The Genius

[In the previous chapter, the story of Art's first capture unfolded. Now we'll embark on a journey of Art's new adventure, the source of his vast knowledge and first benefactor, which is one of the most important key factors of Art's story.]

Welcome readers to 'Where It All Begun'

[From birth only, Art has always been a genius among geniuses. He can learn anything and do everything after seeing it once. Thus, it makes him different and scary to others. Art didn't mind it that much. After all, he's less interested in these useless matters.]

*Art is now 10 years old and, of course, just like any other child, sitting in his classroom beside the window looking outside*

"Huh! Why is it so boring? I don't like it at all. I don't get it. Why do I need to come to this pathetic place 5 days a week? As if this would help me in the future."

"This is just a prison for me. I can't do anything to my liking, always need to ask permission from those idiot so-called teachers who knows nothing interesting and why do they always keep blabbering about the stuff you can just know by just licking all the pages of those fatass books?"

"And why are these children so happy about coming here? Are they really that stupid to be unaware that it is taking away their freedom and potential to reach new heights?"

"Hey, look Art is looking at us again with an awkward expression."

"Oh...It's Rudian, the most idiotic of them all, and always talks stupid things to get attention from others....truly a disgrace."

"HEYY! What did you just say about me?"

"Oh dear! Did I just say that out loud?"

"Art say sorry"

"HUH, Why should I?"

"Because you said something rude to me but I am generous so if you ask me for forgiveness, I may forgive you."

"First of all I didn't say anything wrong and you just prove it by saying these words only a brainless monkey can ever speak of. I just want to ask you one question-- Why are you so stupid?"

"whaa--"

"Art, you always act like you know everything, but you're just arrogant."

"Arrogant? I just happen to be confident in my abilities, unlike some people."

"Confident? You constantly talk down to others as if you're superior."

"Oh please, you're just insecure and can't handle someone competent. At least I dare to face reality, unlike you living in your little bubble of self-importance."

"You...you're just an egoistic person."

"And what's wrong with that?"

[Art slowly approaches Rudian and whispers in his ears]

"Accept it, I'm better than you."

*Rudian couldn't say anything at all to Art and stood still bowing his head down with embarrassment and shame**

"And Rudian, I don't have an ego- I just have standards."

**Everyone in the classroom was taken aback by the words of the genius**

[afterschool] "How's your school today, Art?"

"Why are you asking this question again Mom? I won't give you a different answer to your liking if you ask the same question every day. I told you before and I will say it again --- I'd rather spend my time exploring the world than being confined to a desk."

"Don't think of it as a cage Art. School teaches you how to work with others, a crucial skill no matter how talented you are."

"Mom, I am enough to handle anything.....I don't need others."

"Art, don't be a fool who thinks anything can be achieved by just their own. Think of school as a toolkit. The more tools you have, the more problems you can solve."

"I understand what you're saying, Mom. I didn't think like this ever. If school can offer me that, then maybe I'll give it another shot."

"Yes, Art. You are really a brilliant child."

"Thank you, Mom. I appreciate all your support. Even though I might seem resistant sometimes, please know that I value your guidance more than anything."

"Oh sweetheart, you always know how to melt my heart. Just promise me you won't charm your teachers into giving you even more homework!"

[Teases with a playful wink.]

"Who knew being a genius came with so many loopholes?" [Smiles mischievously]

**Both smiles**

[Monologue]

"Hmm, Mom's not exactly wrong. It's not about proving I'm the smartest; it's about proving I can thrive in any environment. So, bring on the tests, the essays, and the boring lectures—I'll turn them into opportunities to shine."

"People think being a genius means everything comes easy, but they don't see the restless nights, the endless questioning, the hunger for something more. School may not challenge me intellectually, but it's a battleground of wits and diplomacy. If I learn to analyze and control them, maybe I can have a grasp on my powers also and who knows maybe I will discover more of my powers."

"Good, I learned something truly interesting today."

[Next time ---- "The Blood-Moon Mansion"]

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