Published: January 22, 2026
When I entered the room Ms. Estella had told me to go to, it was a space that looked like a slightly smaller version of the war room where we had gathered yesterday.
As expected, the three members of the tenth squad were sitting on chairs.
It seemed they had been chatting until I walked in, but the moment I entered, they stopped talking and all looked at me with tense expressions.
Logan, who had previously looked down on me, didn’t seem the same as before—perhaps because he had seen me defeat the black dragon with his own eyes.
Rather, I sensed a feeling of awe from him.
“...It’s been four days. Have you been well? I’m sure you’ve heard, but starting today, I will be your instructor. I look forward to working with you.”
I greeted them in as bright a voice as I could manage.
After I finished, the three stood up.
“I apologize for my rude attitude the other day!”
“We’re sorry too!”
Logan bowed his head in apology for his previous demeanor, followed by Sophia and Caroline.
Well, Sophia didn’t really have to do that.
She’s such a serious girl.
“It must be unpleasant to deal with us like this, but please, we ask for your guidance. We’re counting on you!”
Logan pleaded for my instruction.
I felt a bit deflated...
Whether they looked down on me or were afraid, I thought we’d be starting from a negative point.
Well, actually, this is easier for me.
...Now, how should I respond?
“It doesn’t bother me. The skill gap between you and me is like adults and children; I only thought of your barking as that of puppies.”
I deliberately said it with a bit of malice.
“Ugh... yes. There really is that much of a difference...”
Logan’s face grew sharp, as if my words stabbed deep into his heart.
“...During the guided explorations, our relationship was only temporary. So, while I gave warnings, I let you have some freedom. But from now on, it will be different. As comrades in the same clan and as someone in a position to teach you, I will face you seriously. I may say harsh things or even push you away at times. Still, I will always be on your side. So I want you to come at me with all your strength.”
This was a pledge.
Putting it into words made me feel even more determined.
My master is my grandfather.
Like him, I want to watch over warmly, be strict when necessary, and give advice when they struggle.
And always remain their ally.
I want to become that ideal master.
After confirming the three nodded, I continued.
“From now on, I will teach you the knowledge and skills I have gained. But before that, there are a couple of things I want you to keep in mind... Actually, two things. First, always keep thinking. There are many solutions to any problem. Don’t get stuck on just one way. Casual conversations or scenes may unexpectedly lead to solutions. Second, don’t assume that what I say is always right.”
They all understood the first point, but the second confused them, and question marks floated over their heads.
“I’m by no means omniscient. Don’t think everything I say is absolutely correct. I’ve made many mistakes and failures myself. Don’t swallow my words whole; chew on them and turn them into your own knowledge and experience. Feel free to ask any questions if you have doubts. Understood?”
“Yes!”
A clear reply came from all three.
◇
“Then, the first thing I’ll do is... a lecture.”
“Ugh...”
Logan reacted strongly to the word “lecture.”
“It may sting your ears, but listen. You three are full of talent. You have the potential to become explorers representing this clan in the future. But your attitude the other day was unacceptable. Not only toward your comrades, but if you behave like that toward outsiders, it will harm the reputation of the silver rabbits of the night sky itself. Each of you must be aware that you carry the clan’s banner.”
That attitude was definitely rude.
If you keep acting like that, you’ll end up isolated.
Being alone is lonely and painful.
There’s no need to behave in a way that causes isolation when it can be avoided.