292 Weakness

What in the world was she writing in that notebook?

I was dying to know, but I was also pretty sure she’d bite my head off if I asked.

"What were you writing, Teacher?!"

I take it back—I didn't have to ask, because Duke just blurted it out. He really is reliable in moments like these. Usually, a question like that would be met with a sharp "Shut up." I honestly had to admire how he never let her constant rebukes get him down.

However, after Teacher Milk let out a long sigh, her expression softened into a gentle look I wasn't used to seeing.

"It’s a summary for the next lesson. You lot have become far too strong. If we teachers don't keep studying every single day, we’ll lose the ability to teach you anything."

I’ll admit, it was probably rude of me, but I was genuinely shocked. To think that Teacher Milk actually acknowledged our strength...

"Follow me."

Teacher Milk called out to us and started walking. The three of us shared a confused look before scurrying after her.

"We're coming! I have no idea what’s going on, but we're coming!" Duke shouted.

"Allen? Aren't you coming?" Shari asked.

"I’m coming, I’m coming," I replied.

What on earth is she planning to do?

We followed her through the hallways until we reached our destination: the sprawling rooftop of Noblesse. It was strictly off-limits to students, and the view was breathtaking. Unlike the view of the city streets, a fresh, wide-open landscape stretched out before us.

"Ooh, looking down on the other students from up here feels great!" Duke exclaimed.

"Duke, you're exactly the type of person who’d be a total nightmare if you ever got any real power," Shari remarked.

"You bet. And the first thing I'd do is write 'muscles' into the legal code."

"What are you even talking about...?"

I was just starting to smile at Shari and Duke’s usual bickering when I realized Teacher Milk had vanished. I panicked, scanning the roof, only for a voice to drift from right behind me.

"Never lower your guard."

A split second later, a hand landed lightly on my neck with a soft ton.

"...U-Umm, Teacher?"

"Allen. Duke. Shari. Forgive me, but I have one thing to say to you. As you are now, I would absolutely not lose to any of you."

My heart gave a heavy thud in my chest. Teacher Milk was always serious, but while she occasionally cracked a joke, I checked her expression now—she wasn't smiling. Not even a little.

―――――――――――――――

【Important Notice】

What are the three of them missing? (/・ω・)/

If you post on Twitter with #AkujokuKizoku, you can enter a lottery to win a signed shikishi illustration from me and Teacher Kuwashima! The competition isn't too fierce yet, so I highly recommend entering!

Well then, I look forward to your continued support! ('ω')!!!!

I Reincarnated as a Lazy and Evil Noble, and After I Destroyed the Scenario, I Became the Strongest with Extraordinary Magic Power

Release Date: Tuesday, March 29, 2024 (Available in both print and digital)

【Amazon link & with illustrations】 https://twitter.com/Kikuchikaisei/status/1755186344601804896