Chapter 44: Melantha the Blue

Chapter 44: Melantha the Blue

This looks familiar. My idiot student, lying on the ground, unable to move a finger, because he did exactly what he wasnt supposed to, Loh shook her head.

What happened to not trying to interrupt a mage when he is casting a spell? Stryg groaned.

The worst that could happen in that case would be your death. But, you were clearly already on that path, casting a spell that was obviously too much for you. My choice was crystal clear.

Why are you even here? Dont you have meetings or something better to do?

Loh kicked Stryg's leg, I just saved your life. Be grateful.

His incapacitated body could do nothing, but flinch.

She sat on the bench nearby. Tauri told me that you acted out in her class. She forced me to come check on you, make sure your head was in the right place. Clearly, it's not.

Professor Tauri did? Why? Stryg was surprised. The orc was normally cheerful, but she didnt seem to care very much for any of her students, including him. So, why would she take a sudden interest in Stryg?

Because she knows you're my apprentice. And she wants to make sure I do a good job, or something. I dont know. I didnt stick around to hear her nagging speech, Loh sighed.

...I see.

...Yep.

The silence lingered in the air between them. Stryg lay on the ground while Loh sat, her back reclined on the bench.

What happened in Tauris class anyway? Loh finally asked. I dont want Tauri to be nagging me every time you mess up.

Nothing really... I just lost a sparring match. I tried hitting another student in the face, but he blocked and I lost anyway.

Really? From our training, I gathered youre quite skilled in hand-to-hand combat. Who was your opponent?

Clypeus Gale, the vampire.Updated from novelb(i)n.c(o)m

Oh, that child of house Gale. That makes more sense. He performs quite well in my class. Hes a manifold mage like you, as well.

I didnt know that, Stryg swayed his head to the side. I thought manifold magi were supposed to be rare.

They are. But, the Gale family prides themselves in their martial prowess. They have successfully served the great house Veres for centuries, defeating any foe that might be a threat to the Veres. They have managed the feat through selective breeding. The Gales only choose powerful vampire magi to add to their line. Clypeus is the product of that pedigree.

That doesnt matter, Ill beat him someday. I just need to practice more.

I dont know about that. House Gale trains their children in martial combat like no other, well except for house Katag I guess.

Then Ill just train even more, he grumbled.

Stryg Why were you even trying to cast that spell? I know Ive taught you better than to attempt such a foolish risk. Necromancy just clearly isnt in your scope of talent.

Stryg stayed quiet.

The boys stubborn, Loh lamented.

Loh sighed, Im too busy for this. Ugh, dammit all. I order you as your master to tell me what happened, every detail. Otherwise, your apprenticeship is over. Make it quick.

Stryg grit his teeth and closed his eyes in defeat. I didnt want to give up, okay? ...When I was younger I failed at everything. I could never keep up with my tribemates.

You're from a tribe? Loh asked, surprised. She had never really cared to look into his background. Honestly, she had never taken time to learn much about Stryg at all.

...Yes. But, I dont think they feel the same. A part of me thinks they never will, Loh sighed.

Then why love them? It seems as if it will only hurt you.

Oh, Stryg, Loh smiled sadly. You cant control love, even when it hurts horribly. It just happens. Someday you may understand.

No, I dont think I will, Stryg shook his head.

Loh seemed to be suffering from what Kithina had once referred to as being lovesick.

Is there anyone important in your life? Loh asked.

...Myself?

I mean someone you care about, idiot. Romantically.

Romantically?

Loh groaned, How are you this ignorant? Anyone that makes your heart race when you look into their eyes?

Uh..

Gods. Seriously? Ok, is there anyone you want to sleep with. Anyone you might be banging?

Well, there is this one barmaid.

Great, and how do you feel about her?

Her boobs feel quite nice.

Not physically, you moron, Loh pinched the bridge of her nose and squeezed her eyes shut, Were going to have to work on your communication skills. What I mean Stryg, is how do you feel emotionally when you are around her?

Nothing particularly. Except, Stryg paused. Well, there was this one time, I felt, he paused again, unable to put it into words.

Ah, so my cold little apprentice has a heart after all, Loh said in triumph.

I dont know what youre talking about, Stryg frowned.

Loh stomach growled, I need to get something to eat.

Let me guess, some sweets? Stryg groaned as he forced himself to stand.

His body ached, he really didnt want to go on another errand.

No, lets get some real food. Loh stood up as well. Well, what are you waiting for? Come on, let's go. We can talk about your horrid social skills on the way over. You wont charm any girl as you are now.

Huh?

Dont worry youre not my type. Im not into men, Loh smirked.

Wait, I thought you said you were too busy for any of this. Spending time here with me, I mean. And now you want to go eat together? Stryg was confused. His master was acting very weird today.

Stryg, I want you to listen very carefully. Loh placed her hands on his shoulders, I wasnt taking my role as your master serious enough. I understand that now. So, lets make this official. I, Loh of the great house of Noir, promise to not abandon you, Stryg. I will stay by your side to train you in the ways of magic and life, until you are ready or I can no longer.

What? Why? Stryg whispered. Why would she say such an unwavering promise? It was an enormous burden to bear.

You dont need to know that. I have my reasons. Just believe me when I say your dumbass is my 2nd top priority right now. The 1st is food, now come on, Im starving, Loh grinned.