"...Someone with the same fate..."

Though his voice was low, I could hear it perfectly.

I reminded him of someone he knew. But who? And how?

His disciple? No way.

Or does he have a backstory related to a person like me? Possible, but I don't know it.

Even the novel didn't write anything about his backstory or personal life. After all, he was just an extra or a supporting character like me. However, he is an OP character unlike myself.

"Ha, never mind me." He then got serious again. "So, what do you think? Do you want to learn? I can teach you myself when I'm free as well."

You are asking me that? Learning from a living legend? A five-star sword technique?

"Thank you for granting me this opportunity, I will do my best to live up to your expectations."

Hell, I would be an idiot to refuse such an offer!

"Good," Instructor Darius smiled at my answer. "But remember, the path of the Subtlety requires more than just physical prowess. It demands mental fortitude and emotional balance from the practitioner. Are you prepared for that?"

I nodded solemnly. "Yes, Instructor. I am ready."

"Excellent," he said, his smile widening slightly. "We will begin as soon as your arm is fully healed. In the meantime, continue to study the book and visualize the techniques. Mental practice is just as important as physical training."

"Understood," I replied, feeling a surge of determination. "I won't let you down."

"I know you won't," he said smiling. "Now, go and rest."

As I left the classroom, the thin book clutched tightly in my hand, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. I had been given an incredible opportunity, and I was determined to make the most of it.

Maybe with this, I could make up for the lack of affinity. After all, this swordsmanship didn't rely on elements at all. Wait... Is this why he gave it to me?

And the person I reminded him of could possibly be a person who had excellent talent and determination but had limited or low-tier ability. That's possible...

But, I don't care about it unless the instructor tells me about it himself.

Right now, I need to get ready for the afternoon. Today, I have two courses after all.

_____ ____ __

"Today, we will continue with the last lesson's topic - which is beast hatching."

"I can see there are some students who are ready for the process. I am glad you succeeded."

"I will help you with it, you can start hatching your eggs now."

"Others can still continue connecting with their eggs or watch and learn from those who succeeded."

Instructor Elara finished what she wanted to say and went toward the student with a black egg that already showed signs of hatching.

Meanwhile, I just stared at my now slightly bigger and heavier silver egg. Right, it was shiner than before as well.

It must be the result of me constantly feeding it my aether. But, how long will take to hatch? Is it just going to continue to grow bigger and become heavier?

"Sigh..." I sighed in defeat while patting the egg. I put all my hopes that it will end up being an awesome beast. After all, even the instructor couldn't remember it.

"Hey."

'...'

"Hey, can I sit beside you?" A gentle yet beautiful voice broke through my thoughts.

I turned to see who it was and found myself looking into a pair of striking green eyes. They belonged to a girl with long, flowing red hair that framed her delicate features. Her pointed ears marked her as an elf.

It was Irithel.

"Yes," I replied, my gaze landing on the little creature perched on her shoulder, glaring at me with its fiery red eyes.

"Ah, sorry," Irithel said with a gentle laugh. "He's a bit cautious around strangers."

The Fire Salamander blinked slowly, its tiny flames flickering as it studied me. I smiled, trying to appear as non-threatening as possible. "No problem. He's quite impressive."

"Thank you," she said, her eyes softening. "Ignis is still getting used to people, but he'll warm up eventually."

But why are you here? Talking to me so casually? That was what I wanted to ask but can't.

"Umm... Is your hand ok?" She asked in a worried tone looking at my bandaged arm. Her concern was evident in her eyes.

"Yeah, it's healing well," I replied, trying to sound reassuring. "I just need to avoid practical sessions for a while. Thanks for asking."

"N-No, it was because of me you got injured. If you hadn't stepped in that moment, I would be seriously injured or even dead." She shook her head, her expression filled with guilt and gratitude. "S-Sorry."

Ah, right, I was trying to protect her at that time, right? But I didn't do it specifically for her. It was just she was the Guardian's first target, that's all.

"It happened due was my mistake. You don't have to apologize." I waved my hand since it wasn't that much of a big deal.

"No-!"

Huh?

"I will apologize. And..." She held my hand, wait? Why are you holding my hand? Didn't elves dislike skin contact? People will get the wrong idea you know.

Though I was restless inside, I looked at her, as calmly as possible.

"Thank you for saving my life, Sir Adrian."

Her words echoed in my mind, and for a moment, I was at a loss for what to say. Irithel's gratitude was genuine, her eyes shining with sincerity.

Guess, she just wants to thank me then.

"Ok, but it was nothing, really," I finally managed to say, feeling a bit overwhelmed by her. "I just did what anyone would do."

"No, not everyone would," she insisted, her grip on my hand tightening slightly. Girl, you are going too far. "You risked yourself for me, and I'll never forget that."

"O-Ok, now. Can you let go of my hands?" I asked trying to calm her down. "The little guy looks troubled as well."

"Huh? Hands?" she repeated, looking down at our hands clasped together. Her eyes widened in realization, and a deep blush spread across her cheeks.