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

 

 

What I Truly Wish to Say

(Thank you for reading at bayabuscotranslation.com)

— Reus —

 

Lately, Nee-chan has been acting strangely. Even though I say “strangely”, she is still kind to me, and her appearance has not changed at all, yet I find myself watching her without realizing it.

That person… Sirius is the human who saved both Nee-chan and me.

Humans are normally only cruel to us, and even if we cry out to stop, they laugh as they strike us. When we are hungry, they do not give us anything, and they are unpleasant beings. Yet, that person was different. He would not strike while laughing. He gave us delicious meals in abundance. And if we were injured, he immediately took care of it. He was almost like Father. No, that is not it. Tou-chan was kinder. He always watched over us, knew everything, and when we did something wrong, he would chastise us to be a strong and proud man. Compared to him, that person would be nearby before I even noticed, knew many things, and if I did something wrong, he would get angry, a harsh fellow. There is no way he could resemble Tou-chan.

Why, then, does Nee-chan watch that person so intently? When he does something, Nee-chan blushes and praises him, yet whenever I see her like that, I feel a strange, restless sensation.

Yet, Erina-san, who is his attendant, is a human, but I adore her. She is always smiling, gently patting my head, and when she hugs me, she smells like Mother. During education, she is strict, but if one performs properly, she will praise them.

Noel-nee is also amusing and I love her. She is very noisy, but watching her is enjoyable, and she often plays with me. It feels as if I have gained another sister, and I am pleased.

Dee-nii is also like an older brother and I love him. He is a human and slightly intimidating, but he is amazing at making delicious food. If I am hungry in the middle of the night, he secretly gives me bread. He is kind.

Surrounded by the people I love, it feels almost as if I am at home. Yet, everyone I adore only says that that person is incredible. Surely, that person is indeed remarkable. Even though he is almost no different from me, I have never once been able to win against him in the races in the village, in which I had never lost to anyone. Tou-chan used to say that the Silver Wolf Tribe respects strong opponents, yet I dislike that person. I do not know why, but I dislike him. What is this… it seems that not only Nee-chan, but I as well, am acting strangely.

A few days after being rescued by that person and beginning to live in this house, my days have consisted almost entirely of running. I wake in the morning and am made to run, eat breakfast and am made to run, nap and study, then am made to run. Nee-chan performs this without complaint, but I am becoming considerably bored. Therefore, when I requested something different, he said that if I could win against him in running, he would consider it. Ever since then, I have been running so as not to lose to him, yet even this time, I lost. Damn it, next time I will not lose. I will mimic his running style and astonish him.

After enjoying a delicious lunch, I must study. Even so, today’s lunch was also delicious. Although I dislike that he prepared it, perhaps I can concede that he is skilled at cooking… yes.

My studies begin with attendant education under Erina-san. Usually smiling, she becomes exceedingly impressive during this period. She places plates without making a sound, prepares things even before I utter a request. How does one accomplish such things? Erina-san says that if one finds a master to serve, it naturally becomes possible, but I am a boy, and I have no desire to serve that person. Yet, Nee-chan is serious, and because I wish to emulate Erina-san, I exert myself earnestly. Moreover, if one performs well, Erina-san praises them, which encourages my efforts.

The next study is something called arithmetic. It is a study in which various numbers are added and subtracted to obtain answers. It is extremely difficult and gives me headaches. Yet, that person said that if I become capable of this, I will not be deceived by those foolish adults, and thus I persist. After gazing at books and solving problems for a while, we practice buying sweets from him using real money. Today it is pudding, which Noel-nee adores. If I answer correctly, I shall receive it, so I must endeavor.

“Today’s problem is difficult. If one pudding costs one iron coin and 10 stone coins, and one purchases four with one copper coin each, how much change will there be?” (Sirius)

“Yes, yes! Five iron coins and ten stone coins!” (Noel)

Suddenly, Noel-nee entered, had pudding stuffed into her mouth, and was expelled.

She is lively today as always.

“Forget that. If one pudding costs one iron coin and 20 stone coins, and one buys five, what then?” (Sirius)

Huh, that is a little different? I consider it while consulting the money chart that he gave me. Since ten iron coins equal one copper coin… well?

“Sirius-sama, how about this?” (Emilia)

“Very good, that is correct. I shall present the pudding.” (Sirius)

As expected of Nee-chan, she already understands and has written down the answer for him. Even if I cannot comprehend it, Nee-chan will share with me, yet that is not manly, and it feels as if I am losing to him, which I dislike.

“The pudding is delightful, but I would like to be patted.” (Noel)

“Good grief, here.” (Sirius)

“Ehehe.” (Noel)

Again, a strange, restless sensation arises. Why do I feel this way?

“Reus. Compose yourself.” (Erina)

When Erina-san pats my head, I calm slightly. That is right, I must quickly answer to receive the pudding, or I will not be able to eat it with Nee-chan. Well then, fifty stone coins equal one iron coin, so…

“…The change is three iron coins!” (Reus)

“That is correct. You managed it alone without being confused by the stone coins.” (Sirius)

After worrying for a while, I finally answered correctly. I received the pudding, yet he patted my head, which made me feel a little displeased.

Yet, I do not wish to push his hand away, so I do not understand my own feelings.

“It is delicious, Reus.” (Noel)

“Yes!” (Reus)

Yet, since the pudding is delicious, all is forgiven. As Noel-nee often says, if it is delicious, all is well.

That night, for some reason, I could not sleep. No matter how many times I closed my eyes, I could not slumber. My chest throbbed violently, sleep did not come, and I grew thirsty. I quietly left the room, so as not to wake Nee-chan sleeping in the same bed, and drank water in the kitchen, which slightly abated the throbbing. As I was about to return, I glanced toward the entrance and inexplicably felt an urge to go outside. Still restless, I decided to sneak outside.

Outside, it was quite bright. I realized it was because the moon floating in the sky shone brightly. I had seen it several times while in the village, but tonight it appeared particularly beautiful.

As I gazed upon the moon, the throbbing in my chest intensified, yet I could not avert my eyes.

My body grew warm… power surged within me…

Huh? Why… how…? Nee-chan… I… I… I do not want… this…

 

— Sirius —

 

“Reus has been acting strangely.” (Emilia)

It was night, and I was engaged in reading before retiring when Emilia visited me and spoke thus.

“Hm, indeed, even today’s training was peculiar in its manner.” (Sirius)

Normally, he runs with his combative instincts fully displayed so as not to lose to me, yet today he seemed merely intent on exhausting his strength.

“Since last night, something has been amiss, and he appears unusually excited.” (Emilia)

“Did something occur during the night? Tell me what you remember.” (Sirius)

“Yes, last night I saw Reus leave his room unable to sleep. When he did not return for some time, I intended to search for him, yet he eventually came back, appearing exceedingly flustered and immediately covering himself with a blanket to sleep.” (Emilia)

“Suspicious indeed. And then?” (Sirius)

“This morning, he looked profoundly relieved, and when I inquired what had occurred, he only responded that it was nothing.” (Emilia)

“I see. Ideally, I would have preferred that you had reported this during the morning itself.” (Sirius)

“I-I am sorry. But Reus was so desperately concerned…” (Emilia)

Being family, I cannot help but be indulgent. His emotions seem unstable, yet in any case, I must conduct a personal interview.

“Fetch Erina and Reus. He may speak if Erina is present.” (Sirius)

“Understood.” (Emilia)

I observed Emilia leaving the room to summon the two and recalled once more Reus’s behavior. His appetite was vigorous, even more than usual, yet the normally competitive boy had suddenly ceased challenging anyone, and he appeared to be afraid of something. At the moment I considered the actions that Reus might take, I activated ‘Search’.

“Sirius-sama!” (Emilia)

Emilia burst into the room with a face on the verge of tears. In her hand, she clutched a single scrap of paper.

“Reus… Reus has… left the house!” (Emilia)

We had gathered in the living room. When Emilia returned to the room, she discovered this note left upon the bed, written in clumsy handwriting.

‘I have matters to attend to and am leaving. Sirius-sama, please take care of Nee-chan.’

I showed this note to the attendants to gather their opinions.

“However, what could this sudden action mean? He is not the sort to flee from training, I think.” (Sirius)

“Indeed. That child was never of such a disposition.” (Noel)

“I am of the same opinion.” (Erina)

“As am I.” (Dee)

It seems that all are aware that he is not the type to run away. Next, I intended to ask Emilia, who knows Reus best, yet she struggled to restrain her tears while Noel embraced her.

“Emilia, you can cry later. Endure it for now and tell me. Did Reus resent life here?” (Sirius)

“Impossible… That is impossible. Everyone has been so kind… I am exceedingly grateful… Fleeing is… absolutely impossible!” (Emilia)

“I see, thank you. Then it must be another reason… Perhaps it was indeed last night?” (Sirius)

“Did something occur last night?” (Emilia)

“Ah, in truth…” (Sirius)

I recounted Reus’s actions from earlier, but all were merely puzzled, and ultimately, nothing was clarified. Here, indeed, the only course is this…

“I must ask him directly.” (Sirius)

“Will you go to retrieve him?” (Erina)

“No, forcibly returning him would be meaningless. I am going merely to hear his reason. The location is known, and I can reach it by flight.” (Sirius)

Reus’s position has already been ascertained by ‘Search’. The reason I do not rush to fetch him is that I wish to respect his autonomy. I train my disciples, yet if they discover other goals or dreams, I respect them. I once wished to raise Dee, but he expressed a desire to become a cook, so I supported him. Thus, had Reus departed of his own volition, I would not intend to stop him, yet leaving without telling his elder sister Emilia is unreasonable. I at least wish to hear the reason.

“The night is already dark, and it is a dangerous hour. It is preferable that only I, who can fly, go.” (Sirius)

“Sirius-sama, your weapons.” (Erina)

Erina appeared already prepared, fastening a belt with a sword and a knife. Even if combat is not anticipated, preparation is necessary. Once I confirmed that the weapons were securely fastened, Emilia approached and bowed deeply.

“Please! Allow me to accompany you!” (Emilia)

“Erina.” (Sirius)

“Yes. Emilia, change into these.” (Erina)

“Eh?” (Emilia)

Perhaps she thought she would be refused, but she was astonished to receive the upper and lower garments.

“What is the matter? Change quickly. We must pursue him.” (Sirius)

“Eh… um, is this truly acceptable?” (Emilia)

“Of course it is. He is your brother, is he not? You cannot accept decisions made without your knowledge.” (Sirius)

“…Thank you very much!” (Emilia)

She bowed with tearful eyes, yet nothing was yet resolved. I signaled Noel with my eyes, requesting that she assist Emilia to complete her change of clothing.

“Understood. Emi-chan, save your tears for later and change quickly.” (Noel)

“Yes!” (Emilia)

I withdrew to the rear, awaiting her completion, while confirming with Erina and Dee.

“Since there is a possibility of a monster attack, prepare medicines and other relevant items.” (Sirius)

“Leave it to us. We shall await the three of you at home.” (Erina)

“I shall also prepare something warm.” (Dee)

“Understood. We shall contact you if anything occurs.” (Sirius)

““Understood.”” (Erina and Dee)

As soon as we stepped outside, Emilia emerged. She was dressed in the provided garments, sturdy thick trousers and a half-coat, apparel suited to an adventurer allowing ease of movement.

“I apologize for the delay.” (Emilia)

“Very well, let us depart quickly. Climb onto my back.” (Sirius)

“Y-yes. Excuse me.” (Emilia)

When I crouched down and turned my back, Emilia, though slightly bewildered, climbed onto my back. For safety, I firmly secured both of us with ‘String’. The closeness increased, and Emilia was flustered, but I ignored it.

“W-wah! S-Sirius-sama!?” (Emilia)

“I have secured you tightly with magic, so there is no worry of falling. Now, let us go, everyone.” (Sirius)

“I-I will go!” (Emilia)

“““Please go safely.””” (Attendants)

With the voices of the attendants behind us, Emilia and I dashed into the sky.

 

—

 

“Aren’t you scared?” (Sirius)

“I-I’m fine!” (Emilia)

Though I restrained the speed and altitude more than usual, anyone flying for the first time at night would naturally feel fear. Her arms around my neck were tense, but my reinforced strength rendered it ineffective.

“At times like this, it is good to look upward. See, look at the moon.” (Sirius)

“Y-yes…! …Wow.” (Emilia)

She looked up at the moon, which had come slightly closer, and her grip eased. We continued flying in silence for a while, and Emilia, having calmed down, suddenly murmured.

“Reus… he is probably looking at this moon too, isn’t he?” (Emilia)

“Indeed. Perhaps he is gazing at the moon, feeling lonely, and crying.” (Sirius)

“Fufu, that is possible. Truly… such a foolish child.” (Emilia)

“Yes, foolish indeed. If it is for a trivial reason, I might just hit him.” (Sirius)

“I shall also strike his cheek.” (Emilia)

“Exactly the spirit. Let us increase our speed a little.” (Sirius)

“Yes!” (Emilia)

I had searched with ‘Search,’ but Reus showed no signs of movement. He might be unable to move, and since Emilia had grown accustomed to flying, we increased our speed and continued.

The place we reached, following the reaction, was the lake where I had previously collected water magic grass. This time, no goblins were occupying the area, and there were no dangerous monsters nearby, so we descended safely. I helped Emilia down from my back and began walking to search for Reus.

“Reus! Where are you?!” (Emilia)

“There is no need to call out.” (Sirius)

If we shouted in an area where monsters lurked, we might attract them. Fortunately, there were no reactions nearby, but unnecessary actions should still be avoided. Moreover—

“But!” (Emilia)

“It is fine, Reus is right there.” (Sirius)

Where I pointed, Reus’s back could be seen crouched by the lakeside. Emilia began to rush toward him, but…

“Reus!” (Emilia)

“Do not come closer!” (Reus)

His voice, tinged with threat, rejected her, which he never did with his older sister. Emilia was taken aback by the abrupt behavior and involuntarily stopped.

“Reus? What are you saying? Let us go home together, alright?” (Emilia)

“I told you not to come!” (Reus)

The rejection did not cease. Still, Emilia rallied herself and called out to her younger brother.

“What is the matter? We said we would try our best together. What will you do if something happens while you are away from everyone?” (Emilia)

“I am already fine. Running built my stamina, and studying gave me knowledge. I can manage on my own now!” (Reus)

“Do not jest! You cannot become strong from just that!” (Emilia)

“I have become strong! I… have grown stronger!” (Reus)

The conversation reached a complete stalemate, and continuing to argue would be futile, so I intervened. I tapped Emilia on the shoulder to turn her around. She looked up at me, tears streaming.

“I am sorry, I will… I will persuade him immediately.” (Emilia)

“If you wish to speak, let him return home. They will not be reasonable in their current excitement, so I will handle it.” (Sirius)

“…Yes.” (Emilia)

I approached Reus, with Emilia retreating behind me in frustration. Now then, I wondered what reason he had for running away from home.

“Hey, Reus. What are you doing in a place like this?” (Sirius)

“…It is none of your business.” (Reus)

“It is indeed my business. I am your guardian and your master. If a disciple goes astray, it is only natural for me to be concerned.” (Sirius)

“I never agreed to become that!” (Reus)

“By the time I taught you, you did. Moreover, I provided meals and a place to sleep, so I certainly have the right to ask.” (Sirius)

“…” (Reus)

“Silent, are we? In any case, answer me. Why did you leave home? That note you left does not explain anything.” (Sirius)

“…I have become strong.” (Reus)

“You have become strong from such little training? What a grave misunderstanding, your overconfidence is excessive.” (Sirius)

Provoked by my words, Reus stood up, turned, and shouted.

“I have become stronger than you! Take my sister back!” (Reus)

“Even though you lost in running again today? If you claim to have become stronger only with words, then you are merely a brat.” (Sirius)

“Shut up! Shut up, shut up, shut up, shut up!” (Reus)

Stomping the ground in a childish tantrum. Even though his emotions had been somewhat stabilized by Erina, it seemed impossible that he could explode this violently in just one day.

“If words will not make you understand… then look at this!” (Sirius)

“!? Reus… it cannot be…!” (Emilia)

Turning at the noise, Emilia collapsed in disbelief. When I returned my gaze to Reus, his silver hair, reflecting the moonlight, had… turned golden.

“What is that?” (Sirius)

“Impossible… Reus is a cursed child…” (Emilia)

Emilia despaired alone, but I could not understand the meaning. Her reaction seemed exaggerated if this were merely a racial trait.

“What is that? If you know, tell me.” (Sirius)

“That is… something called a cursed child, which has been passed down in our Silver Wolf tribe.” (Emilia)

A cursed child? I had never heard of this, not even in Albert’s travel journal, but it clearly does not sound positive.

“Ugh… Guaaaaah!” (Reus)

An abnormality began in Reus’s body. His short hair lengthened, muscles swelled, fur covered his body, and his nose extended. Reus had transformed into a bipedal wolf. The clothes remaining on his body barely preserved his human appearance, but this must be what they call a werewolf.

“A cursed child transforms entirely into a wolf. It is said to bring calamity and misfortune… and according to the Silver Wolf tribe’s law, they are to be disposed of.” (Emilia)

“Disposed of? That is a rather perilous tale.” (Sirius)

“Two years ago, in my village, an adult suddenly became a cursed child. That person became confused, began rampaging, and attempted to attack us, at which point my father… killed them.” (Emilia)

“Killed right in front of you?” (Sirius)

“…Yes.” (Emilia)

I felt I somewhat understood the reason. Reus knew he was a cursed child, and seeing that outcome before his eyes, he despaired that he too would meet the same fate. Yet he did not wish to die, nor could he remain with his sister, so he fled. That must be it.

“Look, I am a cursed child! Like that adult who was killed! I hate that, so I am running away! Therefore, take my sister back!” (Reus)

“Reus… no. You cannot… go.” (Emilia)

“Nee-chan… take care. In this form, I am very strong, so I will be fine. I can live alone now.” (Reus)

“No… Reus. Do not leave me alone.” (Emilia)

Emilia, knowing the Silver Wolf tribe’s law, understood Reus’s actions. Bound by the chains of law, her voice conveyed no strength. Though she likely wished to forcibly stop him, her feet would not move, and she simply wept silently. Enveloped by mutual despair…

“How utterly ridiculous.” (Sirius)

I scoffed through my nose.

“Eh!? Siri…us-sama?” (Emilia)

“What did you say? Say it again!” (Sirius)

“I will say it as many times as I like. Ridiculous, utterly, ridiculous.” (Sirius)

At my words, Emilia was taken aback, and Reus was raging with anger, but I ignored him and raised a single finger.

“Reus, contend with me. If you can prevail against me, go wherever you desire. However, if I am the victor, you shall grant me a single request.” (Sirius)

“What is this? You said that if anything happens I should do as I please. I am doing as I please, yet you would stop me? That is a lie!” (Reus)

“I have no wish to be called a liar by one who tells lies. Moreover, is this your idea of doing as you please? Truly, you are amusing.” (Sirius)

Indeed, I respect the autonomy of the individual, but that is only when there is mutual understanding. Even if one claims that they have found a woman they wish to protect and wishes to leave, if that woman turns out to be deceiving her disciple, I shall intervene, even if it requires striking her.

“You have become stronger, have you not? If you are confident in victory, then step forth without delay.” (Sirius)

While beckoning with my hand, I removed the weapon belt which bore a sword and a knife. Without taking my eyes off Reus, who had begun to emit a lupine growl, I spoke loudly enough for Emilia to hear.

“Can you hear me, Emilia!” (Sirius)

“Y-Yes!” (Emilia)

“I am about to instruct this one. Do you understand?” (Sirius)

“…Please… do so.” (Emilia)

I cast the weapon belt toward the position where she likely stood and assumed a semi-profile stance with one hand extended in a bare-handed combat posture.

“You always act so high and mighty. I will show you the extent of my strength!” (Reus)

With his eyes glinting and transformed into a wolf-man, Reus charged forward.

“Take this!” (Reus)

A wide right straight came from Reus, and I attempted to redirect it with the side of my fist, but I swiftly pivoted my body to evade instead. Distracted by the wind pressure of the fist brushing past my right cheek, a left hook immediately followed, so I dropped my body to avoid it. Seeing an unguarded abdomen before me, I struck my fist into it without hesitation, yet…

“…It does not hurt!” (Reus)

It seemed to have no effect whatsoever, and with a ferocious grin, Reus kicked, prompting me to take a backward step and regain distance. This was once again beyond my expectations…

“Fast, and resilient.” (Sirius)

“How is that! I have grown stronger, have I not!” (Reus)

“Indeed, you have grown stronger.” (Sirius)

“Even if you apologize, I shall not forgive you!” (Reus)

Reus approached once more, initiating a torrential flurry. I avoided the right hook, tilted my head to evade the left uppercut, blocked the left front kick with both hands, and was forced backward. Stepping back too far, my back struck a tree. Seizing the opportunity, Reus launched a right straight, which I avoided by leaping far sideways. The moment his fist would have landed, there was a snapping sound as the tree shattered. To think such destructive power at only five years old. Even though I had deflected it, the numbness in my hand persisted.

“What is the matter? You are merely evading!” (Reus)

“Speak as you will.” (Sirius)

From mid-range, he launched a jumping flying kick, which I avoided by shifting to a semi-profile stance and countered by striking my right fist into his abdomen. However, it was akin to striking a stone wall; while I felt the impact, it caused no damage.

“Haha, it does not hurt at all! I have grown this strong!” (Reus)

Laughing, Reus reached to seize me, but I struck his side with a right kick the moment his balance faltered. The kick forced him a few steps backward, yet he immediately reestablished his posture as though nothing had occurred.

“It does not work! It is already my victory, so you must cease resisting!” (Reus)

He drew back his fist widely, gathering power and momentum for a telephon punch. Even if I attempted to block it, the velocity and force from his transformation could not be endured lightly.

Yet…

“Childish quarrel.” (Sirius)

A telephon punch was a strike so conspicuously telegraphed as to announce “I am about to strike straight” in advance. I slipped inside such an opening, seized his collar, and simultaneously swept his legs with a kick. Reus performed three vertical rotations mid-air, landing without the ability to take a defensive posture.

“Ugh!? …W-Why!” (Reus)

This maneuver spins the opponent in an unexpected direction, temporarily disorienting their vestibular sense. It was highly perilous for novices, yet I applied it only to the degree necessary to momentarily paralyze his sense of balance. Indeed, Reus could not rise and looked up at me from his knees with astonishment.

“No matter your speed or strength, do not imagine such childish tricks will succeed.” (Sirius)

From the very first strike, he had relied solely on easily avoidable wide swings, occasional flying kicks without any feint, and now a telephon punch? Has he grown to despise the art of combat? How many times did I nearly strike him in earnest?

“Damn it!” (Reus)

Though not yet fully recovered, he rose unsteadily and attempted to strike. I acknowledged his rapid recovery and resolve, yet aiming for the small target of my face against a superior opponent was a fault. I evaded solely with neck movement and struck my fist into his solar plexus.

“Doesn’t… work… ugh!” (Reus)

Taken aback by the unexpected blow, Reus staggered backward two or three steps, vomiting the contents of his stomach. He may have believed he could endure, but those attacks earlier were executed without ‘Boost’. I had been gauging his defensive capabilities, and now understanding them, I could strike freely within the limit that would not endanger his life.

“Cough, ha… th-that was merely a lucky strike!” (Reus)

Does he believe in luck on the battlefield? Even if a ricochet or deflected projectile struck, one might excuse it, but after clearly receiving a frontal strike, one should first regain composure.

Yet he remained unheeding. I aimed a right foot at his side, evading by rotating my body, and then swept his supporting leg with the momentum. Further, I seized Reus’s momentarily airborne leg, rotated him several times, and slammed him to the ground.

“How is it, Reus? Can you truly manage alone with such strength?” (Sirius)

“Not… yet. I have not… yet… been defeated.” (Reus)

His fighting spirit had not waned, and he rose unsteadily, swinging his fists.

Ah, this time he was attacking with quick successive strikes rather than wide swings. Admirable.

While evading the finer barrage, occasional wide strikes interspersed themselves, and I countered each with a single blow. Reus did not flinch nor cease his assault. After over thirty exchanges, glancing at his face, I saw that he continued striking with tears streaming.

“Why… why is it… not hitting? Why… will you not fall?” (Reus)

“To expect one to fall from such childish play is absurd.” (Sirius)

“Fall… let me win… allow me… to go…” (Reus)

“Do you truly… wish to go?” (Sirius)

“I do wish… I must go… the cursed child… cannot remain here.” (Reus)

I brushed aside a punch that no longer carried strength, striking his right cheek and sending him sprawling to the ground, gouging the earth as he fell. Reus rose once more, bleeding from cuts in his mouth inflicted by his own teeth, yet that was all he could do. Approaching the motionless Reus, I stood before him and peered into his eyes, seeing the unmistakable fear of a child.

“Once again, I shall ask you. Do you truly wish to distance yourself from us?” (Sirius)

“Y-Yes… I do… Otherwise… Nee-chan… would… become… unhappy!” (Reus)

With the last vestiges of his strength, he threw a punch, which I caught squarely with one hand, seizing him by the collar of his chest.

“Reus, look at me.” (Sirius)

“…W-What is it?” (Reus)

As I drew him close, his eyes, now sharp and wolf-like, reflected me in their depths.

“What am I to you? Do I appear to you as one of the Silver Wolf tribe?” (Sirius)

“No… that is not it…” (Reus)

“Precisely. I am a human. Therefore, I care nothing for your cursed child, and it holds no concern for me whatsoever. From my perspective, you are merely a child capable of transforming into a wolf. On the contrary, you have grown stronger, and I find myself curious as to how I might guide your growth.” (Sirius)

“Eh… wha…?” (Reus)

“The laws of the Silver Wolf tribe? I know nothing of such things! You are my disciple, and the clan’s laws have no bearing upon you. Should any trivial fool dare to complain, I shall strike him myself.” (Sirius)

“Me… a disciple?” (Reus)

“Emilia, come!” (Sirius)

“Y-Yes!” (Emilia)

Calling Emilia, who had been staring in stunned silence, I thrust Reus forward and posed the question.

“What is it that you wish? Do you intend to kill a cursed child, following the laws of the Silver Wolf tribe?” (Sirius)

Reus trembled at the mere mention of the word “kill”, while Emilia, hesitant yet resolute, shook her head.

“Then, shall we part ways and forget this? Speak truly—what is it that your heart desires?” (Sirius)

“I… I… refuse. I cannot bear to kill Reus, nor to part from him! If I may remain with Reus, then the clan’s laws mean nothing to me!” (Emilia)

Tearing apart the chains of the law, Emilia poured out her feelings as if shouting to the heavens, once more locking eyes with Reus.

“As you have heard, neither your sister nor I care for cursed children. Now, I shall ask you once again. Do you wish to leave?” (Sirius)

“…N…No.” (Reus)

Though I did not understand the principle, his body seemed to reverse as if rewinding, and his transformation dissolved. Reus’s restored face, covered in tears and nasal mucus, bore an uncanny resemblance to that of his sister. The distorted, disheveled visage twisted further, and he cried torrents of tears as he screamed.

“No… no, no, no! I do not wish to be alone! I do not wish to be lonely! I do not wish to be separated from Nee-chan! I want Erina-san to stroke me more! I want to play more with my Noel-nee! I want to eat more meals from Dee-nii! I do not wish to go! I… want to return home…” (Reus)

Crying and screaming, Reus released the truths he had desperately kept hidden. That was as it should be.

He is a child. There is no harm in letting a child speak as he wills. There are many things only a child can express in this period of life.

Handing Reus over to Emilia, who had approached, he was embraced without concern for the dirt upon his body.

“Reus… it is alright now… Reus.” (Emilia)

“Nee-chan… I am sorry. I am truly sorry.” (Reus)

Watching the sibling pair embrace while shedding tears, I recollected the weapon belt I had placed aside, retrieving it and fastening it once more.

“Reus, if I recall correctly, we agreed that if I won the contest, you would grant me a single request.” (Sirius)

By any standard, my victory was unquestionable. Reus trembled at my words, yet a contest is a contest. I would exercise my authority without mercy.

“Sirius-sama, I shall accept on his behalf. Therefore, regarding Reus…” (Emilia)

“Nee-chan, that is unacceptable.” (Reus)

“Indeed. This is our contest. It is improper for Emilia to intervene. Reus, listen carefully.” (Sirius)

Peering into Reus’s face, I smiled as I delivered my command.

“Return home.” (Sirius)

“…Yes.” (Reus)

Reflecting after the events, I could not help but feel embarrassed at how much I had overstepped. Yet, Reus had clearly stated he would return, and as the saying goes, all’s well that ends well.

Being young, a certain degree of recklessness is hardly cause for concern.

Thus, the commotion surrounding Reus’s attempted runaway came to its close.

 

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