The Gravity Villain's Silent Return

Chapter 12: A New Beginning

""Maybe... I went too far," Ain mumbled in his sleep, his dream still fixated on punishing Roove. In the surreal landscape of his mind, he had masterfully manipulated the situation, bending Sophie's will to his advantage. However, as the dream progressed, Ain's conscience began to waver, guilt seeping in as he realized the extent of the torment he had inflicted. This internal conflict eventually jolted him awake.

"So, it was just a dream, huh?" Ain muttered, instinctively understanding that the events in his mind had not transpired in reality.

Pushing the remnants of sleep from his mind, Ain rose from his bed and quickly made it before heading to the bathroom. The space was relatively clean, with a fresh, unopened toothbrush and a tube of toothpaste lying neatly by the sink. Picking them up, he brushed his teeth meticulously, the taste of mint refreshing his senses.

After finishing, Ain glanced at the wall clock embedded in his room. "4:30, huh? Seems like I'm an early riser," he noted to himself.

Without wasting time, he removed his undergarments and stepped into the bath. The soothing water helped to fully awaken him, washing away the last traces of sleep. Emerging from the bath feeling refreshed, Ain glanced at the clock again. It was now 5:00 AM.

"Alright, I still have an hour until the drafting," Ain said with a sense of purpose. Breaking out of his thoughts, Ain heard a faint yet gentle knock at the door.

"Can I come in?" a voice called softly from the other side.

Recognizing the melodious tone, Ain immediately knew it was Sophie.

"Come in," Ain replied, fastening his trousers as he spoke.

With a soft click, the door opened, and Sophie stepped inside, her posture brimming with confidence. However, that confidence quickly faltered as her eyes landed on Ain. He stood shirtless, water dripping from his black hair, his piercing red eyes meeting hers.

For a brief moment, Sophie froze. This wasn't the first time she had seen a man shirtless. But she couldn't deny the sight before her. His lean yet well-defined muscles, the faint outlines of his abs, and his air of casual indifference struck her in a way she hadn't expected.

Despite her momentary fluster, Sophie quickly composed herself. She wasn't one to be easily distracted.

""Alright, here," Sophie said, stepping forward and handing Ain a phone.

Ain gave her a confused look, prompting her to elaborate. "We're probably going to be separated during the exams, so I'm giving you this to keep in touch. I'm guessing you at least remember what this is?"

Ain nodded, signaling that he did.

"Fair enough.. tell me your number?" Ain asked as he motioned to unlock the phone.

"I've already saved it," Sophie replied stopping him in his tracks. "But don't expect me to pick up during the exam. I'll have it on Do Not Disturb."

She said turning slightly toward the door.

As the door closed softly behind her, Ain's thoughts wandered. 'It seems that after the exams, Sophie and I might not see each other as much'. He clenched his fist as the realization set in.' But this also means I'll meet new people'... A flicker of excitement lit up his eyes as he anticipated the entrance exams.

"Alright, let's see what this phone is about," Ain muttered to himself.

Phone Description:

______________________________

|

| [Screen]

|

| [Clock Widget]

| 5:15 AM

|

| [Apps - Icons in Grid]

| (Contacts), (Boogle),

| (WobNovel), (Camera)

|

|______________________________|

| [Menu] [Home] [Back]

|______________________________|

"Pretty neat," Ain said as he scrolled through the phone. However, he immediately stopped when he noticed the time.

"Okay, I think it's about time for breakfast," he said, putting on his cloak and channeling mana to shift his eyes back to their silver hue.

---

Descending the stairs, Ain was met with the delightful aroma of broiled porridge wafting through the air. His eyes scanned the inn's interior as he approached the reception area. The same indifferent innkeeper from the previous day now stared at him with awe.

It seems she's noticed how good I look, Ain thought, chuckling softly to himself as he stepped closer.

"What's on the menu for breakfast?" he asked casually.

The innkeeper replied, her tone noticeably softer than the one she had used the day before. "Porridge. Would you like me to bring it to you?"

"No need, just knowing is fine," Ain replied. "I'm guessing the kitchen is down the hall?"

The innkeeper nodded, still somewhat captivated by Ain's striking appearance. Unperturbed by her behavior, Ain made his way down the hall, following the faint sounds of clattering pots and the bubbling of porridge being prepared. The warm, earthy scent grew stronger as he approached the kitchen.

A simple yet clean dining area greeted him at the end of the hall. A few wooden tables were neatly arranged, with a serving counter dividing the room from the kitchen. Behind it, a young kitchen assistant was stirring a large pot of porridge, the steam rising and filling the space with a cozy warmth.

Ain took a seat at one of the tables, his silver eyes briefly scanning the room. It was quiet, with only a few other guests seated, most of them either immersed in their meals or idly chatting.

Moments later, the innkeeper appeared with a steaming bowl of porridge. She set it down in front of Ain with a small, somewhat hesitant smile. "Here you go. Let me know if you need anything else."

"Thanks," Ain replied, giving her a polite nod. He picked up the spoon and took his first bite. The porridge was simple but hearty, with just the right balance of flavors to warm him up.

Not bad. This seems like a proper meal, Ain thought as he continued eating. His mind wandered to the entrance exams and the challenges that awaited him. He could feel the faint hum of anticipation in his chest—the kind that came before stepping into the unknown.

As he finished his meal, the innkeeper approached again, this time with a small, folded map in hand. "I thought this might be useful for you. It's a map of the area around the exam grounds. Most newcomers find it helpful."

Ain took the map, briefly glancing at its contents. "Thanks. This will come in handy," he said, folding it neatly and tucking it into his cloak.

"Good luck," the innkeeper said softly before stepping back behind the counter.

---

After finishing his breakfast, Ain stood up and adjusted his cloak. Heading towards the exit, the crisp morning air greeting him as he stepped outside. The faint chatter of other travelers and the distant sounds of merchants setting up their stalls filled the street.

The exams are just ahead, Ain thought, a determined look settling on his face. He began walking toward the academy, the map in hand, until he heard someone call out.

"Hold up!!!" Turning around, he saw Sophie rushing out of the inn.