A Villain's Will to Survive

Chapter 71: End of Semester (1)

“Why’d he burn it? I still don’t undahstand,” Rogerio asked.

"He must have had his reasons," Gindalf replied.

Judges Rogerio and Gindalf, along with the Chairwoman, were gathered in the waiting room, deeply engaged in analyzing Deculein's abrupt actions. Their discussion continued to revolve around his unexpected behavior.

"Deculein muttered three words in the runic language, right? An' he used eighteen runic lettahs for those three words? We all felt the mana waves, didn't we?"

While Deculein’s claim of translating forty-eight runic letters might have been an exaggeration, even interpreting just eighteen new runic letters was a significant achievement. Yet, Deculein had chosen to destroy that achievement himself.

It was peculiar. Rogerio and the rest of the Magical realm knew Deculein as a mage who was always eager to boast about his research. He was driven not by empathy but by an insatiable thirst for recognition.

“Maybe it’s because revealing the translations for the runic letters could have caused trouble with the Ashes?!” the Chairwoman exclaimed.

Rogerio flinched at her blunt mention of the Ashes.

"Well... considahrin’ that their spies have recently infiltrated even the Floatin’ Island, it seems plausibuhl."

“Exactly! Those troublesome Ashes! They're the reason the runic letters were destroyed!"

“... Eh-hem. Ya right, but Chairwoman, ya language might be a bit too strong...”

As they continued their discussion, Louina pondered Deculein's decision to destroy his own research. She attempted to piece together the incident using her wisdom and insight.

“Perhaps...”

Louina speculated that Deculein might have hoped to find a cure for his illness within the runic language, seeking ancient powers that were believed to surpass modern magic.

Yet, instead of discovering a miracle, he found only endless possibilities for misuse. Faced with this harsh reality, he destroyed the runes without hesitation, realizing that no achievement could restore the glory he once pursued.

At that moment, the door swung open, and Deculein strode in. Rogerio and the Chairwoman, taken by surprise, quickly pretended to be engaged in other matters.

“Elder Gindalf,” Deculein said, his eyes fixing intently on the older man.

“Hm? Deculein, is it me you are speaking to?” Gindalf inquired, his eyes widening with surprise.

"Yes, Elder Gindalf, I have a favor to ask of you."

“A favor?”

"Might I request a moment of your time?”

“Certainly...”

Louina watched as Gindalf left with Deculein, her curiosity piqued. Normally, she avoided gossip, but this particular moment intrigued her so deeply that she found it difficult to sit still.

Noticing Louina’s interest, the Chairwoman laughed and remarked, “Professor Louina, it seems you’re just like me!”

Louina narrowed her eyes in exasperation and replied, “No, we are not the same at all.”

“What’s the difference, really~?”

Louina sank into the sofa, her body language indicating she was deep in thought. The Chairwoman, ever on the lookout for gossip, noticed Louina's relaxed posture, the dismissive glint in her eyes, and the subtle movements of her fingers. Her expression conveyed a sense of arrogance, a confidence that came from knowing something others did not.

“What’s the difference, Professor Louina?” the Chairwoman asked, her curiosity fully piqued as she scooted closer.

“I don’t know.”

“Oh, come on! Don’t be like that...!”

Despite the Chairwoman’s persistence, Louina kept her silence, offering no further explanation.

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Gindalf examined the pendant I handed him. Inside it was a photograph of the Luna family, showing the father and his daughter together.

"Is it your request that I restore this pendant?" Gindalf asked.

"Yes," I responded with a nod. "The photograph enclosed within holds significant importance."

He examined the photograph intently and replied, "Hmm, the image appears somewhat timeworn, yet I believe its restoration should pose no significant challenge."

Gindalf was a named mage character, a true master of the Harmonic category. That’s why I had sought him out.

“However, there is a matter I would like to discuss with you,” Gindalf said.

“Of course,” I said with a nod, watching Gindalf cast his spell on the photograph. It was a masterful demonstration of Restoration and Regeneration, magic beyond ordinary comprehension.

“Is it true that you’ve translated forty-eight runic letters?” he asked.

I smiled slightly and replied, “... Of course.”

Gindalf chuckled, stroked his beard, and handed back the pendant, saying, “Here you go.”

The pendant was now pristine, and when I opened it to look at the photograph inside, I felt my eyebrows twitch involuntarily.

"Is that someone you recognize?" Gindalf asked.

"Yes," I replied, slipping the pendant into my inner pocket. "He was once my assistant."

"Your assistant?"

"He committed suicide," I said casually. Gindalf awkwardly scratched his cheek. "Is there anything I can offer in return—"

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"That won’t be necessary," Gindalf replied, a warm smile on his face. "Witnessing your accomplishments today has been more than enough reward for me."

As expected, Gindalf’s personality was exactly as described. He was not someone who tolerated insincerity or disrespect. Anyone who took his words literally and failed to show genuine respect would find themselves without any favors from him in the future.

"It is a small token of appreciation. Please accept it," I said.

I gave him a check for 50,000 elne, a reasonable price.

Gindalf glanced at the check, laughed heartily, and said, "Well, thank you kindly. I shall use this to nurture young mages rather than for my own benefit."

I stepped into the backyard of the Megiseon. At the agreed-upon spot, I found Kreto, Yeriel, and Epherene already there, along with Sylvia.

I first acknowledged Kreto with a nod and said, “I appreciate your attendance.”

“Haha, there is no need to thank me. Your lecture was truly enlightening. How did you come up with such ideas? You truly are a mage walking the royal path. However, I must ask...” Kreto then covered his mouth and inquired, “Was it truly the only existing copy of the original runic letter translation?”

“Yes, Your Highness,” I replied. “The original no longer exists in this world.”

“... Isn't that a waste? You devoted so much time to it.”

“I intended to destroy it from the outset, Your Highness. This era is not yet mature enough to utilize the runic language.”

“Not yet mature?”

“If runic letters were to fall into the wrong hands, they would undoubtedly become deadly weapons. Therefore, it is better to destroy them.”

Kreto stared at me, his mouth half-open in awe and respect.

“Your Highness, here is the book you requested earlier,” I said, presenting the signed first edition of Yukline: Understanding Element Magic from my briefcase.

“Can you truly give me such a precious item? I heard it is not available for sale.” Kreto said, his eyes sparkling as he carefully stroked the cover.

“It is precisely because it is valuable that I am giving it to you, Your Highness...”

At that moment, Epherene’s voice cut through the air.

“What’s your name?”

Epherene's voice took on an unusual tone as she spoke to someone. Feeling a bit tense, I turned to see what was happening.

"Hehe, you're so cute. Look at your short little legs."

Epherene was talking to a cat that silently glared at her. The red-furred munchkin looked incredibly cute, but knowing its true identity, I could only hope Epherene would be safe.

“Pfft. Why are you staring at me? What are you going to do about it? Here, check this out!”

Epherene made a tuft of foxtail grass and waved it in front of the cat.

Swish, swish—

The cat reached for it, its short paws following the movement of the grass. Even though it was possessed, its original habits remained unchanged.

"Ah, that cat was entrusted to me by the Imperial Palace," Kreto said with a smile.

I suddenly realized why Sophien was being so quiet. Kreto still didn’t know the cat was actually Sophien.

“Epherene, Sylvia,” I called them over, hoping to prevent things from escalating. Firmly, I stated, “You both played significant roles in the Baron of Ashes incident.”

I took out my checkbook and wrote each of them a check.

“This is your reward. Purchase anything you desire from the Floating Island, regardless of the cost.”

Sylvia nodded calmly, Epherene appeared overwhelmed, and Yeriel, who had been watching, looked stunned.

“H-hey, what are you guys going to buy with those?” Yeriel asked, rushing over to get a closer look at the checks. She then leaned in and whispered in my ear, “Damn it, those are the house checks! Why didn’t you use your personal ones?!”

The Floating Island doesn’t accept personal checks.

Meanwhile, Yulie wandered through the Floating Island on her own.

“These paths are so confusing,” Yulie muttered.

In truth, she was lost. After leaving the Grand Hall, she found herself in the city area of the Floating Island. The usual rule of following the walls didn’t apply in the Floating Island. Some streets soared into the sky, while others sank into the ground.

“... Hmm?”

As she wandered the area, she stumbled upon a shop.

Brand Doll Shop

A smile appeared on her face when she saw a doll shop on the Floating Island. As she approached, she noticed the display filled with cute stuffed animals like eagles, rabbits, and pandas. Among them, a panda caught her eye.

It was a Bearbie Panda. Unlike other pandas, this one had brown eyes. It had been a famous brand since Yulie was a child.

“... Oh?”

Just then, the shopkeeper opened the display case and took out the Bearbie Panda, which had just been sold. As Yulie watched in disappointment, the doorbell rang, and Sylvia, a well-known figure, walked out of the shop holding the Bearbie Panda.

“Hello, Miss Sylvia,” Yulie greeted politely.

“Hello,” Sylvia replied, slightly taken aback by the unexpected encounter. She soon noticed that Yulie's eyes were fixed on her panda doll. Proudly, Sylvia explained, “It’s a gift.”

“Whom are you giving it to?” Yulie asked.

“No, actually, I received it,” Sylvia clarified, feeling somewhat awkward.

However, it wasn't entirely wrong. By definition, a gift is something bought by someone else. Since she hadn't paid for the doll, it was reasonable to call it a gift. It wasn’t a stretch; she had indeed received it as a gift.

“I received it as a gift,” Sylvia said confidently, holding the Bearbie Panda.

“I envy you. Have you ever seen a real panda?” Yulie said warmly, smiling.

“Yes, I saw a Bearbie Panda in person when I was a child,” Sylvia replied.

“Oh, really? That’s wonderful!” Yulie exclaimed with admiration.

“Yulie,” a familiar voice called out to her from behind.

Sylvia immediately recognized it as Deculein's voice.

“So here you are,” Deculein said, smiling at Yulie.

“Ah, yes,” Yulie replied.

Deculein then noticed Sylvia and introduced her to Yulie.

“Yulie, this is Sylvia, a highly talented mage. She has the potential to challenge the rank of Eternal.”

Sylvia glanced between Deculein and Yulie, then instinctively hid the panda, which she had once proudly displayed, behind her back.

“I am acquainted with her, we were just having a conversation—”

“I must be going now,” Sylvia interjected before quickly departing, leaving Yulie to watch her retreating figure.

“By the way, Yulie, did you comprehend my summary of the runic letters?” Deculein asked.

Yulie's face flushed. In truth, she hadn't understood a word; she could only sense the flow of mana from the runic letters.

Deculein chuckled softly and said, “It’s fine. I didn’t expect you to comprehend fully. You came here because of Zeit, correct?”

Yulie flinched but shook her head and replied, “No. Although the invitation came from the head of the house, I came here of my own accord.”

“Indeed?” Deculein responded.

“Yes, I am serious,” Yulie affirmed.

“... Very well. Allen?”

The assistant, who had been following Deculein, stepped forward.

“Yes, sir?”

“Assist Yulie with her tour. It is quite rare for a knight to visit the Floating Island,” Deculein commanded.

“Ah, yes, sir. It's a pleasure to meet you, Knight Yulie!” Allen said with a bright smile, bowing to her.

“I will take my leave now. My presence would make both you and me uncomfortable, Yulie,” Deculein said.

“Not necessarily—”

Deculein cut her off, insisting, “It is necessary, isn’t it?”

Yulie understood his meaning and nodded with a resigned smile as Deculein left.

“I-I should plan the g-guided tour... S-should I take you to the main island first? Or maybe s-start with the surrounding islands... Ah, h-how much time do you have, Knight Yulie? The tour route depends on—”

Yulie gently reassured the anxious assistant, saying, “There’s no need to worry. I have plenty of time.”

Her soothing voice reassured Allen, putting him at ease.

***

The clear sky, blazing sun, shimmering heat haze, and hot, humid breeze—all the elements that define summer in the Empire filled the day.

After completing my verification at the symposium presentation, I returned triumphantly to the Mage Tower. The board of directors rented out an entire high floor for a welcoming party, professors showered me with praise, and Adrienne granted me the promised title.

Deculein, Director of Planning and Financial Coordination.

In truth, the Mage Tower is built on gold more than magic. It thrives on investments from the nation, territories, and corporations, valuing the annual supply of mana stones as if they were life itself. The fuel that runs this tower is money, making it the most capitalistic place in the world. In this Mage Tower, I had seized the absolute power of finance...

"Professor! Here are the final class plans and the guide for career counseling week," Allen said, handing me various documents.

The numerous lectures at the Mage Tower were finally coming to an end, and it was time for the Debutants to consider their future careers.

"So, career counseling," I remarked.

Career counseling is when debutantes or first to third-year Solda-ranked mages seek advice from a professor about their future careers. Naturally, no one would request such advice from me.

"Fortunately, three people have applied for counseling with you, Professor!" Allen said cheerfully.

His words bothered me.

"... Fortunately?" I asked.

"Ah, w-well, um..."

"It's fine. I am already aware."

“I-I apologize, Professor! I d-didn’t mean to—”

"I understand. You may go."

Allen left the room, glancing back several times. I retrieved a letter from my sponsor mailbox. It was another one from Epherene.

Dear Sponsor,

Hello, this is Epherene. Thank you for your reply. The holidays are approaching here at the Mage Tower...

As I read the letter, I took a pendant out of my drawer. The Epherene I knew was straightforward and not good at hiding her feelings. This seemed to have been true since childhood, as the Epherene in the photograph was still smiling brightly...

“What was the reason?”

But her father was different. He wasn't smiling. His expression was stern and severe, a sharp contrast to Epherene's happiness.

***

At noon on Wednesday, Sylvia stood in front of Professor Deculein's office on the 77th floor of the Mage Tower and knocked on the door.

Knock, knock—

It was career counseling week, a month-long period held around the final exams. The Debutants, full of concerns, sought advice from various professors, but Deculein was not on their list. According to the Wizard Board, his straightforward manner was too intimidating for them.

Sylvia believed only the weak would feel that way. She knocked once more.

Knock, knock—

Assistant Professor Allen opened the door and said, "Ah, Miss Sylvia. Please wait here. The professor is currently in another counseling session."

"Is someone inside?" Sylvia asked.

"Yes, it should be over in a few minutes."

Sylvia sat down and waited while Allen typed slowly on a new typewriter, using the hunt-and-peck method.

Clack, clack—

Clack, clack—

About ten minutes later, the door to the counseling room opened. Sylvia looked up and glared at the mage who emerged.

"Arrogant Epherene—"

Naturally, she had expected Epherene to emerge.

"Oh, Miss Sylvia?"

However, it was Drent, the man whose thesis Deculein had publicly burned at the Thesis Colloquium.

"Was it unexpected to see me? I felt the same... Take care," Drent said, scratching the back of his neck awkwardly as he left.

Still puzzled, Sylvia entered the counseling room. The head professor's office was spacious and elegant, with an atmosphere of refinement that Deculein naturally exuded. Deculein was seated, and Sylvia approached and sat down gracefully.

"It is surprising to see you, Sylvia. I did not anticipate you seeking career counseling," Deculein remarked with indifferent eyes.

"Yes, Professor," Sylvia replied, nodding.

In truth, it was hardly counseling. Since passing the Solda promotion exam, her path was nearly set.

"So, what is your concern?" Deculein asked.

Sylvia recalled something Epherene had once said to Deculein.

"I will join you and uncover the truth about why my father had to kill himself and why he had no other choice!"

Deculein would never want an arrogant and foolish mage like that. He might even regret not rejecting her outright. Thus, Sylvia decided to take matters into her own hands.

"Should I apply to join you, Professor?" Sylvia asked, seeking his direct response.

Sylvia puffed out her cheeks and fidgeted with her fingers on her knees. Deculein watched her silently, his face unusually surprised.

It made sense, after all. She was Sylvia, and any professor would have been glad to have her. Deculein was no exception. It was as obvious as one plus one equaling two. There was no need to worry about his response; it would certainly be positive.

Zzzzzt-zing—

Sylvia’s mind buzzed with optimistic thoughts. However...

"That is not a wise choice," Deculein said, shaking his head.

Sylvia couldn't comprehend his reaction. It seemed as though shaking one's head now indicated approval and nodding signaled disapproval. It was as if social conventions had changed.

"You possess too much talent to serve under anyone," Deculein said.

Sylvia was stunned and, without thinking, mentioned Epherene.

"What about Epherene?"

"Epherene is worth mentoring. She is the daughter of my former assistant and has much more to learn compared to you."

Sylvia stared at Deculein, her once-puffed cheeks deflating.

"Sylvia, you possess the qualities of an Archmage. You should take your talents to the Floating Island. In one or two years, your skills will fully blossom, and you will have ample time to challenge for the Archmage title."

He was sincere. Professor Deculein was genuinely complimenting her. Yet, she felt a sudden sting, as if sharp needles were pricking her heart.

"Even if you apply to join me, I will not accept you," Deculein stated firmly.

It was his final, devastating blow. Sylvia slumped like a wilted plant. She remained silent for a long time, unable to respond. Deculein was puzzled. He had offered her praise despite his growing jealousy and conflicted feelings.

"Sylvia, lift your head."

Sylvia did not lift her head. Her reaction was unusual. Beneath her lowered eyelids, a small glimmer of light appeared.

... It couldn't be tears.