The ground made way as the big four new generation walked up to us, with Dean in the forefront. Judging from his tone and expression, it was clear this kid wasn't joking.
He really wanted to turn me, an S-rated potential guardian, into a sidekick?
In seconds, the big four — Dean and other members of his group — were just a few steps away from me.
"Huh?" Ralph looked over his shoulder and paled upon seeing them.
Without hesitation, he scuttled over to my back, using my body as a shield.
[He's a coward too.] Lyxor sounded unimpressed, but I paid little attention to him.
My cold gaze was fixated on Dean as the sinister smile faded and my brows knitted.
"I don't remember accepting to be anyone's sidekick," I said calmly.
A mocking grin bloomed on Dean's face, and he looked over his shoulder to meet Maya's eyes. They both chuckled lightly.
"You have the opportunity to serve a member of the big four. Surely you are not stupid enough to refuse?" Dean's voice was brimming with pride — the kind that would make someone's expression twist with disgust.
Serve?
'Who the fuck does he think he is?'
[Dean Hall may be rated S in terms of potential, but in reality, he is considered an SS-rated potential student. He is the most favored person to become America's third SS-rank guardian.]
'And?' I raised an eyebrow.
Was this meant to mean something?
Before I could speak, I noticed Miss Joanne walking over, causing me to pause briefly before returning my attention to Dean. Now I was certain the reason she tried to intimidate Ralph earlier was because of Dean.
And this was the bitch trying to feed me some fairness crap earlier today.
"Don't be stupid," I said calmly. "Lucius Blackwater will never play sidekick to someone weaker than him."
Buzz!
Gasps flew around everywhere while Miss Joanne paled. People were already pulling out their phones to record this altercation.
Meanwhile, Alex and Silver chuckled at my words while Dean and Maya frowned. I didn't wait for a response and casually turned to Ralph.
"Come with me… We have a lot to discuss," I said.
Ralph raised his head to meet my gaze, wearing a surprised expression. Clearly, he didn't expect this from me, but right now, since I'm getting pressured to become Dean's sidekick, I might as well make this kid my sidekick and end this entire drama.
"Walking out on me means walking out on the Hall family." Dean's mocking chuckle came from behind. "Can you bear the consequences?" he asked.
Heh!
A vicious grin spread across my lips, and I looked over my shoulder.
"Fuck you and your kin. Does that answer your question?" I responded with a question of my own.
"Bastard!" Dean took a step forward, but Silver and Alex grabbed his shoulders, stopping him instantly.
A loud scoff escaped my lips as I turned to meet Dean's enraged gaze with my burning violet eyes.
"I don't know what drugs you guys are on that make you think you can get your way every time, but I'll say this, and I'll only say it once — if you ever threaten me again, I'll hurt you in ways that will break your mama's heart." My voice was cold and void of emotions.
This was not a threat but a promise.
"Fuck around and find out," I added.
Without waiting for a response, I walked away while Ralph chased after me, not daring to remain there with an enraged Dean Hall.
At first, the hallway was silent, but soon came loud whispers, laughter, and chatter.
— Blackwater Residence —
My intent to check out the martial arts class was put on hold due to the annoying events of today. My maids had a lot to say when I got back, but seeing Ralph, they kept their words to themselves.
Clank!
My room door swung open, and I walked in. Signalling the timid kid to follow me, I headed straight to the seating area next to the glass wall. Not waiting for Ralph, I sat down and looked out at the scenery from the window.
The small garden behind my home was visible from here. Watching the flowers and plants thrive, I couldn't help but think back to the wasteland I once called home.
"Shut the door on your way in," I said.
Thud!
I heard the door close gently, and seconds later Ralph was seated on the single-seater sofa on the other side of the glass table standing between us.
"Do you have something to eat around here? I haven't had anything since morning."
Ralph's question made my head snap in his direction with genuine shock in my eyes.
"Sorry… Never mind." Ralph quickly said upon meeting my gaze.
Huff!
Exhaling loudly, I gently caressed my forehead. Today was much more exhausting than yesterday when I had to fight.
"Tell me about your family. What can make a noble family fall?" I asked — the most important question on my mind.
Ralph showed a rare frown and seemed reluctant to speak. He leaned back in his seat and avoided eye contact. I could understand this was a family issue, but I needed more information about this country and how it works.
"Everyone avoids you like the plague, and even the homeroom teacher threatens you openly. It's clearly not normal," I said while crossing my legs. "Since we are on the same side, shouldn't I know the burden I will have to carry just by associating with you?"
Upon hearing this, Ralph froze and slowly turned his face to meet my stern gaze. We maintained eye contact for a few seconds before he exhaled loudly in defeat.
"At our peak, my dad was a Count. Well respected by everyone…" Ashford began.
"I'm not interested in your backstory, just go straight to the point," I cut him off.
I didn't come here to sympathize with him. I came here to learn.
Whatever happened to his family is none of my business. As far as I'm concerned, there are millions of slaves out there going through far worse.
Their situation is nothing special.