Chapter 14

CAERA DENOIR

It was a reinforced bear. Now whoever named this thing wasn't very creative but they were certainly accurate. Its claws and teeth were covered in organic metal. Not a very strong beast but it wasn't edible because of all the metal in its body. "Looks like I'll need to find something else to eat," I mumbled to myself.

The bear brought its claws down above my head but I easily side stepped it. I brought my sword up and cut off its head. An easy kill. Leaving its corpse behind I continued to wander around for a camp and something to eat. My stomach started to rumble and it was growing dark. "Seris, why did you drop me off so late?" I mumbled.

I managed to find a small opening under a small cliff, just enough to sleep in. With that, my first day out here ended with an uncomfortable sleeping position and empty stomach.

I woke up to the sun in my eyes, I groaned as I tried to protect myself with my arm. I got up and looked around, since it got so dark so fast I couldn't figure out my surroundings. Once I got a look around I heard some flowing water. I made my way over to the sound to see a freshwater river. The water was crystal clear.

I scooped up some water and drank it. It was soothing on my dry throat. I kept drinking until I was full, hopefully I didn't get sick. I saw some squirrels and foxes on the other side of the river. I jumped over to try and catch some to no avail. I kept trying and trying to catch them till night.

I returned to my little sleeping place on an empty stomach. If I don't get something to eat and quickly I'll be having a huge problem on my hands.

I started to think about school. It was supposed to be a fun place to make memories and make friends. I don't think that'll happen though, I tried making friends at the many parties I attended but to no avail. It seems the Denoir house isn't very well liked.

I sighed. I just hope that my adoptive parents would stop trying to get me partners. I'm lucky that Sevren keeps them away, I don't know what would happen if he wasn't around.

I woke up again, pain ran across my body from the horrible sleeping position. I was surprised that I hadn't found any mana beasts, but it was a welcome surprise.

"I should find somewhere else to camp," I said to myself as I wandered in a random direction. As I walked I kept trying to catch at least a rabbit but failed every time. Since I was a striker I had no ranged attacks and I had no training on how to fight tiny things. To put it simply, I would have to get creative. Augmenting myself, I dug out a hole and covered it with sticks and leaves. If I was lucky something would walk over it. I took some berries and put them on the pitfall, I then hid in a nearby bush.

After a while a small rabbit came by and started to sniff around. "Come on, Come on," I said to myself as the rabbit slowly made its way to the berries. Soon the rabbit jumped to the berries and… Yes! It fell in. I ran over to grab my prize. Once I got there I saw the rabbit stuck and confused. I thrust my sword to kill it but it dogged and ran up the hilt of my sword. I tried to grab it but it scratched my face and ran off.

"Great, just great. I almost had it," I angrily complained. It was now mid noon and my stomach was rumbling more than ever. I felt weak, I don't think I can catch anything now. Suddenly I heard crying. It was faint and distant but horrible to hear. It was like someone was letting out all of their pain and sorrow.

As I followed the noise I came across a clearing. There, in the middle of the clearing was an auburn haired boy one the ground in the fetal position. Soon his crying died down, he didn't seem to be in the right state of mind so I doubt he'll notice me. I was going to approach him but something felt..off.

I don't know how to describe the feeling. I felt a connection to the boy but there was also an underlying feeling of fear. Every part of my body was telling me this boy is dangerous. Strangely I didn't run, he felt kind but distant. Like me

I watched the boy until nightfall. I probably shouldn't be stalking him but if he was as dangerous as my instincts told me he was it would be better to watch. Every movement he made felt..devoid. Like he had just lost everything and ran away.

After a while he started to cook some fish he had made. They smelled so good, I gave into my hunger and walked up behind him. "Can I have some?"

(End of flashback)

I groaned as the sunlight hit my face. I begrudgingly got up and got ready for school. Yesterday I finally managed to realize my feelings for Grey yesterday, all thanks to Mayla. I should buy her something as thanks.

I opened the door to receive a face full of flowers. Before I could ask what was happening I heard a familiar annoying voice. "Oh fair maiden, I request that you bless me with your presence this morning."

I looked behind the flowers to see Eujean on one knee holding the flowers. I couldn't help but to let my annoyance show on my face. "I sent you a marriage offer so that we could be joined together forever but it seems your parents rejected it. Woe is me, for the Denoir's have yet to realize my potential. I ask that you convince them to reconsider," said Eujean with an over exaggerated tone.

Trying to come up with a proper answer that wasn't 'screw off' Mayla luckily realized what was happening and put a stop to it. "Sorry, Caera and I have plans today. If you could leave us alone for a while that would be greatly appreciated."

Eujean had a look of disappointment on his face but he quickly hid it. "Very well, I understand the importance of friends. I'm glad you have such good ones Lady Caera," said Eujean as he walked off.

Once he was gone I turned to Mayla, "Thanks for the save, I had no way to get rid of him politely." I thanked Mayla as we made our way to melee enchantments.

"No problem, although you could probably ask Grey for help next time," said Mayla. "You sure? Will he even help?" I asked.

"Wasn't it him who did the 'I'm a Clive rip-off' stunt? Grey has already shown himself to be kind. He also has that habit of playing pranks. I'm sure if you ask him he'll be able to do something." commented Mayla.

"Yes, but I'm afraid that if he gets caught doing something like that he'll get in big trouble," I admitted. I don't want Grey to get in trouble because of me.

"Come on, he won't let himself be caught," said Mayla."Maybe so, I'm still worried though," I said as we got to class. Once we got in we found Grey and Seth already there. Grey was in an argument with someone we didn't recognize. He was an older man, about 30 years old if I had to guess.

"I am a much better teacher than you, you're just a brat," yelled the unknown man at Grey. Looking around everyone seemed to be looking at the man with unfiltered rage. I was surprised to say the least. What could've happened?

I walked up to one of the students. "What's happening?"

The student turned to me before answering, "Oh, Lady Caera. You see, this man was the substitute teacher we were given during your ascent. He isn't a very good teacher though, his skills are subpar compared to Prof. Grey. Not only that, he refused to help us in any way and would grow angry if we ever questioned him."

I internally chuckled at 'Prof.Grey.' "So, he thinks he's better than Grey. Judging by the looks everyone is giving him I don't think that's the case." noted Mayla.

"Are you sure? From what I can tell everyone here is on my side," said Grey, not backing down from the man's feeble attempt to intimidate him. "How delusional, how can they prefer a snot-nosed brat like you?" asked the man, sounding angrier and angrier the longer he went on.

"That's simple, I'm a better teacher than you," replied Grey, deadpan. The man's veins started to bulge red and I could swear I saw steam coming from his ears. "How dare you! No, I have an idea, how about we compete for the position? The students will be the judges." suggested the man. Grey held an annoyed expression.

"Why should I? Director Remseyer gave me this position. You're just a substitute. Plus, from what I can tell the students already prefer me," explained Grey.

The man turned to us, "What do you all think? Should we compete? I can show you all how superior I am to this false Prof."

How arrogant, he thinks he's better than Grey?

The students all looked irritated, he probably pulled stunts like this all the time. "Alright fine, I'll participate in your little competition," sighed Grey as the two of them started to make their way onto the platform. The two of them got into position about 5 meters away from each other. The man took a rather sloppy stance while Grey had his hands in his pockets in a casual manner.

"Let us begin!" yelled the man as he ran towards Grey. He threw a punch at Grey's head without even twisting his back leg for more strength. Has he been teaching in such a manner? How… pathetic.

Grey pulled his hands out of his pockets and grabbed the man's arm. He also punched the man in the stomach before throwing him over his shoulder. The man slammed down on the floor, foaming at the mouth unconscious. "That was…anticlimactic," commented Mayla.

"Yeah," I agreed. Everyone else seemed to have a different opinion, they were looking at Grey in wonder. Grey got off the platform, leaving the man to lay there. "So, who's ready to learn how to throw someone like that?" He asked with a smile. Everyone happily agreed. Even I wanted to learn how to grabble like that.

After Grey explained to everyone how to do it he went over to help Seth. I really wanted to do it with Grey but Seth was self-conscious about grabbing Mayla so I did it with her. I don't think Mayla would've minded though.

After classes we all made our way to Grey's lab for lunch. This had become our meeting place after we cleaned it up. Half of it was turned to a hangout spot while the other half was left as a lab. Grey didn't care since it was originally meant for a class rather than a single person.

"So, Grey. We have a slight problem," started Mayla. I looked at her betrayed, she had said she wouldn't talk to Grey about it! Or was I just imagining things wrong. Grey turned to Mayla confused and a bit concerned. "What's the problem?"

"It's Eujean, he showed up at our dorm this morning asking Caera to marry him. I managed to get him away but I'm sure he'll show up again soon." explained Mayla. I noticed that Seth, Valen and Enola's eyes went wide. Grey held a calm expression on his face but I could tell he was in deep thought.

Is it possible? Does Grey really care about me that much? Does Grey…love me back? These thoughts raced through my mind and I struggled to keep them all together. "D-Does he have a death wish?" whispered Enola.

Suddenly Valen spoke, "I have an idea."

GREY

The six of us were in a carriage heading towards the Remseyer property. It was the Director's birthday this weekend.

Luckily everyone was invited. Well, except for Mayla and I. Fortunately Valen invited us as guests. Eujean was also invited. This was the best idea we had. We're just betting on luck that he humiliates himself.

Everyone was in a fancy outfit since it was a party. As we approached I took a look at the mansion. It was huge; about the same size as the Hestla Auction house, about as fancy too. The memories started to flow back to me, the pain that the Leywin's caused me ate away my chest. I felt someone pat my back so I turned to see Seth. "Don't worry, I'm nervous too. Mayla insists she goes in with me," said Seth with a slight chuckle and obvious blush.

I giggled at Seth's misunderstanding but it was a welcome encouragement. We got out of the carriage and were welcomed by the maids. Mayla interlocked her arms with Seth, much to our amusement. Once inside we were guided to the main banquet hall. There were multiple tables of food and countless Highbloods and Named Bloods. "Hello Valen."

We turned to the voice to see a middle aged man in a high-tier suit. He held himself quite well, even better than Blaine did. Not like that was a challenge. "Hello Highlord Remseyer," said Valen as he bowed. Upon realizing who he was we all took a little bow as well.

From what I understood the director wasn't the Highlord but rather his son–Valen's father– was the Highlord. "Are these your Associates?" asked Valen's father. Valen looked up at his father, "Yes, they are."

"I see," He then turned to us, "I apologize for not introducing myself but I am Highlord Remseyer. If I could have your names." he asked, but it was more of a demand.

"I am Caera of Highblood Denoir."

"I am Enola of Highblood Frost."

"I am Seth of Highblood Milview."

"I am Mayla of Blood Fairweather."

"I am Grey of Blood unnamed." I finished. At my name the Highbloods face contorted to one of annoyance. I had seen it before, it was the look that said "why is such a pathetic person here?"

Fortunately I was saved before I could answer. "Ah! Professor Grey!" Everyone turned to see the Director walking towards us. He looked at me then Valen then back to me. "I didn't know you were friends with my grandson. But I guess that's to be expected after your ascent."

"Valen is a good friend of mine. He has helped a lot during my time at the academy." I answered. It wasn't a lie. Even before they learned of my secret they had helped me whenever I asked a question about Alacrya.

When I first started to talk to Valen he always held himself in an attempt to pass as a highblood. It didn't bother me but after a while that facade slowly faded and now he truly seemed like a teenager. I thought he would show more emotions but that might just be his own personality.

"Father, what do you mean by Professor?" asked Highlord Remseyer with a baffled look. The director turned to his son," Grey here was admitted to the academy by the Denoir's request. He has proven himself to be very responsible and capable. So I decided to make him the professor of melee enchantment for first years. Every student has given nothing but praise."

The Highlord now looked at me with a newfound curiosity. Probably judging me. He then raised an eyebrow. I looked at him confused until I realized Caera had interlocked my arm with hers. "Valen, I would like to have a private conversation with you," said Remseryer. Valen nodded and followed him.

"Well that sucks, I was hoping he'd get to watch the showdown," said Enola. Caera giggled," I agree, we'll just have to describe it on paper."

"I'm going to go and grab some food," I said as I started to make my way to one of the many food tables. "Alright, don't take too long," said Mayla, who was still clinging onto a bright red Seth.

I left everyone behind and went to a more isolated table and started to gather food. The food at this table was barely touched and I soon found out why. Coming from the balcony was the reeking smell of alcohol. It was horrible. Why is such a smell coming from this place?

My curiosity got the better of me and I went outside. I saw an old man in fancy clothes. He was the one with stunk. Before I could open my mouth to speak, the man noticed me, "Wondering why such a person is at this fancy party?"

I only nodded. "Well you see, I have some connections. Don't get me wrong, I'm only here for the alcohol." explained the old man in a drunken slur. "Should you really be drinking that much? Your hangover might kill you," I asked, concerned for the old man's health.

"Can't get a hangover if you're always drunk!" laughed the old bat. I looked at him deadpan. "Say, you're not a normal brat are ya?" he asked, pointing at me.

I was a bit taken aback. "Does he know something? No, impossible."

"Judging by the look on your face I take it I'm correct?" asked the old man with a sly smile. He laughed once he saw the expression on my face. "Tell me brat, what's your name?"

"Grey of blood unnamed." I answered.