Proofreader: Me! (I almost made this chapter 700 words, until I realised, wait I can add some more stuff!)

After transporting everyone back from Philos Forest, I passed out. Genuinely, too much happened. Yet, for some reason, the world wanted more from me.

The moment the sun peered into my eyes, I was punched with a ridiculous ask. I basically saved one of the protagonists, and this was my reward.

Laying on my back, I was prodded from the side, “Luke, is it alright if you can help me with something?”

“Yaawn,” I put my hand to my mouth. “With what?”

“Giving me pointers. I know you’re weaker than me, but you managed to hold your own against both my brother and from what I heard, one of their vice commanders.”

Most of my experience only came from PvP and knowledge from the game’s bosses. I wouldn’t be able to give tips about how to use the sword… but.

I shrugged, “You know I don’t use the orthodox swordsmanship, right? And, your family has some of its teachings, so I’m useless there.”

It was a form of kendo mixed with the teachings of Erin.

“I’m… aware,” His face scrunched up, perhaps from his pride taking a hit.

I raised one finger, “The thing is, while I may not know the best of swordsmanship, I know how to fight.”

“...?” Fen raised his eyebrows. “If you aren’t using the most efficient, or best of skills, then… wouldn’t you just lose outright?”

I sighed, “Nope, any tactic possible will help you. In a fight, dirty tricks are fair game. Does honour let you live?”

Both in the game and in real life, I haven’t fought fairly at all. Abusing my abilities, weak spots, items, and terrain all to win. After all,

“I… no.”

“Yes, however, it’s not just that. Tricks and whatnot may allow you to win, but you need information. I knew what your brother would do, so I could work around it.”

A suspicious look arose from him, “Hmmm.”

“In my opinion, your honour is a good thing. So rather than being the annoying type like me, analyse your opponents, adapt to it, and strike when the iron’s hot.”

I shrugged, “Or something to that end.”

“In other words, you mean patience.” He stood there, likely lamenting the course of his week.

“Yup, it’s probably something you may need to practice.”

He stood still, his hand on his chin. “Then, train me.”

“No.” I responded immediately.

“But!”

I waved my finger, “No buts, I’m too weak to win against any of you.”

“Urr.. then, how about, you teach me patience!” A lightbulb flickered in his head, leading him to an idiotic solution.

“How am I supposed to…?”

“Supposed to what?”

My brain flickered just like he did. I know exactly how to use this, I’ll lead him away from romance through the training of patience. Who knew, that I’m actually a genius? Later on, maybe six or so days from now, he would likely get a crush on Luna. Or something to that effect, as within the game, Charles would have his followers get closer to the princess.

“Ahem. I changed my mind.”

“Really?” His expression brightened.

“However, the methods will be unorthodox, and we will start a week from now.”

I just prayed it would work. I’ll be too busy with the quests to induct some kind of training session. Instead, I’ll play the part of some wise master who leads him to failure in a relationship!

“Hehehe…”

This book's true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.

“Luke?” Fen had a somewhat disgusted look in his eyes.

“Nothing, sorry, just remembered something,” I faked a cough, “Ahem. Anyways, I’ll meet you on this maybe around Friday?”

“That should be fine.”

“Alright, it’s finalised,” I raised my hand for a shake.

“Thanks for this!” He reached out and affirmed it. “Ah, I’ll get going now, I have a meeting with the royal faction!”

I don’t think saying something out loud like that would be great for their image. An academy that preaches equality, still having prejudice? If Abel had heard, that wouldn’t have ended up so great. Regardless, I wanted to talk with Julia for a bit. There was one more thing I had to check. I haphazardly wore some clothing and made my way to the cafeteria.

“Hohoho! That was how I and the rest of the Platinum Generation slayed the little monster of those wretched Demons!”

I resisted the urge to rush over and slap her. But, I wouldn’t get in the way of ruining her chance at making friends. Around her, sat a few others, and even ‘him.’ The strongest student of the first years.

“As if that was true,” One of the girls laughed.

“It definitely happened, but that’s far too exaggerated,” The strongest shrugged.

“Hmph,” Julia shook her head, “I’ve had enough of you guys!”

I guess I’d go ask a different time, eating some beef with mashed potatoes sounded nice.

“Excuse me, I’d like to eat that please,” I pointed to the food on the menu.

“Coming right up,” The cafeteria lady went to the back and pulled out a dish without delay. “Enjoy!”

This world was super convenient, to the point making food could be automated. These cafeteria ladies were more bodyguards than actual cooks.

“Thank you,” I bowed.

I decided to sit in a corner today since everyone else was either resting, having meetings, or training. I also didn’t want to have eyes on me within the supposed VIP section, eating alone.

I put my hands together, “いただきます！” (Thanks for the food)

It was great, but not having rice still felt somewhat criminal.

After finishing eating, I made my way to the vice headmaster’s office.

“Oh- Luke! How have you been?” Runalia readily opened the door.

“Not so great since we didn’t have any help yesterday,” I honestly replied, sitting on the chair in front of her desk.

“You got through it, didn’t you?” She smiled, “I trusted both in you, and Abel’s words!”

“Abel?” An unexpected name came up.

She cupped her mouth, “Oops.”

“I’m guessing he told the rest of the teaching staff not to help?” I sighed, sprawling over her comfy table.

“Hehehe…” She nervously laughed, as if she did something wrong.

“Well, please, since trouble is coming, do something next time,” I pleaded.

“Hmm?”

I contemplated whether I should spill some information or not… but since it was Runalia, I could trust her not to spill anything. Unless it was Abel, but I doubt he would pry.

“I’ll tell you what I mean on one condition, please just don’t tell anyone else,” I clasped her hand. “Promise me, with your blood.”

Her eyes widened, the slits in her pupils sharpened, as if to analyse me.

“Surely, you heard from Abel and Haruto right?”

“Of- of course! Something about having future knowledge!”

“Exactly, however, this is something only I can tell you.”

“Oh!” Her expression brightened, and her crimson hair fluttered. “You can trust me no matter what, I swear it on my being as a Dragon Lord!”

“Great,” I smiled, “The second year’s girl dormitory will be raided three weeks from now, with forces stemming from both the cultists and beastmen.”

“Uweh-” Her expression crumpled, “Wha- how is that possible?”

“You’ll see.”

“What, please tell me!” She leapt over her desk clinging onto my arm.

How was this instructor the scariest in the game? Right now I could see tears in her eyes… But, at least it was cute.

“I can’t, or the future may change for the worse.”

Runalia picked me up and hugged me close, “Just tell me, I'm strong enough to face anything!”

“Buud dass nauu tru,” I tried to retort but her chest was muffling my words.

She put me down, cupping my cheeks, “Abel has saved the world more than once, and I, his greatest partner will prevent any harm to our students!”

“That’s comforting to hear, but…” I cut myself short.

“Hmmm?” She released me but stared in confusion.

“Sorry, I need to go now.” I bowed and left for the door.

I heard her sad whimper, but the end of my sentence haunted me. ‘Neither of you will be there by the end.’ How could I say that to her face? This world was heading for the path of destruction. So of course, its protectors would face a similar fate.

“Hah…”

I would get no break, for a very long time. Also, now that I think about it… this following month would be pretty hectic.

‘I would have to create a solid party, prevent some flags, and then…‘

Ding!

This sound was made when my enhancement skill ranked up that one time. Yet now, instead of something positive, only an off-putting feeling was present.

I frowned and used my daily appraisal stone to open the status board. My eyes drifted to the bottom, affirming my worst fears.

[Category: Protagonist - Uriel.]

[Route: Bad Ending #13 - An Eternity Between Us.]

[M - 1] [D - 7]

“Fuck.”