…"
It wouldn't be strange if Yennekar were to suddenly faint, yet she still managed to open her mouth and exclaimed in one breath, "This is nothing! We kiss every day so this much is nothing and it's not like I feel especially embarrassed by it or anything like that! A kiss like this is nothing more than a greeting between us!"
I wanted to tell her to take a deep breath before trying to speak, but if I suddenly corrected her, I had the feeling she would pass out and die from embarrassment.
Yennekar then put her bangs back down as she looked towards Fiora.
"Oh my, I'm sorry about that! You must have been flustered! But this is something we do every day."
"O-Oh…"
"Yes! Well, we should head to Pulan as soon as possible to finish the research! We should leave right now, right Ed?!"
"What? I'm sure you had a hard time coming straight here from the Rothstaylor Estate, so you should take a break first. After you look around the school, we can leave a bit later…"
"No! We need to go now! Stop procrastinating! Come on! Let's go!"
She grabbed my arm as she pulled me along, all the way toward the carriage.
I didn't particularly care, as it was something that I did want to take care of quickly. However, I had purposely made some time in the schedule because I figured she would be tired after traveling such a long way.
But she didn't want to rest, instead pushing me inside. I had no choice but to nod my head and follow along.
Slam!
The carriage door was shut tight. Through the window, I could see Fiora's puzzled expression.
A breeze passed by as she stared blankly at the carriage that slowly went away. Holding down her hair in the wind, Fiora could only watch as the carriage quietly left.
* * *
"Wow, these cookies are delicious! Wait! Never mind, they're not that good!"
Yennekar had eaten nearly all of the handmade cookies that Fiora had given me.
"They're not good! But, I mean… well… she worked hard to make these… So I shouldn't just say that they're not good like that… That wouldn't be polite to the person who made them…"
I watched the cookies disappear without a word.
"Whatever, they're bad! I don't care!"
Was she talking to herself…? After eating as much as she wanted, she was now reviewing the cookies and declaring that they weren't tasty.
However, being the kind person she was, Yennekar couldn't bring herself to simply ignore all of the effort and sincerity that went into making them.
If you made up your mind, you had to see it through to the end. But Yennekar couldn't bring herself to do it. It was funny to watch her go back and forth. No matter how badly she wanted to insult them, she couldn't bring herself to go all the way.
"Aren't you tired, Yennekar?"
"I think it would have been more tiring to stay at the school any longer…"
The carriage we were in was heading towards Pulan from Acken Island.
From the window, I could see countless flowers blooming across the plains.
Seeing the butterflies fly under the warm sunlight was a peaceful sight. The sound of the wheels of the carriage rolling along and the occasional whip of the coachman created a very relaxing atmosphere.
"So… Do you often get gifts like these…?"
"What? From my students?"
"Yeah."
After thinking about it for a moment, I answered.
"I get quite a lot. I'm lucky to have so many students wanting to show me their appreciation for what I teach them. When I was a student, I never thought much of it… But after becoming a professor, I came to appreciate such gestures. Well, back then my life was always in danger, so I didn't have the time to give the professors gifts of my own."
"I-I see… You get quite a lot of them…"
"Yeah."
Yennekar looked down for a moment. She hesitated for a moment before saying, "By the way… It's not like I'm jealous or anything… No, let me correct what I just said."
It seemed that Yennekar had just changed her mind like she always did. After taking in a deep breath, she spoke with a dignified expression on her face. "I am jealous."
"It's a bit disappointing for you to just say that with such a grand expression on your face…"
"I-I know that, too! But what can I do about feeling jealous?!"
"…"
"F-From my experience, when I'm jealous, acting only makes me more miserable!"
"I see… It's important to learn from your experiences…"
"But admitting that I'm jealous also makes me miserable and pathetic… What the hell…? No matter what I do, do I have no choice but to stay miserable…?"
"Well, do you really have to feel so miserable?"
After thinking about how I should comfort Yennekar, I just ended up saying whatever was on my mind.
"Well, I think I would be the same in your position. If you were talking to another guy as if you were close to them, I might also get jealous."
"Y-You? Jealous? Of me?"
"I told you. I take great pride in being close with you."
"R-Really…?!"
I only spoke hypothetically, but Yennekar still fidgeted as her lips went up, as if she were happy to hear that.
"But that would never happen… Another guy aside from you, Ed—I can't even imagine it…"
"Aside from getting to know other men, now that you're a noble it would be a good idea to get to know other people as well."
"Well… I like how everyone treated me comfortably when I was a student. But after becoming a baroness, I don't know how to behave anymore… It's quite troubling."
"It'll get better with time."
"But because I act like this, it feels like I'm the only one who ever loses! Technically speaking, I'm the only one who can get jealous…!"
Yennekar shook her head as she spoke. She then let out a heavy sigh, as if she were done with it all.
"Haa…"
She was exhausted after handling all of her pent-up emotions. As for the reason behind that…
"I guess I'm just a jealous person."
"People can't have only positive emotions, right?"
"Still, I don't want to be a burden to you, Ed."
"You aren't."
"But even now, I'm being a bother to you about this nonsense."
"Isn't talking about this nonsense what makes us so close?"
Seeing Yennekar so depressed and frustrated with her emotions, I couldn't leave her alone. So, I cleared my throat and made it clear.
"I told you this before. What kind of relationship is it when you don't bother each other sometimes? I'm indebted to you, just like you are indebted to me. That's why the two of us can be so close."
"Is that so…? I guess you're right. There's no such thing as a fated and promised relationship like a prince and princess in a fairytale…. Yeah, this is reality."
After saying that, all of a sudden Yennekar started fiddling around in her seat.
It seemed that she was still as embarrassed as she always was. She must have belatedly realized that she had just compared us to a prince and princess in a fairytale.
"No, what I meant was…!"
Hahaha. You are all still so full of energy.
The moment Yennekar's face turned red and she was about to say something, a wind spirit manifested in the seat across from me in the carriage.
The normal shape of the spirit was a wolf the size of a modest house, but at the moment, she was in a smaller form that minimized the consumption of magic power.
"Merilda."
[It seems like the two of you don't need me here as a travel companion. Still, there's something I wanted to tell you.]
In the carriage to Pulan, the high-ranking wind spirit Merilda—who had been quiet up until that point—cleared her throat… She then continued to speak.
[It's about the ultimate wind spirit Tyrcalaques… I am recommending that the two of you not look any further into the final moments of that massive bear.]
Merilda wasn't the type to suddenly show up just because she wanted to.
However, as if she had something she needed to tell us, she sat across from us, kicking her pale bare feet in the air.
-x-X-x-
Side Story 3: Wind Flower (3)
He must have lived a rather intense life when he was young. That was the initial impression I had of Glems, the chief of Torren Village.
He had long, grayish-brown hair with eyebrows and a beard that was turning white. He looked as if he were a man who had already passed his peak and was now in his twilight years.
Despite that, his eyes were still as bright and lively as ever. I couldn't tell how old he was, but he looked as if he was saying he had no plans to die in the next ten years.
There were people who were able to show such a natural sense of dignity without even trying.
The village chief Glems seemed to be such a person. He was a somewhat strict and hot-tempered elder of the village who was highly respected by the people there.
"It must have been a long journey, coming all the way here. I prepared a small accommodation near the town hall for you, though I must apologize, as it isn't grand enough for your worth, Young Master. As we are just a small village on the outskirts of a pasture, this is the best we can offer at the moment."
From the perspective of Torren, it must have been a big event for a duke to come all the way there.
Ever since Yennekar and I entered the village in the carriage, people had been gathering and watching us come in.
Most of them were rather old, although occasionally small children and young adults also showed up. They must have all been busy working on the ranch.
However, unable to overcome their curiosity when they heard a noble was going to arrive, they must have gathered in the square to watch…
"Thank you."
After giving my thanks, I looked around the town.
There were some stores that were around the small square. However, it was too small to call a shopping street.
In a rural village like Torren, one person needed to take on multiple jobs.
There was a general store of sorts that seemed to be selling all sorts of miscellaneous things in one place. There was another store that seemed to sell groceries and even a restaurant. It looked as if the town hall took care of everything else, as the only other buildings were ranches and farmhouses. It was quite packed together.
The scenery was beautiful. In every direction you looked, it was as if you were looking at a piece of art. It was reminiscent of the Alps or Andes Mountain ranges.
The clear sky and the greenery of the pastures. It felt as if I could sit anywhere in town and stare off blankly for hours. That would be enough to refresh my heart and wash away my worries.
"Are you going to stay here, Ed? I will probably head home first to unpack."
"Probably. There's no rush, so take your time."
Yennekar grabbed her things from the carriage, stepping back down. Once off the carriage, she glanced around nervously at the townsfolk who were looking our way. She hesitated for a moment before speaking.
"Grandpa Glems! How have you been? Is your back pain any better?"
As Yennekar greeted the village chief warmly, Glems seemed a bit surprised. He hesitated for a minute before answering, as if he were deep in thought.
Yennekar was also briefly taken aback to see the village chief not greeting her like he usually did.
Seeing this situation, I felt as if I should say something.
"You can act like you usually do."
I figured that Glems was the type to be particularly strict when it came to manners and etiquette… He must have been wary of how to act in front of me.
Even though Yennekar had the title of baroness, since it was her hometown, no one had to go out of their way to show her a strict sense of respect. Actually, knowing the type of person Yennekar was, everyone was well aware that she would rather them treat her like usual than with a newfound respect.
But towards me, who held the grand title of Duke, it was another matter.
It wouldn't be polite to talk casually with another in front of someone with such a large difference in status.
Rather, in such a situation, it was as if everything was flipped since Yennekar spoke to Glems with respect yet spoke with me casually.
That was why I had the most power at the moment, so I had to be the one to help them be at ease.
Seeing that, I started to understand how Yennekar was treated among the people in the village.
"This isn't a public matter of my house. I simply came all the way to the outskirts on my own desire, so there's no need to worry about such etiquette."
"You are extremely merciful and understanding, Young Master Ed. This is the first time in my life a nobleman has shown such consideration and respect towards me."
Glems bowed his head, then he spoke to Yennekar.
"Thanks for worrying about me, Yennekar."
But then he spoke with a nonchalant expression on his face.
"But is it really fine for you to not use the same room? It's already been a while since you two have been together."
* * *
I entered the room that seemed to be prepared for two people.
It seemed that it was originally a double room. There were two beds and a set of simple necessities.
[I think I can see why Yennekar had become a rather shy person…]
Merilda was sitting on the other side of the bed, kicking her feet in the air with a wide smile on her face.
I unpacked my luggage, putting my clothes away. I then took off my heavy coat, folding it and putting it aside.
[I only walked around the carriage after we arrived, but I heard so much gossip. Even though I heard them with my own two ears, I couldn't possibly say it aloud.]
After hearing Glems, Yennekar had started to blush as she waved her hand in the air, running off back to her house.
Everyone had thought that Yennekar and I would surely sleep in the same room.
[I guess Yennekar was dumped.]
Merilda spoke with a grin on her face.
She looked at me with a playful expression on her face, but as if my reaction was no fun, she turned and buried herself in the empty bed.
Saying nonsense like Yennekar was dumped. Merilda should know better than anyone else.
Merilda sighed as she lay flat on the bed, staring up at the ceiling.
[I don't think she can live without you.]
"I know."
[…Wow. You just sounded like complete trash…]
Since Merilda was speaking light-heartedly, I could tell she wasn't serious when she criticized me. She always had that smirk on her face. She was never the type to speak in a straightforward manner.
I took off my shirt, tossing it onto my suitcase. Laying on the bed, Merilda looked my way, seeing my scar-covered body. Though, she turned back around as if she didn't care.
[Yennekar probably knows as well. That your younger sister is taking advantage of the fact that you don't have a romantic partner yet politically.]
I sat down on my bed.
Merilda let out a sigh as she quickly sat back up on the other side of the bed.
[Yennekar isn't stupid either. Being a baroness, she is well aware of your status and worth in regard to the political landscape of the Kroel Empire.]
[Yet she still wants to stay by your side.]
I knew what Merilda was trying to say.
While she did confess to me about the rumors that were circulating in Torren, she never explained much about them.
She had apologized greatly with a miserable expression on her face as if she were worried that the rumors of us being together had caused me trouble. After all, there was political value in the fact that I didn't currently have a partner, and the rumors of us could affect that.
Even though Yennekar never openly said any of that, it was obvious.
[She must be too scared to learn the truth. Ultimately, she thinks that given the difference in your status, she will be pushed aside. Because of that, I'm guessing she will never be able to take that last step.]
Merilda had stopped kicking her feet in the air playfully. It seemed that at some point, she had stopped joking around and had become somewhat serious.
[You know what she's like. She thinks she's lucky to even be in the position she is in now. She's happy just being by your side. She's happily living in the present, grateful for what she has. That's how she's always been. But I wish she wouldn't stay like that forever.]
"The fact that you're suddenly talking about this… Does this have anything to do with the death of Tyrcalaques…? Earlier, you were telling us to not look any further into it."
Merilda let out a cough as if she had been stabbed.
The remains of the ultimate wind spirit, Tyrcalaques.
Before, Merilda told me that she would tell me the location of them, and I'd been patiently waiting.
Back then, I thought she was rather cooperative in helping me with the matter. However, recently it seemed that she was less eager to do so, and even troubled at the thought.
[It'll be easy to find its remains, but I told you already that you shouldn't look any further into the question of how Tyrcalaques died and returned back to nature. In fact, as long as you have the remains of the spirit, that's enough to train your elementalism.]
"My position back then and now are completely different. Now, I'm a professor who came here to conduct research for the school."
[I know that. That's why I'm hesitant.]
Merilda had completely gotten rid of her smile as she lowered her voice, speaking seriously.
[Tyrcalaques loved humans.]
Perhaps because we took so long to travel, the sun was already setting outside the window.
The sky was red as it turned darker, yet Merilda continued her story while lying down.
[Here in Pulan, there was a farm girl who was nothing special, but who he had fallen in love with.]
"Seeing your expression, I'm guessing the ending isn't good."
[Yeah. It goes without saying, but for two different types of entities with two vastly different lifespans to become closer than necessary… It's quite dangerous.]
I remember seeing Merilda walk around a lake in the North Forest, looking up at the night sky blankly before.
If you looked up at the starry night sky yourself, you would understand why the wind spirit always looked up at the sky.
The only things in the world that wouldn't change were the stars and the moon, high in the sky.
On the ground, everything was prone to disappearing and changing with time.
[It was a forbidden love, and once that girl died, he was unable to overcome his loneliness. Thus, he ended his own life.]
[That was how Tyrcalaques died.]
A forbidden love.
For those who lived for basically an eternity, loneliness was a disease that led to death.
High-ranking spirits that lived for many years each had to come up with their own ways to deal with that highly dangerous disease.
The same must have been true of the ultimate spirit Tyrcalaques.
Just what had to happen to break the heart of that ultimate spirit, who must have already experienced everything before?
[Just because we can manifest in the form of a human doesn't mean you can ever mistake us for actually being human.]
"I know that. After all, you are just manifesting while imitating the person that was the most special to you."
[That's right. In this world, there are many more forbidden relationships than you might think. In fairytales, they often talk of overcoming that wall to love each other… But now, Yennekar knows herself well.]
There was no such thing as Romeo and Juliet in the world.
[Reality is colder than you might think, and you can never mistake yourself as a protagonist in some fairytale. Yennekar now knows that fact, too.]
Merilda had a dead-serious expression on her face.
More than anyone, the wind spirit was praying for Yennekar's happiness. However, it was not that she didn't understand my situation, either… She was struggling between us.
[Tyrcalaques eventually died a tragic death because of his forbidden love.]
[And I was worried what Yennekar might think after finding that out.]
I was starting to understand.
Merilda's sudden uncooperative behavior was ultimately due to her concern for Yennekar.
[Well, I won't be unfair towards you either, Ed. House Rothstaylor has risen a lot, but it wouldn't be surprising if something were to happen, stripping your power away as well. I understand your situation. But… At the same time, I can't help but feel bad for Yennekar.]
I would eventually have to face that question. How did I really feel about Yennekar Palerover?
Did I see her as a partner in life? Could I imagine starting a home with her and accepting her as my partner?
"The reason I can't give an answer… Don't you already know?"
Just because someone said something didn't mean it would happen. That was the truth.
In truth, I didn't care about the political advantage of having the position of my partner vacant. Her filling that spot didn't bother me in the slightest.
Yennekar Palerover was also a good person. She didn't lack in any areas when it came to being a great partner. She was also someone who would devote herself to me until the day she died. I couldn't deny that in some ways, I also feel a great romantic interest in Yennekar as well.
However, Yennekar was also well aware of just how much House Rothstaylor would lose for her to become my partner. She was well aware of just how much needed to be sacrificed for it to happen.
Yennekar Palerover was a girl who became burdened by others.
If she did whatever she wanted, ignoring the situation of everyone else around her, she would live with a feeling of debt and regret for the rest of her life.
That was the type of person she was. When someone sacrificed or gave her something, she never forgot.
But was a relationship where she was constantly conscious of such a debt meaningful? She would need to live under that pressure for her entire life. As my partner, she would also have to stand on the bloody political front, helping to represent House Rothstaylor. However, she was just an innocent girl who had lived in the countryside her entire life.
Would such a life make her happy? Or would it make her unhappy?
[I knew you would say that.]
Merilda was lost in thought for a moment before suddenly smiling again.
[Kahaha. You're just worried about Yennekar, aren't you? That makes me feel at ease.]
"Shouldn't you be more worried? I don't think Yennekar's life will be all that great after getting involved with a person like me."
[I think the opposite. You know, Ed. From my point of view, I think this will all work out if you just find the determination. Find the determination to sacrifice yourself.]
"Determination? What determination? And what do you mean by sacrifice?"
Merilda laughed before speaking in a playful voice.
[The determination to become a piece of trash.]
What are you even talking about? Right when I was going to ask her that question, Merilda smiled as if she found the matter amusing. At that point, to some extent, I realized what she was trying to tell me.
I glared back at her, though Merilda continued to laugh as if she didn't care.
* * *
"Uhm… Hey, Ed."
After about an hour, Yennekar came to my room with her luggage.
She told me that she was going back home to unpack her things, but for some reason, she had come to my place with her bags.
"I got kicked out of my house…"
"What?"
I couldn't help but tilt my head upon seeing Yennekar's exhausted face in the doorway.
The moon was already high in the sky. It was already pretty late. I wondered if it made any sense to kick someone like her out of the house at such a late hour…
"My mom complained about how they prepared a room for two people… and she kicked me out…"
Saila Palerover… I couldn't help but be in awe at that woman's determination.
"Sh-She's too much… She locked the door and completely got rid of my bed sheets… She told me to come here and sleep instead…"
I continued to listen in awe.
"I thought of going to a friend's house instead, but… With all of the rumors that are spreading around… I thought it might be strange to go anywhere else…"
Yennekar Palerover was a genius Elementalist and the baroness of House Palerover.
I couldn't help but be in shock upon seeing a person with such a status being treated as such.
"Alright. Come inside… We can sleep together tonight…"
Since I couldn't leave her outside my door, I helped her with her bags, bringing them inside.
She came inside as she put her luggage in the corner of the room.
I quickly gathered the elementalist textbooks that I had laid out on a small table and put them away. I then sat down on my bed.
Yennekar crawled into the bed opposite me, lowering her head and blushing.
"Uhm… I guess…the situation somehow ended up like this…"
It was the middle of the night, where only the sound of the grasshopper outside the window was heard. There was only one small light in the room. Our shadows danced on the walls as the candle flickered.
"I-I'm sorry. I feel like I've been bothering you so much recently… Ed… Because of this and that, I've made you do so much for me…"
"There's no need to worry. Like I always tell you, there are many things I owe you as well. So, there's no need for you to feel so burdened. For now… You must have sweated a bit after walking around all day, so…"
I didn't mean anything else by it. I was just trying to tell her as naturally as possible.
"How about you take a bath?"
An awkward silence followed.
"Did I say something strange?"
"No! Not at all! Definitely not at all!"
Yennekar stood up quickly. She went over to her bags to grab some things before heading to the bathroom.
After she left, I sat on the bed alone. I let out a sigh, wiping my lips. Then I slowly lowered my head, falling into deep thought.
Merilda's words filled my head.
The determination to become a piece of trash.
The determination…to become a piece of trash…
Side Story 4: Wind Flower (4)
There were many stories of people who managed to make a forbidden love work.
However, they were only possible in fairytales with happy endings, where love transcended all sense of status.
Yennekar Palerover had come to realize that long ago. Reality was more obvious than you might think. There were no plot twists, and life was just a repeated, boring cycle.
Occasionally, there were highlights, though they were only brief. In the grand scheme of one's life, it was primarily filled with simple, obvious, and dull stories.
One's love life was no different. It was also just a simple story with an obvious ending.
Unlike fairytales that ended an adventurous and fulfilling story with just one unreasonable line: 'They lived happily ever after…'
Yennekar's life would be filled with very few highlights and obvious endings.
She loved a man named Ed Rothstaylor.
She was still young, but she could tell. No matter how many years passed, she would never again think of someone so passionately.
The experience of loving someone so passionately would become a memory, nourishing her long life. It would help Yennekar become a more mature person.
Even if it was an unfruitful love, it would forever remain in her heart. She would always be able to remember the time she thought of another so passionately.
But was that enough?
Yennekar Palerover decided on her own that their love could never come to be. Though, she hadn't realized it herself.
She had a feeling deep down that her days of living with him on the Rothstaylor Estate would eventually come to an end.
Fearing a broken heart, she decided the end her own love life before anything happened. The reason she felt as such was obvious. It was because she was well aware of Ed Rothstaylor's situation.
She knew what Ed would have to sacrifice much to be with her. While she would be happy if Ed decided to give everything up to be with her, she couldn't blame him for not doing so.
However, since she sincerely loved him, she could be stubborn.
The political situation of Ed Rothstaylor, the people around him, his power as a noble, or his busy schedule as a professor… She could ask him to put all of that aside.
She could tell him to make the sacrifices necessary to keep her by his side. To take care of her and hold her close forever. Ed Rothstaylor probably wouldn't reject such an offer either.
However, she wasn't born as that type of person.
She didn't want to make Ed Rothstaylor sacrifice anything. Especially since she knew the kind of life he had lived and what kind of life he wanted in the future.
That was why the woman felt lost. She was unsure of where the love that she had treasured for such a long time should go.
Sometimes, she even disillusioned herself, just being satisfied by standing by his side.
I need to make up my mind…
After washing her face, Yennekar put on a gown as she tied it tightly from the front. She looked at herself in the mirror, drying her hair.
I was a bit flustered after realizing we would be sleeping in the same room together, but I can't back down now… There's a role I need to play…
Just because Ed Rothstaylor treated her like she was special, she couldn't mistake that as her being a particularly valuable person to him.
However, after not having any place to spend the night, she ended up coming over and thanking Ed for letting her stay in the same room as him. Her heart was pounding with nervousness and excitement.
Based on how Ed was, he probably wouldn't lay a hand on her. In fact, there was a high chance that Yennekar would be the one getting too nervous if they started flirting or the tension rose.
Yennekar bit her lips as she looked at her blushing cheeks.
It hadn't been long since she graduated from Silvenia Academy, but she was now an adult. How much longer would she continue to act embarrassed and tremble over something like that?
It wasn't like they decided they would sleep together or anything. He just let her sleep in an extra bed in the room.
It was embarrassing that a woman of her age would stutter and blush over something as miniscule as that. And it wasn't like Ed would continue to be considerate and caring towards her forever.
That was why she steeled her heart as she washed her face once more.
"Yeah, okay…"
The heat on her face seemed to have subsided, and she was finally getting her composure back.
She looked in the mirror as she smiled like an adult. When she acted like that, she didn't feel as if she was a mere child anymore. She acted as if she were an adult woman that could easily handle men.
Yennekar took advantage of that momentum as she quickly opened the bathroom door. She would be able to handle Ed without a problem.
"Did you finish washing up?"
Slam!
However, upon seeing Ed taking off his clothes and wearing only pants while sitting on her bed… Yennekar couldn't help but go back into the bathroom and slam the door shut.
She had to hold the bridge of her nose tightly to stop the nosebleed. She then splashed cold water on her face for a while longer.
* * *
"I-I'm sorry… Ed… I didn't realize you were changing clothes."
Yennekar came back out to the bedroom. She was blushing so much that it almost seemed as if she had painted her face red.
But when Yennekar went to the bedroom, Ed still didn't have his shirt on.
"Y-You haven't changed yet…! I-I'm sorry! I'll wait in the bathroom, so tell me when you're done!"
"No, you don't have to go. Come here and sit next to me."
"Wh-What?"
She tried to say, 'What did you say?', but she swallowed her breath halfway through, making it hard to understand her.
Seeing Yennekar act as if her brain was fried, Ed felt as if he had to say something to explain the situation first.
"I wasn't changing. I just took it off."
Yennekar had completely stopped breathing. It wouldn't have been strange if she passed out right there.
She nodded a couple of times with her face on fire. She slowly walked over, sitting down next to Ed.
"Are…you cold…?"
Her heartbeat was so loud that it completely filled her ears. For a moment, she couldn't hear what Ed said at all.
"Wh-What? What did you say?!"
"Are you cold, Yennekar?"
"No! I'm fine! Rather, splashing cold water on my face earlier felt refreshing!"
Since she was acting nervous, the tension in the air was higher than usual. She wanted to act as if she wasn't bothered but for her, that wasn't possible.
"That's good then. By the way, I have something I wanted to tell you, Yennekar."
"Hm?! Say it! Whatever it is!"
Yennekar had already become a yes-man.
In an enclosed space, spending the night together… Ed had taken off his shirt and was sitting on Yennekar's bed. Yennekar sat next to him wearing only her underwear and a robe over it. She held her breath, her face red.
In such a state, it was impossible for her to use her brain. Yennekar couldn't help it.
"…It's a bit serious. From your point of view, it might seem natural, or maybe it's surprising, but… I wanted to make something clear."
"What?"
Ed pulled on the ends of the bedsheet as he paused for a moment before speaking.
"I think I like you. As a lover."
Yennekar Palerover stopped breathing.
Deceased. Yennekar Palerover, age twenty one.
Cause of death, heart attack after Ed Rothstaylor's sudden confession.
* * *
"…Cough!"
It felt as if she had passed out for a moment before coming back. Was she out for three seconds? Maybe five?
Yennekar's mind, which had fallen into a state of panic, was slowly coming back. It felt as if she had just returned from death.
"Wh-What…"
"I just said that I think I like you as a lover."
"Th-That's not it. I-I heard you, but… Wh-Why… Uhhh…"
Since she couldn't close her mouth, saliva spilled out. Yennekar gasped as she cleaned herself up, quickly regaining her composure.
"You must have realized it to some extent, no? How many years have we been together already?"
"B-But… The difference in status between us… You're a duke, and I'm just a mere vassal of yours. I was born to farmers and was barely given the title of baroness…"
"Yeah… I expected you to say that…"
Ed lowered his head for a moment before speaking.
"…You're right. I guess that means I was rejected."
"What? What are you talking about?! D-Don't interpret my words strangely! I didn't reject you! I didn't! So don't jump to conclusions so quickly. We need to talk about it! This is important, so we need to talk about it first! I didn't reject you! I didn't!"
"If you didn't reject me, then…"
"Cough…!"
Yennekar struggled to catch her breath after saying all of that. She put her hands up to cover her face, wondering if she could bear the heat rising to her head.
"E-Ed… this isn't good…"
"What? What is it?"
"The corners of my mouth, I can't control them… I need a minute. I think I'm making a ridiculous expression that doesn't match the mood right now…"
"…Take your time."
Yennekar lowered her head, putting it between her pale thighs.
What was the feeling that was crawling up her back? It was a rather refreshing feeling, like a catharsis of sorts. But she didn't know exactly how to explain it.
Happiness was too simple of an expression. It felt as if something was missing. She felt as if she was ascending to heaven. Her heart was fluttering out of control, and even breathing had become difficult.
"But there's a problem."
Suddenly, Ed spoke from behind Yennekar, who was busy with her head between her thighs, trying to figure out how to describe the feeling she felt.
She was embarrassed, shy, and didn't think she could look at Ed… While she sat quietly like that, Ed struggled to say his next line.
"It might not just be you who I end up being in love with…"
The world came to a stop.
Yennekar, who was busy trying to manage her expression, turned to stone.
She then lifted her head, looking at Ed with wide eyes and a frozen expression.
"…H-Huh?"
"Hear… Me out… Yennekar… There's this thing called a hero's honor… I'm not saying I'm a hero, but I am a duke who has accomplished quite a bit."
"Y-Yeah…"
"Don't you think that the more incredible someone is, the more experiences they should have? Don't you think that such incredible people deserve to embrace multiple different people…?"
Ed Rothstaylor was speaking much differently than he usually did. It was completely different from his normal way of speaking coldly and directly, not wording things into questions strangely.
He couldn't help it. Ed Rothstaylor may have had experience with women before, but he never had to act so scummy and openly declare that he was going to cheat on them while confessing.
Ed turned his head to avoid looking at Yennekar as he spoke.
"S-So, what I-I'm saying is that I-I might end up loving other w-women as well…"
"Wh-What are you saying…?!"
"Since I'm a duke from House Rothstaylor, there are quite a few women who are trying to get close to me… Anyway, I don't have a choice but to socialize with them, but one day we might end up eye to eye, and… Well, that's just what happens among nobles. I'm just worried that you might be hurt when that happens. S-So, in a way, me telling you this now… is like I'm caring for you…"
It was sophistry.
Even though Ed Rothstaylor realized that he was talking in a way that was different from how he usually did and that he was spouting nonsense, he continued to speak.
"So… If something like that happens, I hope you can be understanding and forgive me… I just… wanted to tell you that…"
Ed Rothstaylor was prepared to get slapped by Yennekar.
He also thought she might end up swearing at him or crying. Whatever she did, Ed was ready to accept it.
"E-Ed…"
Yennekar raised her head… Surprisingly, her face was full of mixed emotions.
It had been nearly four years since they first met at the lake in the North Forest of Acken Island when they were second years.
After going through many hardships together, living with each other, and becoming his vassal… Yennekar had grown to have a deeper understanding of Ed, more so than anyone else.
One might have thought she would suddenly start throwing punches and shouting that "there are so many pieces of trash in this world," but Yennekar Palerover had fully understood Ed's real intentions when he told her those things.
Ed Rothstaylor wasn't a greedy person. He was an incredible man, but he was not the type that was interested in having a plethora of women around him. He wasn't the type of person who would say those words sincerely.
The real reason he said those things was none other than the fact that he himself had had a deep understanding of Yennekar Palerover.
The guilt that Yennekar would feel if he sacrificed something to have her by his side… Ed knew that fact well.
Yennekar already had a past where she was unable to bear that weight on her shoulders. He didn't want her to experience it twice.
That was why Ed spoke as if he were a piece of trash.
Rather than Yennekar being burdened by the fact Ed had to sacrifice something to be together, he instead lowered himself and took on the blame, asking for forgiveness.
That way, Yennekar wouldn't owe Ed anything. Rather, she would become a person who was understanding and forgiving of Ed's immoral and perverse ways.
Ed realized how much weight he could take off her shoulders by doing so. He was willing to give up his social image. There were many nobles who had many commoner women around them like playthings. He was willing to put such rumors on himself.
But she knew that Ed, who was rather responsible, would never take on multiple women at once. That was because he was sincere in everything he did and treated those near him with kindness. There was no reason for such a virtuous man to commit such immoral acts.
At the very least, Yennekar was well aware of what type of man he was. He was the type to always focus on doing what he needed to do rather than on women.
As for if the other women around Ed would stand still, they would have to think about that later. Even if their situation changed in the future, they would have to think about that later. Even if things in the world didn't go as expected, they would have to think about that later…
At that moment, Ed was simply being considerate towards Yennekar. It was enough to make her cry. There was a lot left to think about, but that could be put aside for later.
"Ed. Don't try and take responsibility for my feelings by tearing yourself down."
Ed was at a loss for words upon hearing Yennekar's accurate words.
He thought that Yennekar might be suspicious of his sudden change in behavior.
Still, he had spoken so outrageously that he was expecting her to at least give him a look of contempt. However, Yennekar had a deeper understanding of Ed than he could have ever imagined.
He wasn't the type to play with another's hearts without reason.
Since that trust in him never wavered, she was sure that he was only saying those words to bring himself down.
But in the end, it was a fruitless attempt.
However… No one thought that such a fruitless attempt would in fact lead to an unexpected development. Not Yennekar, and certainly not Ed.
At the end of the day, their relationship was like a web of mutual respect and consideration toward each other that remained intertwined.
Ed was worried about Yennekar's feelings. Yennekar was worried about Ed's feelings, but if one of them acted in determination, their relationship would change entirely.
"Alright… I got it, Ed."
In the end, Yennekar had read all of Ed's hidden intentions. She swallowed her dry saliva as she shouted out, "If you are going to act like that, then be a piece of trash!"
Had Ed's determination also affected Yennekar? She hardened her heart as she grabbed his arms, pulling him off the bed.
She breathed heavily. It felt as if she had used all her courage just to pull Ed closer.
By the time she came to her senses, she could feel Ed's arm around the nape of her neck.
The front of her robe had become loose. Thinking of her chest and buttocks, which were now exposed, her head grew hot. It felt as if she was going to faint.
The cool night air that came in through the window brushed against Yennekar's bare skin. Even the late summer night's air felt as cold as ice because her body temperature had risen to the limit.