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

 

 

Silver Moon Oath

(Thank you for reading at bayabuscotranslation.com)

The morning following Reus’ runaway uproar, I was training alone atop the mountain peak.

In recent days, I had been running through the garden at dawn together with my two disciples. However, considering what had transpired yesterday, it would have been cruel to make them train at dawn today. To be more precise, the fault lay with me, for I had gone too far and beaten him to the point where he could not even stand. When I recalled the events of yesterday, a wry smile escaped me.

Last night, after bringing Reus back, we were greeted before the house by the attendants who had been waiting for our return.

“Welcome home, Sirius-sama. Emilia as well, and Reus too.” (Erina)

“Ah, I am home, everyone. I must ask you to tend to Reus immediately.” (Sirius)

“Leave it to me.” (Dee)

“Whoa, he is all beaten up. Do we have enough healing salve?” (Noel)

I entrusted the completely exhausted and unconscious Reus to Dee and entered the house with Noel. After lowering Emilia, who had been riding on my back, I finally felt a moment of reprieve.

“Still, I overdid it, even by my own standards.” (Sirius)

“Yet it was a necessary deed. It was the result of confronting him with all seriousness. You need not trouble yourself with guilt.” (Erina)

“No, I am not feeling guilty, but I do think I should have gone a little easier on him. I let my emotions take control, and my restraint slipped.” (Sirius)

“It is fine, for this too is a whip of love. Surely he will refrain from such selfish actions henceforth.” (Erina)

“Harsh words indeed. Though… you are not wrong.” (Sirius)

While shuddering inwardly at Erina’s relentless optimism, I noticed that Emilia, who stood quietly behind me, had remained silent all this time. She had not uttered a single word since our return. Now that she had calmed down, I wondered if she perhaps angry at me for beating Reus so mercilessly.

“What is the matter? Are you not going to Reus’s side?” (Sirius)

“Ah… yes. I-I shall go at once!” (Emilia)

When I called out to her, she rushed past me in a fluster, only to halt midway, return, and bow deeply before me.

“Sirius-sama, truly… thank you so much. It is only because of you that my brother and I can remain together.” (Emilia)

“Ah, I shall accept your gratitude. In any case, I am simply glad that you both are safe.” (Sirius)

“Yes! I shall follow you wherever you go.” (Emilia)

Emilia gazed up at me as if enraptured by fever.

Huh… could this possibly be?

“P-pardon me!” (Emilia)

Without warning, she apologized and suddenly threw her arms around me. As I stood there, bewildered by her uncharacteristic action–…

“Ouch!” (Sirius)

…–she bit my shoulder. I let out a sound more from surprise than pain. It hardly hurt, and there was not even a trace of blood. Before I could question her sudden behavior, she murmured something, then, her face crimson, hurried into the house as if fleeing.

Left behind was me, standing dumbfounded, and Erina, emanating an aura of fury.

“To bare her fangs against her master… it seems a lesson under the name of education is required.” (Erina)

“Wait, wait. That was simply the habit of the Silver Wolf Tribe. It was not an attack.” (Sirius)

To placate the nearly charging Erina, I explained what Emilia had once told me about the Silver Wolf Tribe. For them, biting the shoulder is a sign of affection. And the words she whispered as she parted from me were–…

“I love you…” (Emilia)

…–without doubt, an escalation from before. This was, as they say, the real thing.

“If Noel were here, she would surely say: ‘She has fallen completely’.” (Erina)

“Please do not say that.” (Sirius)

Indeed, by anyone’s reckoning, it was over the line. She was now unmistakably a maiden in love. Having saved her brother from despair, I had now become the object of her affection. Damn it, things were turning out exactly as Noel had predicted. It was not that I disliked her or found her unpleasant, but we were both still young; if things grew complicated, we would need to talk it through properly.

As I brooded over this, the ever-capable Erina struck her chest as if to say, leave it to me.

“Sirius-sama, please leave Emilia’s matter to me.” (Erina)

“Are you sure? I would not want her to be forced into bottling things up and growing despondent.” (Sirius)

“It is fine. I have a plan that will satisfy both parties.” (Erina)

“I feel somewhat uneasy about this, but matters of women are best left to women.” (Sirius)

I trusted Erina. Indeed, I did but for some reason, on that particular occasion, an unshakable unease lingered in my chest.

 

—

 

After that, Reus’s treatment was completed, yet he had not awakened by morning.

Having finished my training atop the mountain and drenched in sweat, I flew home. Erina greeted me, and as I accepted a towel and a drink, I asked her a question while tending to my body.

“Have the two of them woken up yet?” (Sirius)

“Not yet. There are no signs that they have left their rooms, so I was thinking of calling for them soon.” (Erina)

“Considering the scale of yesterday’s events, I can understand their hesitation to show their faces.” (Sirius)

Even so, since they remained in the house, they would have to face everyone sooner or later. Emilia’s absence likely stemmed from her unwillingness to leave Reus alone.

“As a last resort, should we place breakfast outside their door to lure them out?” (Sirius)
“That may be a bit much. In any case, breakfast is ready. Let us go. Dee seems particularly enthusiastic today.” (Erina)

It would be cruel to lure them with food like some divine trick to draw Amaterasu from her cave but then again, Reus is a wolf, a canine. Perhaps it would not feel so wrong. Or maybe that thought merely revealed my own pettiness.

“Good morning, Sirius-sama.” (Noel/Dee)

Before the breakfast-laden table sat Noel and Dee, though the two in question had yet to appear. As all eyes turned toward the empty seats, Noel rose and started toward the living room door.

“Oh? So, they are both awake after all.” (Noel)

“!?” (Reus/Emilia)

She had spotted the two peeking timidly through the doorway. Startled, they tried to flee, but Noel unceremoniously flung open the door and pulled them inside.

“G-good morning…” (Emilia)

“…Mmm.” (Reus)

Emilia looked awkward and downcast, while Reus, his eyes swollen from crying, kept his gaze fixed upon the floor.

“Reus, where are your morning manners?” (Erina)

“Uh… g-good… morning…” (Reus)

“Good. Now sit down quickly, or your breakfast will grow cold.” (Erina)

“Come on, both of you, sit, sit.” (Noel)

Prodded by Noel, they reluctantly took their seats. Bread and bacon were arranged on the table, yet before Reus, there was nothing. Seeing this, his face visibly fell.

“This is for you.” (Dee)

Moments later, Dee set down a warm bowl of soup before him. His expression remained as impassive as ever, yet the corner of his lips curved faintly upward.

“Your mouth is injured as well. Eat this first. If it goes down without issue, you may have the rest.” (Dee)

Explaining this calmly, Dee then joined us at the table. As the two stared in astonishment at his gesture, we placed our hands together.

“Now then, everyone, let us give thanks to the gods. Itadakimasu.” (Erina)

“Itadakimasu.” (Everyone except Reus)

“I-itadakimasu.” (Reus)

With Erina’s signal, breakfast began. Incidentally, though prayer to the gods before a meal was customary, the practice of saying itadakimasu was one I had introduced.

While still hesitant, the two began to eat. Reus took a sip of the soup, only to wince slightly. It must have stung his wounds.

“Hmm, perhaps it would have been better to serve it a bit cooler? It looks painful to drink it hot.” (Noel)

“Yet warm soup is tastier.” (Dee)

“Indeed. That is the same soup you two made the first time, you know. Can you tell how it tastes, Reus?” (Noel)

“Does it… taste good?” (Reus)

Perhaps concerned about how his pupil’s dish had turned out, Dee waited silently (though expressionless) for Reus’s reaction. Tears welled in Reus’s eyes.

“Y… yeah. It’s good… it’s really good…” (Reus)

Tears spilled and fell into the soup, yet Reus’s spoon did not stop. In an instant, he finished eating, and then he bowed his head vigorously.

“I am sorry. I am truly sorry for doing as I pleased. I will never do anything like that again, so please, allow me to stay together with my sister.” (Reus)

Everyone’s hands paused at his sudden confession, but Erina quietly wiped her mouth and placed her utensils down.

“Reus, do you remember what Sirius-sama said to you when he brought you back?” (Erina)

“He said, ‘Let us go home’.” (Reus)

“Then, that is all that needs to be said. Once again, welcome home, Reus.” (Erina)

“Welcome home.” (Everyone)

“Uwa… uu…” (Reus)

No matter how much he wiped them away, his tears continued to flow. For the first time, Reus must have realized, deep within his heart, that he truly belonged to this household.

“You must be hungry. It may hurt, but can you eat some bread?” (Noel)

“Eat some meat as well. It will give you strength.” (Dee)

“Reus, I shall share my egg with you.” (Emilia)

“Yes… I will eat everything.” (Reus)

Spoiled by his sister and by Noel and the others, their noisy breakfast continued for quite some time afterward.

After breakfast, while I was drinking my tea, Reus approached me. The jealousy he once held toward me was completely gone, and now he was simply a child unsure of how to begin speaking. Since he could not seem to start, I took the initiative.

“What is it? Do you need something from me?” (Sirius)

“Um… Sirius-sama, I am sorry. And thank you very much.” (Reus)

“Ah, I shall accept that. However, although I was the one who struck you, you must heal those injuries by your own strength. It is so that you may forever remember your mistake.” (Sirius)

“Yes.” (Reus)

He had finally begun to smile at me. When I tried patting his head, he did not resist but wagged his tail shyly instead. What a transformation. It was a moment that made me want to boast.

“Speaking of which, you were a cursed child. How does that stand now? You have returned to normal, but will you transform again at night on your own?” (Sirius)

“I will not change unless I want to. When I look at the moon, my heart races a little, but I can endure it.” (Reus)

It seemed he could control his transformation. I was relieved it was not something that automatically occurred at night or when he gazed upon the moon. Still, it might change as he grows older, so I decided that we would conduct careful experiments later. For now, I made him promise not to transform recklessly and to report to me immediately if anything happened. Since he was honest by nature, he accepted without a single argument.

“Sirius-sama, I want to become strong. I want to be strong enough to protect Nee-chan, to never lose to the cursed child within me, and to become as strong as you.” (Reus)
“To become like me, is it? That will not be easy. Be sure to keep up.” (Sirius)

“Yes.” (Reus)

Emilia and Reus had finally overcome their burdens and stood at the starting line. From here, my true skill as a teacher would be tested. While training the two of them, I could not neglect my own discipline as their mentor. The road ahead would be long and difficult, but it would be rewarding and fulfilling.

 

—

 

Today, both of them were to have a complete day of rest from training. I had told Reus to refrain from overexerting himself and rest properly, while Emilia had been taken back to her room by Erina. She had not once met my eyes since morning, and considering that as well as yesterday’s matter, I hoped Erina’s capable hands would bring about a solution.

I had planned to visit Lior, but Dee insisted on preparing a lunchbox, saying it would take about an hour. To pass the time, I spent it swinging a wooden sword in the garden.

Using the Strong Destruction Single Blade Style, from Strong Heaven to Strong Soar, I reproduced the movements I had observed many times before and moved my body according to the image in my mind. Because every strike in this school of swordsmanship was meant to be a decisive blow, precision and certainty in every swing were vital, making repeated training indispensable. I tried imitating “Scattering Destruction,” a technique of eight consecutive slashes, but even in “Boost” state, I could only manage six. My lack of strength and skill must have been the cause. Still, that Jii-san could unleash that very technique with a heavy iron sword. Once again, I understood that he was truly a monster.

When I stopped after working up a light sweat, a shadow that had been peeking at me quickly hid itself. Needless to say, it was Reus. I had told him to rest, yet he was as lively as ever. I decided to pull him out from the bushes and hear what he had to say.

“What are you doing there? Is it fine for you not to be resting?” (Sirius)

“I was wondering what Sirius-sama was doing. Besides, my body does not hurt much anymore.” (Reus)

That was some fast recovery. Perhaps it was due to the influence of the cursed child. Come to think of it, this might be the first time he had seen me wielding a sword. It would not be bad to let him experience a few things himself.

“It is an imitation of swordsmanship, but what did you think?” (Sirius)

“It was amazing. The way you swung it around so swiftly looked really cool.” (Reus)

“I see. Then, would you like to try swinging it yourself?” (Sirius)

When I handed him the wooden sword, his face brightened as if he had just received a new toy.

“Is it really alright?” (Reus)

“Try swinging it as long as you do not push yourself. If your body starts hurting, stop immediately.” (Sirius)

Experience is the best teacher, after all. I did not yet know what Reus’s fighting style would become, but there was no harm in learning how to swing a sword.

Reus began swinging joyfully, but since he knew nothing, the sound of his strikes was feeble and pathetic. Watching him tilt his head in puzzlement at the difference in sound was quite amusing.

“Why is that?” (Reus)

“Your grip is too weak, and you are swinging with only your arms. It is natural for it to sound that way.” (Sirius)

After taking back the wooden sword, I demonstrated the proper form, or at least what I believed to be proper, based on Lior’s movements. I was not an expert in swordsmanship, but I could at least point out some basics.

“Reus, you are right-handed, but when holding a sword with both hands, the left hand is the important one. Also, when gripping, do not use all of your fingers. It is better to tighten with your little and ring fingers while keeping the index finger slightly relaxed.” (Sirius)

I showed him the form again before returning the wooden sword. What I had taught was based on how to hold a katana, but it should still apply to this type of sword. I would confirm it with Lior later just to be sure.

When he swung again, the sound improved slightly. He learned faster than I expected.

“Sirius-sama, I have kept you waiting. Oh, are you teaching Reus how to use the sword?” (Dee)

“Just letting him try it out a little. He seems to have good potential.” (Sirius)

Dee arrived carrying a large bag containing the lunchbox but stopped upon seeing Reus practicing with the sword. After I briefly explained the situation, I took the bag and stored it in my travel pack.

“If you have some spare time, I would like you to watch over him as well. Then, I shall be off.” (Sirius)
“Please take care.” (Dee and Reus)

Seeing me off, the two remained in the garden as I activated my magic to head toward Lior. When I glanced back briefly, Dee appeared to be offering Reus some advice. Work hard, young one.

“Nuguah!” (Sirius)

Unable to dodge an unexpected strike, I was hit squarely by Lior’s blow and sent flying. My body bounced several times upon the ground, but I managed to regain balance midair and land safely. However, that last attack had completely ruined my right arm. I could have continued fighting, but if this had been a real sword rather than a wooden one, it would have been the end. I had to admit defeat here.

“I yield.” (Sirius)

“Whew… whew… How about that?” (Lior)

Lior too had reached his limit, smiling in satisfaction as he sat down.

Damn it, I have lost for the first time in a while.

That last attack had completely caught me off guard. Known as the Strongest Sword, Lior’s style was built on single decisive strikes. Though he had techniques for increasing the number of blows, he had never used a move meant to deceive or surprise. My defeat stemmed entirely from my own assumptions. I had been careless and needed that strike to wake my spirit.

“I did not expect such a technique. I am completely defeated.” (Sirius)

“Yes, that technique has yet to be named, but I am glad it worked against you.” (Lior)

“What? It has no name?” (Sirius)

“It is a new technique that I devised specifically for you. It is designed to surprise swift opponents, and since it differs from the direction of my style, developing it was quite the struggle.” (Lior)

It was beyond my expectations that he would develop a new technique solely for the purpose of defeating me. Moreover, it was a technique that defied his own style’s doctrine. Jii-san truly pursued strength to the very end.

“Well, I doubt it will work on you again. Your ability to adapt is abnormally fast, after all. I will consider later whether to refine this technique further or abandon it altogether.” (Lior)

Just as the old man said, I was confident that if he unleashed it again, I would be able to evade it without fail. Therefore, he too might discard the technique depending on the situation. My battles with Lior continued to evolve each day, and we would go on like this until one of us could no longer fight. Since we both enjoyed this, there was no problem.

“Is your arm all right? It seems you managed to defend in time, but I swung with full force.” (Lior)

“It hurts, but I will be fine. However, I doubt I can continue today.” (Sirius)

It was likely that my bone had cracked, but by stimulating my body’s regenerative ability with mana, it would heal completely within a few hours.

“There is no helping it. It is already past noon, so shall we have lunch, albeit a bit late?” (Lior)

“In that case, my attendant prepared a lunchbox for me. There should be enough for you as well.” (Sirius)

“Oh ho! That is something to look forward to.” (Lior)

After many shared meals, the old man had become a fan of Dee’s cooking without realizing it. Watching him smile like a child as he walked back toward the house, I followed behind him.

“Did you say the way to hold a sword?” (Lior)

While eating lunch, I brought up the question that had been bothering me since the morning. Incidentally, the lunchbox contained a variety of colorful side dishes and Dee’s first attempt at making a cutlet sandwich. I tried it and found that it had been slightly arranged from my version, making it quite delicious. As expected of a professional cook.

“Hmm… I have never really thought about it much. Since I rely on strength to swing, I simply grip it with all my might to secure it.” (Lior)

Truly, how could such an old man be this strong? For the time being, I demonstrated the way of gripping a sword that I knew.

“Oh? I see… this is not bad. Depending on the technique, it could prove quite effective.” (Lior)

Perhaps his strength lay in that relentless desire to learn and experiment with anything that could make him stronger. Normally, one would never think of changing a skill cultivated over decades.

“Speaking of which, my disciple Reus seems to have taken an interest in the sword.” (Sirius)

“That is a good thing. I too first held a sword when I was about your age.” (Lior)

“In that case, your sword history spans roughly 50 years. You have truly devoted yourself to the blade.” (Sirius)

“Even after 50 years, I am still losing to a six-year-old child. Tell me, would you consider inheriting my sword style? I am certain that you would surpass me.” (Lior)

Although we had crossed blades many times, this was the first time he had asked me to inherit his sword style. However–…

“I appreciate the sentiment, but it does not really suit my way of fighting. I have adopted a few of your techniques, but if I were to completely incorporate your style, I fear I would instead destroy its essence. I am sorry.” (Sirius)

“I see. I shall not force you. I am not desperate for a successor, but it would be a shame to let my techniques fade away.” (Lior)

“In that case, how about passing them down to my disciple instead?” (Sirius)

“Oh? I recall you mentioned that before. So, it was not a joke after all?” (Lior)

“That depends on the boy’s own will.” (Sirius)

Most of my techniques and fighting methods were based on scientific principles from my previous life and on Shishou’s unique skills, making them nearly impossible to teach to people of this world. Therefore, my plan for the two disciples was to strengthen their physical foundations, develop their ability to assess situations, and train them according to the weapons and styles that suited them best. Lior’s proposal was therefore quite timely.

“For at least the first six months, I plan to focus on basic training and academic studies. If he then wishes to learn the sword, I will introduce him to you.” (Sirius)

“Knowing you, I expect quite an extraordinary disciple. I am already looking forward to it.” (Lior)

“Please do. Would it be fine if I let him observe some of your techniques?” (Sirius)

“Certainly. Bring me a disciple capable of cutting through rock with an iron sword or performing four slashes of the ‘Sanha’ technique.” (Lior)

“Do not be absurd. Even I can only manage six slashes at most.” (Sirius)

“The fact that you can perform that many without having studied my style is what is absurd! What have my fifty years amounted to?” (Lior)

“I would not know!” (Sirius)

Thus, until my injury healed completely, the old man and I continued our fruitless argument.

However, when I returned home, an unexpected scene awaited me.

“Ah, Sirius-sama. Welcome back.” (Reus)

Upon arriving home, I found Reus still swinging his sword. It seemed he had not been at it continuously, but his injuries were already fully healed, and he was practicing with visible delight. Dee, standing beside him, wore a serious expression or rather, his usual lack of expression.

“Sirius-sama, you possess tremendous talent, but this child is not inferior to you.” (Dee)

“Sirius-sama, you see, I tried that technique where you swing the sword six times really fast, but I could only do three. Could you teach me the trick?” (Reus)

What… did he just say? He had succeeded in replicating half of a technique that I had performed only once before his eyes? Moreover, he had accurately counted the number of strikes that occurred in less than the blink of an eye.

This child… is an incredible prodigy.

And there was one more unexpected event.

“Ah, um… welcome home.” (Emilia)

Emilia’s face was flushed, but she was now able to look me in the eye and speak. As expected of Erina, her guidance had worked wonders.

“About yesterday… I became a little too emotional and, well… I may have overdone it.” (Emilia)

“You did not overdo anything. I am grateful for your affection, Emilia.” (Sirius)

Though her sudden confession caught me off guard, I had resolved to accept it wholeheartedly. Emilia’s face brightened with joy at my reply.

“I am so happy. I will continue to do my best for you, Sirius-sama. When I grow up, I will also do my best in bed, so please wait for me.” (Emilia)

…Wait. Hold on a moment. Did I just hear something strange?

While I stood there suspiciously, Emilia walked toward the kitchen to receive milk from Erina.

“Men like large chests… right? I must work hard.” (Emilia)

“That is the spirit. You must not neglect your efforts to satisfy Sirius-sama in the future.” (Erina)

Um, Erina-san? What exactly have you been teaching her?

That night, the four of us, myself and my three attendants, stood quietly in the moonlit garden. The moon of this world did not wax and wane as it did on Earth but rather, a faint shadow merely passed over its surface while it always remained full. Tonight was a bright full moon, a fine night for moonbathing. However, we were not here for anything so elegant. We had gathered because Emilia had called for us.

“I have a favor to ask of everyone. Please gather in the garden tonight when the moon shines its brightest.” (Emilia)

She had said so after dinner, which was why we were now waiting outside. Yet the two in question were nowhere to be seen, apparently preparing something inside the house.

“Tonight is a full moon, and now is when it shines most brightly. What could they be planning?” (Dee)

“Before we came here, they asked for some wine.” (Erina)

“Wine? Then perhaps we are to drink here? The moon is beautiful, and moon-viewing with wine sounds pleasant.” (Sirius)

“That would not be appropriate, since Sirius-sama and the two children are underage. I do not know their true intention, but they seemed quite serious. It must be something important.” (Dee)

“You are right. Let us wait patiently… oh, speak of the devil, here they come.” (Sirius)

From the entrance of the house emerged the two, each carrying a small wooden box and a table, hurrying toward us.

“Forgive us for keeping you waiting.” (Emilia)

Though both were slightly out of breath as they bowed, we had not felt as if we had waited at all. We all welcomed them with gentle smiles.

“It was not long, so think nothing of it. Now then, what is the reason you gathered us here?” (Sirius)

“Yes. There is something I would like everyone to see. Reus.” (Emilia)

“Yes, this spot is fine, right?” (Reus)

Reus set the table he had carried on the ground, and Emilia took out juice and wine from the wooden box she had brought, placing them atop the table. It almost looked as though they were offering them to the moon.

“Everyone, thank you very much for gathering here today.” (Emilia)

“Thank you very much.” (Reus)

Standing before us, the two of them bowed in unison. It was quite endearing, like watching someone give their first speech.

“To explain, among our Silver Wolf Tribe, there is a ritual called the Silver Moon Oath, which is performed only during festivals or weddings. It is a sacred ceremony in which one declares their vow to the moon, and once sworn, it can never be broken.” (Emilia)

While Emilia explained, Reus poured juice squeezed from Apu fruit into cups and placed them on the table.

“It can never be broken? The Silver Wolf Tribe is amazing.” (Sirius)

“Tou-chan once told me that it might be more of a saying than a strict rule. However, I have never seen anyone break their vow.” (Emilia)

“It is a ritual performed even during marriage, is it not? The Silver Wolf Tribe is known to be a family-oriented race, so it is likely that none would ever break it.” (Sirius)

“I see. As expected of Sirius-sama, you are very knowledgeable.” (Emilia)

“It is merely something I read from a book. I never imagined I would see it with my own eyes.” (Sirius)

“We have gathered you all here because we wish for you to witness our vow. Sirius-sama, could you please stand over here?” (Emilia)

Guided by Emilia, I found myself standing before the table they had set up.

Wait… am I not merely an observer but actually involved in this?

“Are you ready?” (Emilia)

“I am ready, Nee-chan.” (Reus)

Both of them knelt on one knee before me and clasped their hands together before their chests as if praying to a god.

The ritual began.

 

—

 

“O Mother Silver Moon, please bear witness to the new vow we now proclaim.” (Emilia)

Amidst a solemn atmosphere in which no one uttered a word, Emilia spoke as though addressing the moon itself.

“I, Emilia Silverion,” (Emilia)

“And I, Reus Silverion,” (Reus)

“Swear upon the moon to serve you as our master and to follow you faithfully until the end of our lives.” (Emilia/Reus)

I heard someone somewhere draw in a quiet breath.

To be honest, simply being admired by you two is more than enough for me. You are both still children, and one day you will each meet someone you love more than me, marry, and have children of your own. When that time comes, this vow will undoubtedly become a burden. There is no need to go so far. Your feelings alone would suffice or so I intended to say.

However, no words came out.

Their expressions were serious, their eyes unwaveringly fixed upon me. Despite being children, they had made their vow with the resolve worthy of a sacred ritual. I could not dismiss such determination. I had to answer their resolve in kind, not as their master, but as a man.

“We talked about it today and decided together. We both want to stay with Sirius-sama forever.” (Emilia)

“I am still a child and not much help right now, but someday I want to grow strong enough to protect Sirius-sama.” (Reus)

“We will never regret this choice. Will you accept our vow?” (Emilia)

“…I shall accept your vow.” (Sirius)

Upon hearing those words, the two embraced each other in joy, while my three attendants applauded generously. Feeling somewhat embarrassed, I scratched my head, and Emilia handed me the cup that had been on the table.

“The ritual is not yet complete, so please hold on to this.” (Emilia)

“It is originally meant to be wine” she murmured softly, then bit her finger and let a drop of blood fall into the cup. Reus followed her example, and their blood mixed with the juice.

“Please drink it. It symbolizes that we offer our blood to you. However, if it disgusts you, you need not force yourself to drink…” (Emilia)

“No, I will drink it. And I too shall make a vow. I swear to the moon that I will make you both stronger and never allow you to regret following me.” (Sirius)

Although I had already resolved to do so long ago, I reaffirmed it now before them, lending my words a weight that would be beyond question.

“Sirius-sama, this is our one-sided vow. You do not have to make one in return.” (Emilia)

“That is right. We are doing this on our own.” (Reus)

Ignoring their protests, I drank it all in one go. Though only a few drops of blood had mixed in, the taste of the juice seemed to spread throughout my entire body.

“It tastes like ordinary Apu juice, but I can feel your feelings in it. Well then, is that the end of the ceremony?” (Sirius)

The two, who had been momentarily stunned, soon broke into bright smiles and hugged me tightly together.

“Yes. We look forward to serving you from now on.” (Emilia)

“I will work hard for Sirius-sama too!” (Reus)

As we laughed together, my three attendants approached and each offered their congratulations.

“Congratulations to both of you. It was an honor to witness such a sacred ritual.” (Dee)

“So, that means Emi-chan and Reu-kun are now fellow attendants with us. Let’s continue working hard together.” (Noel)

“If you ever need help, come to me anytime.” (Erina)

“Thank you very much.” (Emilia and Reus)

Having formally joined Noel and the others as companions, the two of them laughed happily. It was wonderful to see our bonds deepen even further. Now that I thought about it, juice was one thing, but they had also prepared wine.

“Hey, Emilia. Is this wine meant to be shared with everyone?” (Sirius)

“Yes. Normally, the ceremony would be followed by a grand feast, but since it is just the two of us, we at least wanted to provide some wine.” (Emilia)

“You could have told us, you know. We would have helped prepare something. You are too secretive.” (Noel)

“I could have prepared as much food as you wanted.” (Dee)

“I am sorry, but this was our ceremony, so we wanted to do it ourselves.” (Emilia)

“Well, that makes sense. Forcing help would not be right either.” (Noel)

“Now, stop chatting and take your drink already.” (Erina)

While Noel and Emilia exchanged words, Erina efficiently poured wine into cups for everyone and handed them out. Naturally, we of the younger group received juice instead.

“Then, shall we have a toast? For the toast… Noel, I will leave it to you.” (Erina)

“Me? All right, let me think… what should I say?” (Noel)

“Do not overthink it. Keep it simple.” (Sirius)

“Eh? Fine, fine. I will just do it normally. Um…” (Noel)

We gathered around the table and raised our cups slightly in response to Noel’s voice.

“To celebrate the addition of new attendants to Sirius-sama, and to honor Emi-chan and Reu-kun’s vow… cheers!” (Noel)

“Cheers!” (Everyone)

Under the light of the moon, the sound of clinking cups echoed gently through the night air.

 

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