Aftermath OF Battles

Danial's POV

Ugh, my head... Where am I?

Looking around, I saw the once-familiar ceiling, and a wave of nostalgia washed over me. Ah, this place again? I guess I fainted... again. Even though we won this time, I can't shake the miserable feeling in my heart. We won, but it wasn't because of me. I couldn't do anything.

Sigh What a terrible feeling...

Smack

The paper window of the Japanese-style room suddenly blasted open, and Fangzhi, wrapped up like a mummy, came crashing in, crying out loud as he dove onto me.

"Guh! Damn it, Fatty, stop it! You're heavy! And quit crying on me! No, seriously, get your snot away from my clothes! Oh shi—oh my gosh, ewww!"

"Uwahhh, brother! You're alive! You're alive! I'm so glad! Uwahhh... sniff* sniff*"

Sigh Once again, I could only sigh at this foolish brother of mine, who's not related to me by blood, crying so loudly. Yet, a faint smile crept up on my face.

I looked at the crying big guy and patted his shoulder, then sincerely expressed my thanks from the bottom of my heart.

"Wong Fangzhi, really, thank you... Brother."

I bowed my head in gratitude, causing Fangzhi's wet eyes to gush with tears again.

"Uwahhh, brother... Hik... Hik... I-I'm the one who should be thanking you!"

At that moment, a large man with broad shoulders and a tiger-like physique entered the room, his ear-splitting laugh filling the space. The man was Sayaka Tora.

"Kids, generally, I don't do things like this, but you have my thanks for protecting my little granddaughter and managing to stay alive. For that, I'm grateful!"

Looking at the burly man in front of me bowing his head, I concluded that Sayaka Miori was currently safe. However, it seemed she hadn't woken up yet, which was a bit concerning.

I then looked at Fangzhi, wondering how this big guy managed to stay conscious with such serious injuries.

'How the hell did this guy wake up first among all of us? From what I remember, he had the most severe injuries thanks to his weird rune manifestation. It's impossible for him to not have any major drawbacks... So how? No, that's not important right now. I need to know what will happen to us from now on.'

After hearing my concerns about the future, Tora-san laughed out loud.

"Kahkahkahahha! Kids, no worries! Thanks to your brave actions, those stubborn elders have finally acknowledged you two. So, our families have decided to write recommendation letters to the academy, and all your expenses for the first year will be covered!"

"WHAT!!" Fangzhi and I exclaimed in unison. We both knew that to enter the academy, one needed to face a harsh test, and even if you passed, without proper talent or aptitude, the academy might not accept you!

"However, before that, you'll attend a normal school and learn to blend into society. In this era, it's of utmost importance for you to learn how to hide your strength from the public eye. Listen well, kids. I've already contacted your parents and guardians, and they've given their consent for you to enroll in school here. All preparations are done; you'll start studying at Tokyo Public Middle School at age 12, and then progress to its high school at 15.

Now, I know you kids might find it unbearable to stay here for the whole six years, but know this: during that period, we won't be idle. I'll be teaching you myself, and when you turn 15, you'll be entering the academy."

"Wa-wait a minute, Tora-san," Fangzhi stammered. "You said we'll be entering high school when we're 15—how could we enter the academy at the same time?"

I was about to ask the same thing when I noticed Tora-san's expression. He looked conflicted, showing an indescribable mix of concern and hesitation.

"Well, kids, I'm sorry, but I'm not allowed to divulge anything regarding the academy to you. Just... know this: wherever you are, the academy will always exist and is interconnected. For now, go ahead and rest. You can also make a call to your family later on."

With that, Tora-san left the room, while Fangzhi was being dragged away by the doctor. Despite his loud protests, refusing to leave my side, he was eventually pulled along, still wrapped up like a mummy. Watching him being dragged out while crying was a truly funny sight, and I couldn't help but chuckle at the thought of sharing this moment with Miori later on.

Sigh "Well, I'll have to wait for her to wake up first before I can tell her."

Although I wasn't too concerned about Miori's physical injuries, the thought of the emotional trauma she might suffer weighed heavily on my mind. After my conversation with Tora-san, I sensed an underlying discomfort and worry from the big man, especially when Miori's name was mentioned.

"Worrying won't change anything. I better focus on my recovery first." I paused, considering my next move. "Hmm, should I call my family? Mom is out of the question—she'd nag me non-stop. I guess I'll call Dad."

Ringring

As the call connected, a deep, familiar voice resonated on the other end.

"Ah, Dad? It's me, Danial! Hehe, guess what? I actually managed to pass and get a recommendation letter!"

I tried to sound casual, masking the pain from my injuries. I didn't want my family to worry. But the response I received was a heavy silence, followed by a long, deep sigh.

Sigh "Son, did you really think you could deceive your father like that? Snorts Hmph, you're 20 years too early to fool me, you brat.

I've already heard from others about what happened... When I first got the news about your situation in Japan, I was ready to drop everything and come rushing to you. But they told me you were safe and receiving the best care possible, so I held back. Son, I know the path you've chosen is fraught with danger, but as your parent, you need to understand—we will always worry about you.

I haven't told your mother yet. When you're able, you should come home and tell her what really happened yourself. Don't worry; she'll understand... probably. But remember, we're always here for you, no matter what. Stay safe, son."

A warmth spread through me as I listened to my father's words. The concern in his voice, the unspoken fear he tried to hide, and yet the unwavering support he offered—all of it reminded me of how much I meant to them.

"Yeah, I know that, Dad. Thanks."