The Invincible Young Master

Chapter 197 - Personal student

The slow, rhythmic clapping faded, leaving the hall in a calm stillness.

The old man scanned the room, finally focusing on the young woman who had demanded to hear the tale.

Silica was slumped forward, her head resting on the wooden table. Her steady, even breathing signaled she had drifted off to sleep.

The old man blinked in mild surprise. He hadn't noticed when she succumbed to exhaustion, but relief flickered across his features.

Her sharp tongue and piercing gaze had made recounting the story feel like walking a tightrope. He was sure she would criticize his story, but now, with her sound asleep, he felt relieved.

"Better this way," he muttered under his breath, letting out a quiet sigh as his shoulders relaxed.

He turned toward the exit and motioned subtly to Zarak, watching nearby.

The purple-haired youth rose without a word, curiosity gleaming in his eyes as he followed the old man out of the dimly lit hall.

The old man moved around the building with familiarity. After a few moments, they stopped before a simple wooden door.

"This way," the old man said, pushing the door open.

Inside was a modest room, bare and unassuming. A small bed sat tucked in one corner, its blanket neatly folded.

Across from it stood a plain desk and chair. A faint scent of dried herbs lingered in the air, mingling with the faint mustiness of old wood.

The walls were bare save for a few faded clothes and trinkets hanging on hooks.

Zarak stepped inside, his eyes surveying the room. "This is where you live?"

The old man chuckled softly, lowering himself onto the edge of the bed. "Not mine, lad. It's provided by the establishment. A place to rest and nothing more."

"You just finished telling a grand tale about immortals, vengeance, and power, and yet you live like this? Seems... ironic."

The old man shrugged, his smile barely reaching his lips. "Stories don't line your pockets with gold, lad. And simple suits me just fine."

Zarak tilted his head, studying the man before straightening. "That woman, Silica. Who is she?"

"Why do you ask?"

"With a bruised face and bruised pride," the old man replied, smirking. "Incidents like that aren't rare with her. She's made nobles and royals alike eat their words over the pettiest disagreements. It's a wonder more haven't sought revenge, but her status keeps even the boldest in check."

"If she likes you, she'll tolerate you. But if she doesn't? She'll make sure you know it. There's no middle ground with her, so watch out for her, lad."

Zarak frowned but nodded slowly. "And the academy head? Does he ever intervene when she stirs up trouble?"

"Not a chance," the old man said, waving a dismissive hand. "The principal has better things to do than meddle in squabbles. But her siblings..."

"Her siblings?" Zarak's interest piqued further. "What about them? Are they strong?"

The old man sighed. "Not just strong, troublesome. I am sure you'll run into them eventually."

He let out a loud yawn, the sound signaling the end of the conversation. "It's late. Time for some sleep."

He pointed to a threadbare couch in the corner of the room. "That's your bed for the night. Make yourself comfortable."

"What about her siblings? Aren't you going to tell me more?"

The old man shook his head, already pulling a blanket over himself. "No need. You'll learn soon enough. For now, rest. Tomorrow, we need to find you a job." Explore new worlds at empire

"A job?" Zarak repeated, confused.

The old man nodded without opening his eyes. "Of course. How else do you plan to survive with those meager savings your master left you?"

"I can go without food or drink for months."

"This isn't the wilderness, lad. In the city, you need riches to live. That includes rent."

"Rent?" Zarak repeated. "Can't I just stay here?"

The old man smirked, his expression half-amused, half-exasperated. "You can, and that's why I'm telling you, you need to pay rent."

Before Zarak could say further, the old man rolled over, pulling the blanket tighter around him. Moments later, soft snores filled the small room.

...

A/N: Happy new year, everyone. Hope you all have a wonderful year ahead.