Chapter 50: Seclusion Form (2/2)
”This form is for students with powerful and resourceful backgrounds.” Miss Jena explained with a frown. ”We won't punish them for going into seclusion because their families could make sure their growth isn't stagnant. For you, there's no such thing.”
”I understand, but this is to ensure my safety as well,” Nikolai explained. ”I've been attacked twice in the past two days, and a noble dueled me.”
Hearing his words, Miss Jena sighed and looked at the form with a complex gaze. She nodded and took it before stamping it. Standing up from her chair, Miss Jena walked up to him.
”I was also skeptical when you enrolled, and my father didn't say the reason for your admission. However, I know that you are going through a lot at school, and it's our fault for not protecting you.”
”I understand that your hands are tied too.” Nikolai nodded. ”I just hope you trust me enough to let me do this.”
”After your last exam, I have no choice but to trust you.” Miss Jena smiled and then hugged him. ”Take care of yourself and tell me if you need anything.”
Being hugged like this, Nikolai flinched. He knew that Miss Jena was almost ten years older than him at the moment, but he was twenty-seven years old in mind too. Sensing something amiss, Miss Jena leaned back and looked at him, confused.
”Oh, I... am sorry. Ahem.” She coughed when she saw his flushed face and backed away hurriedly. ”Well, you can leave now.” Nikolai noticed that her face was a little flushed because of his reaction, and he nodded and left.
'Sigh, I'm still not good with intimacy.' Nikolai bowed and took his leave from the office. He took one last look at Miss Jena and saw her pinching her nose with cheeks of a light shade of red. 'Maybe she's not good with it too.'
***
He left the academy afterward and went toward the bakery. Since he came here more than once, Nikolai walked through the backdoor once the shop was empty. The baker didn't say anything.
”Your visits are getting more frequent.” Ash looked at him with a frown. ”My regulars will get jealous.”
”Your regulars are thieves. Should I be concerned?” Nikolai smiled. ”Did you confirm Abani Ruins?”
”Let's talk inside.” Ash squinted and opened the door. As Nikolai walked in, he found that a lot of items were missing.
”I guess you are preparing.” Nikolai smiled. ”You didn't take my advice.”
”I did take it and worked overtime to make sure Hyde has troubles getting into the ruins.” Ash smiled in triumph. ”I sent an intel about a leak in information about the Ruins Resonance.”
”That's smart,” Nikolai nodded. ”Then what are you preparing for?”
”A secret plan.”
”Assassinating Hyde?” Nikolai sighed, and Ash's face contorted. ”I gave you that information to help you reduce Hyde's strength, not to get yourself killed.”
”This is the only chance I have, the only way I can take revenge.” Ash gritted his teeth in hatred. ”No one other than his lackeys ever saw him. It is the first time I catch wind of his movements. I wouldn't have known it was Abani without you.”
”Then, trust me,” Nikolai affirmed. ”You will kill yourself if you go with this mission, and you won't even do any harm to Hyde. There are better ways to execute revenge than risking your life.”
”Surviving and achieving happiness?” Ash snorted in disdain.
”Cute, but no.” Nikolai raised a brow. ”Steal what he wants and grow stronger. Then, you can take revenge easily.” A dangerous light flashed in Nikolai's eyes. ”Would you change your mind if I say we can steal what he wants?”