110 - I Became the Must-Have Character of the Academy City

Rohan was heading towards the dormitory steps amidst sending a message to Shion and Clara, notifying them of his movement. He then summoned the notification window to check on pending alerts. “Maybe I'll postpone watching the third restricted video for now.” The notifications, particularly the one about the main storyline malfunctioning, were unsettling, and he wasn't in peak physical condition. If he were to collapse as he did before, it would be troublesome. "Aside from bestowing weaknesses, the level of my unique skill has also increased." In his groggy state, he hadn't utilized much beyond the weaknesses he’d bestowed. Now seemed like a fitting time to leisurely go over the overlooked information. [Store ─ Lv.3] ◇ Transcendence once - 35,000 (Available for one purchase) ◇ Exclusive Weapon - 30,000P (Available for one purchase) ◇ Potion of Chatting with Monsters - 800P ◇ Potion of Chatting with Animals - 700P ◇ Intermediate Stamina/Magic Potion - 500p ◇ Fatigue Recovery - 200P ·· ·· ◇ Minimal Stamina/Magic Potion - 100P ◇ Restaurant Reservation Voucher - 50P ◇ Concentration Enhancing Incense - 50P ·· ·· [Remaining Points - 13,225P] “Transcendence has also become available for purchase, and the range of consumables has increased. Talking with animals? Does that mean communication like with Noa?” The plethora of intriguing items on display tempted him immensely. With ample remaining points, the temptation was all the more intense. Despite having bought a 20,000-point level-up, his balance remained comfortable and impressive. This brilliance was brought by the pocket of points received for his accomplishment with the Omega. “No, no, I should resist. I should buy a weapon or transcendence quickly.” Rohan cleared away the store menu and opened the next unique skill. [Celestial Judgment Sword (天日聖裁劍) ─ Lv.2] ◇First Sword (一劍) - Flame Sever (炎切) ◇Second Sword (二劍) - Dawnfall (黎明落日) ◇Third Sword (三劍) - Radiant Wing Drill (光翼錐) The newly unveiled third sword. Rohan immediately comprehended the sword art known as the Radiant Wing Drill. “A thrust-type technique. It involves a quick thrust incorporating flames, delivered through abrupt elasticity with a relaxed body. Both strength and flexibility are required, demanding rotation enabled by magic power and wrist control.” His understanding was merely theoretical at this point. Without copious practice, the movement couldn't be effectively utilized in real battle. “...It’s difficult.” Though seemingly simple in motion, the application complexity of the magic power skyrocketed. He could hardly imagine how challenging the next sword technique might be. "Hmm." Nonetheless, the answer was obvious. It stayed unchanged. “Well, no choice but to work hard.” Despite the daunting challenge ahead, the satisfaction remained. Feeling himself gradually growing stronger served as a powerful motivator. Upon arriving at the dorm late, closing the door, he found Shion and Clara awaiting him quietly. "Oppa!" "Rohan. You’ve worked hard." The warmth of having someone waiting to welcome you back was truly nice. “Surprised I returned so quickly? Did the two of you get on well?” “Mm-hm! Did you see the messages sis and I sent?” “It seemed like a lot to read. That's what happens when we send whatever comes to mind.” Amused by the chitchat, Rohan unpacked his things, pondering over what facts to share with the girls first. He decided to clean up before anything. “I’ll just take a shower.” “Ah, oh, okay…! I left the towel in its usual place!” “Thanks." As he gathered comfy clothes to wash up, Shion silently approached and gently tapped his shoulder. “Rohan. Did you have dinner?” “Not yet, I’m hungry. Did Clara and Shion eat?” “We haven’t either. But we’ve prepared dinner. Let’s eat together after you wash up.” “Oh! I’ll be quick then.” An unexpected surprise gift. This sped up Rohan's actions, which had been hesitant considering whether to eat out. enN1WnIzcFhHMVJuR0JvdkNPc013MkZPR0g4Z1AyT3BJK1FXQ0RQUk5uZXlUR2l1blY0bVRkRmMzMERHVlVDSA “It looks like I need to start learning how to cook.” “Absolutely not. I prefer Rohan’s cooking.” “M-me too…!” Dinner consisted of dishes personally made by the two of them. The fact that they thought of him and cooked personally was touching. What’s more, the food was excellent—he was already on his third bowl of instant rice. “Rohan. Yoo ho gave me the number of a realtor in Academy City.” “When we look at houses, let’s go together. You shouldn’t just trust anyone because they’re recommended when such a large amount of money is involved.” “That's reasonable.” “If you’re there, oppa, I’ll feel reassured…! And it should make getting around easier…” “I did promise to accompany you, didn’t I? We also agreed to shop together.” Once Rohan finished the last of his meal, Shion and Clara couldn’t help but smile at his content expression. “Oppa. Are you busy tomorrow? Do you have time…?” “I’ll be heading to the academy, but there aren’t any classes, so I’ll probably just have some discussions and return. I don’t know when it'll end, but there’s nothing else scheduled apart from the academy.” “Then let’s go shopping together tomorrow. If time allows, I’d also like to see the places.” Rohan nodded without hesitation. He had been planning to acquire a pistol anyway, making it a good opportunity with two experts at hand. “Should I surprise them with the magic-infused bullets tomorrow?” He wondered what kinds of reactions they’d show. Even if they were simply surprised, he’d be content. “Shion, are you staying over at Clara’s place tonight?” “Yes!” “That’s the plan.” Rohan quickly started gathering his clothes. “I’ll walk you over. Let’s go.” “Oppa! Let me do the dishes first…!” “No need, I’ll handle it. Let’s head out. You need to tell me why the test ended early too.” Although he thought of keeping the events on the deserted island a secret to prevent worry, having committed to moving as a team, he couldn’t do so. "Hearing about such an incident from someone else… that would truly be the worst." Keeping such a significant matter hidden would damage their trust. Moreover, it was directly linked to Shion’s quest for revenge against the reverse cult. He could also use this as a chance to share various bits of information seamlessly. “We had a lovely meal, so I'll buy some drinks.” “Rohan. Might you lend me some clothes just for today?” “M-me too…” Shion had borrowed Rohan’s T-shirt and training pants. Clara, as usual, had a fancy outfit on with one of Rohan’s outer garments thrown over it. “I don’t mind at all.” Leading the satisfied girls, Rohan stepped out into the night streets. It was likely to be quite a long story. --- The following day was an off day for Orion Academy. Upon arriving in Class 1, Rohan sat beside Gilbert, reflecting on the previous night. “It was tough, but I got through a major hurdle.” Explaining the situation on the deserted island to Shion and Clara had kept him occupied for nearly four hours. Each time he added details, he had to calm the girls, who vividly expressed their emotions, which put him on edge. Squeeeak─ Dick Wikkitree entered through the front door, dragging his feet, and flopped down in the back seat. Rohan eyed him with curiosity. “You're here. But why do you look so pale even after having eaten?” “Because of what Gilbert made me eat… I’m still suffering from a stomach ache…” “Blaming me only shows your weakness! Does it not amuse you that I am perfectly fine?” Dick glanced at Gilbert’s face and sighed. “...If we get paired up for the test again, I’m dropping out.” “If we're on the same team again, I'll have to knock you out first. I will reform your mental state.” As their fruitless verbal sparring continued, Creeeak! Juyeon entered the room. Her appearance during a non-class time was a rare occurrence, which halted the cadets in their tracks as they blinked in surprise. “Well, a bit early, but I’d like to start the interviews with those available. The rest can relax.” Juyeon’s gaze landed on Rohan. Without a word, he got up and followed her. Rohan, having volunteered to go first, was engaged in an interview with Juyeon, recounting as much as he knew about the Omega. “I see. You say it appeared from the maw of a worm crawling out of the ground—a bizarrely unheard-of method.” “Yes. It also mentioned sending a sample to someone.” “Hmm…” Juyeon, her face serious, typed the information into her computer. “How’s your physical condition?” “I'm fine. No discomfort at all.” “Still, it's better to be cautious. Make sure to get checked again at the infirmary.” “Understood.” Juyeon took a deep sip of her pitch-black coffee from her mug. Rohan, watching her profile, noticed the signs of fatigue on Juyeon. Looking around, it was apparent. The instructors seemed to have spent the night at the academy, unable to leave. They appeared busy with ringing phones everywhere and piled-up meeting notes being sorted out. Instructor Carrot, sitting across, also seemed worn out; her bunny ears drooped lower than usual. “Instructor.” “Hmm?” “Did you manage to leave yesterday?” “That’s none of a cadet's concern.” With a smile, Juyeon tapped Rohan’s forehead lightly with her finger. “Next…” Answering Juyeon’s questions sincerely, Rohan recalled the store. “Even if I bought a fatigue recovery item for her, she wouldn’t accept a cadet's gift.” He wouldn’t mind spending points on his benefactor, but given Juyeon’s nature, she’d surely refuse. Which was unfortunate. “Rohan.” “Yes.” As one query concluded, Juyeon used her magic. A sense of isolation, as if the space were enclosed. Voices couldn't escape and only swirled within. “I’ve noticed you possess a special skill.” “….” Rohan tightened his lips. Juyeon chuckled silently at his tense appearance. “No need to be so stiff. I have no intention to dig deeper. Still, as an instructor, I must say this.” "I'll listen closely." “Exercise caution in its use. If it becomes publicly known, troublesome entities might take notice.” “...Understood!” When Rohan assured her he’d remember, Juyeon seemed satisfied and withdrew her magic. “The interview is concluded. Send in another cadet who’s available for an interview from Class 1.” “I understand the process.” “You can either opt for a check-up at the infirmary or rest in class. The instructor recommends the former.” “I will send someone and then head to the infirmary without fail.” Standing up, Rohan bowed in respect and exited the staff room. "Is your interview over?" “Huh?” The first thing Rohan saw upon exiting was Ichinose. Closing the door softly, Rohan met the eyes of the girl who stood quietly. “Do you want to go in next? The instructor asked to send in the next available cadet for an interview.” “Sure. But I was looking for you first because I have something to tell you.” “To me?” Ichinose hugged her sword tightly and gave a small nod. Bowing her head, she bit her lip as if summoning courage to speak. “...Rohan. How about the three of us go out for a meal today?” The three would likely include Noa. An extension of the conversation from yesterday it seemed. Though curious as to where yesterday's boldness had gone, Rohan was sincerely delighted by the suggestion. However, Regrettably, “Sorry.” Rohan had a prior engagement with the girls back at the dormitory. ***** “Next is Ichinose Yui?” Juyeon flipped through documents as the petite girl entered the staff room. “Please, make yourself comfortable.” “Well… okay…” “Hmm?” The usual smart and assertive demeanor was oddly absent. She seemed deflated, her lips slightly parted as if shocked. Naturally, Juyeon had no clue why.