Terminally-Ill Genius Dark Knight

Chapter 69

Upon Ludwig’s death, all magic connections were severed, eliminating any further complications.

The demon’s power was rapidly diminishing.

The might of the two scholars, even as secondary participants, was a force to be reckoned with; they could dismiss a lower or mid-level demon with a mere hand gesture.

This significantly lightened the load for the students and allowed me to conserve my energy.

I’m merely recuperating now.

[The debuff ‘Recoil’ momentarily diminishes the player’s physical capabilities].

…I believe I’ve hit my physical threshold.

After acquiring it, I never anticipated using [Genius Hour+] so extensively. It’s usually my last resort.

I didn’t expect to unveil such a vital tool this early.

‘…Now I’m obligated to be Professor Lars’ assistant. I really can’t be bothered.… Are they the same?

One and only one exists.

Without that document, the itemization and enhancement system would be severely impaired.

Inner Lunatic.

This wretched game is undoubtedly the creation of some high-level demons. Even if you refuse, can you reach the finale on the more challenging Inner Lunatic level without enhancements?

I assure you, even a creator with comprehensive knowledge of all the hidden elements couldn’t achieve it, unless equipped with some sort of master cheat code.

“Gray hair, you’ve had a rough time. Regrettably, I don’t carry any misfortune, but for once, your efforts have borne fruit!”

Vernon’s compliment carried an odd undertone, which I chose to overlook.

My body was too depleted to worry about anything else.

A deep ache resonated within my chest, accompanied by the foul taste of blood in my mouth. It mirrored the sensation I experienced while battling the twins.

[You have attained Cold Lv 3 due to the negative trait ‘Nagging Cold’]. {1}

“Kehuk!”

(“kollog!”)

I coughed, startled by the sudden burning sensation. The air around me immediately grew cold, and eyes turned in my direction, but I paid them no mind.

A slight trace of blood was swiftly cleaned up with a handkerchief.

The movement was graceful, a testament to my [acting talent].

Yet, I couldn’t evade the two penetrating stares.

The first was from Talia, who was acutely aware of my illness.

Her concern for me was apparent.

This was likely a reflection of her kind nature.

Talia was a character with a generous heart, so naturally, she would worry about my well-being.

It’s uncommon for a child to witness so much bloodshed. Even she, with her knightly aspirations, would be taken aback.

Nox was inconsolable.

It’s a predictable reaction for the defeated.

It’s unavoidable.

The second stare came from the unlikely named Princess Penelope.

The ‘Cold-blooded Princess.’ She hadn’t yet revealed that icy demeanor, but I was the player who knew her future best.

A chill crept down my spine.

‘Is she just concerned about me? …That’s probably a stretch.’

By now, she must have discerned my capabilities and background. She’s likely judging my true self based on my protective actions towards her.

Penelope von Arkheim, a princess who has lived her entire life under the shadow of assassination attempts, stands at the front of the succession line.

It’s only natural for her defense mechanisms to be in play.

The fact that it’s me… it’s horrifying.

‘How can the Princess be so unforgiving, even after I saved her?

I sighed internally.

What can I do? I draw attention each time I cough.

I seem to be scratching my head more than necessary.

Perplexity fills me more than I’d like to admit.

I’m venturing into turbulent waters, and becoming a student of Professor Lars will inevitably spark envy and jealousy.

‘Well, if my aim were to play the villain, this would be a good outcome.’

Injustice is often unavoidable.

I remain silent, not attempting to alter what has been set in stone.

That’s my modus operandi.

‘On another note, I’m utterly drained.’

A deep yearning for the comfort of my dormitory bed consumes me.

I’ll seek medicinal relief from Zitri and surrender to some much-needed rest.

My future holds a heavy workload.

Though, as expected, I’ll have to endure Zitri’s familiar grumbling for a spell.

* * *

“I have decided to mentor Nox von Reinhafer formally. He has consented to assist with my thesis, and I intend to appoint him as a co-author of the research paper.”

Fast-forward to the following day.

The chairman attended a banquet at Talonfeather’s. Alumni professors, including Noah, made an appearance.

Subsequent to this gathering.

Lars was the first to voice his intentions to everyone boldly.

“Co-author… isn’t that a premature assessment? Let me clarify, and I’m not questioning Nox’s capabilities.”

[Hans, the professor of Basic Physical Training] inquired with genuine interest.

He seemed sincerely intrigued.

“Professor Lars is renowned for his high academic standards and is not known for hastily taking students under his wing. But now, he’s mentoring a new student, Nox-kun, the youngest member of the Reinhafer family…”

Hans refrained from further comments, but his implication was evident.

Despite Nox adopting a new demeanor since his enrollment, wasn’t he notorious for being the infamous youngest of the Reinhafer family?

To some, this seems nepotistic—a form of privilege. Nox’s sudden rise sparks suspicion, particularly amongst upperclassmen unfamiliar with his prowess.

Envy and jealousy can effectively stifle a promising talent.

Lars, having guided countless students into becoming illustrious wizards and knights, would not favor a novice student so quickly.

Hence, his proposition is remarkable.

He has unwavering principles and suggests we deviate from the norm.

But why?

‘Sure, Nox von Reinhafer’s talent is evident. He exudes superior quality, showcasing both reliability and conscientiousness. Yet, these traits alone aren’t sufficient for him to ascend to greatness.’

Despite his youth and talent, Nox’s path can always be diverted. His recent actions imply that while he may maintain a striking facade, he is indeed competent.

Maybe the rumors were exaggerated, or the Reinhafer family deliberately disseminated them to conceal his abilities.

‘Could he simply be a troubled soul gradually regaining his equilibrium?’

Hans pondered further.

‘If that’s the case, we must safeguard him now. Any deviation could cause the Arkheim Empire to lose a bright mind to darkness. As if…….’

“Ludwig’s fate will not be replicated.”

The unsaid words escaped Lars’ lips.

His eyes held steadfast resolve.

“I refuse to repeat my own son’s story. I won’t let myopic thinking lead to another tragedy. I seek to conduct meaningful research with a promising student and publish a paper. If he aspires to change the world and faces any threats, I will stand by him, providing all the support and assistance I can.”

“Professor Lars, you must have taken quite a liking to him! Yum Yum…”

Noah interjected, a mischievous grin on her face as she enjoyed her lollipop.

Lars nodded in affirmation.

“That’s correct.”

“Good job! I’m sure you’ll cultivate a fruitful fellowship. Please keep us updated.”

As Noah seemed about to voice her approval, Vernon cut in.

“On another note, Dean, have you considered any rewards for the outstanding students of the Academy?”

Lars broke the silence.

“An excellent suggestion, Instructor Vernon. Our students pulled through despite the catastrophe, largely due to Knox and Leon’s exceptional efforts.”

“Indeed… they all put up a fight.”

“Absolutely.”

Vernon, as it turns out, possessed a surprising level of empathy.

He had been on the brink this time, yet was saved thanks to Nox. He’d learned that, under Nox’s leadership, all students escaped unscathed.

It only seemed fair to reward such actions.

This sentiment echoed amongst all the professors seated at the table.

“Alright then! To honor everyone’s contribution, particularly the standout students, I propose we grant them access to the Academy’s arcane library!”

Silence fell upon the room.

All eyes turned to Noah.

To open the Academy’s secret library—a repository of knowledge on diverse magical and martial arts—not even professors can easily access? And to do this two years ahead of schedule?

How could it be…?

Yet, Noah maintained her casual smile, seemingly unfazed by the shock she had caused, as if it was a logical progression of events.

Not stopping there, she added:

“Moreover, as Nox-kun played a significant role in saving the imperial bloodline, we should request an additional special reward from the Arkheim Empire.”

“Always one to go above and beyond, aren’t you…”

Lars was the first to voice support for his apprentice.

As Nox became stronger, the pace of his research would quicken.

And then… the world will be turned upside down.

New artifacts would emerge and strengthen, shifting the entire continent.

Whether this shift would be positive or negative remains unknown.

But one thing was sure:

He was no longer alone.

No longer confined to suffering in solitude, he now had an apprentice.

* * *

The Ice-Cold Princess.

Penelope von Arkheim retreated to her chambers after the day’s events had concluded.

She had the entire top floor of Sidious Hall to herself.

All her squires and maids were dismissed to allow her time for introspection, to ponder the events of the previous day.

“Nox von Reinhafer. He was the one who defeated the Demon.”

It was a bold statement, yet undeniable.

She was confident as a possessor of the [Mana Sensitive Genius] trait.

The mana residue was unusually crude and unstable; even Professor Lars barely detected a trace.

Whether he slew them with sword or magic, a trace of it should have intermingled in the battlefield, but there was none.

What could this mean?

Someone had vanquished the demon.

And it was easy to deduce who.

Nox von Reinhafer, the most illustrious among the new students, arrived on the scene with Lars, holding a black sword—clinging to fragments of the demon’s unstable mana.

Even though the sword was sheathed, it was not difficult for Penelope to decipher the truth.

This gave rise to a pressing question.

How had Nox managed to defeat a demon during his first year single-handedly?

Why had Professor Lars concealed that Nox was the one who defeated it?

Rumor had it that Professor Lars had already taken Nox under his wing.

Day after day, he had refused, yet following yesterday’s battle, he suddenly agreed to become his student.

What could Nox’s intentions be?

These queries puzzled the princess.

“He’s proving to be a formidable opponent…….”

Penelope bit her lip lightly. A surge of magic filled the room, soon followed by Echidna’s voice from beyond the door.

“I have come with a report, Princess.”

“Enter.”

Echidna bowed and stepped inside.

“The Academy’s faculty meeting has concluded.”

“And the outcome

?”

“Nox von Reinhafer’s exploits were not explicitly mentioned. However, there was a consensus that he should be rewarded. After all, he protected the Princess, and the imperial family seems to concur that he deserves proper recognition.”

“Is this a demand from Nox von Reinhafer?”

“No. It is Dean Noah von Trinity’s decision.”

“I see….”

After a moment, I concluded it might be for the best.

This situation could provide an opportunity to gauge whether Nox would be a bane or boon.

With that in mind, I decided.

“Please inform my father and the imperial family. I will accompany Nox to the capital castle of Talonfeather, where I shall personally present the reward.”

“You mean …the Princess herself?”

Echidna asked, taken aback. I nodded.

“Indeed. Regardless, he did attempt to protect me.”

Regardless.

This word… signifies an incomplete trust in Nox.

Here, in Elidane, close to Talonfeather, Penelope trusts no one. Apart from Echidna, the concept of trust is almost devoid of value to her.

Even those who’ve stood by her side for years could easily forsake her.

Such is the decaying empire of Arkheim. An empire that would one day be under her reign.

Princess Penelope kept this reality at heart.

Her mistrust was unlike Eleanor’s.

While Eleanor’s mercantile approach involved weighing profits and losses, it was about life and death—a matter of survival.

That was the gravity of the crown she was destined to bear.

“Tomorrow, I will meet Nox myself. Ensure that preparations are in place.”

Empress Penelope now acknowledged the man who saved her. She needed to discern whether Nox could potentially turn against her in the future.

Grasping her intentions, Echidna nodded.

“I understand.”

* * *

…The following day.

As fate would have it, Penelope and Echidna never met.

The reason was straightforward yet unexpected.

[Talent ‘Weakling’ triggers].

[You are under the debuff ‘Mana Drain Lv 2’].

Princess Penelope had succumbed to [Mana Depletion].

This was not the sole issue.

A similar predicament had ensued within the Nox’s Dormitory at Sidious Hall.

[Debuff ‘Cold’ has upgraded to Lv 4].

[Debuff ‘Body ache’ stacks to Lv 2].

.

.

.

The occurrence was inevitable.

Both of them were debilitated due to the effects of the talent [Weakling].

Consequently, their meeting had to be postponed for a few days.

An act of God, it seems. {2}

{1} : “Nagging Cold” is more thematic here than “Crippling Chill.”

{2} : Fits the Euro-centric academy theme but don’t want you to have to look it up and then read the etymology.

Penelope’s proper title might be Crown Princess.

A fellowship I believe best represents the academic relationship between Lars and Nox.