Starting With SSS-rank: I Get A New Skill Every Livestream

Chapter 257: First assesment

A serious meeting became far less intimidating when there was someone familiar by your side.

Kyle had been quietly anxious about what would be discussed during the counseling session.

But now that Veronica was here, a good portion of that uneasiness melted away.

"Miss Veronica, I believe I asked you to come at six," Russel said, his disapproval plain to see.

"I was already around the corner," Veronica replied with a casual shrug. "So I figured, why not get this over with now instead of coming back later?"

Kyle knew that was a lie.

The hospital where she had been staying was nowhere near this restaurant, and she was only supposed to be discharged today.

The only reason she had shown up was because he had told her about the meeting.

What he hadn’t expected was that Russel had invited her as well, just at a different time.

"Miss Veronica, please leave the room and wait outside."

Jean’s voice remained calm and professional, though a faint trace of irritation slipped through.

Veronica slowly turned her head to look at her.

"Oh?"

A playful smile spread across her face.

"Are you really telling me to get out?"

The room instantly grew tense.

The two women locked eyes.

Jean’s expression remained composed, but there was the slightest flicker of unease beneath her calm exterior.

Veronica, meanwhile, looked completely unfazed.

Kyle couldn’t help but be impressed.

Veronica had an uncanny ability to remind people exactly who she was and how they ought to treat her, all without raising her voice.

Jean slowly shifted her gaze toward Russel.

The large man met her eyes for a brief moment before silently signaling her to stand down.

Veronica let out a satisfied huff before turning back to him.

"So?" she said. "Mind if I join as well? It’s not like you were about to reveal the academy’s greatest secrets to him."

Russel released a long sigh.

"Since you’ve already made up your mind, you may as well join us."

Watching the exchange, Kyle got the impression that the two had known each other for quite some time.

The very next moment, Veronica confirmed his suspicion.

"In the academy, he’ll be the head instructor for martial arts and survival classes," she explained. "Back when I was a student, Instructor Russel and I got along pretty well."

"Because I was the only one who could actually give you a challenge in a duel," Russel replied, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

Veronica nodded without hesitation.

"And those were always my favorite fights. Every single one taught me something new about myself."

Kyle smiled faintly before looking at Russel.

"So she didn’t have any real competition among the students, sir?"

Veronica flashed Kyle a grin, while Russel answered his question.

"When it came to actual combat, no."

He folded his arms as he continued.

"Students often let their emotions dictate their decisions. The moment they found themselves on the losing side, many abandoned the rules in frustration. Veronica ended up paying the price for that more than once."

Veronica immediately groaned in complaint.

"It was only three times."

Russel gave an unconcerned shrug.

"And every single time, you kept yourself in the infirmary shorter than necessary because your pride refused to let you admit how badly you were hurt."

Veronica clicked her tongue and muttered something under her breath.

Watching the exchange, Kyle couldn’t help but smile stiffly.

Seeing Veronica this lively and expressive around Russel made it obvious how close the two were.

For some reason...

Something stirred inside him.

’...What am I even thinking?’

He inwardly scoffed at himself.

There was nothing unusual about having a good relationship with a teacher.

And Veronica wasn’t someone who belonged to him. She was free to form as many meaningful bonds as she wanted.

Kyle quietly shook his head, pushing the absurd thoughts out of his mind, more surprised that they had surfaced at all.

"Now then, Mister Astortia," Russel began, settling back into his seat. "I’d first like to hear about your experience working with the Paranormal Suppression Corps."

Kyle gave a slow nod.

"It’s been... eye-opening."

He paused for a moment before continuing.

"It has changed a lot about the way I think. More than anything, it made me realize why rules exist and why it’s better to follow them instead of acting like an unruly player."

The concept of public safety had only truly begun to sink in after he joined the PSC.

Back when he operated as a rogue, his world revolved around hunting monsters and completing quests.

That was all he cared about.

Now, as an official Nightwalker, he understood that his responsibilities extended far beyond himself.

His duty wasn’t merely to protect civilians from supernatural threats.

It was to prevent the world itself from descending into chaos.

The existence of the Aether World was a secret that could throw society into complete turmoil if exposed carelessly. Working with the PSC had shown him just how important every decision was and how easily one reckless action could create consequences far beyond what he could imagine.

"I’m glad to hear that." Russel’s tone remained calm, carrying neither praise nor criticism. "However, from everything I’ve been told, you still have much to learn."

There was no judgment in his words.

Only the acknowledgment that Kyle was still new to this world and needed time to grow into his role.

"With that in mind," Russel continued, "I believe you would benefit from attending the Foundation and Orientation course."

Veronica raised an eyebrow in surprise.

"Are you here to decide which classes he’ll be taking? That’s... actually a first."

Jean, who was standing by the door, frowned the moment Veronica interrupted Russel. Even so, she chose to remain silent rather than create an unnecessary scene.

She’s as unruly as ever.

Completely oblivious to Jean’s thoughts, Russel answered.

"Since Kyle will only be attending the academy for a short period, I’ve been instructed to assign classes based solely on what he requires."

Kyle nodded.

That made sense.

Unlike the other students, he wouldn’t be spending three years at the academy.

According to the headmaster, depending on his progress, he would likely graduate within four to six months.

Frankly, he was grateful for that.

The idea of spending years surrounded by students much younger than him sounded more awkward than enjoyable.

"Hm..." Russel rested a hand on his chin. "Let’s start with something simple. What are your interests?"

Seeing the confusion on Kyle’s face, he clarified.

"I mean, what career are you aiming for?"

Kyle blinked.

"There are jobs besides serving in the PSC?"

Veronica nodded.

"You’ll have to serve with the PSC for a certain period as part of your internship once you receive your license. After that, you’re free to choose another path."

Russel continued.

"Some graduates join the CPV, dedicating themselves to public safety and risk management. Others enter the Development and Research Department. And a select few undergo additional training to become Special Militants."

Kyle’s eyes widened slightly.

Special Militants...

So that was a career path too.

Then it finally clicked.

Hashu had served in the military.

And so had the assassin who had come after him.

They had probably belonged to that branch.

Even so, while the role piqued his curiosity, he wasn’t particularly interested in joining the military himself.

As Kyle fell into thought, Veronica suddenly spoke.

"Instructor Russel, I think you should give him some time before asking him to decide."

Russel nodded in agreement.

"You’re right. A decision like this shouldn’t be made within a few minutes."

He rose from his chair.

"Fortunately, where we’re headed next may help me determine what he’s naturally suited for."

Kyle looked up in surprise.

"Where are we going?"

Russel paused before answering.

"To your first assessment."