Hunter Academy: Revenge of the Weakest novel Chapter 662

Chapter 662 145.4 - Amberheart Mansion

They strolled quietly for a bit, the garden's calm vibes making things feel easy between them. It was kind of weird but also natural to hang out here with him, especially compared to their usual intense chats.

But as much as she enjoyed the moment, Irina knew it wouldn't last long. Turning to Astron, she crossed her arms, her tone shifting to something more serious. "Alright," she said, her gaze direct. "Now that you've seen my world, it's time to get you prepared."

Astron raised an eyebrow, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. "Prepared for…?"

"For meeting my mother," she replied firmly. "A dinner like this isn't just about etiquette. There are unspoken expectations. Subtle cues. I want you to be ready for what she'll expect and how she'll judge."

Irina watched him carefully, noting the thoughtful expression that crossed his face. Astron was quick to learn, especially when it came to dexterity and precision. His focus had always been more on agility and control rather than sheer strength, a trait that would work in his favor tonight. Dexterity was, after all, just as essential for mastering etiquette as it was for combat, and if anyone could handle the subtle intricacies of noble manners, it would be him.

"Hmm…" he murmured, considering her words.

She allowed herself a small smile, feeling a sense of satisfaction. He'd pick this up quickly; she was sure of it. And, if she was honest, the prospect of guiding him through these traditions and being closer to him—even if only under the excuse of teaching him—wasn't entirely unwelcome. Cough…..it was rather something that she was looking forward to. After all, it wasn't every day she had him here, in her world, and if it meant a few extra moments, well… that wasn't too much to ask, right?

"Don't worry," she said, a hint of playfulness in her tone as she took a step closer, reaching out to adjust the collar of his shirt as though fine-tuning his appearance for the occasion. "With a bit of guidance, you'll be more than capable of handling my mother's scrutiny."

"I am not worrying about anything." He said. But, he still raised an eyebrow, glancing down at her hand, though he didn't move away. "You're that confident?"

"Of course," she replied smoothly, her fingers lingering a second longer than necessary. "Just follow my lead."

"Is that so?" Astron replied. "Then…..go ahead." Irina smiled, pleased by his response, and gestured for him to follow her back toward her quarters. "Alright then," she said, her voice carrying a note of confidence. "Let's make sure you're more than prepared."

They walked through the garden, returning to the quiet seclusion of her building. While Astron was observant and picked up quickly, she knew that giving him a proper demonstration would be far more effective than simply explaining the rules. And to her, there was no better way to show him than setting up a real practice table and utilizing the hologram simulation available in her quarters. After all, if her mother's plan was to evaluate him over dinner, then dinner etiquette was just as important as his responses.

As they entered her building, Irina led him towards her computer room. She tapped a panel on the wall, activating the room's hologram simulation system, and in an instant, a modest dining area, complete with a long table and elegant chairs appeared as a hologram. In the hologram, a scene of a formal dinner unfolded, with elegantly dressed figures seated around a long table, each movement calculated and refined. The guests dined with precision, every gesture smooth and restrained, from the delicate handling of silverware to the graceful sipping of wine. It was an ideal, educational setup for a beginner, the perfect way for Astron to observe the nuances of noble etiquette in action.

Irina crossed her arms, watching him as he took in the scene. "Watch their movements carefully," she instructed, her voice steady but encouraging. "Each gesture has a purpose, and timing is everything."

Astron's gaze remained focused, absorbing the movements of the holographic diners with that same calm attentiveness he applied to everything he learned. His eyes tracked the positioning of the cutlery, the way each guest delicately dabbed their mouths with napkins, even the subtle nods and glances exchanged among them. It was clear he was studying each detail, committing it to memory.

Once the demonstration ended, Irina led him toward her kitchen area, where a small dining table stood waiting. Unlike the hologram's grandeur, it was a simpler setup, yet it would be effective for practice. She laid out the silverware, glassware, and plates, mimicking the arrangement they would see later at dinner.

"Alright," she said, gesturing to the table. "Go ahead." Astron took a seat, his calm demeanor unwavering as she began explaining each element. She went through the placement of utensils, the delicate folding of the napkin, and the precise way to hold the glasses. And though she expected him to need a few adjustments, he surprised her by mastering each step with ease, mimicking the grace of the holographic diners as if it were second nature.

'Why am I even surprised.....'

She asked herself. For this guy, something like that must have been as easy as breathing, though she wasn't without a hint of frustration. She'd hoped he'd make a few mistakes—just enough for her to swoop in with guidance and gain a bit of an upper hand.