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

 

 

Elysium Entrance Examination

(Thank you for reading at bayabuscotranslation.com)

The capital of Melifest, Elysium.

It was one of the major cities on the continent of Melifest, and travelers arriving from elsewhere would first have their eyes drawn to the enormous city walls enclosing the vast land. Yet the most notable feature was neither the walls nor the size of the town. It was the school, Elysium Academy, that existed there. Nowhere else on the continent of Melifest did such a school exist, and merely gaining admission carried a considerable prestige.

The seasonal fluctuations in temperature were gentle, and ferocious monsters had been exterminated. The fertile land, favorable for human habitation, naturally attracted people, and the presence of a school as a landmark further increased its appeal. Elysium could undoubtedly be called an urban city.

Looking up at the fortifications, the next sight that would strike the eye was the castle, which surpassed even the height of the walls. The king, who governed the country, resided there, a remarkably competent individual whose skillful leadership maintained peace in the town. There was almost no misgovernment, and people could spend fulfilling daily lives within the walls. Regarding the treatment of beastkin, it was said that walking about presented no issue, though some nobles could be bothersome. Visible discrimination was minimal. Even so, humans constituted the majority, and beastkin made up about thirty percent of the population.

This was what Zack had told me while we waited outside the city walls.

Entry into the town was only possible through two gates attached to the fortifications, each guarded by gatekeepers. They would check identity and whether one was suspicious, and only after a strict inspection could one finally enter the town. If one could prove they belonged to the Gargan Trading Company, entry was swift, but without proof, one would face interrogation, and it could take considerable time. Those who had gone before us had experienced this, and we had been kept waiting for nearly thirty minutes. It was a serious matter, yet bureaucratic processes seemed universally slow.

Reus practiced his swings beside the carriage, and with nothing else to do, I asked about the outline of the town.

“There were beastkin among the students at the school, so Emilia and Reus will have no issues.” (Zack)

“That is good news. Here, you two can also remove your robes.” (Sirius)

“Yes, indeed. But Sirius-sama, may I request that you place a collar on me?” (Emilia)

“Pardon?” (Sirius)

“I must declare clearly to everyone around that I belong to Sirius-sama. Even if treated as a slave, it would be an honor to belong to you, Sirius-sama.” (Emilia)

“Wait, wait, wait! Even if you are fine with it, I am not. That is denied, absolutely denied.” (Sirius)

“I understand…” (Emilia)

Could she stop taking this so seriously? If there were a loyalty meter, it would probably be maxed out beyond the visible limit.

“Well, Emilia’s statement is peculiar, but it is also something to consider.” (Zack)

“What are you saying now?” (Sirius)

“No, from my perspective, Emilia is cute. Not limited to beastkin, but some nobles might desire to abduct her, so having a clear indicator of ownership serves as a precaution.” (Zack)

Indeed, where people gather, darkness inevitably arises. Though a trained girl might not be easily taken, sheer numbers could prevail, and even under the school’s protection, one must remain vigilant.

“Zack-san also mentioned it, so someday I hope for a collar. Well… even a ring would suffice.” (Emilia)

“Ah, yes… I will think about it.” (Sirius)

“Aniki! That is a huge castle! The gates look sturdy, but I wonder if my sword could cut through?” (Reus)

Nice one, Reus. A convenient change of topic, though that statement could cause misunderstandings.

“Do not cut it. I do not want them to think we are here to attack the castle.” (Sirius)

“Understood, Aniki.” (Reus)

“Hahaha, Reus is full of energy.” (Zack)

 

—

 

Finally, our turn arrived, and we entered Elysium.

Our inspection was brief, aided by Zack’s reputation with the Gargan Trading Company. Normally, those unable to prove their identity would have to pay a small fee after the examination, but Zack acted as a witness and even paid the money on our behalf.

“I apologize for having you pay the entrance fee.” (Sirius)

“It is nothing compared to the gratitude for the thief matter or the new merchandise. By the way, what will you do next?” (Zack)

“The school entrance examinations begin tomorrow, so first, we must find lodging.” (Sirius)

“Then, let us go to the inn where I usually stay. Every time I come here, I use it. It is safe, and the meals are excellent, so I recommend it.” (Zack)

“Indeed, this is our first visit, and we do not know our right from our left, so we will follow your suggestion.” (Sirius)

Evening was approaching when Zack escorted us to the inn before delivering the merchandise.

“This is the inn ‘Harukaze’s Perch’. Let me talk to the proprietress first.” (Zack)

The inn was a two-story wooden building about three times the size of my home. Upon entering the entrance, there was a lobby, and turning one’s eyes to the side, one could see the dining hall adjacent, where guests were having their meals. It also served as a tavern, and some patrons drank, appearing cheerfully intoxicated. Half of the first floor was the dining and proprietor’s residence, while the second floor contained the main lodging facilities.

Perhaps due to past-life habits, I naturally surveyed the facility and traced escape routes. Zack then rang the bell on the lobby desk.

“Yes, hello. Oh, Zack-san, is it not?” (Proprietress)

“Good evening. I will be in your care once again.” (Zack)

A human woman over forty appeared, slightly plump, with a gentle and friendly smile welcoming Zack.

“Shall we prepare a single room as usual? Oh my, there seems to be an unfamiliar child here. Are you with him?” (Proprietress)

“You know I am not married, right? These are the people who came with me earlier to introduce them to this inn.” (Zack)

“Oh, thank you for contributing to the business. Welcome, I am Rona, the proprietress. Several rooms are available. What would you like?” (Rona)

“We are three, so two men in a double room, and one woman in a single room…” (Sirius)

“A triple room, please, one large room!” (Emilia)

Before I could assign the rooms, Emilia stepped forward and made the request. Wait, is it normal for one to push aside the master to speak?

“Oh my, what a cute child. So, all three guests wish to share the same room. The little lady is female, is that acceptable?” (Rona)

“Yes. This is my younger brother, and with Sirius-sama as master, there is no problem.” (Emilia)

“Of course not!” (Sirius)

“Very well, then we shall use the large room at the back.” (Rona)

It was decided without my consent. Well, I do not want to leave the two alone, so it is acceptable, yet the uneasy feeling remains.

“Zack-san stays for one day, but how long will you guests remain?” (Rona)

“Well, with the examination tomorrow, how long until we can enter the dormitory?” (Sirius)

“I heard it from Nee-san would take at least three days.” (Emilia)

“I have also heard the same. Proprietress, if we allow five days for leeway, how much is the cost?” (Sirius)

“Well… With three meals included, and the room being large, it is slightly more expensive. Three silver coins, I suppose.” (Rona)

I could not tell whether three silver coins were expensive or cheap, but it was probably on the cheaper side for a large room with a meal included. As I reached into my pocket to take out the silver coins, Zack stepped forward and handed four coins instead.

“These are for me and the gentlemen here. No need to return change.” (Zack)

“Oh my, for someone so meticulous about money, you are unusually generous. Did something happen?” (Rona)

“Although it may not appear so, these gentlemen are remarkable individuals. They took care of me in various ways when I came here this time.” (Zack)

“Could it be that you are nobles? My apologies, I shall correct my behavior immediately!” (Rona)

The proprietress leapt from her desk, intending to bow deeply, and I hurriedly stopped her.

Noble power is truly formidable. Is it considered a slight if one does not go this far?

“Um, we are not nobles but ordinary commoners, so please interact with us normally without such formality.” (Sirius)

“That is right, Proprietress. Although the gentleman is not a noble, he is someone with potential beyond that. He is destined to become a valued client of the Gargan Trading Company, so please continue to look after him properly even if I leave.” (Zack)

“Very well. As always, I shall serve our guests with utmost sincerity and hospitality.” (Rona)

The proprietress returned to her position, took out the guestbook, and bowed to us. Though not as impressive as Kaa-san’s, it was still a rather remarkable bow.

Wait, Zack is next.

“Zack, I feel bad about letting you pay for even the lodging. Here, three silver coins.” (Sirius)

“Did you see that, Proprietress? This is the kind of principled individual she is. Just like earlier, please allow me to pay for the lodging as well.” (Zack)

“However…” (Sirius)

“Excuse me, may I intervene?” (Rona)

As we pressed the silver coins back and forth, the proprietress smiled and stepped in to mediate.

“Please allow Zack to save face. He is also a merchant, so he cannot be satisfied unless proper procedure is followed.” (Rona)

“Exactly as the proprietress said. I will return tomorrow, so please let me handle this much.” (Zack)

Seeing the two of them bow together, I felt no need to say anything further.

If he insists on following proper procedure, there is no helping it. I will indulge Zack this time. The proprietress is skillful at mediation. It is unsurprising for someone who manages an inn that interacts with all sorts of people.

“Very well, I shall accept it with gratitude.” (Sirius)

“Thank you. Then, Proprietress, I leave the rest to you. I will return after delivering the goods.” (Zack)

“Of course, take care. Now, please write your names here, guests.” (Rona)

After sending Zack off, we wrote our names in the guestbook. Looking at the names of those who had written previously, I wondered why so many handwritings were so similar.

“Sirius-sama, Emilia-sama, and Reus-sama, the three of you. All of you can write very beautifully. Since some people cannot write, I often have to write on their behalf.” (Rona)

“So that explains why the handwriting looks similar. This inn is aimed at commoners, not nobles.” (Sirius)

“Exactly. My family’s inn aims to provide commoners a relaxing stay. However, judging from the guests’ manners and bearing, it is not surprising that they might be mistaken for nobles.” (Rona)

As for manners, yes, but their bearing resembles that of adventurers rather than nobles. Where does it appear noble, I wonder.

“Oh, I must not forget. I left our belongings in the carriage. Reus, let us catch up to Zack-san.” (Emilia)

“Understood, Nee-chan.” (Reus)

Ah, it is the hair. Commoners generally do not concern themselves with the sheen of their hair. Emilia, in particular, had received direct instruction from my mother on maintaining her appearance to serve as my suitable attendant. Her silver hair is always glossy and smooth, hardly resembling that of a rough adventurer.

“When the two of you return, I will show you to your room. The dining hall closes in two hours, but what shall we do about dinner?” (Rona)

“I would like to dine with Zack, but I do not know when he will return.” (Sirius)

“The Gargan Trading Company branch is nearby, and it seems he will only check and deliver goods, so it should take less than an hour. Shall I have them call you to your room when he returns?” (Rona)

“Yes, please do so.” (Sirius)

 

—

 

Shortly afterward, the two returned, and we were guided to the large room we had checked into. The room was originally designed for four people, with four beds. Accordingly, the other space was limited, making it a room intended solely for sleeping. The toilet was communal, equipped with a water-flushed system powered by a magic circle, and it was well maintained, making it a hygienic inn.

Unfortunately, there was no bath. In this world, the maintenance of a bath is expensive, so aside from noble estates, private homes rarely have them. When I lived at home, I had crafted a makeshift drum-bath myself. Normally, one maintains it using hot water and a towel, but this being the continent’s largest city, a nearby public bath was recommended despite the slightly higher fee.

We placed our belongings and sat on the beds to catch our breath. After all, during travels, one couldn’t rest properly, so a bed brought a sense of calm.

“Before Zack returns, let us discuss a little. Tomorrow, we shall attend the school entrance exam. You remember the contents, right?” (Sirius)

“The interview with the instructors and the practical magic test, correct?” (Emilia)

“That is correct. In practical skills, it is important that they do not notice chantless. Just mumble something before stating the magic name.” (Sirius)

At our age, using chantless would raise suspicions. The concept is difficult to explain and revealing it would likely provoke complaints from rigid researchers. Sudden changes outpace the times, and we have no desire for fame. It is sufficient if we can use it ourselves. During the practical test, mumbling a phrase gives the impression of a shortened chant.

“I have mostly been swinging my sword, so I am not very skilled in magic.” (Sirius)

“Do not worry, Sirius. They only check whether you can use magic. Even beginner level is acceptable. You might as well show them that technique of yours.” (Emilia)

“That one… is it really alright?” (Sirius)

“Yes, it does not matter. You may demonstrate it to the school instructors, regardless of the circumstances.” (Emilia)

“Understood. I will demonstrate the technique taught by Aniki!” (Sirius)

I had only taught the concept but using it was purely Reus’s skill and effort.

“I am more concerned about the interview. How your manner of speaking might affect it…” (Emilia)

“That is true. Will polite speech be alright?” (Sirius)

“It is fine, Aniki. I shall manage with the basics taught by Erina-san.” (Reus)

Although many candidates apply each year, the interview will not take hours per person, but their habitual behavior still makes me uneasy. Recently, they have been testing whether one can cut sturdy objects, which might lead to dangerous tendencies. Fortunately, they judge that Reus can only cut humans, and he shows no inclination to harm others, which is a relief.

“As for Sirius-sama… there should be no issues, correct?” (Emilia)

“Yes. Worrying about Aniki is pointless.” (Reus)

They apparently determine attributes before practical exams. It is uncertain how my lack of color will affect matters, but it should work out somehow.

“Leave it to me. I will handle it however necessary. If I fail, I will have the Gargan Trading Company hire me to deliver ingredients for Dee and the others as a transport team.” (Sirius)

“Of course, we will as well.” (Emilia)

“If any thieves come, I will blow them all away.” (Reus)

The siblings are taking the exam to stay with me, so even if I fail, they would likely follow me instead of accepting their own success. They are reliable disciples. While preparing for tomorrow, the two who had been resting on the bed pricked up their ears in vigilance. Fear not, there is no enemy present.

 

—

 

“Hey, gentlemen!” (Zack)

The sound of a knock on the door was accompanied by Zack’s voice. Emilia immediately moved to open the door, but Reus stopped her. Ah, she understood. No matter how familiar the voice, it is unwise to open the door carelessly.

“……Aniki?” (Reus)

“Excellent!” (Zack)

I staggered. What staggered me was that I had not realized when they had decided on a password, nor the content of the password itself. While I was holding my head in frustration, the door opened, and Zack appeared, beaming with a wide smile.

“Thank you for waiting. I am deeply moved that you waited for the meal just for me.” (Zack)

“Ah, yes. Let us go and eat for now.” (Sirius)

“I have heard that the meals here are very delicious. I am greatly looking forward to them.” (Emilia)

“That is right. The Jaoras Snake here is the best.” (Zack)

“I do not think it can surpass my brother, but that looks delicious!” (Sirius)

In a friendly and lively atmosphere, we proceeded to the dining hall and enjoyed a dinner that also served as a small celebration.

“Then, to celebrate the success of the gentlemen at school–…” (Zack)

“Wait a moment. We have not even gone to school yet.” (Sirius)

“Eh? I cannot even imagine you gentlemen failing.” (Zack)

“Even so, there are things like meeting Zack and various other occurrences.” (Sirius)

“That sounds good. Then, a toast to my meeting with the gentlemen.” (Zack)

The celebration began amidst a bit of disorder from the start. Following Zack’s recommendation, we ate the Jaoras Snake, which was oily and somewhat rich in flavor, but delicious… in fact, it was exactly like eel. I wished to eat it with kabayaki sauce, but without soy sauce, I could not make it, which was regrettable.

“I cannot eat much, but it is very delicious. It is worth the recommendation.” (Emilia)

“I like it. It goes well with bread and is simply delicious!” (Sirius)

“Hmm, I think rice would be the best accompaniment.” (Reus)

“Rice? A side dish that goes with this meat?” (Sirius)

“What is rice, Aniki? Is it a new kind of dish?” (Reus)

“Ah! I would like to hear more about it in detail.” (Zack)

As the three leaned in eagerly, I explained the shape of rice grains, the conditions under which it grows naturally, and also gave a brief explanation about soy sauce. Aside from the siblings, Zack was a merchant, so it might come in handy for him. Indeed, Dee had asked Gadd to find a sauce substitute, and it seemed they succeeded.

“Understood. I will look for it when I return to Almest.” (Zack)

“Thank you. Zack has a hard task, traveling several days to deliver to Elysium and returning the next day.” (Sirius)

“Haha, normally I would stay for two days, but this time is special. Based on the testimony of the thieves, I must provide the appropriate return to the trading company. If they underestimate us, we lose.” (Zack)

“Indeed, underestimating us is defeat!” (Sirius)

“They have caused us much trouble, so hearing this will surely motivate my brother. As I return, my brother will also return, and then our entire trading company will crush them together!” (Zack)

Zack himself was highly motivated. Despite everything, they had been attacked, and those who commit such foolish acts deserved to be crushed.

“This time, I truly felt my own inadequacy. I was also given the opportunity to eliminate a source of worry, and by coincidence, I met the gentlemen. It was truly fortunate.” (Zack)

“I did not plan it, but since the arrangements were made, finish it without leaving any loose ends.” (Sirius)

“Understood. The next time I come here, I will bring thanks together with Aniki.” (Zack)

With a peaceful atmosphere, we continued our meal and concluded the day.

 

—

 

The following morning, we saw Zack off as he returned early to Armest, and we arrived at our destination, Elysium Academy.

“Haah… it is enormous.” (Emilia)

“Wow. This will become our new home.” (Reus)

As they said, the school was so large it could be mistaken for a castle… indeed, it was a castle. From outside the town, it was hidden behind the king’s castle, but I had not imagined that an equally large castle existed at the rear.

“Where is the examination venue?” (Sirius)

“Sirius-sama, there are people gathered in that direction. There are many young people, so it is likely there.” (Emilia)

In the direction Emilia indicated, there was indeed a crowd. Approaching it, we saw a sign stating the entrance examination venue. A building nearby bore a sign reading reception, and we headed there. Along the way, I observed other applicants, many with noble-like bearing, while beastkin were a minority. Still, there were cat ears, rabbit ears, and various wolf ears unlike the siblings, grouped together chatting in a separate area. Some factions were already forming.

At the reception sat a mild-looking young man who noticed us and addressed us.

“Hello, are you here to take the entrance examination?” (Receptionist)

“Yes. Three of us have come to take it, including myself.” (Sirius)

“I see. By the way, do you have the entrance fee? Sometimes there are prank applicants.” (Receptionist)

“Yes, 15 gold coins each, correct?” (Sirius)

“That is correct. Then, three of you would be 45 gold coins. You are to exchange them for this.” (Receptionist)

He showed us a pendant inlaid with a jade gemstone, numbered at the bottom.

“This is proof that you are taking the examination, so always wear it around your neck. If you leave the school grounds, a magic circle will attack the wearer, so do not take it away.” (Receptionist)

“Understood. Here are the gold coins.” (Sirius)

The money earned through various efforts was gone in an instant. It was not regretful, but somehow deeply moving. The young man, having finished counting, placed the coins in a box and handed each of us a pendant and a piece of paper. The paper appeared to be a school guide, and we read it while wearing the pendants in a nearby spot.

The examination would begin in several hours. We were to gather in an annex and first write our personal profiles. Those who could not read or write were ineligible, and no one could assist them, resulting in immediate disqualification. Afterwards, groups of five would be called for interviews and practical examinations simultaneously. Several instructors would be divided among rooms for assessment, making the turnover reasonably efficient. Results would be announced immediately, with the entrance ceremony held several days later. Those who failed would receive about five gold coins when returning the pendant. For a world like this, the aftercare was thorough, indicating both the school’s capacity and the competence of the headmaster.

Upon sharing my thoughts with the siblings, they pointed to the headmaster’s words in the pamphlet.

“The headmaster appears to be a man named Rodwell. Ah, he is an Elf.” (Emilia)

“Elves are very long-lived, right? Amazing, according to this, he is over four hundred years old.” (Sirius)

“Elves are rare and targeted, but being this famous prevents them from being targeted. I wonder what kind of person he is.” (Reus)

“Sirius-sama, you have met an Elf before, correct?” (Emilia)

“Yes. I wonder what she is doing now.” (Sirius)

Fia, by rule, cannot leave her forest homeland for ten years. Three years have passed since, so we will not meet for a long while.

“Well, we have the information. Let us enter the venue. My number is… 156.” (Sirius)

“I am 155.” (Emilia)

“I am 154.” (Reus)

“Then, I will likely be outside the five-person group. It is too late to change anything, but trust in your ability and proceed as usual. Do your best.” (Sirius)

“Yes!” (Emilia/Reus)

And so, we proceeded to take the entrance examination.

 

—

 

— Rodwell —

 

I am Rodwell, the headmaster of Elysium Academy.

It is most gratifying to see that, once again, a large number of lively and youthful new students have gathered.

Now, the entrance examination will be conducted over several days, but the first day always sees the greatest number of applicants. According to the reception, there are one hundred sixty-three candidates today. As in previous years, the total will ultimately exceed three hundred, but the first day is always the most demanding.

Once the candidates at the venue have completed their profiles, they are called in groups of five to a separate room for interviews. The profiles consist of simple details such as name, attribute, and magic in which they are proficient. While reviewing these profiles, the instructors of our school directly assess the candidates and determine their suitability by observing their magic. Approximately ten percent fail due to nervousness or lack of aptitude, but that is unavoidable. They must either be allowed to try again or be made to understand that they are unsuited.

Now, regarding such interviews… they would never imagine that I, the headmaster, am present among the instructors. Naturally, I am disguised so as not to reveal my identity as an Elf.

I cannot observe every candidate, but watching the efforts of these young ones is amusing and has become a small pleasure each year. What is regrettable is that there are many issues, particularly due to the presence of Gregory-sensei. He is a talented individual with proficiency in fire and earth attributes, but his arrogant attitude toward non-nobles is conspicuous. Honestly, I wish to dismiss him at once, but his noble rank makes it troublesome to act carelessly. Lately, he seems to be plotting something, so I am contemplating whether to place a watch on him.

Putting such gloomy thoughts aside, let us observe the new students, the protagonists of the future.

“My attribute is earth. I cannot perform attack magic yet, but I am skilled at making dolls.” (Candidate)

“The primary attribute in my house is fire, and I am no less skilled. I shall demonstrate the ‘Flame Lance’ that has been passed down through generations.” (Candidate)

“Wind is supreme above all, and my wind is the strongest. The moment I enroll, a legend will be born in this school.” (Candidate)

“I, the magnificent one, will enroll personally. With one of my house entering, this shall surely become a school of honor.” (Candidate)

“Uh… I am proficient in water. I cannot use attack magic… and I am completely incapable of fire magic.” (Candidate)

…Hmmm, indeed, the majority are nobles. Some have promise, yet many are arrogant, relying on their family name. A few seem to have attempted bribery with the instructors, and regrettably, some instructors appear to accept it. This shall require investigation and purification later.

Ah… in the past, many young people honed their skills without pride in their strength, but recently, quality continues to decline. This examination, once a pleasure to observe, has grown less enjoyable as it confronts the current decline. Nobles boast merely from slight proficiency in magic, and beastkin cluster together, unwilling to see the world outside. Nobles are especially troublesome. Despite our school declaring that social status is irrelevant, incidents of threats by invoking family names against commoners and beastkin have increased.

Perhaps it is time to consider retirement. At that moment… I encountered them.

“Number 154, Reus Silvarion.” (Reus)

“Number 155, Emilia Silvarion.” (Emilia)

The interview room murmured. These were the rare silver wolf siblings of the continent. Their profiles indicated they were siblings, and Reus was at the upper limit of the enrollment age. Yet the stir was not due to their unusual race. Their attire resembled that of common adventurers, but their posture was impeccable. Even a simple bow earlier could have been mistaken for that of a servant attending royalty.

Furthermore, their physique was remarkable. Smooth, unruffled silver hair and well-developed muscles suggested a well-maintained diet. Though labeled as commoners, they possessed a nobility that could easily be mistaken for that of true nobles. Most importantly, they were almost entirely unflustered. They sat with chests out, composed and confident, as though it were natural for them to be there.

“Hmph… these demi-humans concern themselves with their posture.” (Gregory)

“Gregory-sensei, that is inappropriate.” (Rodwell)

Indeed, whether beastkin or human, such well-formed individuals are rare. This is most enjoyable.

After introductions comes attribute assessment. They touch the magic circle placed at the center to verify that the color of the crystal matches the profile.

Reus’s crystal glowed red, indicating fire, a perfect and beautiful red. The vivid red light fully embodied the element of fire, captivating the instructors.

Next was Emilia. Her crystal glowed green, denoting wind. The intensity of the glow indicates the amount of mana she possesses, and her brilliance was so great it could easily surpass ordinary magic users. She may even possess more mana than the instructors present.

The other three candidates were unremarkable and omitted.

“Now, Reus Silvarion, please show us your magic.” (Rodwell)

At last, the eagerly awaited practical examination.

The interview room opened on one side to the outside, where a humanoid target created by an earth attribute candidate was placed. The task was to strike the target with magic. I was eager to see what they would accomplish.

“Um… I am not skilled in long-range magic.” (Reus)

“What? You cannot even perform ‘Flame’? Demi-humans are truly that limited.” (Gregory)

“Gregory-sensei, remain silent. Now, Reus, what would you like to do?” (Rodwell)

“My magic is unique and requires close proximity to the target. I feared the target might be too distant to see clearly.” (Reus)

“I see. Magna-sensei, please assist.” (Rodwell)

Magna-sensei, an instructor skilled in earth magic, effortlessly increased the number of targets. In no time, a humanoid earth figure appeared directly before Reus.

“Then, please strike that target.” (Rodwell)

“Understood. Envelop my iron fist in flames… ‘Flame Knuckle’.” (Reus)

As he spoke the magic name, great flames erupted from his right fist, enveloping his arm. He displayed no concern for the heat.

All candidates, except his sister, and the instructors stared in astonishment as he swung his fist at the target. With a loud shattering, the earth figure was destroyed, leaving only charred soil scattered across the floor.

Of course, his physical strength contributed, but at only eight years old, the power and chantless efficiency rivaled that of ‘Flame Lance’. Exceptional.

Even I, with more than 400 years of life, have rarely seen one manipulate fire so skillfully. While powerful, fire is a double-edged sword. Hesitation or loss of control can injure the caster. Yet he performed without hesitation.

Whether he is reckless or exceptionally trained is unclear. His control and power clearly indicate that he has received instruction from a skilled master.

“Tch… a flawed magic that requires close proximity to use.” (Gregory)

Gregory-sensei muttered beside me, but he does not understand. True, it requires proximity, but even if you were struck up close, it would be devastating. Do not underestimate these demi-humans.

“Next, Emilia Silvarion, please show us your magic.” (Rodwell)

“Understood.” (Emilia)

Gracefully, she rose and directed her hand toward the target, her long silver hair sparkling.

Her brother had already demonstrated extraordinary magic. Though she is the elder, it does not guarantee strength, yet expectations naturally arise.

“Wind, cut through… ‘Air Slash’.” (Emilia)

What is this? Her mana converges even faster than his younger brother’s, and she has shortened the chant of an intermediate-level spell to this extent? I cannot believe it… yet, as the wind stirred, it seemed that the magic had been activated.

“…Nothing has happened, has it?” (Gregory)

As Gregory-sensei said, the target that should have been struck directly remained unmoved.

It is strange. There was evidence that the magic had activated, but… what could this mean? ‘Air Slash’ is an intermediate magic that sends forth a sharp blade of wind with a short range. Normally, it should have cleaved that target in two.

“You are trying to impress. That is why using intermediate magic is unnecessary. Use beginner-level or any other magic and step back.” (Gregory)

“No, it is already complete. The impact of the wind… ‘Air Shot’.” (Emilia)

This magic is one level below ‘Air Slash’, yet it is also extraordinarily fast. She cast it with a simple movement of her arm, achieving a speed comparable to our instructors… indeed, perhaps even surpassing them. How much training did she undertake to reach such a level?

The ‘Air Shot (Air Shot)’ struck the top of the target directly, yet vanished the instant it made contact. This magic should have had enough power to shatter the target, but instead, it only caused it to tremble.

“What!?” (??)

Whose exclamation was it? The target suddenly split into multiple parts along countless incisions and collapsed. This indicates that she released not a single wind blade but at least four simultaneously. Moreover, the precision and control required to maintain the integrity of these sharp wind blades until impact is astounding. A prodigious new student has indeed appeared.

“That is all.” (Emilia)

She, then, executed a graceful bow and returned to her seat. Regarding the results, all three candidates met the standard, and there is no need to comment further on the siblings. Even Gregory-sensei, who disliked beastkin, could not say a word.

“Then, may we consider these candidates as having all passed?” (Rodwell)

“Yes, no problem.” (??)

“No objections.” (Magna)

“Tch… no objections.” (Gregory)

Upon hearing my declaration of their passing, the five seated candidates visibly relaxed in joy. The siblings, in particular, silently celebrated by lightly clapping their palms together, as though such a result were natural.

Afterward, the candidates began to leave, but I called the two of them back, as I was curious.

“I am sorry, may I have the two of you wait a moment?” (Rodwell)

“Yes… what is it?” (Reus)

“Do not worry, your passing is certain. I simply have a few questions to ask.” (Rodwell)

The two stopped, curious, and turned to face me. I ignored the clicking of tongues from beside me.

“Your magic was truly remarkable. Did someone instruct you, or did you refine it yourselves?” (Rodwell)

“We were taught by the person we most respect.” (Emilia)

“Oh? If it is not too much to ask, may we know the name of that person?” (Rodwell)

“Sirius-sama. He is our master.” (Reus)

“Master? Are you his attendants?” (Rodwell)

“Indeed. He rescued us and educated us. We are proud to be his attendants.” (Emilia)

She answered with complete confidence, and her younger brother nodded in agreement. Having asked what I wished, I allowed them to leave, reflecting on the conversation.

“You have heard of him. Does the name sound familiar?” (Rodwell)

“No, I do not recognize it. I had assumed she studied under Dora, the Wind Tempest.” (??)

“I also have no recollection. Any magic user capable of teaching such skill would be famous.” (Magna)

“Who cares if a demi-human becomes an attendant!” (Gregory)

You are not the one I am asking. However, who is this Sirius capable of training such powerful attendants while earning their genuine respect? Perhaps I should have learned more details, but their enrollment is already confirmed. I can inquire later.

“Um… Headmaster. Please see the profile.” (Receptionist)

“Hm? The profile does not list the candidate’s name, does it?” (Rodwell)

“No, it is not her profile but the next candidate’s name…” (Receptionist)

“I see… this is!?” (Rodwell)

Number 156… Sirius Teacher.

Is this a coincidence? No, given the sequential number, the connection to the siblings is highly likely. His age… eight years old!? To train such powerful individuals at this age is almost unbelievable. Is it merely a similar name?

Yet even as coincidence, the similarity seems too precise. This must be confirmed.

“He is scheduled to wait in the second interview room next door… what shall we do?” (Receptionist)

“Inform them that he will be handled here immediately.” (Rodwell)

“U-understood!” (Receptionist)

I watched the teacher hurriedly leave and leaned back in my chair, closing my eyes. Reus’s fiery fist and Emilia’s refined wind magic… It had been long since I had witnessed two prodigious talents appear simultaneously. Furthermore, the boy who trained them bears a name reminiscent of their master.

Now… whether he is indeed their master or not, who is this boy? I sincerely hope he is their master. How did he train them, and how much talent does he himself possess?

Unconsciously, I found myself excited like a child.

 

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