Disclaimer: I do not own Familiar of Zero, only the D&D character that causes mayhem and discord.

A/N: _ I'm so sorry for the long wait! School's been a major pain in my ass. It's been so hectic with papers and assignments that I haven't had time to write. I've been giving serious thought to this story and changes it'll make to canon. So, I'm not dropping it. My posting won't be that quick or regular, but I will be updating.

As for pairing, I haven't made any final decisions, but I'm leaning heavily towards harem. Not entirely sure, but it's definitely what's getting the most consideration.

To everyone's thoughts on Lyall, thanks so much! This guy's my first Player Character and he takes after me quite a bit, but with the eccentricity/minor insanity dialed way up. I never thought I'd get this much of a positive reaction to him, so I'm glad. He'll be shaking everything else up, so look forward to it.

Anyway, onto the story! Read/review/enjoy...

The Alpha of Zero

Chapter Two

After Effects

-Lyall-

Ever dropped a verbal bomb on a large group of people? Ever sat back and watched their world crumble as you destroyed their perception on reality? Most of all, have you felt what it was like to see people truly fear you?

Well, truthfully, I find being feared to be a bit much. I'd rather be respected, but fear is much simpler if you know the right buttons to push.

And it seems that saying you're a Mage Hunter amongst a bunch of school children was the equivalent of pushing the big red button.

Each and every person in attendance to my duel with the fop froze in shock, giving me gazes of shock and fright. I turned slowly, giving each student a slow, non-confrontational measuring look. Each of them would flinch as I met their eyes, taking a hesitant step back as if they were about to hoof it to safety. When I reached Sylphid's master, I simply noted that she was no longer reading her book, but simply giving me a measured look. There was no fear in her eyes, no trepidation, just a contemplative gaze you give to a potential enemy. They were eyes of someone who had seen death, the eyes of a warrior, someone who isn't afraid to fight.

When she realized I caught her, her eyes shot from my face to the dagger in my hand. Allowing my hand to fall open, I allowed the weapon to slide from my grip and bounce onto the ground. Once again, her eyes went to mine. It was few seconds of silence until she finally nodded imperceptibly, turning back to her book.

I then looked to Kirche and immediately regretted doing so. The 'come hither' gaze she was giving me had amplified to the point where she had allowed her hand to travel to her breasts, clearly emphasizing them.

Releasing a slight groan, I hooked my foot under my fallen dagger and quickly kicked it up to my open hand. Grabbing it, I strode over to my equipment. Pulling on my cloak, I grabbed my bandolier and sheathed sword, then turned to Louise.

Frankly, I found her expression to be the most entertaining. Her normally light complexion was flushed a healthy red, eyes wide as saucers and mouth hanging open. Snorting in amusement, I strode over to her and placed a finger on the bottom of her chin, gently pushing her mouth closed. "It's not very ladylike to gape, Master." I failed to keep my playful tone from being too obvious.

Louise jumped in shock and pushed my hand away. "Wha-"

I placed my hand over her mouth, silencing her. "We'll talk when we get away from the crowd. I'm sure you'll want what I tell you to remain between us, eh?" I smirked and watched as her face darkened when she looked around.

She grabbed my hand and pushed it away. "Fine, but we're talking as soon as we get back to my dormitory!" She turned and began to stalk off, then looked over her shoulder. "Come, Fam-…Lyall."

I simply shook my head, trying to hold back a laugh. As I began to follow, I noticed Siesta hurrying up to me.

"Lyall! How-? When-? Who-?" She was frantic, surprised, but actually looked slightly proud. Well, a commoner of all people did just show up a noble.

"We can talk later, Siesta. I'm sure that Louise has just as many as you do, if not more." I lifted a hand and smiled at her, then resumed following Louise. As I did that though, I couldn't help but notice the blush on the maid's features.

Moments later, I was sitting at the table in Louise's dorm, in the seat across from her. Removing my armor, I placed it on a third chair and draped my cloak over the back of my chair. Sitting down, I leaned back and said, "Ask away, I'm sure you're curious…"

The little girl across from me opened her mouth to speak, but hesitated, biting her lower lip. She remained silent for a few seconds, as if considering her next words carefully. I noticed her squeezing the side of the table tightly, her knuckles turning white. She was afraid of me…that's why she's hesitating.

"I won't hurt you no matter what you ask me. I already said that I'd protect you, since you called me here. The fact I'm a mage hunter doesn't change that at all." I told her, trying to be reassuring.

"Why not?" Louise replied in a soft voice. I arched an eyebrow at her. Jumping lightly, she waved her hands at me, "I'm not asking you to do it, I'm just curious as to why you, a mage hunter, are willingly helping me…"

I released a small breath. "I didn't become a mage hunter because I'm bigoted or because I hate mages. I became a mage hunter because I was tired of having mages lord their power over my head. I wanted to be able to show them that I'm not a person they can just walk all over." I felt myself grin, "Besides, it's healthy to know a little a fear."

"Who says I'm afraid?!" Louise yelled, crossing her arms and looking away petulantly.

I snorted, "The fact that you were shaking in fear when I was fighting Guiche kinda gave you away."

Louise froze, slowly facing me. "You…you saw that?"

"You don't get to be where I am if you can't stay aware of your surroundings when in combat." I paused, seeing slight disbelief in her eyes. Sighing, I lifted a hand. "During the duel, I can tell you exactly how many people were watching; I can tell you how many vantage points there were from the towers. I can tell you many teachers were watching from the windows." As I spoke, I pulled down a finger for every statement. Placing my hand on the table, I continued, "I'm a soldier, Louise. I make it a prerogative to always be prepared."

She was silent, clearly trying to let all of this sink in. "What type of soldier are you?"

"I mostly do stealth missions; sneaking behind enemy lines, sabotage supply lines, remove any threats I deem important; things like that. Though, I'm perfectly capable of fighting head-on. I'm nowhere near the best in that category, though; I prefer backing up an ally by flanking an opponent." I paused, trying to recall anything else about my duties. "Also…" I gave the little mage across from me an apologetic grimace. "I gather information on enemy mages and actively try to eliminate them…"

Louise flinched at the declaration. It seems she had finally recognized what I am. It's about time, and it's only been a little more than a whole twenty four hours.

"Do you need time to let this sink in?" I asked her, trying to be as accommodating as I could for the child in front of me.

She gave me a surprised look, but nodded slightly.

I stood and was about to head to the door before she called to me.

"Lyall, would you do something for me?"

I finally found what I was looking for after leaving Louise's room: a frickin' fountain! Of all the things I needed to find, Louise had to tell me to go to the one thing I didn't locate last night, a fountain had eluded me. I released a frustrated breath and placed the wooden bucket on the ground and took a seat in front of it. Pushing up my sleeves, I reached to the side and picked up a random piece of clothing.

Of all the things that little girl had to ask me to do, of all the things she requested me to do, she had to tell me to wash her clothes. Normally, I wouldn't be averse to it, oh no, I have no problem washing clothes. Hell, I have to say I'm pretty damn good at it, considering I have to wash my own clothes so that the smell of sweat isn't present. I also have to make sure the smell isn't too noticeable or good either; people would be surprised how easy it is catch someone if they happen to smell like roses.

No, I have no problem washing regular clothes, but women's lingerie is an entirely different matter.

Washing men's clothes is simple; if you're lazy, just make sure there aren't any noticeable stains. If you want to be thorough, then clean the damn thing like your life depended on it, because blood stains are difficult as hell to get out if you let them set in. But women's clothing is an entirely different matter; there are several different nuances that you have to intuitively understand.

I understand none of them.

None!

So when I held the pink pair of undergarments in front of me, I was at a complete loss for exactly what to do. I had no idea how rough or soft I could be with them; I had no clue about how long I had to let them soak. I was even at a loss at how these…clumps of cloth would be even be remotely comfortable.

Shaking my head, I muttered, "This is clothing for woman, Lyall. Don't bother to even try and understand it…" I hooked my thumbs onto each side and stretched the undergarments, trying to get an overall idea about its strength.

"Lyall?"

I jumped lightly, pulling a bit too much as I heard a snap. Seeing one side give way rather easily, I slowly looked over my shoulder and smiled good-naturedly at Siesta, who had somehow snuck up on me. "Hey, Siesta, can I help you?" I slowly moved the undergarment from my hand and pushed it to the bottom of the bucket, hiding it under the rest of the clothes.

"Um, I was just wondering why you were staring at those panties so seriously…" She gave me a slightly wary look.

I quickly waved my hands, "Ah, no, it's not what you think. It's the first time I've seen something like…panties. They don't have anything like that where I'm from." I paused, then shrugged. "That or the wealthy keeps all the nice fabric to themselves. Wouldn't put it passed them…"

"Oh…" Siesta looked almost relieved, though I couldn't help but see a hint of disappointment in her eyes. "I see. It seems that the nobility in your world are a little similar…" She cocked her head to the side, seeing the bucket of clothes next to me. "Are you washing clothes, Lyall?" I could see the beginnings of a smile playing at her lips.

"Yeah." I shrugged, then smirked, "Why?"

Her eyes widened, then she shook her head quickly. "I don't mean anything bad by it…it's just a little strange…" She paused, holding her hands in front of her. "To see you go from defeating a noble to…washing clothes…" She let out a small giggle.

I scoffed, "It's alright. I do this a lot actually. Blood on armor, while intimidating, can also get annoying, so I like to take time to clean my things as soon as possible."

"That's surprisingly domestic of you, Lyall…" She gave me a slightly faraway look, her face flushing lightly.

"I can't cook, if it's any consolation. Cleaning clothes and armor is basically the only domestic thing I can do, but even that is…" I grabbed one of Louise's other panties and lifted it. "…Rather limited… I have no clue how to wash these, though."

Siesta giggled and said, "If you don't mind, I could help you. I like to think I'm pretty good at cooking and cleaning."

I arched an eyebrow at her, feeling a small smile come into place. "Why do I get the feeling you're bragging?" Laughing lightly, I continued, "I hate to intrude. I did take up a lot of you time earlier…"

She quickly shook her head. "It's nothing. I don't mind…actually, I enjoyed your company…"

Feeling myself smile, I beckoned her to my side. "C'mon, then." She walked over to me and crouched next to me. I picked up the bucket and placed it between us. After she grabbed one of the undergarments, I picked up one of the shirts. "I'm sure you have a question or two…" I started us off…

"Yes, I do…but I'll wait until you're ready. If you're that skilled, especially when it comes to fighting mages, then something might have happened." She sounded hesitant.

"Actually, not really…well, nothing too traumatic." She gave me a slightly confused look. "What I mean is: I wanted to be able to proactively stand against people with more power than me. I've always severely disliked it when people hold power over my head. I wanted to show them that you don't have to control arcane and divine power in order to make a difference. So, I searched for someone who could teach me…"

Siesta was silent for a moment, then she gave me a wide eyed look. "Divine? You mean you've stood against God's before?!"

I quickly shook my head, "No! When I say divine power, I don't mean Deities. In my world, there are two types of spell casters: arcane and divine. Arcane spellcasters are split into wizards, sorcerers and warmages. Divine spellcasters are people who are more spiritually entwined with their deity, like clerics and druids, though rangers can do the same, but on a rather limited scale."

Siesta simply gave me a shocked look, "Wow, Lyall, you really know quite a bit about magic…"

I shook my head, laughing lightly. "That's only the basics, anyone who's able to walk in my world knows that much. What's not known as common knowledge is how each are specified." Clearing my throat, I went about trying to explain a little rudimentary rundown of mage classifications. "First of all, I think I should start out with wizards. First of all, in my world, anyone can be a wizard as long as they're intelligent, and patient, enough to do the research needed."

That got the reaction I expected from Siesta. She froze and slowly looked towards me, her eyes wide. "Anyone?"

I smirked, "Yeah, it just takes patience, the willingness to sit down and research and some funds on the side in order to get the real magic foci."

"If…anyone can be a wizard…then why didn't you?" It seems that the thought of anyone being able to be a mage struck Siesta as alluring, since it seemed like such a faraway, impossible task to her.

"Me? No." I chuckled lightly. "I'm not that smart, first of all. Everything I know is from hard-earned experienced, witnessed in combat, or told to me by my adventuring ally Auren. Second of all, I don't see the allure of standing around and letting your enmy carve into you while you're trying to prep a spell. I prefer to be in the middle of skirmish, feeling the rush of adrenaline as I lock eyes with an opponent, engaging him in a battle of might and wills."

"I see…" She sounded almost relieved at my statement. Relieved that I wasn't a mage. I can understand that. "What about sorcerers?"

"Sorcerers are people who are born with their arcane potential." I said, unable to hide the scorn in my voice. "I don't particularly like sorcerers. Nearly everyone I met claimed to be the next-best thing when it comes to anything and everything."

Siesta smiled ruefully. "It seems like you have an idea of what's going on here…"

I let out a small laugh. "Yeah; though I can't bring myself to think like them, I can respect a wizard. They work for the power they have, every step of the way. Every spell they gain, they claw and scrape for it; learning from experience inside and outside of battle. Sorcerers are simply born with their power, knowing no humility or restraint. They claim they are meant for greatness, only because of a stroke of genetic luck." I paused, feeling a smirk of grim satisfaction growing my face. "I've put many of them in their place, showing them that a 'lowborn rogue with a muddied heritage' can indeed show them their true place in life."

"Like you did earlier today?" Siesta said with an upbeat tone, clearly enjoying the fact that I've beaten others similar to the stuck-up nobles in her land.

"Yeah." I laughed lightly, feeling my mood lighten up. "Just like earlier…"

We were silent as we continued to work, cleaning the clothes in a pleasant monotony. While we did so, I allowed Siesta to teach me how to properly clean Louise's undergarments. Every subtle movement of the hand, every soft brush, I was able to grasp instantly. My natural dexterity aided me in the more complex movements when it came to getting every little spot. While we did so I couldn't help but notice Siesta giving small, appreciative glances. It helps that I had to roll up the sleeves of my tunic in order to get them out of the way.

"I have to say, we've only been talking about me. While I'm not averse to it, I've known myself so long that hearing my own work bores me. What do you say we talk about you, Siesta?"

"Oh!" The maid jumped lightly, surprised at my request. Her face flushed lightly when she replied, "I don't know... Compared to you, Lyall, my life is a bit boring..."

"I wouldn't say that. From my experience, it's the help that has the juiciest stories to tell considering they work so close with the wealthy. You'd be surprised what the rich get into when they have nothing to do and a large sum of money to their name."

Siesta smiled, but shook her head. "Though I do see what you mean, I have no stories like that. I've only worked here, at the academy, so I don't have anything 'juicy' to tell."

I smirked, "Well, you just haven't been in the right places. All it takes is being in the right place at the right time." Suddenly, I felt an idea come to mind and a conspiratory smile come into fruition. It was a smile that would instantly arouse suspicion in the few people that knew me well enough. "How about I teach you a few things? It wouldn't hurt to know how to move silently."

Siesta gave me a look, "You'd teach me some of your...skills? We just met..."

I shrugged, "I've been around enough people and lived long enough to be able to get a read on people. You're a kind person, Siesta, I can clearly see that."

The maid's face flushed a very dark red as she looked away from me. "Thank you for that, Lyall."

"You don't need to thank me. I make it a point to always tell the truth." Placing a clean panty into the bucket, I stood and brushed my legs off. "Let's get started."

She gave me a surprised look. "Right now?"

"Yeah. It's surprisingly simple to get started. All it really is, is trial and error. Know what helps you hide and what makes it more difficult. It's all about using the basics to their absolute best." I held a hand out to her, lending her my strength so she could stand.

She took my hand and got to her feet, brushing off her apron. "I hope it won't hurt too much."

I gave her a small smile. "Only if experience is your teacher."

Louise

A mage hunter. I can't believe I actually summoned a mage hunter. I brought a hunter of my own people into the world. The only way I can make it worse is if I summoned elf.

But...he's kind. He's eccentric, a little goofy, but there's a world-weary look to him, like he's seen a bit too much.

"Lyall." I whispered his name, just to see how it felt. It was a strong name, one that made me think of loyalty. I don't know why, but when I saw Lyall, I can't help but think of a...wolf. A part of me wanted to consider him solely as a dog, since he was just me familiar, but there's more of a...wild look in his eyes. It would explain his decision to call himself the 'alpha male' of the academy. In a way, his fight with Guiche could be seen as a battle for dominance, a way for him to be recognized in a new land.

I doubt any of the other students would challenge since he called himself a mage hunter.

I shuddered lightly at the title. What could have happened for him to tale such a path in life? To actively hunt people with more power than he has? Is he insane, did he get hit on the head when he was young?

"How has he lived as long as he has?"

"Luck. Lots of luck and a healthy chunk of skill." Lyall's voice cut in, causing me to jerk to the side and watch him take a seat at the table.

I looked to him, then down at my dresser, which held the empty basket. Confused, I strode over to the dresser and opened it. I felt my jaw fall open as it was now refilled with all of the clothes I had sent him to clean. Giving him another confused look, I walked over to the cupboard and saw it also filled with my uniform, skirts, cloaks and all. "I've been here the whole time! How'd you put everything back without me noticing?!"

"Well, it's actually pretty easy if the person you're trying to hide from isn't exactly looking for you. Plus, being quiet helps especially. You know, it's kind of important for stealth." Lyall smirked as he removed the sheathe from his back and placed it on the table. Slowly wrapping his hand around the hilt of the blade, he gradually pulled the weapon out of the sheathe. Little by little, the weapon that Lyall kept at his back was revealed in its entirety. He held it to the side, spinning it in grasp with a practiced efficiency. The black steel sang harmoniously, carving a path through the open air. "Sadly, I don't have my tools for cleaning my blades. So, I was hoping we could go into town on your next day off. I'd greatly appreciate it if you were to cover me for a set. Nothing special, mind you, just as long as it satisfactorily cleans my sword."

The black blade radiated with almost a malevolent aura, as though it wanted to be swung in battle. Even as I stood on the opposite side of the room, I could feel an oppressive feeling as I looked upon that demented weapon. "What is that?"

Lyall gave me a look out the corner of his eye. Then he grinned; hefting the sword in his hand, he said, "This old thing? It's my specially made sword, enchanted with a distaste for magic and those who wield it. Think of it this way, I use this sword the same way you would use your wand." His grin sharpened as he placed it back on the table. "It's the bread and butter of my fighting style."

I simply gulped as I watched him pull out a small rag, wiping the blade down slowly. I wanted nothing more than for him to put that dreaded... thing away, to get it as far from me as humanly possible. The simple sight of it caused me to want to crawl under my bed and beg my familiar to get that cursed weapon of mass destruction back into its sheathe and away from me. However, I am a noble, and it is a noble's duty to stand up and face down all danger. "Lyall, why does that sword seem so...foreboding?"

He looked to me, his expression partially masked. After a moment of silence, he chuckled, "I guess I wasn't clear at first." Standing, he took a firm hold of his sword and grabbed the sheathe. Spinning the sword expertly, he sheathed it, causing that oppressive aura to dissipate. "It's enchanted to do specialized harm against arcane spell casters and since you seem to feel something from it, I guess it would harm the nobles here in a similar way." He smirked lightly, looking pleased with himself. "In addition, due to my own specialized training, no one can cast a spell while I am engaging them in melee."

I scoffed, disregarding his statement altogether. "Yeah right, I'll accept that you are a mage hunter, but that goes a bit far."

Of course, his next expression shook me. "Oh, really? How about we test it out then." Lyall stepped up to me and pulled his sword several inches from its sheathe. "Try to cast a spell and then we'll talk."

I glared at him; lifting my wand, I began to chant. However, I couldn't feel my willpower, the source of my magic. Whenever I reached for it, it simply receded from my internal reach. I clenched my jaw, reaching deeper, but still...nothing. Releasing a tired breath, I let my arm fall, but continued to glare at my familiar. "Fine, you win this time."

He grinned, pushing the weapon back into its sheathe. "Just wait, there will come a time when you'll see what I can do. Then, you can stare in complete awe at the familiar you summoned. Until then, wait patiently." Turning away from me, he released a small yawn. Placing his sword onto the table, he said, "I don't know about you, but I'm exhausted I didn't exactly get a good night's sleep last night..."

I nodded lightly, realizing that it was indeed getting late. I was about to order him to change me, but stopped short, remembering that he didn't particularly like doing that. Gritting my teeth, I changed into my sleepwear and climbed into bed. Waving my wand, I cut off the light and laid my head down to rest.

"Sweet dreams..." Lyall muttered as I slowly left the land of the conscious.

Once again, my dreams were dominated by my familiar and his allies, though it wasn't of combat and death but of interactions with others. Politicking and diplomacy were rampant as I watched Lyall speak with the leaders of various factions, his words eloquent and persuasive. He and his companions looked haggard and injured, but they pushed on, appearing as though they were trying to broker a treaty.

Lyall paced back and forth, looking to each and every person with surprising earnestness. It was completely unlike the Lyall that I had seen the passed day and a half. He seemed too...eccentric to be a successful politician, but he possessed the eloquence of speech and the smooth vocabulary of an ambassador.

The debate was heated and blades were nearly drawn, but my familiar remained calm. His grey eyes were sharp and without jest as he simply stared down his current adversary amongst the congregation. His hands remained down at his sides, nowhere near the hilts that protruded out over his shoulders.

No one moved; it seemed as though no was breathing, the air was so stiff with tension. Then it happened, the man lunged towards my familiar, sword drawn and aimed at his neck.

Lyall simply watched him charged forward, his eyes tired and empty. He made no move to retaliate or counter. I was stuck in silence, watching and waiting for him to make a move.

Then it happened.

My familiar spun to the side and evaded the stab. Throwing his foot out, I slammed it into the back of the man's knee and brought him down. Reaching down, Lyall grabbed him by the arm and tore the sleeve free, revealing a mark that resembled a black hand.

Lyall called out again, his words ringing with authority. It was at this moment that the others in attendance were beginning to with him, nodding their heads in assent. With that done, he released the man and allowed heavily armed soldiers to take the ousted traitor.

"So, my familiar can actually be calm and mature? That's a surprise..."

-Lyall-

"You don't need to sit in on my class. I'm perfectly fine on my own." Louise muttered impatiently to me as I relaxed into the seat next to her.

I shrugged, "Believe me, if I had any other choice, I'd roaming the grounds aimlessly; but I have no idea how the magic in this world works. If I'm going to be as effective as possible, then I need to have at least a smidgen of a clue. To be a hunter, you have to know your prey." I shrugged, smirking lightly as I felt the fearful stares directed my way. "I like to be prepared." I'm sure Auren would have a field day if found out that I was willing to sit in on an academic class about the workings of magic... Even if it was in a school for sorcerers.

Louise regarded me with an impatient expression, but simply leaned back into her seat, crossing her arms in a huff.

I smirked, giving the young girl at my side a cursory look. She's seemed to have recovered from yesterday's surprise. I have to say, Louise is a hell of a lot tougher than any of the kids here. When I followed Louise here, the two of us were given a wide berth as we approached the class. There were also the looks of absolute dread the students gave me, especially from the boys. The girls, while still hesitant, weren't actually, completely going out of their way to avoid me. I'm still not their favorite person, by far, but I'm sure they remembered what I proclaimed yesterday.

What can I say? I find chivalry to be quite important. Womanizing when it hurts the people involved is despicable. However, if both parties are aware and okay with it, then there's nothing I can really do.

"So, what's today's class about?" I whispered to her as the class waited for the instructor.

"Earth magic, I believe. The academy recently obtained the services of a noble who specializes in it." She gave me a slight glare when she noticed the grimace on my face. "What's wrong?"

"I really don't like fighting earth mages. They have too many possibilities for both offensive and defensive spells." I spoke rather slowly, going over past skirmishes and experiences with fighting earth based beings."

Louise shook her head, "Earth magic is slow and unwieldy. While that is correct, the spells a earth mage has at hand take just a bit too long for my personal taste."

I snorted, "You're forgetting the fact that those experienced with earth magic can have the magical prowess to completely bypass that flaw. There's also the fact that when complete, they can tank pretty much anything you throw at them." Allowing a triumphant smirk to appear, I shrugged the shoulder that held the strap of my bastard sword. "Well, except my sword."

"Why is that? What's so special about your sword..." I gave her an amused look, arching my eyebrow. "Aside from that cursed enchantment you put on that blade, of course."

"It's made of a very rare, and quite expensive, metal that is known to be the strongest in existence. It cannot be broken, shattered or bent; or rather, it's obscenely difficult to do so. It is meant to sunder, cleave and tear through all its master deigns to strike. It, my master, is created from a steel called adamantine and has saved my life more times than I share to recall." I paused, rubbing my chin in thought. "Well, I guess it'll be protecting your life now, as ironic as that sounds." I grinned widely, holding back a small laugh.

At that, Louise sighed heavily, which strangely reminded me of my old friend Auren. Eh, I guess I have that affect on people.

Afterwards, an older woman strode into the classroom. She was short, stout and wore a green robe. The brunette strode up to the table and cleared her throat. Looking to everyone in the class, she smiled widely, "I am glad to see that the Springtime Summoning Ritual was a success for all of you. It is always refreshing to see the familiars my students summon as it helps me better understand each and every one of you." Her eyes finally reached Louise and I. When they landed on me, I was leaning back in my seat with my feet propped up on the table and my arms behind my head. Grinning widely at her, I noticed her flinch slightly. "My, Ms. Vallière, you summoned quite the strange familiar."

The entire class went dead silent at her statement. No doubt deathly curious as to what will happen next.

Louise smiled ruefully, "Ah, yes, I would say he is, Mrs. Chevreuse. My fam- I mean, Lyall, can be a bit of a handful at times."

That caused a reaction in the class. People were leaning into one another, whispering quickly and conspiratorially.

I scanned the room behind me slowly, getting a good look at who may be generating a rumor or two, and managed to catch sight of the redhead, Kirche, doing...something with her rather low cut uniform. Blinking once, I turned away from her, trying not notice the overly forward and amorous redhead slide a hand into her cleavage.

"Oh...so you're calling your familiar by his name now?"

Louise blushed lightly, her eyes downcast. "Um, yes, he...insisted upon it..." She sounded rather put off by it.

Mrs. Chevreuse nodded, "I see." She was silent for a few seconds, then responded with a smile. "I commend you for your maturity, Ms. Vallière. You may have had an unorthodox summoning, but you've chosen to accept the commoner you've summoned."

I felt an eyebrow twitch. The subtle condescension in her voice when she referred to me as a 'commoner' was not missed. An adult she may be, an instructor in an academic institution she may be, but she was still a noble and nobles hold their powers over people. Unfortunately, Louise has not known me long enough to catch my tics as Auren has, and she doesn't know the things that push my buttons, so she had no way of predicting my next action.

"Actually, it was me who kind of pressed the issue of my name." I blurted out, feeling a little rambunctious. Chevreuse jumped at my sudden interruption and gave me a wide eyed look.

"I-I see, Mr. Lyall-"

"Just Lyall, please. Mister is a bit too stuffy for my tastes."

"Okay, Lyall, I see." She cleared her throat, "Then I'm afraid I'll have to retract my pra-."

"That is also not needed. Louise was mature about the whole thing, but it just took a small heart to heart chat to get my point across." I was unable to hide my grin.

Chevreuse nodded quickly, clearly not at ease with me. "Understood, Lyall. It is good to see that my student has summoned someone sensible."

"Sensible? Me, sensible?" I leaned back and laughed out loud. Going towards Louise, I tapped the girl on the shoulder. "She called me sensible!? Can you believe it?!" I laughed just a bit more, completely aware of Louise's wide-eyed stare. Slowly coming to a stop, I released a small breath and placed my elbow on the table, resting my head on my hand. "Mrs. Chevreuse, I am not a sensible person. Nearly everything I do, I do based solely on what I feel is necessary. If I felt the need to kick this table over and break every damn thing in this room, then I'd do it. If I felt the need to climb to the top of the academy and scream my dominance as the alpha male, then I'd do it. But I don't. A sensible person would, upon summoning, search endlessly for a way to get back home and do whatever it took to get back; that's rather important for me, as well, considering my home world is currently at war. However, I am not sensible; I follow what I feel is necessary and that happened to end up agreeing to become Louise's familiar." I paused, allowing another wide grin to appear on my face as I saw the wide-eyed look of fear on the instructor's face. "I assure you, I am perfectly sane, but getting caught in explosions point blank does screw with your head a bit."

I leaned back in my seat and lifted a hand, "I'm done, so you can continue with class. Unless there's another topic you wish to broach. I am a bit knowledgeable on some branches of magic, if that's your poison." I allowed my grin to grow even more, shaking the instructor up a bit more.

Chevreuse was struck silent for a few moments, but quickly composed herself. "Moving on..." Her voice shook lightly as she turned back to the students. Soon, she was able to regain her capacity of speech and quickly went on to explain the schedule for today's class.

Unfortunately, as much as I knew the necessity of learning about the magic of this world, I wasn't exactly able to keep my attention focused on the lecture. Absently-mindedly, I reached into my cloak and pulled three daggers. Holding the tip of one in between my pointer finger and thumb, I lightly tossed it into the air, then tossed a second, followed by a third. As they fell, I caught each one and tossed it back into the air as they fell. It only took a few moments for me to get into the rhythm of it, but I was soon juggling a trio of rather sharp and pointy daggers, rather nimbly if I may add. Focusing on the weapons rather than the lecture, I began to throw in an extra gesture or two, just to make things interesting. After every dagger I threw back into the air, I would tap the table once. Upon reaching the sixth rotation, I decided to tap the table three times, which caused things to get a little hectic.

Feeling a childish grin come to my face, I began to feel a little rushed as I moved my hands rapidly and deftly, my fingers nowhere near getting pierced my by own weapons. Then, after feeling the table tapping to be easy, I decided to incorporate a flick of my wrist, catching the daggers from the back of my hand, rather than palm facing up. This has been always been a cure for boredom ever since I decided to carry multiple daggers on my person. However, it has the unfortunate side affect of attracting a bit too much attention.

Out of the corner of my eye, I couldn't help but notice Louise giving me the stink eye. Without even attempting to stop juggling, I looked over to her and shrugged confusedly.

She pointed to the daggers I was still juggling and whispered, "Stop, you're attracting undue attention!"

Still continuing to juggle, I turned my head and did a small sweep of the room, seeing pretty much all of the students staring wide-eyed at me. Frowning, I sighed heavily and quickly caught all of the daggers, replacing them back into my bandolier.

"Okay, Ms. Vallière, would you like to try the spell?" Mrs. Chevreuse asked my young master politely; I could actually see that she was a bit shaken by my presence. Though I hid it, I felt rather accomplished in my skills as a mage hunter that I was able to shake up an experienced spell caster in this world.

"Um, Mrs. Chevreuse, that really isn't such a good idea..."

I arched an eyebrow and looked over my shoulder at the source of the voice. It was Malicorne, the stout young boy that informed me where the Vestri courts were.

"And why is that, Mr. Grandple?"

"Well, Louise doesn't have the best track record with magic, considering she's the Zero after all."

The redhead, Kirche, chimed in, "We wouldn't want her to blow something else up, after all."

Louise clenched her fist in anger as the class began to laugh at Kirche's and Malicorne's comments. Getting to her feet, she proclaimed, "I'll do it."

"No! Don't do it, Louise. Let me do instead!" Kirche cried out.

"I'll do it!" Louise stood up quickly and strode towards the front table.

Mrs. Chevreuse smiled proudly and said, "Now, do you remember the incantation?"

Louise nodded and lifted her wand, pointing it that the three stones.

As she did so, I couldn't help but notice several begin to sidle away from the front of the room, going as far to even get under their tables. Sylphid's master, who Louise told me was names Tabitha, even stood and walked right out of the room, book in hand. I arched an eyebrow in confusion as to why everyone would do that.

When Louise began to chant for the spell, an instinct honed by years of experience and the memories of being nearly eviscerated by several traps instantly activated. Standing quickly but silently, I scanned the room for the source, but I was quickly drawn back to Louise at the front of the classroom. A curse danced at my lips as I kicked my table forward, creating a makeshift barrier, and raced towards Louise.

As she finished the spell, I reached her and wrapped an arm around her waist. Lifting her off of the ground, I dived behind the table and pulled her into my chest as the explosion shook the entire classroom.

All of that took place in a matter of seconds.

Silence reigned for several moments as we remained still following the explosion. I peeked over the table and looked around at the carnage that was left in the aftermath of the explosion. I blinked in slight wonder and went back under the lip of the table. "What in the hell was that?"

Louise grumbled something, which was lost in the emptiness between her and my chest.

"Speak up, pinky, I didn't quite hear you." I said, smirking lightly.

Louise broke away from me and said, "I tried to cast a spell..."

"Wasn't that the supposed to be alchemy?" I was unable to keep the amusement I felt from seeping into my tone of voice.

She looked away from me, crossing her arms. "Yes..."

When she didn't continue, I tried to put everything together. Her fellow students call her 'Louise the Zero', something she herself hates with a passion. She was angry when she first summoned me, clearly wishing she summoned more 'majestic'. Everyone was afraid when Louise was chosen to demonstrate alchemy...

Ah... I see why...

"So, that's the reason the others call you Zero." I said softly, just loud enough for her to hear.

Louise jerked at my statement and glared at me. "What? What do you mean by that?!" She growled angrily, her face turning a shade of red.

"Everyone makes fun of you for something out your control and give you an insulting title. They ridicule and mock you, bragging that they can do magic and you can't." I explained slowly and gingerly.

She gritted her teeth and clenched her fists in anger. "What are you trying to say, Familiar?"

I let that slide, since this is a sore subject for her. "What I'm trying to say, Louise, is that everyone's oh-so wrong about you." I smirked at the look of shock on her face. "I myself may not be a mage, but I've been in the presence of powerful mages my entire military career, so I can recognize potential." I strode forward and placed a hand on her head, smiling widely. "I can say this with the utmost confidence, you're ten times the mage compared to everyone else in this academy." I paused then grinned, "Plus, Zero is an awesome title; make it your own."