New chapter of World Teacher is out! (1/1 chapter)

 

 

You All Have Been Chosen

(Thank you for reading at bayabuscotranslation.com)

“Um… are you all right? You were lucky, scum!” (Noel)

“!?” (Unnamed Girl)

Good grief, is that really the first thing you say right after someone awakens? It is most likely that Noel herself was confused and, thinking that the first impression was important, she became tense and failed to form her words properly. However, where in the world did the word “scum” come from?

“…What on earth are you saying?” (Sirius)

“No, no, that is not what I meant! Just now I was confused, or rather flustered, and many things became all jumbled together!” (Noel)

“!?” (Unnamed Girl)

“Never mind that, calm yourself and look at that child.” (Sirius)

If you continue to panic, that child will never become calm either. Dee and I stepped back, gesturing for Noel to speak to the girl quickly.

“Ah, um… ahem. Let me see… are you all right?” (Noel)

“Ah!?” (Unnamed Girl)

She was startled when spoken to, yet she desperately looked around the surroundings. Then, upon confirming the boy lying next to her, her expression softened slightly.

“Yes, that boy is your younger brother, is he not? He is safe as well. Are you all right? Do you desire anything?” (Noel)

“Ah… uuh…” (Unnamed Girl)

Noel carefully spoke one thing after another, allowing the girl to confirm each point and thereby calming her. That was a good approach. You should have done that from the beginning.

“Can that child talk?” (Noel)

“From the moment I rescued her, she has been like that. It is merely inflammation, so there is hope for recovery.” (Sirius)

The two of them had already conducted a “Scan” back at Lior’s house. Her entire body had inflammation and several festering wounds, and combined with malnutrition and dehydration, her condition was frankly dire. However, there was no fatal disease, and even her throat could be healed if I activated it myself. Yet now was not the correct moment to intervene. Until her tension and wariness were eased, it was best to leave matters to Noel.

“Look here, I do not wear a collar, do I? The people here will never harm you, I swear it.” (Noel)

“…Ah!?” (Unnamed Girl)

The girl touched her own neck in surprise and then looked at her brother’s neck in confusion. She had likely noticed the absence of a collar.

“Ah, did you notice? We removed your collars, so you can be at ease.” (Noel)

“Ah… uu?” (Unnamed Girl)

“Do not trouble yourself about it; it has been removed, and that is all that matters. Now then, are you hungry? There is warm soup, a truly delicious soup.” (Noel)

“!? …Uuh.” (Unnamed Girl)

The girl shed tears upon realizing the collar had been removed, but she reacted when the word “soup” was spoken. However, she glanced at the boy still asleep beside her and shook her head. Noel seemed to understand at once.

“I see. You do not wish to eat unless you are together with your younger brother. Then, let us simply talk for now.” (Noel)

Noel wiped the tears with her handkerchief, and slowly, the girl nodded. Noel’s guileless nature was indeed well-received by children, and for that, I was grateful.

“My name is Noel. If you are willing, would you tell me your name?” (Noel)

“…Ia.” (Unnamed Girl)

“I am sorry, it seems that your voice truly will not come out. What about writing? Can you write? Let me think…” (Noel)

Noel turned to me, silently seeking help. Giving up already? And just when you had regained my esteem.

“Haah. Dee, fetch Erina. Noel, introduce me.” (Sirius)

“Understood.” (Dee)

“Yes. Well then, the gentleman over there is our master, Sirius-sama. Do you not recall being rescued?” (Noel)

“…Nn.” (Unnamed Girl)

Her wariness was still strong, yet she nodded, remembering me at least. Dee quietly left the room so as not to agitate her, and I, too, silently stepped beside Noel.

“Allow me to introduce myself properly. I am Sirius. I am Noel’s master, and the one who has given you protection.” (Sirius)

“…?” (Unnamed Girl)

“I desire to know about you and your brother. However, you cannot speak now, can you? Therefore, I would first like to heal your throat. Would that be acceptable?” (Sirius)

“Sirius-sama is a kind and gentle person, so there is nothing to fear. See, he will not become angry even if I do this.” (Noel)

With that, the little girl tousled my hair. I understood that it was merely a gesture meant to reassure, but she would pay for this later. As I endured Noel’s mischief with a poker face, the girl nodded.

“Thank you. Now then, I shall place my hand upon your throat. You may feel some warmth, but no pain, so do not be afraid.” (Sirius)

“Ah… yes.” (Unnamed Girl)

Although somewhat suspicious, the girl lifted her chin and exposed her throat. The marks left behind by the collar were quite painful to behold. I might as well heal those as well. As I pressed my hand to her throat and focused to pour mana into her, it happened.

“Gaaahhh!” (Unnamed Boy)

“What!” (Sirius)

Suddenly the boy awoke and bit into my arm.

“Sirius-sama!?” (Noel)

“Wait!” (Sirius)

I held Noel back with my free hand before she could leap forth, maintaining my concentration so as not to scatter my mana. Although weakened, his jaw strength was low, yet because of his developed canine teeth, it hurt somewhat.

“Ah!” (Unnamed Girl)

“Do not speak, or the healing will be delayed.” (Sirius)

The girl tried to stop her brother, but if she spoke, the focus of healing would waver. The boy was desperate as well.

A wounded beast is troublesome indeed. It’s best to let him be.

“Uuuhhh!” (Unnamed Boy)

“The timing is rather unfortunate.” (Sirius)

“Ah, Sirius-sama, blood is…” (Noel)

His canine teeth had pierced and drawn some blood. It was bearable, but hardly ideal.

“You, you may move your hand. Try stroking your brother’s back.” (Sirius)

“…?” (Unnamed Girl)

“Yes, that is right. I am unharmed, so calm him quickly.” (Sirius)

What was truly dangerous was that, if Erina were to witness this scene, the boy would certainly be struck down. She would show no mercy to my enemies.

The girl gently stroked her brother’s back, and a few minutes later, he finally released my arm.

“Nee-chan, why did you stop me!?” (Unnamed Boy)

“Nn…” (Unnamed Girl)

“No! I cannot believe them. Hey, let go of Nee-chan!” (Unnamed Boy)

He tried to attack again, but his sister restrained him. Unlike her, the younger brother had a more rebellious spirit. Considering their background as slaves, perhaps the boy’s reaction was the more natural. After soothing him for a few minutes, the healing was completed, and I withdrew my hand.

“…All right. That should suffice. Try speaking now.” (Sirius)

“Do not force Nee-chan any further! It is because of those people that she lost her voice!” (Unnamed Boy)

“Your throat should already be healed. Try to speak and see.” (Sirius)

Though the boy raged, I ignored him and urged her on. The girl, bewildered, drew in a breath.

“…Re, us?” (Unnamed Girl)

“Nee-chan!?” (Unnamed Boy)

“Reus… Reus. Do you hear my voice?” (Unnamed Girl)

“I hear it! I hear it, Nee-chan!” (Reus)

“Sniff… How wonderful.” (Noel)

As the siblings embraced in tears, Noel pressed her handkerchief against her eyes. Wait, wait, you have something else to do before you cry.

“What about the soup?” (Sirius)

“Ah, of course! I shall prepare it at once.” (Noel)

I had taken measures to keep it from cooling, but I still wanted them to eat it soon. Noel filled a thick bowl with soup and presented it with a smile before the two.

“Since your younger brother has awakened, everything is fine now, is it not? Here, please enjoy this warm soup.” (Noel)

“Uh… No, I will not be deceived! You intend to make us eat something horribly foul and then laugh at us!” (Reus)

“That is not so at all. See… mm, it is delicious.” (Noel)

The boy who had been making accusations, now revealed as Reus, ate right in front of them as if to say that he was deeply offended. Confronted with that sight, Reus was left speechless, and Noel, with a slightly serious expression, placed the bowls into the hands of the two.

“I imagine the two of you have suffered many terrible hardships. However, this was earnestly prepared for the two of you by Sirius-sama.” (Noel)

“Um… why are you doing this for us?” (Unnamed Girl)

“Are you perhaps asking the reason you were saved? That is something I would like you to ask Sirius-sama, but for now, I wish for you to eat.” (Noel)

“That is right. Do not worry yourself and eat it. It will grow cold.” (Sirius)

With my urging, at last, the girl brought the soup to her lips.

“…It is delicious.” (Unnamed Girl)

“I-Is that true, Nee-chan? There is nothing poisonous in it, right?” (Reus)

“It is very delicious. It is warm, and this is the first time I have had something like this…” (Unnamed Girl)

Reus also cautiously took a sip, and when he raised his face from the bowl, large tears streamed down his cheeks as he appeared vexed.

“Damn it… it is so good. What is this… hic… damn it!” (Reus)

“Delicious… truly… u… uuuhhh!” (Unnamed Girl)

It must have been that the shackles had completely fallen away. Throwing aside shame and appearance alike, the two cried out loudly. Once they had cried to their heart’s content and calmed down, they would surely come to understand that we meant no harm. For now, it was better to let them cry without reserve.

“I leave the rest to you.” (Sirius)

“Yes, please leave it to me.” (Noel)

Entrusting them to her, I quietly left the room.

Upon exiting the room, Erina greeted me. With a gentle smile she took my hand.

“You have worked hard. However, you have been far too reckless. If that child’s strength had been greater, you would have suffered a grave injury.” (Erina)

“You were watching? I am sorry to have worried you.” (Sirius)

“Entirely so. Now then, let us quickly finish treating that wound. I do not wish to say this, but considering sanitation there is a concern for illness.” (Erina)

“It is fine. I used mana to wash away the bad parts with my blood. The bleeding has already been stopped, so treatment is unnecessary.” (Sirius)

“As expected of you. However, at least allow me to wrap it in a bandage.” (Erina)

With practiced hands she swiftly bound the wound. Her overprotectiveness remained unchanged, but it was something that made me happy.

“I am sorry, Erina. I took the liberty of bringing back two children.” (Sirius)

“There is no need to apologize. On the contrary, I am happy. Sirius-sama truly is the child of Aria-sama.” (Erina)

“Kaa-san?” (Sirius)

“Yes. The circumstances were different, but Aria-sama also took in Noel. Even that awkward expression of yours is exactly the same.” (Erina)

Erina laughed cheerfully. To think that without knowing it, I had taken the same action as my mother. I ought to be glad, yet it gave me a slightly itchy feeling inside.

“Sirius-sama, what do you intend to do with the two children?” (Erina)

“What do I intend? We have enough resources to support them in our present home.” (Sirius)

“Sirius-sama.” (Erina)

Cutting off my words, Erina placed her hands on both my shoulders with a serious expression.

“Please do not concern yourself with the house or with us. Tell me your honest feelings. We are your retainers, so we will only follow the intentions of Sirius-sama.” (Erina)

“Even if those intentions are impossible demands?” (Sirius)

“Even so. However, if it is an impossible demand, I will at least voice my opinion.” (Erina)

I was defeated. This person truly understood me. With Erina’s words, the guilt I had felt inside me had mostly vanished.

“I wish to protect them as they are. In addition, I wish to train them and then leave the rest to their own initiative.” (Sirius)

“The two of them have no money and their bodies are still immature. Frankly, it will only be we who shoulder the hardship. Even so?” (Erina)

“Even so. This is not charity but my own self-indulgence.” (Sirius)

Put more harshly, it was practice for me as an educator. Unlike my previous life, magic exists now, so I should be able to push through a certain amount of recklessness, and I would come to understand the differences in growth between races.

“Then, do you have a reason for choosing these two? Was it only because you happened to save them?” (Erina)

“It was not as though anyone would have done. In fact, immediately after saving them I thought it might turn into trouble.” (Sirius)

The moment I decided to protect the two was when I saw the girl’s eyes. The gaze of one who, no matter how wounded herself, still bore the resolve to protect what must be protected. It had made me remember a disciple of my previous life who had the same eyes. I thought myself sentimental, but there was nothing wrong with that. I was no longer a man in his 60s but a six-year-old child, and I would live following my instincts like a young person should.

“They were desperate to protect one another. I believed that such two could be trusted.” (Sirius)

“If Sirius-sama says so, then I too shall trust them. In that case, may I make a request: would it be acceptable for me to give the two of them retainer education?” (Erina)

“Retainer education? I did not take them in with the intention of making them my retainers.” (Sirius)

“However, we cannot simply feed them while they do nothing. In exchange for lodging and meals, the best would be to have them help with our work.” (Erina)

“Hmm. That is indeed true.” (Sirius)

They would need not only to train their bodies but also to acquire learning, and retainer education would serve as experience.

“Though it is shameful to admit, recently the heavy labor has been difficult for me, and I have been wishing for more hands. Even during their training, it would be fine, so I would like to request your permission.” (Erina)

“If Erina wishes to do so, I do not mind. We must first confirm it with the children themselves.” (Sirius)

“As their benefactor you could compel them without issue, I believe.” (Erina)

“It is one thing to compel them to learn how to live, but everything else should be left to them.” (Sirius)

“Fufufu, you are kind. You truly are exactly like Aria-sama.” (Erina)

That was exactly why I found it embarrassing when she said it. Because of that embarrassment, I decided to change the topic.

“I shall prepare the evening meal. By the time we have finished eating, they will likely have calmed down. Today I obtained fresh loin meat, so I shall make cutlets.” (Sirius)

“A new dish? Dee will be delighted once more.” (Erina)

“I am sure. I must also make something for Noel to eat with one hand in between tending to the two.” (Sirius)

She was likely the greatest contributor in dealing with the two, so I would add something she liked as a reward and make it for her. After the meal, all of the household’s residents had gathered in the guest room. I had intended to interview the two now that they had calmed down.

“What is this!? It is crispy with thick meat! And with mayonnaise as well, it is the best!” (Noel)

“You are being noisy.” (Sirius)

This was the commotion when I handed food to Noel, who had been watching the two. Incidentally, what I had given her was a katsu sandwich, cutlet placed between slices of bread. With her beloved mayonnaise included, Noel was enraptured but handing it over at this time had been a mistake. The delicious aroma made the two on the bed look enviously, and as for Reus, drool was hanging from his mouth.

“I am sorry, but it would be better for you not to eat this.” (Sirius)

“Why not! That lady over there is eating it!” (Reus)

“H-Hey Reus! I am sorry, my younger brother said something rude.” (Unnamed Girl)

“Do not worry about it. By the way, what has your recent diet been like?” (Sirius)

“Well… we could not eat meat, and when we tried eating wild plants we vomited, so we have hardly eaten at all. That soup earlier was our first meal in a long time.” (Unnamed Girl)

“I thought as much. The two of you have hardly eaten and your internal organs are greatly weakened. If you were to eat that now, your body would reject it and you would vomit.” (Sirius)

“I will not vomit!” (Reus)

“I am sorry, I am sorry!” (Unnamed Girl)

Reus repeatedly made impertinent remarks without understanding his position. It was a wonder how he had survived as a slave with such an attitude.

“Well now, once you have regained your health I will let you eat it, so please endure for now.” (Sirius)

“Yes! Ah… I-I am sorry.” (Unnamed Girl)

The young girl seemed as though she also wished to eat, and before she knew it she had answered, only to become embarrassed afterwards. Her honesty was commendable.

“I gave a brief introduction earlier but let us do a proper self-introduction once more. After all, we have new people among us.” (Sirius)

“That is right, that is right. Just who in the world are all of you?” (Reus)

“Reus!” (Unnamed Girl)

“You are spirited, I see. Then let me begin by introducing myself. I am Sirius, the master of this household.” (Sirius)

Following that, Erina, Dee, and Noel each gave a simple introduction. In the middle of it, there was a minor accident in which Noel hurriedly swallowed her food and nearly choked, but for the most part everything proceeded as usual.

“Um, Sirius-sama, are you perhaps a nobleman?” (Unnamed Girl)

“I suppose technically I am a noble. However, you may speak to me normally without worrying about such things.” (Sirius)

“That is not possible. A-anyway, my name is Emilia. I apologize for the delay, but thank you very much for saving us. Now, you too.” (Emilia)

“…I am Reus.” (Reus)

So, their names were Emilia and Reus. However, Reus’s voice suddenly became much quieter. Perhaps he had become intimidated upon realizing he was speaking with a noble.

“Your voice suddenly became quiet. What has happened to all that boldness you had earlier?” (Sirius)

“S-shut up! My name is Reus! I am the son of the mighty and proud Felios!” (Reus)

“And yet, is the son of the mighty and proud Felios unable to even give thanks to the one who saved him?” (Sirius)

“Ugh!?” (Reus)

It was not that I intended to bully him. This, too, was a part of education. Regardless of whether one is a child or not, anyone who cannot even offer thanks to a benefactor will never grow into a decent person. My attendants seemed to understand my intention, for they said nothing and quietly stood by.

“T-thank… you.” (Reus)

“Hmm. Very well then. That concludes the introductions. Do you have any questions?” (Sirius)

“Ah, um… what will become of us now?” (Emilia)

That was indeed the most pressing concern. Truthfully, I was not very eager about it, but I intended to present them with a choice, even though there was hardly any room for refusal.

“I have nothing left but Reus. I have no parents, no home, not even money. I do not even know what I should do.” (Emilia)

“Setting that aside for now, Emilia and Reus, the two of you will stay here until your injuries have healed.” (Sirius)

“Eh? But we are slaves, and we have nothing.” (Emilia)

“You are not slaves, for you have no collars. Once your injuries are healed, there will be two paths. One is that I take you to town, after which you are free to do as you wish. The other is to learn the way of life from me.” (Sirius)

“Learn… from you?” (Emilia)

“Yes. I shall bestow upon you the strength and knowledge necessary to survive in this world. Naturally, I shall also provide you with food during that time.” (Sirius)

“That is a lie, Nee-chan! Adults who speak like that always did terrible things to us!” (Reus)

“Reus… but still…” (Emilia)

“Are you not frustrated?” (Sirius)

“A-about what?” (Reus)

“Are you not frustrated that although you wished to protect one another, you could do nothing and were merely attacked by a monster? Is it truly acceptable to simply be deceived by adults?” (Sirius)

At my words, the two lowered their heads with frustration. It seemed they had suffered quite bitter experiences. For me, that actually made things easier.

“You said you have nothing left but your younger brother. If you truly have nothing left to lose, then come with me.” (Sirius)

“Why… would you go this far for us?” (Emilia)

“There is no particular reason. If I must give one, it is because of my own convenience and selfishness. Accept it as good fortune and be content.” (Sirius)

“…Yes. We shall go with you.” (Emilia)

“Nee-chan!?” (Reus)

That was somewhat anticlimactic. I had intended to observe them for at least a day and then demand a decision again, but it seemed the girl was more decisive than expected.

“We have no other path, and that man says he will make us strong, does he not? I wish to become strong so that I can protect Reus.” (Emilia)

“I-I will protect you too, Nee-chan!” (Reus)

“Then it is settled, Reus. Besides, do you not think that man has an atmosphere similar to Father?” (Emilia)

“Really…? No, that is wrong! Tou-chan was much larger and stronger! He is no different from us!” (Reus)

Oh, come now, do not compare me to your father. In appearance, I am six years old, so from Reus’s perspective he is not mistaken. Emilia, however, seemed to perceive things somewhat differently. I had thought her a timid girl who apologized constantly, but perhaps she was an unexpectedly good find.

“Do not call him ‘that man’, but rather Sirius-sama. Since you have decided to follow him, you must address him properly.” (Emilia)

“F-fine, Nee-chan. S-Sirius… sama.” (Reus)

“My younger brother is hopeless, but please take care of us, Sirius-sama.” (Emilia)

Although Reus was forced into it, the two of them bowed deeply. Whatever the case, the result was satisfactory. I had made them my disciples half by force, but I would gain practice as an educator, while they would become stronger and receive protection. It was a win-win relationship, and there was no cause for complaint.

“The same goes for me. Although there will be many difficulties, I ask that you follow me. Without firm resolve, you will not be able to keep up.” (Sirius)

“I shall do my best!” (Emilia)

“E-easy enough… I-I shall do my best!” (Reus)

They were still utterly ragged, but compared to when I had first taken them in, their expressions had softened somewhat. I believe that children should be smiling. Although the two of them could not yet smile, I hoped that someday they would overcome their past and smile freely.

“Since the discussion has reached a pause, would you permit us to handle the explanations regarding this household?” (Erina)

“Yes, I entrust it to you.” (Sirius)

It was best that the rules of the household be explained by Erina and the others, as they would be in the closest position to these two.

“First, your appearance. Once you have taken the medicine, wipe down your body.” (Erina)

“Medicine.” (Dee)

“Yes, here is hot water and a towel!” (Noel)

“Eh? Eh?” (Emilia/Reus)

“Next is clothing. After taking your measurements, dress them in hand-me-downs.” (Erina)

“Yes, measurements complete!” (Dee)

“Clothing.” (Noel)

“Eh!? Eh!?” (Emilia/Reus)

With the three of them working in perfect coordination, Emilia and Reus were quickly tidied up before they could comprehend what was happening. Considering both the complete healing of their injuries and the settling of their hearts, about five days should suffice. Of course, that calculation included the acceleration of healing through my intervention.

As I listened to the two being fussed over, I was already planning their training schedule in my mind.

Emilia. She was seven years old, a young girl with silver hair shining to her shoulders in a bob cut. Although her eyes were slightly narrow, she would likely grow into a beauty. She was the daughter of Felios, the chief of one of the silver wolf tribes that dwelt upon the Adload continent. In the village she had helped with household chores and, being dependable, was regarded as a leader among the children. She had never used magic, so her attribute was unknown.

Reus. He was five years old, the younger brother of Emilia. His silver hair was no less splendid than his sister’s, cropped short and jutting upward like spikes, and he was a lively boy. A small notch marked the tip of his wolf ears, resembling the ear-tip cuts used to mark neutered cats. He often spoke impudently, so before I trained him, I would first need to instill him with proper discipline.
Like his sister, his attribute was unknown.

Indeed, the education of disciples set my heart ablaze. I was truly looking forward to seeing how these two would grow.

I, Sirius. At six years of age, I had gained two disciples.

 

—

(Thank you for reading at bayabuscotranslation.com)