Yamiyo no Hotaru

Chapter 134 To and Fro, Joys and Sorrows, Reprimand and Warning

 "...Shall we move forward and test out that unique ability's applications?"

 "Yes!"

 In a corner of the main Onitsuki family estate, in the training area for exorcists, the mentor and student were present. A gentle voice's call was met with a determined response that echoed like a clear chime from a young girl who still carried a hint of childhood.

 "Based on the results from previous experiments, your ability seems to transform things. By infusing spiritual energy that mixes Water Manipulation and Earth Manipulation traits, you can corrode the target. Think of it as a form of erosion."

 A slender, refined young man crouched down, explaining at the same level as his student. The girl, perhaps in her mid-teens, listened to her mentor with utmost seriousness. She held onto every word, as if ensuring not to miss a single detail.

 For her, the mentor before her was the only person she could truly trust, and she believed that the explanations he offered were crucial for mastering her own power.

 And with this power, her top priority was serving her mentor. As a result, her demeanor was sincere and devoted...

 "Considering from that standpoint, your ability, in theory, doesn't just involve direct contact—Wait a moment, what's the issue?"

 Interrupting his explanation halfway, the mentor stood up. Before even muttering a word, he turned around, directing the girl's gaze toward that direction.

 Before her gaze stood someone who appeared to be in their mid-teens, perhaps? A figure dressed in black and wearing a mask. Members of the exorcists, controlled by exorcists. A servant, likely, this young boy held several scrolls in his arms as he stood in the background.

 "I apologize. I've been entrusted with delivering documents handled by Yun-shoku. They're meant for the Assistant Head. I thought I should come and..."

 The boy spoke after bowing respectfully. His action sparked discomfort in the girl.

 The intrusion of an outsider into the precious space shared by her and her mentor without any consideration was hard to accept. Almost involuntarily, she lifted an eyebrow and glared at him. The lack of reaction from the other servant was even more bothersome. It felt as though her existence was being belittled, reigniting her irritation as she recalled similar instances from the past. Infuriating.

 This was a complete emotional outburst. Even though she knew it, the girl couldn't help but despise the mere presence of the young boy before her.

 "...Understood. You've had your share of trouble; just leave it there for now. I'll review the contents later."

 "Yes."

 After a few moments of silence, the mentor responded. He gave instructions. The servant complied, placing the scrolls where he was directed. Observing this scene, Shizu, whose thoughts were turbulent, suppressed a sigh. Unfortunately, her wish wouldn't come true in this case.

 "...What's the matter?"

 The Assistant Head finally moved away from that spot, still remaining close. As if waiting for this moment, the servant opened his mouth.

 "Assistant Head... May I share my thoughts? Would that be acceptable?"

 "What!? Know your place!! You're nothing more than a mere servant, without any significant role. How dare you express opinions...!!"

 Shizu involuntarily raised her voice in response to the servant's audacity. She felt as though her mentor's status had been belittled. It was insulting, embarrassing. She wanted to reprimand the servant from the bottom of her heart. However, those words would never see the light of day.