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Chapter 64: Real Deal (1)

"Indeed, Your Highness. The Place of Verification has been prepared."

The Place of Verification for the Symposium would only begin if the proposed solution was highly convincing, almost accurate. Therefore, its preparation indicated that the resolution of the sixth problem was imminent.

"Impressive," Kreto remarked with genuine admiration. Although the solution was not yet assured, Kreto, a devoted admirer of Deculein, held unwavering faith in him. "Indeed, it is time for him to ascend."

Kreto still couldn’t forget Deculein’s midterm exam. The memory lingered in his heart, reigniting a passion he had nearly lost. Upon hearing that Sophien would be studying under Deculein, he felt a twinge of envy and almost considered asking to join the lessons himself.

"However, there are also concerning rumors, Your Highness," the knight continued.

"Concerning rumors?"

"Yes, Your Highness, they are monitoring him closely."

They were known as the Ashes, a group from the volcanic region, so detested that even Kreto\'s escort knight, Fassbender, and most ordinary mages avoided mentioning them. The name Ashes was such a crude epithet that any respectable mage found it repulsive to utter.

"They habitually cause trouble for successful mages, but it is of no consequence. Deculein’s strength is renowned in the Mortal Realm today."

As a formidable practical mage, Deculein was the real deal. His tales of matching Rohakan in strength were well-known to Kreto, even though the Imperial Knights Order kept them classified.

"Anyway, ensure I have a seat when the Place of Verification is ready. This is an order. Make certain I get a spot," Grand Prince Kreto commanded.

The competition for tickets would undoubtedly be fierce, attracting high-ranked mages from everywhere.

"Yes, Your Highness, there will be no issues," Fassbender responded confidently to Kreto’s request.

Meanwhile, on another Floating Island, in the upper floors of Megiseon.

"How amazing! He really submitted it!" Chairwoman Adrienne exclaimed as she read a letter from the Wizard Academic in her private mansion.

The letter stated that Deculein\'s paper was remarkably rational and highly likely to provide the solution, requesting verification.

"I heard it\'s the sixth problem," someone remarked.

"Yes, it truly is the sixth problem!" Adrienne responded, engaged in conversation with someone.

The person was a mage with long black hair tied in a ponytail. Unlike the petite and youthful Chairwoman, this secret guest had a cold, mature demeanor.

"But are you aware that Deculein is in danger because of your actions?"

"Why? What’s happened to Deculein?" Adrienne asked.

Adrienne was a progressive person who didn\'t judge others by their background or current affiliations. Her sole criterion was whether someone posed a threat to her.

“Many are targeting Deculein. Gareck, that madman, Gleifer, Helgen... even within the Ashes, his name is often mentioned.”

Gareck, the Multi-Persona. Gleifer, the Slayer. Helgen, the Walking Dead. Each was a notorious figure within the Ashes.

"It’s all because you’ve been extolling Deculein\'s strength," the unknown mage said.

"Huh?! How is that my fault? Thia, you also lost to Deculein!" Adrienne exclaimed.

Her real name was Cynthia, now known as Arlos. About ten years ago, at just fourteen, she caught Adrienne’s eye and became her unofficially taught protégé. She also set up the barrier in the third dormitory building of the Mage Tower a month ago.

"Back then, I was merely a puppet. Had I not been, victory would have been mine."

"You\'re funny. Had you not been a puppet, you would have died there!"

"I had no intention of harming any mage at that time."

Ten years ago, Cynthia lacked the potential to become an archmage but had the talent to excel in a specific category. Recognizing this, Adrienne personally took the orphaned girl under her wing and educated her.

"Why bring it up, then?" Adrienne asked.

"... This is to inform you that the Ashes have placed a bounty on Deculein’s head."

"Got it! Now, tell me, where is my doll?!"

Arlos pulled a small dog from her bag. It was an adorable puppy.

"Wow! How adorable...! It must have a long lifespan, right?"

"Indeed. I made its body small for that very reason. As long as it has mana, it will live for well over a hundred years, long after you have passed. But may I ask, why are you so concerned with longevity?"

"Who knows~?" Adrienne said, smiling faintly. "Living a long life is wonderful!"

Adrienne was well aware of her bloodline and her own lifespan. Loving someone was difficult when a fairy’s life was so long. Fairies live two or even three times longer than the longest-living humans and never age. Only a doll that lives and moves for a long time could share her time.

Adrienne\'s discovery of Arlos and her remarkable talent, along with her decision to personally tutor the girl, were no coincidence. Unaware of this, Arlos often did not understand Adrienne\'s actions but respected her as a mentor despite her playful, mischievous, and sometimes annoying demeanor.

"May I examine that thesis—"

"No! It uses iris recognition!"

Arlos slyly extended her hand, but Adrienne widened her eyes and tucked the paper into her bosom. Arlos withdrew her hand, grumbling.

"Hmm. He actually solved the sixth problem..." Arlos murmured to herself.

Suddenly, she recalled her first meeting with Deculein. His words echoed in her mind, "Wretches unworthy of society, despised by all. Lacking the structure of a human, devoid of the charm of a beast, mere filth like maggots. Your only talent is writhing in the dirt, your base nature utterly irredeemable."

The harsh voice that uttered those words, the curses and maledictions born of anger, still echoed in her mind. She understood well why they despised the Ashes.

"... The more I think about it, the angrier I get," Arlos muttered.

The more she dwelled on it, the hotter her face became. If she ever encountered him again, she would surely seek her revenge.

"Oh! It\'s moving! Look, it\'s moving!" Adrienne exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement.

Arlos glanced over. The small dog, now animated by Adrienne’s pure mana as its life force, was whimpering and following her around. Arlos chuckled softly and left the mansion.

***

On Monday, I installed a blackboard in the annex of the Yukline mansion, identical to the one in the Mage Tower’s lecture room.

───────

[Twin Blackboard]

◆ Information:

A blackboard crafted from mana stones. It functions as a pair. Enhanced resonance due to the Midas Touch

◆ Category:

Device ? Communication

◆ Special Effects:

Anything inscribed on one blackboard is simultaneously conveyed to the other. This connection cannot be severed by any magical interference.

[Midas Touch: Level 4] ───────

Designed to facilitate two-way communication within and outside the barrier, it was upgraded using Midas Touch. When text is written on the blackboard in the annex, it appears identically on the blackboard in the lecture room. This setup enabled communication with the Debutants.

[Grade 5 Mid-Boss Event: Baron of Ashes]

All of this is preparation for the Grade 5 boss battle. Naturally, we don\'t know when the Baron of Ashes will appear. Also, since professors like me can\'t interfere in this event, my involvement stops here.

"With a little help, they should be able to manage on their own."

Fortunately, two of the Debutants are exceptionally bright. Unlike me, who relies on the system, Epherene and Sylvia have extraordinary growth potential. They are truly remarkable.

Knock, knock—

"Master, it’s Ren."

I opened the door with telekinesis. Soon after, Ren entered, bowing his head slightly as he handed me the documents.

"Master, there are rumors that Count Zeit is planning to take over the Freyhem Knights Order," he reported. "I\'ve also recorded several other pieces of information."

"... Zeit?" I asked.

"Yes, Master. There are also rumors that he has already booked the wedding venue."

The report was somewhat troubling. I began by reading through the documents, and the detail exceeded my expectations. Although my staff consisted only of Ren and Enen, and their coverage was still limited, the accuracy of the information about those around me was quite satisfactory.

"Well done," I said, feeling that they had certainly earned their salaries.

I handed Ren a book I was currently revising, Yukline: Understanding Element Magic.

He looked puzzled, so I explained, "I\'ve occasionally heard sounds of magic coming from your residence. It\'s probably your younger sister, Enen."

Ren seemed unaware, but it was clear that Enen, like Yeriel, was secretly studying magic.

"I apologize. I will make sure she is properly educated and stays out of trouble," Ren said.

"The book will handle education. If my subordinates have talent, it benefits me. Let her learn."

Ren looked at me with surprise, which irritated me. He should simply follow orders and accept what he’s given. There’s no need for him to show expressions of gratitude or astonishment.

"Yes, sir. Thank you—"

"Prepare to leave."

"Yes, Master."

I stepped outside with Ren and saw a familiar face waiting for me in the parking lot. It was Louina.

"Boss, I\'ve been waiting for you," Louina said when she saw me.

"Should I send her away?" Ren asked.

I shook my head and said, "Let her stay."

Ren silently opened the back door of the car. I got in first, and Louina quickly took the seat beside me. She looked tired.

"What brings you here?" I asked her.

"Are you on your way to instruct Her Majesty?" she asked.

"Yes. And you’re scheduled for tomorrow, I presume?"

"Yes, that\'s right. But I have some information to share," Louina said, shrugging as she pulled a bundle of papers from her bag. "I intended to ask these questions at the Place of Verification and have already shared them with the Symposium judges."

“And?”

"But doing so might breach my contract, and you’ve given me opportunities. So, Boss, I wanted to give you a chance to withdraw."

Her offer felt like a charming threat.

I calmly replied, "A chance to withdraw, you say?"

"Yes, Boss. Read it over," Louina said, handing me the papers.

I spent three minutes intently reading the analysis of my solution to the sixth problem.

"... Louina."

"Yes?" Louina replied, trying to hide a smile.

I gazed at her steadily and said, "These are good questions. Present them just as they are at the Place of Verification."

"Wait, what?" Louina said, taken aback, her brow furrowing in confusion. "Boss, you need to reconsider—"

"Louina," I said, cutting her off.

"... Yes, why?"

I cleared my throat a couple of times. She seemed reluctant to accept it, so I decided to make my explanation more convincing.

"Listen carefully. My interpretation of runes, though fortunate, is based on solid reasoning. I am not the same Deculein as before. This idea comes from my own insight. My linguistic skills prove it."

Louina looked completely baffled; it was clear she didn’t understand any of the languages I had just spoken.

"I just spoke in nine different languages," I said.

"... What?"

"It is safe to assume there is no language I do not know."

Naturally, the continent has an imperial language that functions as a common tongue, much like modern English. However, each kingdom has its own native language. There are also various tribal languages, ancient tongues, and dead languages. I learned all these diverse languages solely for the purpose of reading.

"I assure you, I can master any language within ten days of first encountering it."

Because of the original Deculein\'s vanity, my library was filled with books written in foreign languages. Searching for translations was too bothersome, so I learned the languages myself and became fluent in nearly all the languages on this continent.

"Runes are also a form of language. Naturally, mastering them took longer. Is this sufficient for your understanding?"

Louina stood there, her mouth agape. Then she let out a hollow laugh—ha, ha-ha, ha—that sounded forced, like a robot trying to imitate human emotion.

"Well... I never knew you had a talent for languages, Boss," Louina muttered weakly, leaning against the window. Her frail shoulders slumped, and her empty gaze drifted over the passing scenery.

"What\'s bothering you? It\'s just a minor challenge."

"... A minor challenge?" Louina repeated, wrinkling her nose.

"Yes, it\'s just solving a problem," I said, nodding. "You\'re four years younger than me, so you have plenty of time to grow. Time is on your side. I promise, in five years, neither of us will be a hindrance to the other."

The main quest wasn\'t lengthy. With half a year already spent in this world, only about four years remained.

Louina gave a weak smile and said, "... Five years to end this unfortunate connection with you is a bargain, Boss. But why specifically five years?"

"There’s no need to know now. You’ll find out in time."

At that moment, Ren announced our arrival. Outside, the imposing walls of the Imperial Palace loomed.

Stepping out of the car, I instructed Ren, "Take Louina to the Mage Tower."

"Yes, sir."

"... Thanks for the courtesy, Boss," Louina said, waving from the car.

As the car drove away, I headed toward the Imperial Palace.

***

Ashes emerged from the depths of darkness. A parasite that fed on emotions burrowed into emotional voids and scars. It led the host\'s thoughts down a malignant path, and as the self was gnawed away by negativity and shriveled in agony, it began to take over the body, starting from the most vulnerable parts and eventually consuming it entirely.

Louina staggered back to the Mage Tower. Today, more than ever, the whole world seemed to sway. She pressed the button for the 23rd floor, her office. Sitting blankly in the worn-out chair, she thought about Deculein\'s words. Five years. Just five years. She could endure that, yet she still had to suffer through it.

Her eyes fell on a letter on her desk, as though someone had broken in to deliver it. It was a note from the Mage Council.

Notice of Expulsion: Monarch-Rank Louina, Mage Council

Louina stared at the words, dumbfounded. It was a clear severance. Those who had incited her were now abandoning her to align with Deculein once more.

Thump—

Her heart pounded.

Thump—

Her entire body heated up as unbearable dark emotions hammered against her skull, like a hot spike driving into her temple.

"You cocksucking motherfuckers. You shit-for-brains assholes."

Louina closed her eyes. Ashes slowly rose from her shoulders, and the dark particles spread like cobwebs, engulfing the entire office on the 23rd floor.

***

Sylvia\'s team was busy reviewing their assignments in the study room on the 20th floor of the Mage Tower.

"I’ve checked everything. No issues here. What about you?" Epherene asked.

"None," Sylvia replied as she and Epherene carefully examined each part of their project.

At that moment, the door opened, and Eurozan entered with his hands full of snacks, signaling it was time for a break.

"Perfect timing. Thanks," Epherene said, immediately reaching for some dried squid for her snack.

Eurozan commented, "With exams coming up, the study room, library, and magic training rooms are all packed. It seems like all the Debutants are here."

Anticipating this, Epherene had reserved a spot in the Mage Tower library as early as four in the morning.

"Ah, I hope the finals will be easier this time, considering all the chaos we\'ve been through."

"Who knows. What are your plans for the break?" asked one of the male team members.

"I have to return to our territory. We need more mages there, so I can’t stay in the Mage Tower for long," he replied.

The three men continued chatting while Epherene chewed on a piece of dried squid, trying to cool her overheated mind.

Boom—! boom—!

Suddenly, a dull thud echoed through the room, seeming to come from the wall.

"What was that? Is someone fighting outside?"

Boom—! boom—!

Aaaaaaaah—!

The thudding quickly turned into screams. Alarmed, Epherene and the team members rushed out of the study room.

"Wha-what’s happening?"

In the hallway, a mage stood with his back to them. Epherene recognized him by the back of his head—it was their fellow colleague Debutant, Roton.

She approached him cautiously and asked, "Roton? Is that you? Are you okay? Who were you fighting with—"

Before she could finish, Roton spun around. His eyes were hollow, and black ash poured from his gaping mouth and ears like vomit.

"Ahh!" Epherene screamed, instinctively casting a spell to push him away before bolting back into the study room.

As soon as the door slammed shut, Epherene asked frantically, "D-did you all s-see that?! Did you see it too?!"

The other four stood in shock, needing a moment to process what they had just witnessed.

"What was that...? Oh, I get it," Epherene said, suddenly smiling as if she had an epiphany. "I must be dreaming. I must have fallen asleep from exhaustion while studying. That’s it, right?"

"... A dream?"

"Yeah, it must be a dream. I haven’t slept at all in the past two days because of training."

Sylvia moved without hesitation. She then stretched out her hand and slapped Epherene hard across the face.

Slap—!

A sharp crack echoed through the room. With a snap of her wrist, Sylvia’s swing sent Epherene reeling, her head whipping to the side.

"Ow..." Epherene groaned, turning her eyes toward Sylvia, tears welling up.

The pain was so intense that she couldn’t even scream. Her lips moved silently, her eyebrows twitching with pain and resentment.

"You... you...."

"Does it hurt?"

"Of course, it hurts! You slapped me so hard!" Epherene shouted, her voice shaking with anger.

Sylvia nodded and said, "Sorry, but if it hurts, it can\'t be a dream. I just wanted to make sure you knew."

Epherene was too stunned to respond. Sylvia then turned to the three men.

"And you three?" Sylvia asked.

Afraid of being slapped, they quickly responded, "No, no, it\'s definitely not a dream. There\'s no way this is a dream, Epherene. Let\'s be realistic!"

Following Deculein’s advice, Sylvia had been working out for five days. She could feel her physical abilities improving as she gazed out the study room window. However, the sight of Roton’s grotesque transformation left her uneasy.

“This is so unfair... It hurts so much... Is it such a big deal to say something wrong just once? Is it?” Epherene muttered, her eyes filled with tears and frustration.

Sylvia ignored her and concentrated on the task at hand.