Academy's Genius Swordmaster Chapter 41: Rodollan (3)

Chapter 41: Rodollan (3)

Karaka tightly gripped Ronans right arm. Without waiting for Ronan to say anything, he brought the lifeless body of the cursed eye to Ronans hand. The fractured eye of the Curse Eye instantly turned blue.

Feeling something being sucked out from within, Ronan swung his arm in discomfort.

Damn, what is this?

Thud!

The corpse of the cursed eye was thrown to the ground. The blue color that had overtaken the cursed eye gradually expanded, reaching the whites and even the torso.

Oroluk

The foamy, bubbling corpse began to melt away. Ronan furrowed his brow.

Ugh.

Soon, all that remained in the spot where the corpse had been was a bluish liquid.

Karaka, who had been alternately staring at Ronan and the cursed eyes liquid, spoke up.

Lord Ronan.

There is no need to call me Lord.

Thats not it. Are you okay? Do you feel any changes in your body?

Huh? Not really I mean, theres a slight itching in my eyes, but nothing significant.

Karaka tilted his head, a look of bewilderment on his face as if he couldnt comprehend the situation.

How have you been living like this?

What?

Even his calm face during the explosion of Edwons head was now twisted in confusion. After scanning Ronan up and down, Karakas expression grew more serious.

Lord Ronan, you are currently under a curse. And a very powerful one, at that.

What?

Navirose, who had been listening, furrowed her eyebrows. Ronan pointed to himself with his index finger and let out a hollow laugh.

A curse? Me?

Yes. Im not sure what curse it is, but its certainly a powerful one. Ive seen cursed eye rush forward a couple of times, but Ive never seen one dissolve under a curse like this.

The liquefaction caused by the overload of the curse on the cursed eyes. It was a rare phenomenon that could only be found in centuries-old academic texts or precedents.

Karaka added that the outcome would likely have been the same even if the cursed eye had been brought while alive. Ronan pointed to the bluish goo and said,

Damn, so what happens to me now? Am I supposed to live each day with the fear that I might wake up covered in this blue diarrhea?

Karaka shook his head.

Its unlikely such a thing will happen However, I cant provide a definite answer since I dont know the specifics of the curse. Have you ever felt any restrictions in your actions or speech?

Restrictions?

Yes. Generally, the curse would involve restrictions related to a specific type of metal, like not being able to run or touch iron something that everyone else can naturally do, but you cant.

Ronan and Navirose looked at each other almost simultaneously. Even without asking, they could understand each others thoughts.

The phenomenon of the unknown entity that had been following Ronan like a shadow even after his return. A state of mana inability where he couldnt see, sense, or control unrefined mana.

Reading Naviroses expression, Ronan nodded.

No, theres nothing like that.

Hmm Is that so? Its quite miraculous that such a powerful curse hasnt caused any issues for you so far. I suggest you consult an expert.

Karaka briefly explained about other curses that might potentially affect Ronan in the future. Sudden manifestation, delayed-onset terminal illnesses, exploding bodies under specific conditions, and more. It wasnt a particularly pleasant story.

Karaka once again urged Ronan to consult an expert, finishing his words. He gently stroked Cyrils trembling ear and smiled.

Anyway, its fortunate that weve captured two of them. Whatever remains to be told, we can learn from our dear Cyril.

No please

Hehe, to extract your secrets without blowing your head up, it will take quite some time.

Cyril seemed to have already collapsed mentally. Until she spilled every secret, until all the restrictions on her were lifted, she wouldnt be liberated from Rodollan, alive or dead, as Karaka had declared.

Of course, Ronan was unaware of the truth.

Well, take your time, but please make sure to find out.

Of course. But, I do have a question.

Ronan was adjusting his attire. Suddenly, the smile disappeared from Karakas face. He looked at Ronan and slowly opened his mouth.

What is Ahayute?

What?

I overheard you asking Edwon. You were about to answer that question, but then his head exploded. It seemed to be in-depth information about a group called Nebula Clazier. Im curious how you knew about that.

For a moment, Ronans words were stuck. The question was so sudden that it seemed unintentional.

Ah that?

He still couldnt reveal the truth. It was too absurd to use even as a story for a fairy tale.

In truth, I came from the future, ten years later, where three bald men with wings tear through the sky. Ahayute is one of them. Haha. What a ridiculous name, isnt it?

How could I spout such nonsense with a straight face? Instead of clearing suspicions, I might end up sitting next to Cyril as a fellow suspect. In search of a solution, Karaka raised an eyebrow.

Lord Ronan?

Im screwed.

He needed to come up with a plan. The scraps of memory in his mind raced as fast as his lightning sword. Eventually, Ronan came up with the best response and sighed deeply.

It was a few years ago, actually.

Hmm?

Suddenly, a deep melancholy clouded Ronans face. Karaka raised an eyebrow. Following Ronans response, Naviroses expression also stiffened.

I used to live in Nimbera with my parents, before the great fire happened.

Of course, it was a blatant lie. Ronan had never left Nimbuten until his current age, and he had no memories of his parents faces. Taking a moment, Ronan forced a sad smile.

After the flames had subsided, I finally set foot on the scorched fields. Thats when I saw her for the first time an elf named Cyril, wearing a robe similar to the one she has on.

Wow

I heard the name Ahayute there. I couldnt catch much of the conversation, but that foreign word stuck out clearly.

Karakas frozen expression began to soften. The key to convincing lies was that there had to be an element of truth mixed in.

Ronan considered his wanderer days as a stroke of luck. Even after all these years, the people of Nimbera hadnt forgotten Nebula Claziers arson.

So, you knew about it from there. Its understandable, considering the unforgettable memory. Youve been through unfortunate events because of those cruel criminals.

Ronans impassioned speech wrapped up with a plausible ending. After all, it was true that he was an orphan, and he had good reasons to hold Nebula Clazier responsible. Observing Karakas expression carefully, Ronans efforts seemed to have paid off.

I see I can understand why youre so fixated on this. Youve experienced unfortunate events due to those heartless criminals.

Sorry for the delayed response. Its not a particularly pleasant memory.

I should be the one apologizing. Due to the nature of my profession, I tend to ask questions that resemble interrogations.

Karakas expression softened once again. Ronan let out a relieved sigh. Karaka then took out a document from his desk and recorded the information they had gathered today.

Well then, have your curiosity been somewhat satisfied?

Yes.

Ronan nodded. While not all truths had surfaced, knowing that The Arrival of the Stars referred to the Advent Incident was a significant breakthrough. Furthermore, now that the Empire was aware of Nebula Claziers involvement, large-scale operations to eliminate the cult would likely commence soon.

Capturing more members of Nebula Clazier should be a top priority.

The best scenario would be if the Advent Incident itself didnt happen. While that might not be possible, dismantling Nebula Claziers base of operations or capturing its members and interrogating them in Rodollan might yield more valuable information.

Their business concluded, Karaka once again escorted Ronan and Navirose outside the fortress. As they stepped out, the brisk sea breeze blew against their faces.

Be careful as you leave. As I mentioned, the information weve obtained in Rodollan will be compiled into documents and sent to various sectors soon.

Im indebted to you. Please remember that.

Not at all. It was an honor to meet you of all things. Lord Ronan, please make sure to visit those skilled in dealing with curses.

Understood. Thank you, Karaka.

With that farewell, Navirose and Ronan left Rodollan. The griffin carriage, which provided a rather uncomfortable ride, took them back to the city.

Even if they took an obstacle-free sky route, reaching Jido would still take a considerable amount of time. Looking down from the sky, Rodollan Fortress appeared as a tiny speck on the horizon.

The red sun was setting, casting its twilight scales over the waters. Ronan turned his gaze out the window and spoke.

Could it be that I cant manage mana due to a curse?

I believe so.

Hmm. I dont have any memories that could warrant such a curse.

Navirose swallowed the words she was about to say. She had recently heard the news that Karudans hair, which he lost when he fought Ronan, wouldnt grow back. Ronan wiped his eyes and continued speaking.

To be honest, its a bit frightening. Did you see Karakas expression? Damn, even if I threw poop at the wall, he wouldnt have been that surprised.

Do you have any clue about the curse?

No.

Ronan sighed. Despite having been cursed since his childhood, he couldnt recall accumulating any deeds deserving of such a terrifying curse, even after considering his past lives.

As they enjoyed the griffins flapping wings, Ronan turned his gaze back to Navirose.

Oh, thanks for covering for me.

What are you talking about?

I told you not to let Karaka know that I cant use mana.

Revealing weaknesses is a warriors basic rule. By the way, why did you tell such a lie?

A lie? Ah, did you figure it out?

Navirose nodded. She was referring to the fabricated past that Ronan had presented to Karaka. In any case, it was a chilling insight.

How did you know? I thought it was flawless.

There are ways. Youre not new to telling lies one or two times. Karaka, as a Rodollan investigator, must have been quite skilled in that regard.

Well Youre right. I didnt want to tell him the truth, just in case. Should I tell you?

Its fine. You must have your reasons.

With those words, Navirose turned her gaze out the window. The more she looked at him, the more she thought he was a decent person, but at the same time, a question arose in her mind.

Why didnt someone like him appear during the Advent Incident?

In fact, it had been a persistent thought. Looking back now, it was quite rare to find someone among the current prominent figures who resembled their appearance during the Advent Incident.

Navirose herself, the headmaster of Philleon, Krava Kratir, and the current Swordmaster, Zaifa, also didnt resemble their past selves. During their time as punishment troops, there had been nothing strange about it.

What sort of scheme did Nebula Clazier concoct?

Well, a decade was enough time for anything to happen. Ronan clenched his fists, consumed by the questions that kept piling up. Observing his restless behavior, Navirose narrowed her eyes.

Why do you keep rubbing your eyes?

I dont know. Ever since I touched that cursed eye, its been itching

Right after we return, look into the curse. Philleon must have at least one specialist in that field. Ill let my assistant know too.

Yes Thank you.

Stop rubbing your eyes.

It wasnt until late at night that Ronan and Navirose finally arrived at Philleon. The next morning, as soon as the sun rose, Ronan headed to the first combat arena, where Naviroses class was held. He spotted Adeshan, busy arranging his weapons.

Long time no see, Adeshan.

Oh, youre here already, Ronan. Ill be done quickly, so just wait a moment.

Adeshan greeted Ronan with a raised hand. Beneath the hair tied up due to work, her snowy-white nape was visible. Remembering their first day of reunion, Ronan spoke up.

How have things been lately?

Hmm? What do you mean?

Is that idiot Karudan or whatever not bothering you anymore?

Ah, Karudan hasnt been in class for quite a while. Other students who used to hang around him are gradually approaching me. Thanks.

Thats a relief.

Seeing her after a while, Adeshan still exuded an atmosphere that was hard to adapt to, youthful and fresh. Ronan wordlessly began assisting Adeshan with her work.

Oops, you really dont have to help!

Its okay.

Sorry. I heard you were in a hurry You said you were cursed?

Yes. To be precise, I realized I had been under a curse.

It really worries me Can I really ask for your help? If you just sit over there

Over ten years Ive been fine, and now its just this one thing.

With both of them working, the task was quickly finished. Adeshan led Ronan to the section of the campus where the buildings for magic-related studies were concentrated.

By the way, where are we going?

Um Pillar Park. Were meeting there. Theres a professor in the magic department whos deeply knowledgeable about curses. I heard hes quite eccentric, so I wanted to ask my junior to guide me.

Pillar Park was literally a park within a space dominated by huge pillars. Ronan raised an eyebrow.Geett the ltest vels on no/v/elbin(.)c/om

A guide? You need a guide to find one professor?

Well Im not very familiar with the magic department, and also I heard hes a very unique individual.

Among magicians, there are quite a few oddballs. Damn, suddenly Im getting scared.

Hehe, since youre a very remarkable junior, Ill surely guide you well.

Adeshan nodded with a proud smile, as if She was genuinely proud of her junior. Arriving at Pillar Park, Adeshan looked around.

Hmm? We agreed to meet here Hasnt she arrived yet?

In the tranquil Pillar Park, only Ronan and Adeshan were present. Suddenly, a pillar behind Adeshan seemed to ripple like a wave, and out popped a young girl.

Adeshan unnie!

Ah!

The girl was wearing the black robe of the magic departments uniform. Her dark violet hair flowed like water. The girl who appeared out of thin air grabbed Adeshan from behind.

Huh?

Ronans eyes widened at the vaguely familiar face. Adeshan gently smiled as he stroked the girls head.

Eli, you scared me.

Hehe, I learned a new spell this time. Wasnt it surprising?

Yeah. Impressive, as expected of you, Eli.

The girl named Eli giggled softly. Ronan, his eyes widening, looked back at Eli. With her eyes shaped like a cats, the girl was indeed someone he knew.

Please take care of the guidance today. I heard the situation is more serious than I thought.

If its Adeshan unnies request, Ill do anything. Now, please follow me.

Eli finally turned her head towards Ronan. And then she froze. Since the possibility of twins couldnt be ruled out, Ronan cautiously called her name.

Elizabeth?

Huh?

Elizabeths face began to blush. Her lips, which had quickly let go of Adeshans arm, slowly opened.

Ronan?

Ronan remembered her. The top freshman of the magic department. Elizabeth de Acalusia.

She had been the heiress of the Acalusia family, which ruled over the Acalusia Domain, treating those without talents as livestock and ruling with the demeanor of a lion.