In the days that followed, the village buzzed with excitement as the news spread that three children—Ron, Julian, and Olivia—had awakened their magic aptitudes. Their families were overjoyed, their homes filled with laughter and celebration.
The news quickly rippled across the territory
Many people began making plans to send their children for the next awakening ceremony.
As the initial excitement began to fade, the territory gradually returned to its normal rhythm.
During this time, Sarah took on the role as the teacher for the small school Sera had established.
The classes were held in the church once every 10 days, and the school quickly gained popularity. Children from across the territory began to attend, eager to learn.
Kevin arranged for a collection of basic textbooks to be sent to the village. These books were given to Sarah, providing her with the tools to expand her knowledge.
Soon, it is time for Kevin to leave Raven’s Crest as he has completed his training.
Joshua, the new trainee priest who arrived on orders to take Kevin’s place, learned under Kevin diligently.
Throughout his stay, Kevin had immersed himself in various scriptures, notes, and other subjects, all from the collection left by Priest Benedict.
The peaceful environment of the barony allowed him to spend hours in the shrine, studying and contemplating, deepening his understanding.
One day, Joshua observed Kevin, sitting back in his chair, legs casually crossed on the table, swinging leisurely as he wrote intently.
“Sir Kevin, what are you writing?” Joshua asked curiously.
Without looking up, Kevin replied, “I’m writing my final report to Priest Benedict, summarizing the assignments he entrusted to me.”
(please read Chapter 13 to read Kevin’s Report)
“May I read it when you’re finished?”
“Sure.”
Joshua stood beside Kevin without leaving.
After a moment of silence.
“Sir Kevin.”
Kevin, still engrossed in his writing, responded without lifting his head.
“Do you want to ask something?”
“Yes. I’ve heard about the children who have inherited the artifacts. What should we do about them?”
“Leave them be,” Kevin replied calmly.
“...”
“Should we not try to recruit them?” The new pastor felt befuddled.
“We should.”
“Then…?”
Finally, Kevin raised his head and looked at him, “There’s no need to hurry. I’m already mentioning them in my report. I am sure the higher ups will be interested.”
He leaned back slightly, a thoughtful expression crossing his face.
“I’ve also informed them to leave them be for now.
“Let them live in this peaceful and innocent village for a few more years. It won’t be long before they get dragged into the dirt and danger.
“The longer they remain untainted, the better their character will be in the future.”
“But sir, if we do that, it won’t be long before other factions come to recruit them?”
Kevin’s eyes glinted with a knowing smile. “Don’t worry. No one will come. At least not until the next awakening ceremony.”
“How can that be?” Joshua looked puzzled.
“Hehe. The church should praise me for my laziness.” Kevin smirked.
“....?” Joshua felt baffled.
‘Why would anyone be praised for being lazy?’ he thought.
“When we attended the ceremony, we had to wait for what felt like an eternity in the queue. It could’ve easily taken another month. It was too troublesome. So, I asked our Church priests to make an exception for us.”
“...”
“Because of that, we conducted their ceremony with only priests from our church.”
“...”
“They were just as excited as anyone when three talented children, who inherited artifacts no less, emerged. For now, I’ve asked them to leave the matter to me and not to detail the inheritance in the records.
“As far as the official records are concerned, they only mention those four children awakening their magical aptitude.
“No one would bother traveling all the way out here to recruit three ‘mere’ children.
“I’ve also convinced the children and their families to keep quiet about the artifacts until their next visit to the spire.”
“....”
"Hehe, if it was that old man Benedict, he'd be a senile fool, sticking to every rule in the book. We’d be stuck waiting in that long, miserable queue, only to have other factions swoop in and steal our golden eggs." Kevin chuckled.
“....”
“What is it?” Kevin frowned seeing that his junior remained silent.
“Sir Kevin, It is an abuse of power.” Joshua said with a blank expression.
“....” Kevin’s face twitched.
‘This fellow is also a stickler for rules just like Benedict. Makes me want to sew his mouth shut.’
"Anyway, just let them be. Don’t mention anything about recruiting them. I don’t want to give them another boost of ego. It will not be late even if we do it a decade later."
"Understood. Is there anything else I need to do?"
Kevin paused, thinking for a moment. "Mmmm... try to indoctrinate those kids whenever possible."
“I do not understand.” Joshua blinked.
Kevin sighed, feeling tired, "Just impress them with stories about the Church of Light and the Holy Canon. Talk about the greatness of our church, the gods, the Goddess, and saints
“Make them think it’s a great honor to join us."
“Huh? But it is a great honor to join our church. Isn't it?” Joshua looked confused.
“Tch” kevin clicked his tongue in annoyance. “Just do as I say.”
“Can you give me some examples?” the trainee asked, still unable to get the clear picture.
Kevin said sarcastically. "You know, you’d definitely get along with Priest Benedict."
"Thank you for the praise." Joshua replied earnestly.
Kevin flipped a table in frustration in his mind.
“Haa.” Kevin Sighed face palming himself.
Kevin leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples in mild frustration.
"Take Ron as an example. He’s a fan of heroes. He is courageous, and has a good heart. Tell him stories of the church’s heroes and priests—how they fought and died valiantly, how they saved countless lives, how famous they are and how their names are celebrated even now."
“Similarly, for Julian, his family is obsessed with nobility. Subtly suggest how the church's authority surpasses that of nobles, implying the prestige that comes with being part of it."
"And Olivia?"
Kevin paused, thinking of them, he sighed deeply, feeling helpless as he rubbed his temples, "Her family is eager for wealth. Explain to them the benefits we can offer and paint a picture of a prosperous future."
Kevin emphasized, "You don’t need to lie or exaggerate. Just tell them the truth, but focus on the good aspects of the church and conveniently leave out the rest. Have you understood?"
"Yes."
"Other than that, if any high nobles cause trouble for the baroness or the territory, inform me immediately."
“Why?”
"Don’t ask so many questions. Just do as you’re told."
“Okay”
“....”
“....”
“....”
Kevin’s face twitched as he noticed the trainee's expression.
‘This bastard… He really is like that old bag. What is that look you’re giving me?’ Kevin tried hard to suppress the urge to punch him.
Suddenly an idea struck Kevin.
“Right, right. You asked me what else you need to do, right?” Kevin smiled disarmingly.
The new pastor, still puzzled, replied, “Yes.”
Kevin stood up with a kind smile, like a senior who cares for his junior.
"Great. Then I will assign you the same tasks my predecessor has given me during my training period."
“A-Alright,” the new pastor stammered, unsure of where this was going.
"Now, as my assistant, your duties extend beyond just cleaning. You'll be involved in various aspects."
Joshua nodded, listening attentively.
"Firstly, you'll assist in organizing events and ceremonies.
“Additionally, you'll be helping in the preparation of sacraments. From baptisms to weddings, your hands will play a role in these sacred rituals.
“You'll be involved in outreach. Connecting with the community, offering support where needed, and embodying the teachings of the goddess of light in your actions" Kevin emphasized.
"Remember, being a priest is not just about rituals and routines. It's about fostering a sense of belonging, guiding the community. Your journey has just begun, and there's much to learn."
The new pastor nodded seriously, clearly taking the instructions to heart
After discussing his broader responsibilities, Kevin smiled slyly, "Now, let's talk about the practical side of things. As my assistant, you'll play a crucial role in maintaining the day-to-day operations of the church."
“…??”
"Laundry and kitchen duties are part of the routine. Clergy garments need to be cleaned regularly, and the kitchen, being the heart of the church, requires constant attention. Ensure the priest's robes are impeccably clean, and the kitchen is well-stocked. You'll also be responsible for preparing meals," Kevin recited, word for word, exactly as Benedict had once told him.
"Aside from that, you'll handle correspondence and manage the church records. Keeping things organized is essential for the smooth functioning of the clergy," Kevin added, closing his eyes and giving a patronizing pat on the shoulder.
"While these tasks may seem mundane, they are essential."
‘……..’
Out of the corner of his eye, Kevin noticed Joshua clenching his broom tightly, struggling with his frustration as he slowly understood Kevin’s subtext.
"You may leave now to do your tasks," Kevin dismissed him with a wave.
Watching him leave without being able to say anything, Kevin felt pleasure.
“This must be how the old man felt back then. It feels good,” Kevin muttered to himself, a self-satisfied grin spreading across his face.
Settling back into his chair, Kevin resumed writing his report, his thoughts wandering as he did so.
‘This village is really peaceful. Too peaceful for my taste,’ he mused.
‘Although I did not like it in the beginning, it has been a good and new kind of experience for me.’ Kevin smiled.
As he penned the final lines of his report, an image of Sera flashed through his mind.
‘I wonder… if I brought Sera to the capital or the church, would she still be able to maintain her righteous attitude?’ The thought intrigued him.
After sealing his report in an envelope, Kevin glanced over at the trainee, who is heading to the kitchen to prepare the next meal.
A grin formed on Kevin's face as he watched the young man shuffle along with his broom.
Suddenly, he remembered something.
At that time, when Benedict threw all the chores on him, Kevin had cursed him endlessly.
While preparing his food. He even spat in his tea. But somehow, he was discovered by Benedict who forced Kevin to drink it. Kevin wondered if he is a devil in disguise who can read his mind or something. Entertaining the possibility of exorcizing him.
“Did that old geezer stalk me back then?” Kevin muttered under his breath
A sudden anxiety crept into his heart.
“He wouldn’t be doing the same thing, would he?” Kevin’s bad feeling intensified.
“No, no. He’s a good junior. He wouldn’t do that,” he tried to reassure himself, but the sense of foreboding only grew stronger.
“I really shouldn’t have bullied him. It’s not right for a senior to act that way. I should reflect on myself.”
“I, as a kind senior that I am, should lessen his burden by at least taking the cooking job for myself.”
After a moment of pause.
“I’d better go and keep an eye on him for now,”
Kevin ran to silently watch over his junior as a good Senior.
Copyright © [December] [2024] [The Rainy Imp]. All rights reserved.
**********
Two months after Kevin’s return from the awakening ceremony, Sera organized a farewell banquet at Raven’sCrest Castle, reminiscent of the one they had held for Benedict.
However, unlike the party Benedict had which seemed similar to the ones given to ‘soon to be retiring employees’—Kevin’s party was a lively, boisterous celebration. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter, dancing, music, and a carefree spirit that made it feel more like a bachelor party than a farewell.
The revelry continued well into the night, with everyone letting loose and enjoying themselves until dawn.
******
One week after Kevin’s farewell party, the day of his departure finally arrived.
Sera, although depressed, is frantically searching for solutions to break her artifact. She manages to keep her act together. But she often found herself lost in thought.
Outside the church, a carriage waited for Kevin, surrounded by a large group of villagers who had come to see him off. The morning sun was hidden behind a thick cloud, casting a soft, pleasant light over the scene.
“Teacher, we have a gift for you,” a group of children said, handing Kevin a small package wrapped in cloth which he accepted with a warm smile.
“Thank you. Take care.”
Kevin then approached Sera and her children, who were standing close to the carriage.
“Madam Sera, thank you for everything,” he said.
“No, it’s us who should be thanking you,” Sera replied, her voice steady.
“I had suggested to the church that they recruit Vina, Tia along with other children for training in magic.
“They are interested in the other children, and someone will soon come to take them to the capital for a small tour.
“But I didn’t receive any word about Vina and Tia. They were probably rejected.”
Sera remained silent, her expression unreadable.
“At the next magic awakening ceremony, you should consider going along with Tia and Vina to the spire. Perhaps the priests can help break your dead artifact too.
“Even if they couldn’t, maybe you can consider letting them join one of the magic schools. With your status as a baroness, you are only living a modest life. You should be able to bear the expenses with some inconveniences. It would benefit them greatly in the future.”
‘There’s no way I’m letting my children leave Raven’s Crest,’ Sera thought to herself.
“You might even find some good guys as marriage partners for them. This way you could permanently avoid the pestering nobles who are aiming for your title through marriage.”
“..??” Sera felt slightly confused.
Kevin, who still thought that Sera is concerned due to the pressure from high nobles, suggested allowing vina and tia to attend the magic academy to find good grooms for marriage.
“Let me consider it,” Sera finally replied.
“Alright then.” Kevin nodded, satisfied. “Take care, Vina, Tia.”
“Yes, you too, Teacher,” the children replied in unison.
“Sir Kevin” Sera called Kevin who was about to board the carriage.
He paused, turning back to face her.
“There’s something I’ve mentioned before,” Sera began, her voice steady.
Kevin waited for her to continue.
“You have done us a great favor by saving my children.”
"You have already repaid me with your answers."
"I don’t consider that to match the value of our lives."
Kevin dismissed her concern with a smile. “I’ve told you before, it was my duty. There’s no need—”
“Yes, you have.” Sera interrupted.
She paused briefly before continuing, “But I don’t like owing others. My children are my life. By saving them, you saved not two but three lives.”
“So thrice we shall repay you.”
“I don’t know how, but I always keep my promises and clear my debts.
“Even if I can’t, someone will, in my stead.”
A strong gust of wind swept through, lifting Sera’s gown and fluttering her long hair.
Kevin found himself momentarily mesmerized by her resolute words and the unwavering strength in her eyes.
He sensed a deeper resolve in her words, something he couldn’t quite point out. It felt like the words of a person whom he might not see anymore in the future.
Yet he felt that even if they forgot this promise, time itself will remember it.
“Alright, I’ll wait for you to repay me,” Kevin said, smiling softly.
With that, Kevin boarded the carriage. As it began to roll away, he waved goodbye, watching as the village and its people fade into the distance.
—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © [December] [2024] [The Rainy Imp]. All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, contact the publisher at [therainyimp@gmail.com].
This is a work of fiction. Unless otherwise indicated, all the names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents in this book are either the product of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.
