After a short while, Sebastian and Shen arrived at the expansive library.
"Thank you, Sebastian," Shen said, glancing at the black-haired butler.
"Have a nice day, Shen." Sebastian bowed politely.
Shen stood before the towering entrance, eyes wide. So many books… I could learn faster than anyone with this. His giddiness faltered almost immediately. But without comprehension… He sighed and stepped forward—
Thud.
"What the—?" Shen muttered as he bumped into something solid.
"Watch where you're going, beanpole," snapped a young boy with round glasses and a small frame. He bent to pick up his scattered books.
Shen straightened and frowned. "Yeah, whatever you say, short stack."
The boy froze. "…What did you just say?"
"I'm surprised you heard that from down there, munchkin." Shen smirked.
The boy's face flushed crimson. "WHAT?! HOW DARE YOU—" He began whispering an incantation, cold air prickling Shen's spine.
[Attack Imminent]
Shen dove to the side, rolling into a combat stance just as a jagged ice spike exploded against the marble floor.
"Are you trying to kill me?!?!" Shen shouted.
"SHUT UP!" the boy barked, already chanting again—
"STOP IT NOW, CAIN!" a thunderous voice boomed.
Both turned. A tall man strode in—long brown hair, bright blue eyes, and the shadow of a beard.
"Cain," he growled, "how many times have I told you not to let pride rule your judgment? And why are you reading instead of practicing combat?"
At the word father, Cain stiffened, visibly trembling.
"H-He insulted me," Cain muttered.
"So you try to shatter the library floor with an icicle? That's no way for a prince to act." The man's gaze sharpened. "And tell me honestly—who insulted who first?"
"…I called him a beanpole." Cain mumbled, staring at the ground.
The man sighed, then turned to Shen. "You. Come here."
Shen jogged over. "Yes?"
"Both of you—apologize. Properly."
Shen bowed deeply, his voice dripping with exaggerated courtesy. "Dearest prince, I deeply apologize for my words today. I would be honored by your forgiveness."
Cain's shoulders slumped. He muttered, "I'm sorry for calling you a beanpole. It was uncalled for. Please forgive me." He straightened with a scowl. "Happy?"
"Yes." The man's reply was curt. Cain huffed and stomped out of the library.
The man chuckled, shaking his head. "Forgive my brother. He's… temperamental. Gets it from his teacher."
"It's fine," Shen said, rubbing his neck sheepishly. "I shouldn't have made it worse with my mouth."
The man studied him. "Who are you?"
"My name is Tanda Shen. I'm new here, starting classes soon. May I ask yours?"
"Leonidas. Call me Leo—we're classmates. My father told me about you. Shu's last disciple, correct?"
"Yes," Shen answered softly.
"Then I'm truly sorry for your loss." Leo gave a respectful nod.
"Thank you." Pain flickered in Shen's eyes before Leo continued.
"The boy you just met was Cain, my younger brother. Prideful, as you saw. Don't mention his height, and for everyone's sake—avoid trouble."
"I'll keep that in mind."
"Good. Did you come here for something?"
"Oh, yes. I was looking for Introduction to Cultivation. Do you know where it is?"
Leo winced. "Actually… Cain just checked it out. He's re-reading it."
Shen's brain screamed: That munchkin stole it?! Why does that dwarf need it?
Aloud, he forced a smile. "Ah… I see."
"I can pass it along to you in three days," Leo offered.
Shen's irritation melted into relief. He bowed. "Thank you. You're very kind."
Leo grinned. "Glad to help. But before I go—"
He lunged and drove his fist into Shen's stomach.
"GUH—!" Shen collapsed, gasping, clutching his gut.
Leo dusted off his hands casually. "Sorry. Just wanted to see why Father chose you. Guess I overdid it. We'll talk later." He strode out before Shen could respond.
Shen wheezed, forcing himself upright on trembling arms. "…I need to train if I'm going to survive here."
He staggered to the door, legs wobbling like noodles, but his eyes burned with resolve.
"It's time to train."