บท 47: Sylphy Bites Back
///
Dear Sylphiette:
How are things?
Sorry for taking so long. I've been meaning to talk to you for quite a while, but before I knew it, two years had passed. I'm sorry.
But luckily I've managed to find somewhere stable for now, and finally have the free time to write you a letter, and receive a letter from you in turn.
I'm staying at the Shirone capital. It seems that I became famous after entering a dungeon as an adventurer, and I got hired as the Prince's home school tutor.
That's definitely it.
If you hear otherwise, it's slander, and they should be ignored.
Anyways, thanks to that I've been recalling the days where I used to teach you and Rudeus, our time was short, but you are as much my student as he is.
On that note I also sent him a letter, and he should be reading his at the same time you are.
I hope you kept him in check.
If he's still as wild as I remember him, he might have sunk his house… or two.
The prince is similar to you and Rudeus in terms of talent, but sadly… he's a little on the perverted side, but as they say great men have great sexual appetites. I expect great things from him. Although not quite the same, his potential is distinct, and he's clever. Maybe one day you'll meet him.
Now if only he would stop spying on me when changing.
Rudeus hasn't started spying on you yet has he?
He might be five years younger than the prince, but I hear the perverted ones tend to develop faster than the other ones.
Be Careful.
Where was I?
Oh, that's right.
I can finally use Water-King ranked magic.
Your teacher is amazing, be proud.
There's plenty of books on king rank magic in this castle, so I'm going to build myself up, while I'm here, and establish myself as a credible mage, as I perfect the King ranked magic.
The next time you hear from me by word of mouth, and not by letter. You'll be hearing tales of Roxy Migurdia; King rank mage.
I am still aiming for Water god though.
I hope Rudy hasn't been slacking in his teaching, and has been bringing out your talent properly. At two years now, with young Sylphiette's talent, from what I peeked at, it shouldn't be impossible to be a saint Rank magician, so long as Rudeus taught you properly from where we left off.
If Rudeus hasn't given you the exam he should soon. I wrote to him as such in his letter.
If he already had…
Please slap him in the back of the head for me.
You should only be doing it now, at the timing of this letter, and not be pushing yourself recklessly.
Again, hope you kept him in check.
Anyways, that's all I have to write today.
If you're having any troubles, or if Rudy isn't as good a teacher as I hoped, don't be afraid to send me a letter. I'm curious about my student's progress; yours and his.
On that note; their is a limit to the amount of tips one can give in a letter so if you feel that you've hit a bottleneck, you can try knocking on the doors of Ranoa university.
With your talent, you should be able to cover all, if not most expenses.
That said, it's slightly chilly up there, so I wouldn't recommend going up there until you developed some real world experience.
Ask your father.
I assume age 12 would be a good time, but write to me if you have questions.
In the event, you don't get a scholarship I will write you a letter of recommendation if need be.
Sincerely yours, Roxy Migurdia.
PS: Don't use flight magic around tall buildings.
PPS: …boys grow quickly…
///
Sylphy [pov]
"Senseeeiii!!!" I cover my face with the letter, as my face turns red.
I'm super embarrassed!
I just got a letter from sensei, and I was going to show it off.
…I'm glad I didn't.
When mom first brought a letter signed by Roxy for me, I was so happy as I had been waiting since forever for one. I was going to show it off to everyone! I almost forgot about our promise. I even jumped to the roof in happiness.
Literally.
My head hurts from where I used flight magic accidentally and hit my head.
"...now sensei is giving me another headache…"
I was hoping to share it with Rudy, and was going to open it over there, buuut… I got curious. Got a little antsy, and opened it up early. I'm glad I did.
If I had opened it while Rudy was standing right next to me…
"Wawawa…" I rolled back and forth on the grass as the thought of it made my face redder.
So embarrassing.
Maybe Miss Lily would have been okay with me reading this, but Rudy's or my parents would definitely give me and Rudy funny looks.
Just the thought of it-
"Wait a minute! What does Rudy's letter say?" I jerked up, and looked in the direction of Rudy's house. "It's… it's probably fine. Sensei might be a little… 'eccentric' at times, but she's still my sensei. There's no way she'll make such a mistake. Sensei is sensei!" I pump my fist.
Resting by the road, under the meeting tree, I'm waiting for our date.
Okay maybe he didn't use the word date… but still!
Rudy promised to meet up with me today. After hunting with his father for a week straight, he promised he'd make some time for me, and set up a date in advance.
Now I'm just waiting.
Holding a letter from Roxy I might have grown a little too excited with everything that's going on today. Because I came a little early, now I'm stuck with all these feelings in my chest and no one to share them with.
Just me, and my letter.
"...but sensei really is something else," I look up at the envelope, as I lay down, and use it to block out the sky. "The way she talked about him… it's like she's papa."
Mama Roxy?
It's been a few years since I've last talked with Roxy sensei, but… I almost forgot how wild she can be when it comes to Rudy. I don't know wh-
Okay, I know exactly why.
But still!
For some reason sensei always looked at Rudy from the corner of her eye, as if she expected him to do something the moment she looked away from him.
Which… wasn't wrong… per say. But he got better!
///
"...sensei… why are we spying on Rudy?" I asked once.
A long time ago Roxy and I were studying under this tree. Just like Rudy and I do today. Being far from everyone, and being in the middle of my home and Rudy's, it made for the ideal spot to rest, as sensei could come back and forth easily.
That and it's easier to practice magic in an open field.
We could have studied around Rudy's house, but… I was a little scared of him. It took me a while to get used to him, and I wasn't quite ready for Rudy and all his Rudy-iness.
Floating in the sky at that time, Miss Roxy was looking at him from far away using the spyglass she borrowed from my dad.
Her panties were showing…
"Hahh…" Sensei looked dispirited as she floated down. "At least he's not looking for those kids again. That boy is dan-" she looked down at me, before coughing in her fist. "Ahem, sorry Sylphy. I just need to keep a good eye on Rudy sometimes, a lot of times," she muttered that last part under her breath as she avoided my eyes, "sometimes has… 'radical' ideas when he wants to get something done, and I'm making sure he's staying home rather than…" she looked down at me for a good minute, as she finds the words.
"...enacting justice… I guess is what he would say."
"Rudy's playing knight?"
"More like a barbarian, but that's neither here nor there. Hopefully he doesn't find them."
"Eh? Scary…" I grumbled.
Who was he trying to find?
Ruffling my hair, she smiled brightly upon me, as she looked me in the eye. "Don't worry. I'm probably being paranoid, Rudy just…" she looks up tapping her bottom lip, "'eccentric' from time to time. You'll get used to it."
"Don't wanna…" I grumbled under my breath. Hugging my knees tightly to my chest, I turned my head to the side as I cursed Rudy under my breath. "Rudy's mean… scary… and… stuff."
I was scared of Rudy, back then, but… that wasn't the only reason I didn't want to be next to him. It's supposed to be mine and sensei's time. I was a little jealous of him. Rudy is scar-
…eccentric. Before I got to know him, I only knew him as the boy that stole my coat that one time. Before I met sensei, I 'met' Rudy, and… he's very 'eccentric.'
Boys are scary. Boys are eccentric. Boys are boys…
Those were my thoughts, and it took me a while to change my mind, but more than that… it's annoying… I finally got some private time with Roxy, but… even then Rudy somehow still shows up when we're talking.
What's so good about him anyway?
It's like he's here even when he's not here.
All I knew about Rudy at the time was that he was the scary boy that sensei had to look after, and sometimes goes wild in the forest. I didn't know 'till later that it was Rudy's idea for me to study underneath her to begin with.
"Um… perhaps those were a poor choice of words," Roxy scratched at her cheek. "Rudeus is just… unconventional. He might scare you, but he's a good boy at heart, honest."
"I don't know about that," I grumbled.
"You don't have to force yourself if you don't have to, but," she put her hand on top of my head. "I would really appreciate it if you did."
"....mmm…" I looked away from her.
"You know… if Rudy grows wild, it might hurt my reputation, but… if a young, and beautiful, green haired student of mine was able to reel him in, and grow up to be a spectacular mage, I don't think anyone could say anything bad about me…" she whispered on my ear "or my students."
"...okay…"
In the end I surrendered.
I really liked sensei.
"...you know…" Sensei parted the hair from my forehead as she rubbed my forehead with her thumb. "He told me to keep it a secret, but he's the reason we met. I was already set to leave, and under normal circumstances I would have, and then I wouldn't be here to talk to you like this, but…" she smiled. "All of a sudden who would we meet?" her smile turned into a teasing one. "But a cute little girl with scary green hair on top of her head."
"Mhuu!" I puffed my cheeks.
"Yep, just like that, a terrifying girl with puffy cheeks," she poked my face while I playfully pushed her away slightly.
It wasn't as bothersome as I pretended.
"We started talking about you," she said as she sat next to me, and went into sensei mode. "Rudy said that you were a very strong girl with a very strong talent for magic. Ha ha, it's funny he was quite adamant about me meeting you. It's the first time he asked me a favor. I'd even call him cute," sensei looked wistfully as if she was enjoying a pleasant memory. "Anyways, I think you should give him a chance. He's the reason we can hang out like this after all."
"...Rudy really thinks I'm talented?"
"He sure does."
"I… see.." I remembered Rudy's actions after the day they found me. He was a little scary at first, but ever since then he's treated me kindly. He even complimented my hair once. He's even friends with Roxy, a demon, and… me?
"Is Roxy friends with Rudy?"
Sensei looks at me with big eyes, before blinking, and thinning on it.
"Hai!" With a big smile on her face showing her teeth, I couldn't help but think sensei looked really pretty.
"I… guess he's not 'that' scary," I muttered. "I can give it a try…"
If he could get my cold sensei to smile like that, then… I don't mind trying to get to know him.
Maybe we'll be friends?
///
It was a nice memory.
Sensei can be a little eccentric, especially when it comes to Rudy, but she always meant well. More often than not she was more right than she was wrong. It just goes to show her how well sensei knew us.
Now the only one that knows Rudy better than her is me.
After reading that letter I've been feeling a little nostalgic. More than I already was. That's why I wanted to share the letter in the first place. I wanted to share the warm feelings I'm having right now with him, I'm sure he would too. We could share a couple laughs at our teacher's expense.
"I'm kind of curious what Rudy's letter said about me now."
I'm actually waiting on the very same tree we were spying on him at that time. It became one of my favorite hang out spots, being right in the middle of our houses, and having so much space to ourselves, we're free to do as we want. We sometimes go to the ruins at the edge of town, or the pond at the edge of the village, but usually, more often than not, we always start here under the base of this tree.
It's our base~
Now I'm simply stuck waiting for Rudy to come down the road so we can start our magic lessons. Usually around this time we would be spending our time goofing arou-
Learning magic!
Yes, that's what I meant to say… definitely. Learning magic, and perhaps a little sparring. Definitely not playing.
…well… maybe a little.
A lot of things have happened since Roxy left. I've gotten a lot stronger. Rudy had two sisters. I grew a few centimeters. Rudy grew… a lot more centimeters. And more importantly of all we've become good friends since then.
Even if I would like for more.
We've come a long way since then, I'm sure sensei would be surprised. Even in the curriculum-
That's the word right?
I'm still learning vocabulary, words are not Rudeus strong suit, rather magic is. Or that's what he says, but I'm always learning something from him, so I feel Rudy knows a little bit of everything. In any case, I am sure sensei would be surprised to learn how much I've learned. I've even learned a little bit of sparring.
…I'm not that good at it…
But I at least learned the basics! I'm untouchable!
I wasn't a fan of it at first, but I convinced myself that if I were to ever strengthen my bond with Rudy it was something I needed to do.
Success!
"I wonder if sensei ever thought I would be like this with Rudy, but… then again," I think towards sensei's language in the letter. "Maybe she expected more."
Frustrating.
I wouldn't mind more, but there are steps to these kinds of things. Besides, Rudy won't peek at me.
Unfortunately.
At least not yet.
He did give me a weird look at times when he insisted on me being able to defend myself though. Saying something like; 'Beautiful girls need to look out for rogue adventurers.'
So he's noticed I'm beautiful. That's a plus.
But… It felt like something papa would say.
…I think papa got to him when I wasn't looking.
Not that it's bad. Bossy Rudy is vulnerable Rudy. Vulnerable Rudy is huggy Rudy. Huggy Rudy is best Rudy. Huggy Rudy is warm.
"He he~"
When he lets his guard down, bossy Rudy turns strangely affectionate.
…I think he feels guilty about hitting me so many times.
It's fine. It's usually on the butt. Although, sometimes he hits my thighs too. I didn't realize in the beginning because I was too distracted by the pain.
And the healing massages…
But he avoids my face and chest often. Usually hitting my legs, hands or butt. He's very careful.
In any case it's actually pretty fun. The sparring not the hitting. It's not the same thing. He still has to reach me to hit me, and I've been hit less and less. I am Roxy's student.
It's crazy… a year ago I'd never thought I'd say I enjoy something as crazy as sparring, but I do, I like it when Rudy gets physical.
"..."
NOT LIKE THAT!
"Sensei's putting strange thoughts in my head."
I'm not sure what's going through Rudy's head while we're sparring, but I feel I'm making progress.
I don't have much talent for the sword sadly; toki specifically, like… at all, but I didn't let that slow me down.
Well… maybe a little. I was a little disappointed for a week there, but if there's anything Rudy is good at that is cheating me up. We took a break from sparring, and he treated me like a princess for a whole day.
Literally.
We played pretend, and he did whatever I wanted.
…I kind of regret that I didn't strike at the opportunity…
In any case I won't be able to fighting with toki any time soon, but I can still fight beside him. I've learned Watergod footwork, and have been dodging him thoroughly. We have mini fights where Rudy tries to hit me, softly, and I work on dodging. I'm being hit less and less.
Which also means less massages…
Sad.
I believe this is what Rudy calls winning the battle but losing the war. Lesson learned.
I"m not sure if I'm supposed to treat our sessions as a game, but… I do.
Sorry sensei.
Rudy teaches by experience. I'm just… following my teachers' de-decorum?
I think that's how you use that word.
Rather than learning how to swing a blade boringly we've been playing heartily, and because of it I've gotten really reeeally good at dodging.
Amongst other things.
"I have a lot to write to sensei about, he he~ She's going to be so proud."
I think.
Using wind magic I fly around him. Using 'that' spell I swim around him. Using everything Rudy has taught me I 'feel' my way around him. A leaf dancing in the wind. I become untouchable. Being coated in mana, I feel using the aura spell as I swim in our spars.
Not exactly a spell, and more of a technique, according to Rudy, but it's still magic.
The mana acts as a second skin as I feel everything. Even the bop that comes at my head when I tire out.
…I can only dodge for so long…
Rudy has a surprising amount of stamina.
"I am," I put a hand on my face, making a peeking window through my fingers as I made a poze, "Sylphy of the north wind, feel thy breeze."
…no one reacts as a cold breeze flows around me.
Turning my head swiftly from side to side, I make sure no one is around to see me.
Playing pretend is fun, but it's also a little embarrassing. It would be unbecoming of a lady to be seen playing pretend. Although, more accurately, I'm playing Rudy.
Sometimes when we're sparring, he pretends he's an evil lord and I'm a princess.
Like I said; fun. Like dancing.
Seriously.
It's not exactly a new spell, but more of a different way of using it. Rudy taught it to me recently when he was trying to teach me mana echo, but it resulted in something… different.
To be precise; I've learned barrier magic. Something even Rudy hasn't done. While trying to copy Rudy's Aura spell one day I was throwing my mana around me, trying to copy his mana echo technique, but created something different. All of a sudden…
'Wham!'
A wall was made. He called it barrier magic.
It was difficult doing it on purpose, but after trying again and again, we finally got something done. Rudy had to take a break from regular lessons, and teach me something about atoms. It helped a lot. Now I can create an invisible wall between me and anything that would hurt me. It's a little tiring, but it works.
I received many headpats that day.
Feeling my way with magic around him, I practice the Watergod footwork. Like dancing or maybe more like swimming, but in air. Then I put up an aura spell, and feel when things are coming at me, if not to the same extent as Rudy, and… if he does get through…
Wham… invisible wall!
I've done pretty well if I do say so myself.
"I should write about it to Roxy!" I jerk up, holding my letter to the chest. "This is exactly what she wanted right. To hear all our accomplishments. I can't wait to read her next letter!"
I'm getting more and more excited by the minute. I can't wait!
Although it was an accident. I've done something even Rudy hasn't done-no! I've done something even Rudy's mom hasn't done. And she's a cleric!
I think.
I'm amazing right?!
"He he~"
Conclusion; I'm amazing.
'Careful Sylphy, your head is growing~' Rudy's ghost of a voice floats in my ear.
"Your head is growing!"
I look around me temporarily to see if anyone sees me yelling at nothing. I got lucky.
…conclusion; I'm antsy…
He's throwing me for a loop.
"Rudy hurry…" throwing myself backwards, I think to what exactly am I going to write to Roxy about.
I decided to take a break. I'm tiring myself with the possibilities. If Rudy doesn't come soon, I might just pop. I'm the one who decided to come early so I'll wait quietly.
"It can't be much now. It's not like he has anything to do. He chose this day specifically, because of that, the only thing he can be doing is… everything else."
Rudy sometimes… a lot of times… get lost doing stuff.
Is today going to be one of those late days?
"Darn."
The best part about being Rudy's friend is that everyone trusts him. He's strong and responsible enough that everyone trusts him to go out at night, and come home whenever he wants. Even mom and dad know better, and that Rudy can take care of me after hours. Even dad stays quiet about me staying after hours.
The bad part is he sometimes gets carried away.
He has too much freedom sometimes.
Lately, I feel he's been coming later and later. Losing himself in whatever he's doing lately. Specifically; doting on those adorable creatures he calls sisters.
I get it! I totally do. They're adorable! I want to pamper them too!
But… What about me?
I'm not jealous… you're jealous…
I'm a lot antsy.
My Rudy time has been cut in two.
It was already bad enough I had to share my time with Miss Lily, and his mommy during their pregnant days. I get it. Rudy is being Rudy.
But!
Too much is too much.
Your sister will grow up spoiled at this rate!
"I wonder what kind of face he'll make if I told him that?"
Rudy has been doing everything in extra since his sisters were born. I thought things would go back to normal. That we would go back to the good old days, when we played forever, without interruptions, and only occasionally miss Lily would visit in.
Now I'm the one that does the visiting.
He has become a doting brother.
So envious…
He once told me that separating a mama from her child is difficult, but I'm starting to think Rudy was simply talking about himself.
Rudy became a mama.
A very doting one at that.
Dote on me.
"Mhuu, so frustrating," I tap my lips with the envelope as I look at the skies. "He's always been protective."
Always…
///
"Remember Syphy, hugs are all fine and good, but you can not. MUST NOT," he put on a serious face, "be this affectionate with every guy you meet." He stared at me for confirmation as I looked up at him from a sitting position.
I nod my head.
Even then I knew that when Rudy gets rolling he can't be stopped.
Roxy lesson number one.
When I think back about it, he's always been like that. Always caring, and protective. Sending bullies flying, and teaching you the best way to do so. Sometimes he's too much. Many times he's too much.
I'm at least thankful he's protective for my sake.
After receiving confirmation, he nodded to himself, and continued on. " You have to remember Sylphy, you're a very pretty girl, and there's plenty of guys out there that would see that, and only that. You kick those guys between the legs. If they're not trying to get to know you they don't deserve you. Got it?!" He stood tall, and menacingly before me.
…Rudy's always been a little wild…
For some reason, I never did quite find out, Rudy decided it was important that I knew how to defend myself. This was before the babies were born, and a little after Rudy had been grounded for sending the boys flying. Roxy had just left, and so had left the rest of my training to him.
He took it seriously.
"...got it?" I tilted my head, unsure of how to answer.
"Good," he straightened himself proudly. With a finger outstretched he makes a pose similar to Roxy as he preached. He entered teaching mode.
I was still getting used to Rudy's quirks, but even at the beginning I knew it was best just to accept it and move on. It's best to give up. Not even sensei was a match for Rudy.
"Perverts, and etiquette 101 starts now." He starts marching back and forth. "Lesson one; all boys are wolves, beware of their intentions. A boy, especially the older ones, will try anything and everything to get…" he looked at me for a moment, biting his lip, and frowning, "underneath your clothes. At least the more perverted ones, don't listen to what they say, but how he says it. If he's being 'too' nice, and you barely know him, it's usually a bad sign."
"Sooo… if they ask the right way… it's okay to take off my clothes?"
That doesn't sound right, and I didn't think that was what Rudy was trying to say, but I wanted to make sure.
"Not what I meant!" He gave me a look. "I was…" he slapped a hand to his forehead, "teaching is hard…" he grumbled. "Anyways, not what I meant. What I 'MEANT' to say was that boy's might lie or trick you to get you to undress. By being too nice or trickery. I'm going to teach you some," he made finger quotes, "'common sense' and teach you on how to avoid them. Boys with silver tongues, and tricksters with laid out plans.
"How will I know if someone is being 'too' nice, or just regular nice?"
"Does Sylphy like it when I compliment her?"
"Yep!"
"What if a stranger complimented you?"
"I… think so?"
"...not quite the answer I wanted, but it's a start. By the way I feel when I'm complimented I'm usually happy, but if someone that I didn't know were to suddenly flatter me I'd probably think something along the lines; 'who are you, and what do you want?'" He turned his head to the side as he grumbled. "Am I too paranoid?" He turned back to face me. "Anyways, compliments are fine, but if they're complimenting you without knowing you, be on alert. For example…"
He patted himself down, and walked over to me, and offered a handshake.
"Hello, their beautiful," he said with a weird accent. "My name is Geralt. I was looking for a place to stay, and then I saw you. Your beautiful green hair was glimmering in the light, and calling to me, and I said to myself, 'I've never seen anyone like her.' Can you tell me your name?"
"...Sylphiette…"
He flicked my forehead.
"You're supposed to say who are you, or no. What did I just tell you?"
"Eeeeeh?!" I put my hands to the forehead where he just flicked. "...I'm sorry…" I pouted.
"No… that's on me. I'm teaching you after all." Grabbing my hand he touched the back of my hand gently. "Sorry, for the flick."
"Mmh." I nodded.
"Anwyways… back to the lesson. How did the compliment make you feel?"
"I liked it."
"...I see…"
"But… it felt weird… like you weren't being you.
"Well, I was acting. But that's the point. A lot of bad boys will 'act' a certain way to keep you off guard. That's the difference between too nice, and regular nice."
"By the way," he leaned in and looked me in the eye, "I really do like your hair."
"..."
"See… genuine. It feels different right," he said with a smile.
It does. It feels too good!
Even back then Rudy could make my heart skip a beat, but with a sentence.
"Oh!" He moved on. "And if they're a weird combination of stupid and suspicious they'll even try to compliment your beauty at the most inopportune time. Like saying something like; 'your hair is dazzling, and your eyes are gems,' even though you were talking about the weather or looking for directions. Those guys are the most suspicious"
…but that's…
"I wouldn't mind more compliments if they came from Rudy." Peeking up at him I asked him a question that's been on my mind. "So Rudy thinks I'm a beauty?"
"...you're teasing me aren't you?"
"Heeeh! No, I just want to hear Rudy say it!" My real feelings leaked out.
"...a devil in the making…" he whispered away from me and to his side, before turning to face me, taking in one big breath, and breathing out. "No comment!" He yelled.
"That's cheating!"
"Yes, no, maybe so, but you know what it isn't?"
"What?"
"It isn't underhanded." He clapped his hand moving on. "Lesson two!"
"Cheater!"
"Anyways!" He ignored me.
Stubborn Rudy is stubborn.
"Your first instinct is usually right. Listen to it, and you will be alright. It's alright to trust compliments from friends and family, but when it comes from strangers… think closely behind the intention of their words. Oh! And if they have a weird smile that usually means weird intentions. That's important!" Rudy pointed out while literally pointing to the sky. "Simply have a modicum of doubt, and you won't be hoodwinked."
"Hood wha-"
"Lesson for later!"
"The bad ones," he frowned. "The 'really' bad ones usually don't get the hint, and will keep on pestering you regardless. Usually being too close or overly familiar."
I tilted my head confusedly at the time.
Walking next to me, he grabbed my hand.
"Does it bother you if I hold your hand?"
"...no?"
"Good… now how about if I were Soma or one of those other boys?"
"...I don't like that example…" I frowned.
He patted my head. "Now you're getting it. There are steps to this kind of thing, and you can be close to someone you've known, but when a stranger gets overly familiar, that's just suspicious." He looked me in the eye. "If a person you didn't know got close to you. Putting their hand over your shoulder, or resting right next to you, what would you think?"
"...dangerous?"
He patted me on my head.
"Good girl," he played with my hair. "Be alert for pushy people. If anyone's starts being too pushy with you, and insisting on you, then," he made a devilish face, " you can insist right back, and 'push' them out of your way. Remember you're Saint class, or will be, make sure they remember it."
"Got it!" I saluted.
"Good girl!" He clapped his hands. "Now onto the last one. Those being… sneaky ones…" he scratched at his cheek as he narrowed his brow, and looked lost at empty air. "Truthfully speaking, I'm not really sure what to tell yah. All the assho-" He looked at me a moment, before pausing. "...bad guys I've told you about are the most obvious ones. The ones whose intentions are usually obvious, but the sneakiest ones will be… well… they're sneaky. I can't give you much advice on them. I'm more or less the go hard or go home variety, but that'sneitherherenorthere," he rambled off at the end. "Anyways, I'll just say be careful. Since they'll be sneakier than anything I can say. They'll probably try to come up with an excuse for you to undress in their home, or try to get you alone. Just have common sense, and avoid situations where you're alone with strangers. Ah," he made a fist and hit his palm as an idea popped into his head. "If anyone ever asks you to bathe in their house that's usually a red flag. Don't do that unless their close family or an open bath. Also don't be in the house of someone you don't know to begin with." He pointed at me. "Remember, s-class. Aaand… that's about it I guess. At least for now, ask your papa about this later." He turns quickly to me. "Much later. If you tell him I'm teaching you this right now, he'll give me a funny look."
"Really? Somehow I feel Papa would praise you today."
"...I have my doubts…"
Then why are you teaching me?
Wait…
"Why are you teaching me this?"
"Oh… that," he rubbed the back of his head. "Well I just don't want you to get taken advantage of in the future. You never know, you might be invited into a young noble's house, and asked to strip one day. Oy! Don't look at me like that! I'm speaking hypothetically!"
Rudy noticed my stare.
"Hahh… give me a break," Rudy collapses and stares at the sky. "Well, that does it. If I ever get another student below the age of ten I'll make sure their parents teach them the birds and the bees. Hopefully in the end hopefully this is all mute, and you won't have to deal with any perverts."
"Is Rudy a pervert?"
His body twitched. Getting to a sitting position he looked at me with a slight frown on his face.
"...this is revenge for something I did isn't it?"
"...no comment…"
It actually wasn't. I was genuinely curious. Because of how often I hear about nobles and pervertedness, I was curious if Rudy would call himself one.
He looked at me emotionlessly for a second.
"I'm proud of you."
"He he~" I rubbed the back of my head.
I'm a fast learner.
"Alright," he stood up, "let's call it a day. No more lashing out at me with your devilish tongue."
"Hey!"
"I say that with love."
"I don't feel loved."
"Of course not. Your dad will kill me."
"You're playing with me aren't you?"
"Oh crap," Rudy put a hand to his lip. "She's getting smarter. What am I to do?"
"Mhhuu!" I pouted.
"Heh~" reaching out to me he started pinching one of my cheeks. "How adorable. This devilish cute devil thinks she can lash out at me with her devilish tongue, and puffy cheeks."
"...Rudy's complimenting me while making fun of me… he must be a bad man…" I grumbled, muttering into his chest.
"Ha ha ha!" His hand moved from my cheek to my head, before he started ruffling my hair. "You're damn right, and don't you forget it. That's my brightest student for yah," he said with a wide grin on his face.
He looked really happy.
It was at that moment that I couldn't help but think boys can be cute too.
His hand switched from rough ruffles to soft pattings, and he started patting me like he usually does. Without him noticing I leaned in closely so as to give him a better reach.
"...underhanded… trickster…" I whispered. I wasn't all that angry about his teasing. But it feels like I'm losing something when he laughs and pats me like that.
"Yup, yup, yup, and don't you forget it. Keep my lessons at heart, and I won't lead you astray."
"But," I snuggled up to his chest, and looked up at him. "Devilish Rudy isn't so bad either."
Looking down at me with dazzling eyes, he gave me a half smile before speaking. "...maybe I should give the local boys some lessons on how to deal with devilish girls instead."
"Mhuu~" I puffed my cheeks.
"Most definitely," His free hand wrapped around me into a hug.
"...trickster…" I muttered into his chest. "If I didn't like you…" I whispered.
It was the little things that I really liked the best. Sparring is fun. Training is fine. Studying is interesting, but… patting, hugs, and… kisses… those are the best~
Not that I've received any kisses.
Yet.
…except for that one time… in the middle of winter when he wasn't expecting it I… I did 'it.'
The next time I do it Rudy will kiss me back too.
"You're going to be absolutely fine. In a year or two I'll be the one that will-'' his patting suddenly stopped at that time, looking up at him, I noticed a frown upon his face.
"Rudy?"
"Nothing. Just a… useless thought. In any case, Sylphy is a pretty good judge of character. Just follow your heart." He played with my hair, running his fingers through it gently. "Between you and me," he smirks, "your leagues better than all the raffle around here. Don't follow anyone's lead, and do things at your own pace. Your heart is definitely better than mine. Mine's a pinball with how much it bounces all over."
"Pinball?"
"Another useless thought," he let go of me, and looked down the road."Anyways~ I have all the confidence in the world you'll be able to see through all their lies of all those wolves in the future." He puffed out his chest. "Probably!"
You're not supposed to say probably right there Rudy!
"Now then why don't we 'bounce,' and get back to teaching you how to use that kite." he smirks at me, "see what I did there?"
I tilted my neck confusedly at that.
"No one gets my humor…" he grumbled. "Well then," he tilted his neck signaling to the edge of the forest, "fly?"
"Hai!" I saluted.
That part I understood.
"He he~" he joked. "You lovable devil. It's crazy that boys don't realize your value."
…he really is a trickster…
///
And protective.
A very veeeery protective big brotherly type.
If someone asked me to describe him in one sentence that's how I would do it. Yup, that sounds about right. He really is the embodiment of the big brotherly type.
I think… I've never had one.
It's nice. I love it.
…I hate it.
…I have mixed feelings about it…
It's complicated.
The thing is… I didn't notice at the time, but he really was treating me like a little sister rather than a regular girl. Not that it didn't feel nice, but still. I feel like I'm losing something at times like those.
Who thought losing would feel so warm?
It wasn't until later that I started noticing the similarities between the way he treats me, and the way he treats his sisters.
Well… mostly…
Honestly… I think Rudy is 'forcing' himself to look at me like a sister at times. Whenever I try I can actually get him to blush, or be at a loss for words, so I know what I'm doing is having an effect, and I'm able to change the way he looks at me, if only a little.
That said… I'm usually a blushing mess the times I do it, so it's less my victory, and more of a double defeat.
Vexing.
He treats me like a little sister, but now that he has actual sisters I think that is something of the past, and he'll probably-Probably! Notice my appeal soon. I think.
I hope…
It's complicated. I'll need to try harder to make sure. Unfortunately I can't get away with asking him for massages anymore. He's getting smarter. Frustrating. He'd have to be especially guilty of something for me to guilt him into one again.
So… I guess it's only a matter of time for Rudy's next mess up?
Hope?
I didn't mind all the doting back then. Hugs and headpats feel nice after all, but…
Sometimes… sometimes I wish he was a little… more… 'more.'
We're not a couple, but we never would be without a few risks.
Truth is… I really wouldn't mind if he was a little more wolfish. If only a little. In fact I kinda would prefer it.
T-that's not to say I want him t-to go c-completely wild or anything! There's an order to these kinds of things! He can't peek until I'm older! I just… just…
"...want him to look in my direction, and realize it already… baka.."
I'm right here!
Under our favored tree I'm waiting under its shadows, waiting for Rudy, to come brighten my day.
Learning, sparring, playing, it doesn't matter. Whatever it is we'll enjoy it to our hearts content, and do it all day. It's a promise.
Now… if only he could get here a little quicker.
Taking a peek at the sky, I notice the sun has gotten quite low.
"...Rudy's late again…"
Vexing.
I feel like an abandoned stone by the roadside.
"I don't know what's been going with Rudy lately, but," I frowned as I stared in the direction of Rudy's house. "It better be good."
For him to forget his promise that is.
Rudy has taught me a lot of things. Including lying is no good. If he's going to make a promise… and then not keep it, that's the sign of a no good man.
"That means I can be forgiven if I tell Roxy about his shenanigans right?"
I'm not petty, your pe-
Wait a minute…
I smirk to myself. "This is as you say; just desserts, right?"
He's taught me alot.
Rudy lesson number… something; always payback those who have wronged you. Including Rudy.
He's been tired lately, hunting with his father and all, but a promise is a promise, and he promised he'd make time for me today.
So with mixed feelings in my heart, I pumped my fist, put away the letter, and decided to wait no more.
I don't know what's going on, but considering the fact he forgot his promise, it better be good. Now I'm feeling annoyed at being tossed at the dirtside like a forgotten pebble.
"How dare he leave me at the dirtside. This is not taking care of me. Roxy would be disappointed in you."
With that thought in mind, and a destination plan. I stood up, wiping the dirt off me, and walked around to my kite, before packing away everything, and making for Rudy's home.
I look back at the tree that holds so many memories of me… and him. It's where I stole a kiss.
"I…"
I simply want him to notice me. To kiss me like the girl I am.
I want to feel that Rudeus' feelings for me are the same as mine. I… I want his heart to skip a beat. I want to feel his heart race as I rest my hands on his chest. I want to rest in his arms, and… look up at him, look in his eyes while he holds me, and see…
"I want to get lost with him."
Under our favorite tree, the same tree I kissed him one year ago, I want to build more memories with him.
I laid my head on its trunk and rested.
I want to get bitten.
So as cool as protective Rudy is, if Rudy was only a little bit more wolfish, I wouldn't mind. I wouldn't even a little bit. I want to meet that other Rudy too.
If boys are really wolves… and he was able to teach me all that in the first place, then… reason says he must be a little bit of a wolf too… right?
That's what sensei implied at least. Senseis never wrong!
"Or maybe I'm thinking too much?" I muttered aloud, resting the letter on my bottom lip as I thought of the possibilities. "But still… once… just once won't be so bad."
It must exist. I've seen him peek at Miss Lily, and he does it too often for it to be an accident.
"Should I asked her for advice?" I think aloud for a moment, "no… best not to." Only to disregard it immediately after. Miss Lily is nice, but…
Miss Lilia can be pretty wild too.
Once when I asked her for advice she recommended I wear a skirt, and give Rudy a peek every other day. Said; 'you have to show your appeal when he least expects it.'
There's no way I could do that! That's too bold!
She even had a maid dress prepared in my size.
When did she even have the time to make it? Or rather… Why did you have one ready?!
"Hahh," I sigh. "Between Miss Lily, Roxy, and Rudy, I'm starting to think I've never had a normal teacher."
They're all looking out for me, some more 'uniquely' than others. Eccentric? But I just wished they cuddled me a little less. Even I want a little danger. Afterall, it's not like I'm any danger around Rudy.
Except for my butt, but that's a different matter.
"Oh, well… like sensei said," I bent my knees, "it's Rudy's responsibility to look after me." And one hop later, and a burst of mana, I go soaring in the sky.
What's that thing Rudy always says?
'All fair in love and war~'
Floating over our meeting spot I look around, and don't see Rudy on the horizon. He really did forget.
Annoying.
'Dear sensei, I'm doing great, but Rudy has gotten forgetful as of late. I don't think he ever blew up his house, and he's never peeked at me as of late, but the lack of attention is irksome at times. I will make sure to reel him in as you instructed. Please tell Rudy to pay more attention to me in future letters. Sincerely yours, Sylphiette… Greyra-'
No… that's too much even for a thought.
"I-i-i'm going now, before Rudy decides that cuddling his sisters are the biggest priority." I shot off and towards him.
I had a wolf to tame.
Joking.
…I think…
///
Rudy [pov]
"Oh, shit."
Well… that just happened.
In the comfort of my own bed I was enjoying a pleasant read. For the most part at least. Right until a certain subject came up.
Looking at the letter at my bed, I turned to the window, and noticed the setting sun.
"I forgot about Sylphiette."
Slap. I hit my forehead.
"...I think I might have lost some brain cells after that beating if I'm forgetting my kouhai so easily."
Although I was tired… but I don't think she'll accept that as an excuse.
I look at the letter laying on my bed one last time.
"...maybe I could bribe her with sweets?"
Maybe… maybe not.
"The adventure never ends," I grumbled to myself.
Where one story ends another waits just right around the corner, ready to sweep you off your feet. Around the house… around the tree… around a mile or two… in the general direction of Sylphy's house.
"...indeed…"
I probably lost some Sylphy points.
I'll have to keep fighting the good fight just a little longer.
After everything was said and done I was hoping to take a little break, and walked back inside my household showing off the pristine silverware, and tupperware I laid prepared, If I do say so myself, and I do. That's when Lilia threw me a curveball of her own and showed me a letter as well as a wide smile across her face.
Big things come in little packages.
Case in point… Roxy.
My old Sensei made an appearance. At least in letterform.
It was… delightful?
It was something else.
Opening the letter, and reading it in the comfort of my own room, I was surprised to say the least when I realized whose penmanship I was reading.
I went up, opened up the letter, laid down, and… got something completely unexpected. The first thing I saw was the penmanship of a very close very old friend.
Woe and behold, who would the bell told, if not the sensei of old.
Took her long enough!
I can't say I was particularly waiting for it. In fact I completely forgot about it, and her for that matter, but it still made for a pleasant surprise. Just goes to show what life has to throw at you. The world is filled with surprises. Not all surprises blow up in your face.
Speaking of…
Blow up? Seriously? Who do you think I am, Megumin? You'd think I was a terrorist with the way she describes me.
There was more than a little slander in that letter.
It was still a fun read, if you love parody, but please go easy on me, teach!
Well, regardless, I missed her, if only a little.
Even if I forgot about her for a moment, but… semantics.
What she doesn't know won't hurt her?
"...I'll write her an apology…"
As for the letter itself, slander aside, it was an interesting little read. Speaking about her experiences. She went on a rant about her experiences until now. Anything and everything that was a remote of importance. From the lack of jobs in the north, to her frustrations with the few jobs she did find, to ultimately how she found her dream job; of a live in bakery(read: palace).
Entertaining~
I swear that girl is going to marry the first adventurer that can bake her a cake.
All in all; it was… sweet~
Although… there was one piece of 'bittersweet' news, as she asked questions about Sylphiette, and her progress, as well as… her graduation exam.
Looking around me everything is pristine, and ready for the coming dinner.
Now I wonder if that will continue.
"She wouldn't… would she?"
Going to the window, I looked in the general direction where Sylphy was, and looked closely at the sky.
…and noticed the slowly moving green dot…
"...yeah she would…."
With the dusk setting in, the fading orange contrasts really well with the green glow coming from her.
Two miles can't be more than five minutes with flight magic.
"Sensei… I think she passes…"
I forgot.
"Lilia!" I yelled from her downstairs.
"Yes Rudy?"
"Can you set up an extra plate… we have a guest."
Well… shit. This is what happens when you plan out things at the last minute. Just goes to show you… you always have something to learn.
People have a habit of appearing when you least expect them.
"The more the merrier… hopefully."
Glancing at the window once more I see the green dot shining brighter before turning my attention back to the letter that reminded me of everything.
"...I don't suppose you want a plate at the table too?"
Letter: (...)
"...didn't think so. Hahh…" I look out the window. "I hope she won't be too angry."
///
ความคิดของผู้สร้าง 
Crownedclown
Crownedclown Since I'm already on a Irregular update scedule I don't feel to writting notice when I'm going to be late. But it felt appropriate for this next one. As in IRL; I'm going to a wedding(not mine), a quinzenerra(I don't know how to type that letter in a keyboard), and a haloween party, all concurrently. In essence, I'm going to be eating, partying, hanging out, and just beind distracted for most the week, and then... just recovering.
It's going to be a week.
Anyways, leave your reviews on the chapter. I know Sylphiette isn't people's favorite, and for all intents and purpose this isn't her volume, but she has to be mentioned. Thoughts?
Edit: ...was making edits, and then the website edited losing one hour worth of content. Never use Inkstone for large edits.
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