A Villain's Will to Survive

Chapter 48: Group Project (2)

I noticed Epherene and Sylvia seated together, coincidentally placed in the same group. They were glaring at each other.

Sylvia muttered, "Arrogant Epherene."

"... What?"

It was an interesting sight, but I chose to ignore it and refocused on the class. There were still two hours left.

"Now, we will distribute the crystal orbs. Allen, proceed."

"Yes, sir."

Allen placed a silk pouch filled with crystal orbs on the podium. Using Telekinesis, I floated the orbs to each group. The difficulty of the mana disasters within the orbs varied—some were challenging, while others were relatively easy. The difficulty level was determined by the combined midterm exam scores of each group.

Naturally, Sylvia and Epherene's team received one of the more challenging orbs. The mages chattered among themselves about the crystal orbs.

"Focus," I commanded, and with that single word, the room's chaotic atmosphere settled. All 150 Debutants fixed their attention on me. Meeting their eyes, I spoke with an inherent authority. "Now, we will discuss the act of observing the world. Most of you likely perceive it merely as a series of phenomena."

Just as scientists view the world scientifically, mages should see it magically. However, reaching this level requires maturation and practice. For instance, an engineering student cannot fully grasp the world scientifically—they lack both the skill and familiarity.

Comprehending it requires at least a PhD-level understanding. The same principle applies to mages. From what I’ve observed, these Debutants do not analyze the world’s phenomena through a magical perspective.

"However, the world I perceive is vastly different from the one you see."

This was neither a boast nor a lie. The world genuinely appeared different to me. With my Sharp Eyesight, I could see abstract concepts, phenomena, ideas, and theories. This ability evolved alongside my growing magical knowledge.

"Now, I shall show you the world as I perceive it."

Observations made with Sharp Eyesight might seem impossible to explain, but that is not the case at all. These Debutants are from the Empire's finest Mage Tower of the University and are exceptionally talented mages. Therefore, teaching them is relatively straightforward.

"Do not miss a single word I say or a single line of the spell I draw."

If I accurately illustrate how I perceive the world with Sharp Eyesight, they will use it as a guide to study independently. By merely observing and replicating the views seen through my Sharp Eyesight, they will gain understanding. This method’s effectiveness has already been confirmed through experiments with Allen.

“Let us commence.”

First, I cast the Frost Fog from within a small crystal orb, replicating the mana disaster.

"Frost Fog. This is how I perceive this disaster."

The fog transformed into lines and circles as I demonstrated the process slowly and clearly. The mages watched intently, taking detailed notes.

"Sea of Flames. This mana disaster is particularly unusual, transforming the sea itself into a blazing inferno, rendering it nearly impossible to extinguish..."

I demonstrated various mana phenomena exactly as I saw them, attempting to convey the world observed through my Sharp Eyesight.

One, two, three, four...

After eight demonstrations, I checked the time. It was five fifty-nine and fifty seconds.

"... Do not forget the world I showed you today. Where ordinary people merely see passing phenomena, you must observe and interpret them through the lens of magic."

I straightened my sleeves and smoothed the wrinkles in my suit. The mages stared blankly, their notebooks now filled with intricate spells.

"Adopting this mindset is the first step. However, refrain from overreaching. Begin with tasks that match your abilities. Well done today."

At precisely 6 o’clock, the class concluded. I departed the lecture hall, leaving the mages behind. They stayed in their seats.

... After class, Epherene stared blankly at her notebook, which was filled with geometric patterns, each representing the Mana Disaster Transmutation Processes demonstrated by Deculein.

"So, this explains why the fog turns into dirt... Ugh, my head feels like it's going to explode..."

It's difficult. Incredibly difficult. Maddeningly difficult, but achievable. Initially, it seemed impossible, but I was slowly starting to grasp it. Following Deculein's process exactly, I managed to create a small dirt fog in my hand. This was it. Yes, this was dirt fog...

"This feels like the real beginning of the class," said Eurozian, another group member.

Epherene nodded, her head throbbing and said, "I know, my head is killing me."

"Professor Deculein is truly amazing. How does he manage all of this..."

"... I agree," Epherene said, still in awe of Deculein's meticulous description of the process of transmuting mana disasters into spells. She was impressed by the clarity and fluidity of his explanations, yet a hint of skepticism lingered. "If this truly is Deculein's real ability..."

The proficiency Deculein displayed today was astounding. However, Epherene harbored doubts. She suspected he might have found a new pawn to replace her father. Though she had no immediate plans to expose or challenge him, she vowed to uncover the truth eventually, whether in the distant future or soon.

"Arrogant Epherene," Sylvia muttered under her breath, glaring at her.

Epherene shrugged, saying, "What's your problem? Anyway, we need to schedule a meeting for the group project. When is everyone available?"

As no one responded, Epherene nodded, saying, "Alright, Sylvia's mansion then."

"Who gave you the authority to decide that?"

"I mean, your place is the largest. It's the only one that can fit all five of us."

"Fine, but you’re not coming."

"... Can you stop acting so childish?"

***

Meanwhile, preparations for the Marik Opening were progressing vigorously at Yukline's territory.

"What is the current progress?" Yeriel inquired from atop her Red Hare, a fine steed recommended by Deculein. She was in the mountainous region, not far from the northwestern mines.

"The walls, watchtowers, and fortifications are nearing completion. The underground road is still under construction but is expected to be finished by summer," the site manager reported.

"Good," Yeriel replied.

She surveyed the area, recalling the contents of Deculein's letter.

... When Marik opens, the area will be swarmed by demonic beasts. Deploy the troops efficiently by constructing walls, watchtowers, and fortifications at strategic points in the northwest. I will specify the exact locations.

Additionally, construct the road to Marik underground rather than above ground. This underground road can generate revenue through toll charges.

"Indeed, constructing a fortification here provides an excellent vantage point," Yeriel remarked thoughtfully.

"Yes, ma’am. This is indeed an excellent spot. Your discernment in selecting this location is truly remarkable," the site manager responded.

Yeriel glanced at him briefly before retrieving a letter from her coat. She unfolded the four-page letter and turned to the second sheet.

... Do not entertain the thought of bribing the imperial family or officials over the Marik matter. The Empress opened Marik despite her subjects' counsel, and she will remain unswayed by any of them, acting solely on her own convictions.

Also, avoid trying to curry the Empress's favor with lies and flattery, as she abhors such behavior. However, she has a fondness for fine wine, so if you must send a tribute, that will suffice.

Yeriel muttered in amazement, “What is he, some kind of fortune teller...?”

How did he know the vassals were considering bribery? Yeriel thought.

At that moment, a cold flake landed on her nose, startling her. She widened her eyes and looked around, realizing it was snowing.

"Huh?" Yeriel muttered as she opened her hand. A snowflake landed on her gloved palm. Alarmed, she quickly unfolded the third page of the letter.

... There will be occasional abnormal weather. Do not be alarmed; however, snowfall in midsummer could indicate demonic activity. Fortify your defenses as needed.

"What in the world..." Yeriel murmured, frowning deeply.

Feigning genius, yet truly one? Impossible. How could Deculein be a genius? Yeriel thought to herself.

"... Reflecting on it now, it all started earlier this year," Yeriel thought, recalling the beginning of the year.

Deculein's transformation began during the week he secluded himself, canceling all his schedules. Initially, she thought he was heartbroken over Yulie. However, it seemed that something more significant might have happened during that time.

"Well, it makes no difference to me."

Whatever the case, Deculein had returned to his former self, reminiscent of the Whiz Kid he was once called. This change wasn't bad, so Yeriel saw no need to stir up trouble.

"Attention!" Yeriel put away the letter and called out. Everyone in the camp turned to her. "Abnormal weather could indicate demonic activity. Strengthen your defenses, stay vigilant, and avoid acting alone!"

"Yes, ma'am!" the soldiers responded, their voices echoing through the mountains.

"Good response. I shall take my leave now," Yeriel declared.

Satisfied with her dignified demeanor, she nodded regally and took the reins. The Red Hare trotted effortlessly through the snowy mountain path.

***

The next day at 8 a.m., I completed my morning routine and settled in the study to review some documents.

Haileich Yukline Auction: Lucho's Scissors, Darkbottom Carpet, Ancient Saddle...

This was the first auction I would host since acquiring the appraisal office. The list featured items like Lucho's Scissors and the Darkbottom Carpet, among others. Their potential was clear at a glance, and I anticipated a net profit between 60 and 100 million.

Knock knock—

"The appointed hour has arrived," the butler declared.

I rose from my seat, opened the door, and followed him down the stairs.

"There are twenty-three places to visit today, correct?" I inquired the butler.

Today, I had numerous external business matters to address, particularly those that would generate significant revenue.

"Yes, sir."

"Very well. We shall proceed together."

"Yes, sir."

I got into the prepared car, which headed straight to the heart of the capital. The first stop was Lukan's Wharf, a hardware store.

"Oh, you’ve arrived, sir! Been waiting for ya!"

The owner, who also dabbled in inventions, had caught the attention of the Wealthy Magnate. I issued him an investment certificate for a total of three million elne, securing a 30% stake in the business.

"Thank you, sir! I won't let you down!"

"I trust you will not."

Next was the hotel Romance, which appeared on the verge of collapse. The new owner was seeking investors. I wrote an investment certificate for four million elne in exchange for 40% of the shares. The owner began to tear up, overwhelmed with gratitude.

"If you continue to cry, I'll cancel the investment."

"... Sniff!"

The owner promptly stifled her tears, trying to regain her composure.

"Direct your efforts towards the remodeling. Utilizing the Yukline name will significantly ease the procurement of materials."

"Thank you so much! I truly appreciate it!"

After that, I visited various shops, trading companies, blacksmiths, mercenary groups, and more. Each was carefully chosen using my Wealthy Magnate attribute. In total, I invested eighty million elne across twenty-three businesses in the capital. These investments would eventually increase to 120 million.

"Well done, Roy. Let’s return."

"Yes, sir."

By the time we returned, the sunset was painting the sky in hues of orange and red. As I watched the fading light, I exhaled lightly. It had been a satisfying day. The money invested today would soon grow into substantial human and material assets.

“What?!” Roy, who was sitting in the passenger seat, suddenly exclaimed in surprise.

I looked in the same direction and saw a group of people gathered at the gate, accompanied by a lavish banner bearing the Imperial insignia.

"Master," Roy said, his voice unusually urgent.

I nodded and got out of the car. The people from the Imperial family turned to look at me. Among them, I spotted a named knight—Keiron, the Empress’s direct escort knight.

Keiron, his blond hair gleaming in the fading light, approached me and said, "Deculein von Grahan-Yukline, this is a letter from the Imperial family. Receive it with due respect."

I knelt to accept the letter, which read as follows:

The Imperial family informs Deculein, Head Professor of the Mage Tower of the Empire and leader of Yukline, that you have been selected as a candidate for the prestigious position of Imperial Instructor.

You are to share your magical expertise with Her Majesty. This honor extends to both your family and your status as a mage. However, you must first solve a problem devised by Imperial Palace Mage Geor.

“Will you accept the challenge? If you doubt your abilities, the Imperial family will understand if you choose to decline.”

I stood up. Although it was bothersome, I couldn’t refuse such an opportunity. Imperial family quests always came with tremendous rewards.

"How could I possibly decline?"

"Very well," Keiron said, handing me a magic parchment.

The B4-sized paper was covered with intricate spells. I scrutinized it intensely, expending nearly 4,000 mana to derive the solution. The problem’s logic felt somewhat familiar—it involved runes. Carefully, I drew the solution on the answer sheet.

— Congratulations. I am Geor, the Imperial Palace Mage. By solving this problem, you have proven your exceptional skills—

As I channeled mana into the parchment, a voice began to speak. Keiron and the Imperial entourage, who had been on the verge of departing, turned back in surprise.

Keiron, visibly flustered, asked, "Have you already solved it?"

"Yes, I have."

"But how is this possible? Mage Geor claimed it would take at least—"

The parchment's voice persisted:

— I anticipated it would take at least a day or two, possibly even three, yet you have accomplished it. As you have undoubtedly discerned, this problem employs runes.

"It was indeed challenging. Fortunately, I have been immersing myself in the study of runes recently."

— I meticulously crafted the problem to strike a balance, making sure it was neither overly challenging nor overly simplistic—

As the voice continued, Keiron approached, his furrowed brow and creased face showing his astonishment.

"... Yukline von Grahan-Deculein, Yukde—no, Deculein von Grahan-Yukline..." Keiron stammered as he retrieved a card bearing the Imperial seal from his pocket. "This is an invitation from the Imperial family. You have been selected for the examination."

"Thank you," I said, bowing with dignity and poise.

***

The Imperial Palace, built on the most prestigious land in the Empire, is a world unto itself. Its inner spaces are so magical that all four seasons exist simultaneously. In the palace, the northeast was winter, the northwest was summer, the southeast was spring, and the southwest was autumn.

Therefore, the Emperor and Empress live perpetually within all four seasons. The people of the Empire call this wondrous phenomenon the Blessing of the God.

“In that case, is there really a need for a selection test? Just choose Deculein,” Sophien declared in her secluded study, surrounded by ancient tomes and books. She was receiving a report from Keiron.

“Still, it might be prudent to observe a bit longer,” Keiron suggested respectfully.

Sophien raised an eyebrow and remarked with a hint of incredulity, "What is there to observe? It didn't even take a day; he solved it in five seconds."

"It took five minutes."

"Is there such a significant difference between five seconds and five minutes?"

"... It's sixty times longer."

Sophien laughed heartily and asked, “Do you mean to say you favor Louina over Deculein?”

Embarrassed, Keiron lowered his head and said, “... It’s not about personal preference. I believe an impeccable magician is more suitable for the palace. Professor Deculein is surrounded by many rumors, and Louina also solved the problem quickly.”

“How quickly did Louina solve it? In three minutes?”

“... Three hours, Your Majesty.”

"Hmph. The difference between five minutes and three hours is far greater than between ten seconds and five minutes. And don't speak to me of rumors. I trust only what I witness with my own eyes," Sophien said, picking up Geor’s test paper and examining it with intense focus.

Tick-tock— tick-tock— tick-tock—

As the second hand moved precisely 300 times, Sophien's shoulders slumped. With a sigh, she admitted, "Five minutes have passed, and I couldn’t solve it. When he arrives, I’ll ask how he managed it in five minutes."

“... Understood, Your Majesty.”

With that decision, Sophien concluded that Deculein would be the Imperial Instructor.

“Is the selection test for knights still ongoing?”

“It’s quite a practical test for the knights, so it hasn’t commenced yet and may take longer.”

“Didn’t the one responsible for preparing the test sustain an injury?”

Isaac von Derek Lugeden, the Deputy Knight of the Imperial Knights Order, was injured during his expedition to Marik. Considering Isaac's stance against opening Marik, the injury might have been a calculated move.

“So, we are currently seeking another suitable candidate.”

“A suitable candidate...” Sophien said, her expression shifted to a mischievous smile. “Ah, I have a splendid idea.”

Keiron found this ominous and looked at the Empress silently.

"This will be interesting. Listen closely. The examiner, after all, is—”

Keiron sighed at the Empress’s proposal, noting the smile that accompanied it.

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