Chapter: 859
Whenever two or more former soldiers gather, the talk inevitably drifts toward the military academy; its establishment has become the hottest topic in the Empire’s social scene.
“I’m considering picking up teaching too.”
“Excuse me?”
Even my father-in-law, who has fully embraced the couch potato lifestyle this year, seems surprisingly interested. This is a man who was once a duke and, until last year, held the title of the oldest duke officially.
I assume he’s just joking, but it sent shivers down my spine. A military academy planned by the Vice Commander and led on-site by the Iron Blood Duke? What kind of monstrous talents are going to emerge from that setup? Are we about to see a generation of golden monsters capable of turning the continent upside down?
“Well, it’s a bit funny for a guy who’s aged like fine wine to start a second life.”
“What does age matter when chasing what you want? With passion and willpower, you can begin a second or third life anytime!”
However, I instinctively offered some comfort to my father-in-law in response to his bitter musings.
Blaming age makes younger folks uncomfortable. Only a complete jerk would tell an old man, “Sure, dreaming at your age is tough.”
So, under the table, my hand vibrated nervously. What if my words snapped him into action, and he genuinely decided to pursue a teaching position at the military academy?
“Mind your mouth. What if I got riled up and snatched that teaching position out from under you?”
Fortunately, my father-in-law merely chuckled in return and didn’t seem awakened.
“… Was that obvious?”
“I’ve lived three times longer than you. If I can’t see through the thoughts of a kid under thirty, I might as well bite my tongue and die.”
He wasn’t wrong, so I awkwardly laughed. No matter how many years I’ve spent in positions I didn’t deserve, my father-in-law has ruled as a duke for decades. He could likely discern the unspoken thoughts of a mere kid at a glance.
“But I must say, it’s a bit disappointing. If only the military academy had been established about 30 years ago, I would’ve rushed there immediately after finishing the war with the Eastern folks.”
“Thirty years ago was practically your heyday! Why would you shun a glorious path to be just a teacher…?”
“If my knowledge and experience had reached their peak, then teaching at that time would’ve led to better instruction. By stepping back myself, countless futures would be born.”
That was a completely understandable point, so I nodded along.
Honestly, if there were enough resources available, it’s common sense for someone with remarkable achievements to step back and teach the next generation. Just like how ace pilots often retire to train the newbies.
Yet when resources are scarce, it’s the ace’s fate to handle the workload of the up-and-coming students. Unfortunately, let’s not forget that 30 years ago, there was no military academy and a limited pool of successors to fill his shoes.
To be precise, they might exist, but there was no guarantee they would follow the Emperor’s orders obediently. Plus, if you had loyal talent, they would be directed to thwart internal disasters rather than fight external enemies. That was simply how things were back then.
“Such a pity, such a pity… If I had only been born 30 years later.”
As he mused while rubbing his chin, I quietly sipped my tea.
What if he suddenly declared, “Teaching is in my blood!”? From the way he spoke, it seemed he had some strong attachments. Now that he was retired, perhaps he was just letting go of sanity and pursuing pleasure?
Considering my father-in-law’s decades of dedication, nobody can really fault him for wanting to enjoy himself in his twilight years. After a life of hard work, who could dare stop him from fulfilling his wishes?
And that wish, too, would be for the sake of national interest, nurturing the next generation as a teacher. His justification couldn’t be any more perfect.
‘So it’s not the Central Sector Commander but my father-in-law who becomes the principal instead?’
First Principal of the Imperial Military Academy, Oliver Valenti of the 18th Duke Wulken.
Just imagining it makes my heart swell and my hands tremble. If the founding principal is a duke, who would follow in their wake? Isn’t this going to establish a precedent where only former dukes can become principals of the military academy?
Now that’s a frightening prospect. The academy would undoubtedly be under the Ministry of War, meaning the Minister of War would nominally have dukes as his subordinates.
‘Well, since it’s already in place, it doesn’t really matter.’
Upon reflection, the Imperial Army under the Ministry of War was already led by the Vice Commander, so adding another duke wouldn’t rock the boat too much. Whether you take a hit with one bullet or two, it amounts to the same outcome.
Still, I can’t help but think that the Minister of War job is the only one that doesn’t hold a similar insane burden. The Treasury and Information Ministry seem like absolute blessed positions by comparison.
“Hmm…”
“What’s on your mind?”
“Don’t you think of becoming a teacher yourself once you retire? You even have an honorary teaching degree! Why not take the ‘honorary’ title off and become a real one?”
That was quite an enticing suggestion, but I shook my head immediately.
By the time I retire, a significant amount of time would’ve passed, and the idea of rolling around and landing back into work isn’t something I’m keen on. I don’t want a second life like that.
And besides, I’ve never been trained in military science nor have I any experience leading large forces on the front lines. My level is just enough to be a talented individual on special forces missions. What would I even teach? Slashing the sky?
‘Then I’d just be a clown, right?’
Picture me, a clown performing tricks in front of students, putting on a show while trying to charm them. The ultimate clown drawing laughter and cheers from the kids.
I can’t allow my honorary teaching title to be tainted by becoming a clown teacher. Honor is most beautiful when left as is.
‘If I poke my nose in, I’d just end up embarrassing myself.’
If I foolishly threw myself into something that I had no grasp over, I’d quickly become the laughingstock.
That, I simply cannot let happen. I cannot bring my dignity and pride down to nothing.
*
The establishment of the military academy turned from a personal dream of the Vice Commander into a collective consensus of military personnel. Even if the Vice Commander desired to fold it now, the military would push forward.
Thus, while playing with Teresa, I took the time to read books and prepare for my future teaching role. Learning and teaching what I’ve learned are two entirely different matters.
Since this is a military academy prepared for the future, it is my duty to fulfill my role as part of the first teaching staff.
‘Teaching, huh.’
I set down the quill and let out a little chuckle.
I never dreamed a word like “teacher” would find itself entwined in my life. Sure, I dabbled in the Information Department briefly, spent time in the military, and later in the assembly. For someone who has never even stepped foot in an academy, the very concept of teaching felt like it belonged in a different universe.
And yet, here I was, poised to become a teacher. Even my previous self from just last year wouldn’t have believed it.
‘Hmm?’
Yet, as I grasped this new reality, I reached for my quill once more, just in time to see the communication device on my desk glow to life.
“This is Wilhelm Krasius.”
– Big brother, it’s me.
“Ellin?”
Seeing a familiar face made me put down the quill, eager to grab the communication device instead.
With no set date for when the military academy opens, what mattered most at this moment isn’t my studies but my conversation with Ellin. What could be more important than the contact of my little sister as her big brother?
– I apologize for reaching out suddenly. I hope I’m not interrupting your time.
“Just a fellow without a title or position here; time is all I’ve got to spare. No need to worry.”
– I know you’re busy with the military academy issue lately.
That remark put a smile on my face. I was more than happy to lend an ear to my big sister’s updates and to step into her worries.
“Even accounting for that, I have plenty of time on my hands. It’s not like we have to rush things.”
– Is that so? Thank goodness.
Ellin wore a faint smile and lowered her gaze for a moment, as if she was sorting out what she wanted to say.
“Just speak comfortably. We’re family, not strangers. Whatever you want to say, just say it.”
– …Yes, big brother. Thank you.
Once my words registered, Ellin nodded, and then she opened her mouth again.
– Big brother, do you remember where second brother is these days?
“Of course I remember. He’s at the Deaest Count’s Residence.”
No hesitation for such an obvious question; I nodded immediately.
Ellin’s second brother, our second brother in the family, August Krasius. Currently, he’s residing at the Deaest Count’s Residence as a son-in-law, now called August Deaest.
He’s the sibling who’s struggled the most after me, so I often worry and feel guilty, but it’s a relief to see he’s doing reasonably well with his wife at Deaest’s home.
– They say the Deaest Count’s Residence is also a renowned military family. Back in the day when the Iron Blood Duke was subduing the Eastern kingdoms, the Deaest family head served him.
“That’s right. That’s why Father sent August there.”
– I’ve heard that second brother has been offered a teaching position at the military academy.
“What?”
That was unexpected news, causing my hand to tremble slightly, still holding the communication device.
– Just as you mentioned, the Deaest family carries enough prestige for Father to choose. Second brother has honed his military skills as the husband of the current Deaest family head. Hence, his knowledge has earned high praise from the Vice Commander.
I was left speechless by Ellin’s quiet explanation for quite a while.
Since I was just getting close to Ellin, I wasn’t well-informed about the circumstances of my other siblings. I only knew enough to ensure our family dynamics remain peaceful and that my nephews and nieces are doing well.
But I never expected Ellin would bring news about August.
‘August is also going to be a teacher…’
More surprising was the implication that I might actually see August at the military academy someday.
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