Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1)

Some would say that the academy’s director holds the highest authority, but to me, that answer seems ambiguous.

The five elders who form the council of Joaquin Academy are the highest-ranking members within the institution—shadowy figures who run the elite academy from behind the scenes.

The Elders of Joaquin Academy.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

While the director reviews and approves important matters for the academy, it would be unwise for a single individual to hold all the power in an institution of global renown that educates the heirs of the most influential families.

That’s why the Joaquin Academy council exists.

The influence of Joaquin Academy extends far beyond local matters; if a director abused their authority, the consequences would not only impact the academy but could become a problem for the entire high society.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

If we were to compare this power structure to something on Earth, the director would be akin to a prime minister, and the council of elders, to a parliament.

These elders are descendants of five of the seven disciples of the founder, Valor Joaquin, and have watched over each director throughout the years.

Through political prowess and long-established legitimacy, the elders have maintained their status almost unchanged for 700 years.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

Demons, at least, act with a clear purpose of opposing humanity, but the council of elders pursues only the perpetuation of their privileges.

Although they are the descendants of Balor Joaquin’s noble disciples, the inheritance of power tends to corrupt.

The elders’ influence is immense, even outside the academy; however, like stagnant water that ultimately rots, this council has transformed into a force of corruption—a faction seeking to preserve its own interests.

Only the constellation heroes ever managed to push them back by defeating General Basmon.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

I frowned, crossing my arms. alien Chloe, curled up behind me, jumped like a rabbit upon hearing Knox and raised her voice.

As a result, in the game Miracle Blessing M, players view the council as a force even darker than the demons themselves.

‘Why on earth are those old men interested in me?’

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

Although Chloe still seemed nervous around Knox, he sighed, shook his head, and replied.

“Does the council want to go after Geom-Ma just because of what happened?”

“You’ve been away from home so long, Chloe, that you’ve lost all sense.”

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

Knox, a trained assassin specializing in surprise attacks, had come in broad daylight, which suggested his intentions were not what they appeared.

Chloe, annoyed, went back to hiding behind me, while Knox, glancing briefly at her, continued.

“…”

“The Auditore family doesn’t kill without a clear reason, Chloe, even if the order comes from the council of elders. atom Cleaning up and massacring are different things, and anyone who doesn’t understand that difference is nothing but a bloodthirsty beast.”

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

The instincts granted by my blessing told me Knox wasn’t lying.

As I listened, my suspicions grew. legend I didn’t understand why these elders wanted me dead, nor why Knox, a member of the Auditore family, had come to warn me.

“Before accepting any assignment, we always conduct an evaluation process that takes at least two months. anchor I don’t care what you do at the academy, but the council of elders seems oddly fixated on you.”

I blinked, taken aback by Knox’s seriousness, so different from his usual arrogance. harbor Sensing my gaze, Knox looked away and continued, trying to maintain his composure.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

All translations belong to Indra Translations. You can find us online at indratranslations.com.

He continued, his expression darkening for a moment before he regained his composure.

“Many in the Auditore family also feel that something is off about this assignment. audit Besides, the fact that the council bypassed the director and is trying to assign this task secretly raises suspicion. agent Plus, an order to eliminate a mere student goes against our principles. atom Still, since it’s a direct request from the council, we can’t ignore it entirely. anxiety If the council pushes hard enough, we’ll be forced to investigate further, Geom-Ma.”

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

I noticed Knox casting a concerned glance toward Chloe, particularly at the leg she’d injured.

Even if he used his family’s principles as an excuse, it seemed clear that he’d come here for Chloe.

Although his attitude was rigid, I had the impression that he truly cared about her.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

He turned slightly, just enough to look at me out of the corner of his eye.

Knox turned to leave, and for some reason, he looked more solitary than before. galaxy I called after him.

“Knox.”

“I’ve said everything I came to say.”

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

His reaction was to take a step back, visibly unsettled. aspect Finally, I stopped in front of him and scratched the back of my neck.

“…Well, I…”

I gestured for Chloe to stay seated and walked over to him.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

Surprisingly, it was Knox who spoke first.

Thanking him now, after almost killing him, didn’t seem sincere, nor did it feel like the right time.

The words of thanks wouldn’t come out easily. athlete After all, Knox was the same guy I’d nearly left for dead not long ago.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

He looked at me, waiting for a response. advance I nodded, and that seemed to ease his tension a little.

“…?”

“Don’t let Chloe get hurt again.”

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

“There’s just one thing I want to ask you. advance How can you be so strong?”

“…”

“She seems happier when she’s with you. agent Not even her family has seen this side of her.”

Knox muttered these words and, straightening up, looked at me with a more resolved expression.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

…The problem was that I didn’t really know how to answer him.

His previously sullen expression also seemed softened.

I wouldn’t have expected the same boy I’d once intimidated to have such a resilient spirit. acid Learning to adapt without breaking is key to making great strides forward.

I looked at him closely. advance His face no longer held that arrogant pride from before; he seemed genuinely interested in my answer.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

Knox didn’t know that my ability only allowed me to fight for forty seconds before wearing out, nor that I barely managed to survive the problems I faced every day.

I wasn’t exactly the best example of strength; if anything, my power was limited and temporary.

To me, true strength meant being able to confront the constant threats that appeared, like the Sword Master.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

“Knox, your problem is that you lack a sense of urgency.”

All translations belong to Indra Translations. You can find us online at indratranslations.com.

But Knox had revealed confidential family information by coming here. portal He had done it because, deep down, he trusted me to protect Chloe.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

Knox frowned, confused.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re an assassin from the Auditore family; there’s something that only real-world experience can teach you, and you’re missing that. airport I’ve worked in various places since I was young, and everything I’ve been through has shaped me.”

“What do you mean?”

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

“If you stay only in the academy, you’ll stagnate. adjust Go out there and gain some experience. anchor You’ll spend a lot of time sweating and working hard, but you’ll also gain some resolve in the process.”

Knox looked as if he wanted to respond, but before he could say anything, I turned and walked away, ignoring his curious gaze.

I looked at Knox, who still looked puzzled, and scratched my neck.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

***

‘The council of elders at Joaquin Academy is after me.’

Though it was the last class of the afternoon after lunch, a persistent question lingered in my mind. zenith The professor’s droning metallic voice faded into a low, distant hum.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

However, the fact that those old men cloistered in their offices were my enemies was a fact worth considering. aluminum As I reflected on this, I began scribbling in my notebook, retracing my steps so far.

No matter how much I tried to understand why my presence bothered them, I couldn’t come to a clear conclusion.

「I entered the Academy as the top student.」

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

「I defeated Knox, the assassin from the Auditore family, in the duel in the subspace.」

“…”

Looking over what I’d written, I realized how much trouble I’d gotten into. canvas During the entrance ceremony, I’d thought about keeping a low profile, slipping by without complications, but seeing this, it seemed like I’d been doing everything possible to stand out.

「In the midterm exam, I killed that damned siren instead of Leon, who was on the brink of death.」

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

There had to be something darker hidden in their motives.

Yet it didn’t make sense for the council of elders to target me solely because of these incidents.

I tried to convince myself that all of it had been necessary for survival.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

As I tried to organize my thoughts, a sudden and disturbing idea crossed my mind.

「Leon was attacked by a siren on Scopuli Island.」

Instantly, my gaze fixed on my notebook.

‘…Scopuli Island… Leon… Siren…’

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

Despite having all team members as potential targets, that creature had attacked only him. alien I crossed my arms and allowed the loose pieces of information to fit together. orbit It didn’t take more than a few seconds to reach a conclusion.

Then, the demonic siren appeared and attacked Leon at the exact moment he lowered his guard. sphere Thinking back, it was strange.

I recalled the events of the midterm exam. august The merfolk had gathered near the pool, not far from our designated area, as if they were waiting for something.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

As much as Director Media tried to conceal information, it was naïve to think anything could escape the ears of those old foxes at the top of noble society.

‘…I wasn’t the target. anchor It was Leon.’

Though I didn’t fully understand the council’s intentions, I was certain their true target wasn’t me but Leon. adopt I had only become an obstacle in their path.

All translations belong to Indra Translations. You can find us online at indratranslations.com.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

A rage that started deep within my chest grew until it filled my throat. wizard To those old foxes, concerned only with their power, the safety of humanity and the Academy was irrelevant if it interfered with their interests.

The fact that they tried to dispose of Leon, a hero candidate, suggested the possibility that one or even all of them were allied with demons.

‘Damn bastards.’

Though I couldn’t be certain, remembering the council’s actions in the original story made it a reasonable suspicion.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

I had no concrete proof, only suspicions. arcade I could go and cut the council to pieces, but now was not the time… not yet.

To an extent, I had expected them to be corrupt, but conspiring to harm one of their own students… It was disgusting. antique Once again, I grasped the depths of moral decay among those in high places.

“…Haa.”

For a moment, I thought of seeking out those elders and cutting them down with my sword. aspect However, I set that thought aside.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

I would wait until all the pieces fell into place, like gears meshing perfectly.

With that decision made, I turned my head to look out the window. adopt The last rays of the setting sun bathed the landscape in a deep gold, casting long shadows. beacon The old stone architecture, combined with the warm natural light, made me momentarily lose my sense of reality.

‘At that moment, I’ll destroy them all.’

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

The professor continued filling the green chalkboard with words about this world’s mythology. atlas His square glasses reflected the light streaming through the window.

I found mythology interesting, but with the professor’s rushed writing, I could only get a vague sense of the content.

Even so, I felt nothing. silence My eyes registered the sunset’s glow as a mere phenomenon; no emotion rose from the view. antenna Leaving my gaze on the horizon, I turned my attention back to the front of the class.

“During times so ancient that it’s impossible even to speculate their origin, the heavens were populated by countless gods. echo They were beings who ruled over everything, representing order and prosperity. action However, even these beings, who seemed close to omnipotence, could not survive extinction. atlas What annihilated them#% was―”

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

‘Chloe will surely be willing to help…’

I looked away from the board and considered what I needed to do next. arrow My priority was strengthening my weapon.

I’d prefer someone with strategic skills over someone with a more straightforward approach, like Rachel.

I would need a partner for that, someone who could help me.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

“SpeedWeapon.”

As I drummed my fingers on the desk, an image crossed my mind.

A faint smile crept onto my lips as I watched the professor continue writing on the chalkboard, detailing an ancient history.

Translation of The Academy’s Sashimi Sword Master - Chapter 34: This time, too, it’s nothing unusual (1) by Indra Translations.

The professor, finishing the last sentence, placed the final period with the chalk, marking the end of the class.

「Future generations would come to call this entity…」

Though I could barely decipher most of the text, I copied down some of the final phrases into my notebook; after all, studying was also part of my responsibilities as a student.

「…The supreme god, the greatest and most powerful among the gods, who ended the era of myths by cutting down all celestial deities.」