This World Needs a Hero

Chapter 146

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A heavy, stark steel door.

Traces of corrosion and rust.

The foul smell of stagnant water and the agonized, regretful moans of prisoners

Such a typical prison scene could not be found in Kadena, of course.

I expected it to be like this.

Kadena didnt seem as much like a prison as I thought.

Since it was my first time stepping foot here (I had only seen the exterior during a school field trip at the beginning of the semester), I looked around from the entrance.

Of course, being a prison in name, there were no grand or lavish interiors like other buildings.

Its decent enough, almost like a good inn.

The floor was covered with soft carpeting, and the walls were equipped with large air conditioning units that circulated cool air.

Even the cells were isolated not by barred windows but by doors with wide wooden grilles, through which plush beds could be seen.

More, give me more!

But one inmate somewhere seemed dissatisfied with this luxurious prison.

A troubled voice followed.

I-Im sorry, but I cant give you more food. This is the regulated amount.

I feel like Im going to starve to death. Sob, sob, wouldnt it be troublesome for the guards if the inmates starve to death?

Considering that, you seem quite lively.

Ugh, suddenly feeling dizzy

Ah.

That sudden dizziness felt like it transferred to me.

Hey, hey. Snap out of it. Hm?

The friendly guard in Kadena looked across the door at the inmate, clueless about what to do.

By the way, Cuculli was pretending to be unconscious.

I have to spend several more days with that girl.

I should suggest a raise in employees salary to Yussi.

Bump-

When I pretended to stagger, the guard looked back at me.

She looked like she was in her thirties.

Her face was flushed with embarrassment, and hot tears were welling up in her eyes.

When I gestured, she heaved a sigh of relief and quickly moved away.

Im going in.

W-Wait a moment, Professor!

If it seemed like I was seeking your approval, I apologize.

As we pushed in, Cuculli, with a shocked expression, squeezed her cheeks.

You barbarian! How dare you How dare you enter a refined ladys room so rudely!

Ignoring the self-proclaimed refined lady, I pulled out a chair and sat down.

It was a small room.

Perhaps the sense of unease stemmed from memories of visiting Lucas in the isolation ward.

Of course, the atmosphere was much lighter than back then.

Cuculli.

When I gestured towards the bed, she hesitantly came and sat down, as if she knew she had done something wrong.

I cant escape from here, can I?

In fact, facing Cuculli like this one-on-one was quite rare.

Since learning about the intricacies of baptism from Dorempha.

I immediately called her over to discuss relevant matters.

But Cuculli, like a cornered cat, always managed to escape with strange excuses whenever I found her.

Although I could have caught her and made her sit down

Discussing matters in such an unprepared state would be meaningless.

Like trying to thaw a frozen board from long ago.

So, I was waiting for an opportunity.

Its kind of a blessing in disguise.

Unauthorized entry into the Library of Memories.

It was so obvious that bringing up the topic was easy.

She seemed to know she was in trouble, rambling on more exaggeratedly than usual.

Hehe, thank you for not forgetting and coming to see me, Professor. I was afraid Id disappear like Lucas without a trace

That cheerful expression now seemed somewhat empty, perhaps a bit sad.

As I stared at Cuculli, several facts about baptism came to mind.

Those who inherited the great power of the dragon with a mere demi-human body, as a baptized, had their lifespan cut in half.

That was also why Dorempha had tried to hasten the succession with numerous concubines.

It had been many years since he had ascended to the position of chief.

So, Cucullis day of baptism might be closer than I thought. Are the kids doing well without me? Feeling lonely without me

Because of the baptism?

Kekk.

Cuculli coughed violently.

Eventually, the excuses began.

But I just did it because I was bored?

Isnt it because you wanted to leave a memory after baptism? Thats why you intruded without permission, isnt it?

Hehe, not really.

Facing Cucullis fabricated lies or plausible excuses, I furrowed my brow and brought up the main topic.

Dorempa asked for you.

Ah.

For a moment, she looked as if she had been stabbed by something sharp.

Ha.

Then, she turned into a face I had never seen before and stared at me.

Intent on calmly sealing her emotions and protecting her vulnerable inner self.

For some reason, I felt like my pride was hurt.

Cuculli hesitated for a moment, then responded with a sharp tone that didnt suit her at all.

Its none of your business, Professor.

Right.

I nodded.

I dont have a say in your baptism.

The faint expectation in his eyes, which had been clouded by his immediate response, disappeared.

Yeah.

In terms of principle, baptism was definitely not within my purview.

It was a longstanding tradition of the Ice Dragon Tribe, and the lives of the Northern tribes were at stake.

Furthermore, it also had an impact on the safety of humanity.

But youre a disciple within the range of my interference and responsibility.

Cuculli awkwardly smiled.

Ah, thats just a joke.

When I didnt join in the laughter, Cucullis eyes, the color of the sky, looked at me cautiously.

She seemed to realize that I wouldnt change the subject of the conversation.

That was when Cuculli began to change.

Not as rebellious or excessively cold but revealing what was inside the shell.

It was an expression of willingness to engage in conversation.

Perhaps this topic wasnt to their liking, wanting to finish it quickly.

You know, Professor.

A calm voice, unexpected from Cuculli, resonated in the small room.

After all, isnt every life bound to end someday? To die?

Thats right.

I dont think theres any need to be sad just because the end comes in a different form and a little early. Especially if it guarantees the benefit and safety of your loved ones. Didnt you, Professor, stand on the battlefield with that kind of determination?

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I looked at Cuculli intently.

And I had to admit, there was one unexpected thing.

I didnt expect Cuculli to accept baptism so readily.

This wasnt a decision made hastily.

There were traces of much deliberation, anguish, and hesitation in their expression.

Yet, in the end, it seemed she had accepted the responsibility and duty.

Her steadfast determination was the kind that couldnt be swayed by others persuasion.

But I cant stop you.

Cuculli shrugged, adding with a sigh.

I apologize for lying about the Library of Memories. Yes, I went there to store my memories. These days, one should generally be happy, right? Hehe.

Seeing Cucullis detached face, something I wanted to say to them finally came out.

Yes, youre right. Everything comes to an end.

Yes. Thats obvious

But Cuculli, the end is sad.

Cucullis expression became uncertain at the unfamiliar words.

I repeated with more emphasis.

The end is sad. If the journey toward it was meaningful, and if it was filled with joy, then its inevitable.

They shouldnt be aloof like they are now.

Ah.

She blinked her large eyes quietly.

As if making a vow, I continued.

Ill make it that way for you. When youre receiving baptism, feeling too regretful and sad, to the point where your firm determination wavers. Ill make it a joyful time.

Just as Dorempa requested.

If thats the case, fine.

Cuculli finally smiled brightly

Thats what I wanted to hear!

.

.

.

I clenched my fists as I watched Cuculli eating the food I had packed.

That was just a little lie of mine.

The reason Cuculli needed to be baptized is due to the existence of demons.

If they were gone, there would be no need to maintain the cohesion of the north in the first place.

Just like the people of the First Era when demons didnt exist, there would be no problem living in peace.

In other words, until Dorempas lifespan is over.

If we settle the matter with the Demon King, Cuculli can continue to live as Cuculli.

Just another reason added to what needs to be done.

Of course, it was a gamble with a slim chance.

A gambler would shake their head from the start.

But I was accustomed to such adventures.

Thats why Ill succeed.

I bid farewell to Cuculli and left Kadena.

Understanding of Cuculli Evans deepens.

Understanding: 20/100 -> 40/100

Additional comments on Cuculli Evans.

Frost Fire

* * *

Huhhhh.

The vast lounge was filled with sprawled-out kids.

The golden weekend after the final exams of various classes held in the sweltering heat.

No matter how diligent they were, they all wanted nothing more than to rest today.

Senior Deindart, how did your exams go?

Youre asking even though you know the ranks.

Just teasing.

The kids personalities seem to be getting weirder.

The only second-year student, Deindart, leaned against the sofa.

The final exams were of an extreme difficulty, with a mix of practical and written tests.

It seemed like it would be better to venture into the Forest of Martial Arts, ruled by the Lord of Dreams, once again.

My rank is almost the same as the midterms, sigh.

The topper of both the practical and written exams was Ban.

Leciel, who narrowly missed in the written exam, was second place by a slim margin.

Even after switching to a greatsword, Luke, who showed prowess in swordsmanship, was third

Karen, checking the rankings announced through the Connector, shook her head.

But why did Cucullis grades get so wrecked?

It was then that a song with off-key tunes and rhythms filled the air.

Heroes~ dont~ study~ at all~.

Gerald, who had become close friends with Cuculli, waved his hands vigorously.

Oh, Cuculli, youre back.

Ugh, prison life was too hard.

Cuculli, standing amidst the greetings from the kids, spread her arms wide and complained.

Lets forget about everything, everyone. Exams are over, so why are you all so down? There are more exciting stories to tell.

If you say more exciting stories

Everyones eyes sparkled like stars.

Festival!

Karen said with an excited voice.

Did you all see the Presidents pledge?

Since it was already a hot topic on the Connector, everyone nodded.

Due to the incident in the Forest of Martial Arts, this years festival had restricted access to outsiders, with only a few receiving invitations.

In essence, with more than half the scale reduced, booths from external companies were not allowed, so the kids didnt have much expectation.

However, the brilliant genius, their student president, Yussi Glendor, came up with an amazing solution.

If we create booths among ourselves and make a profit, the Glendor Foundation will pay us ten times that amount

It was an amount that even noble children would be amazed at.

It was the beginning of a festival that everyone could participate in and enjoy.

The quick-witted ones had already started brainstorming ideas and gathering team members.

Karen, who was sticking close to Leciel with her usual boldness, was one of them.

Leciel. Want to serve at the tavern? Ill take off 30%. No, 40%! Ill handle the cooking, so you just have to stand there!

Me too, include me, Karen!

However, despite Evergreen joining in and Karens bold proposal, Leciels

gaze remained fixed solely on the Connector.

More precisely, on the announcement that came in the morning about the Battle Arena.

Battle Arena (School Preliminaries) Participation Guide

Hello, this is the administration office of Rosenstark.

First of all, thank you for your enthusiastic interest in the Battle Arena (School Preliminaries). Below are important guidelines that you must check before participating in the tournament.

1. Date and Venue

Date: Year 297 of the New Empire, August 21st, 10:00 AM

Venue: Arta Hall

2. Participant Confirmation and Registration

On-site registration is possible until the start of the match. Please make sure to bring your student ID when registering.

3. Tournament Rules and Safety Precautions

*Attached.

All participants must be familiar with the tournament rules and act accordingly. Please be informed that violators of the rules may be forcibly expelled for safety reasons.

4. Types of Arenas

Party Play (4 players) Commentators: Kasim Pierre, Ted Redymer

Single Combat (1 player) Commentators: Kasim Pierre, Ted Redymer

Team Combat (2 players) Commentators: Kasim Pierre, Ted Redymer

Wizard Combat (1 player) Commentators: Iveta Jambelo, Harman Bernard

Wizard Combat (2 players) Commentators: Iveta Jambelo, Harman Bernard

*Duplicate participation is not allowed.

5. Inquiries and Assistance

Please direct all inquiries about the tournament to the Rosenstark administration office. Assistance is also available at the information desk on the day of the tournament.

6. Awards and Souvenirs

Qualifiers will advance to the finals. Winners of the finals will receive a prize (500 gold) along with the award ceremony after the tournament. They will also qualify to participate in the Battle Arena (Academy King of Kings Tournament), which will be held at the end of the year.

Please familiarize yourself with the above information before participating in the tournament for a smooth experience. Thank you.

Rosenstark Administration Office, Chief Eve

It was a hefty sum indeed.

And the tournament offered an opportunity to participate in the Academy King of Kings Tournament at the end of the year along with the responsible professors.

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