A Villain's Will to Survive

Chapter 93: Second Semester (2)

In Hadecaine Castle, Yeriel lifted the necklace from the desk. It seemed to be an artifact, likely designed to record specific scenes.

“Please, have a look,” Jolang urged, gesturing toward the necklace.

Despite her suspicious expression, Yeriel channeled her mana into the crystal orb of the necklace.

— Ensure the mission is completed without fail. Regardless of the outcome, keep Yeriel confined to the territory.

A familiar voice emerged from the device as Yeriel silently watched the recording.

— She was only ever useful for that one purpose.

Jolang closely watched her expression, but Yeriel never showed weakness in front of an enemy.

— Her every move is insignificant, so it should be secure, but add surveillance to the task list to be certain.

The recording showed Deculein seated in an ornate chair in his mansion in the capital, swirling a wine glass with a scowl on his face.

— If she dares to attempt anything foolish...

Deculein glanced toward someone offscreen, revealing only a brief glimpse of red hair.

— You know what needs to be done; there’s no need for me to explain further. I have a deep disdain for those who don’t know their place...

The recording came to an end. Though brief, it was dated to last year.

“As a mage, Lady Yeriel, I’m confident you can verify the authenticity of this artifact... Please, take a look,” Jolang said with a smile as he produced a sealed document. “Red hair is quite rare, so I conducted a thorough investigation...”

Jolang had leveraged his connections within the Adventurer’s Guild to restore a particular document. Even the guild, known for its loyalty, had been swayed by the eunuch’s influence.

“Can you see the target listed here?”

It was a section of the Ganesha-Deculein contract. Yeriel examined the part Jolang pointed out.

Guild Submission Contract

◆ Overview: The Red Garnet Adventure Team will diligently execute the mission assigned by Deculein von Grahan-Yukline.

◆ Target: Yeriel von Delrun-Yukline.

◆ Details: Due to security concerns, the specifics will be communicated orally. (*Payment for top-secret mission. Not to be recorded in the guild submission contract.)

◆ Duration: Effective until a mutual agreement is reached.

◆ Seal: Deculein

“You are the target. I don’t know the specifics of the mission, but it’s not difficult to infer—”

“Retard.”

“... Excuse me?” Jolang was taken aback by her unexpected response.

Yeriel smirked as she met his gaze and said, “Are you only now realizing that Deculein and I don’t get along?”

“... Haha, I see. Is that so?”

“If someone heard us talking, they might assume I’ve been managing the territory so diligently because I’m just so fond of Deculein... Anyway, if you’re done, get out.”

Jolang maintained his composure as he replied, “Then we should be able to understand each other even better.”

“Understand? Are you actually a retard? You can’t even follow a simple command to get out.”

He held his smile, but it quickly faded as Yeriel’s next words struck him.

“You fucking dickless bastard.”

Jolang’s fist clenched under the desk. His eyes flashed with anger and humiliation, and his entire body trembled.

Yeriel curled her lips and said, “What are you staring at? I told you to get the fuck out.”

“... One day, you’ll regret this,” Jolang hissed through gritted teeth before storming out of the room.

As Yeriel watched him leave with the knight from the Imperial Palace, she gradually turned her attention to the necklace and contract on her desk.

“Lady Yeriel,” the butler said as he entered the room.

Yeriel gazed silently out the window. Jolang’s angry footsteps still echoed faintly from the hallway, but outside, the night had already settled into a calm stillness. The sky was filled with stars.

“You know,” Yeriel murmured softly to her butler, a trace of loneliness in her voice.

“Yes?”

“I suppose Deculein never intended to keep his promises from the start.”

She rested her fingers on the contract and the necklace, sighing as she faced the truth. All this time, Deculein had been deceiving her. He had lulled her into a false sense of security with promises of oaths, all while secretly orchestrating these vile schemes behind her back. His plan had always been to betray her when the moment was right.

“Is that so?”

Deculein had given her nothing but empty promises, while she, foolishly, placed her trust in him and asked for nothing in return. He had depended on her lingering sense of family loyalty to refuse a binding oath.

“What am I supposed to do now?”

Of course, she couldn’t let Deculein know any of this—not even a hint. There was no danger of Jolang telling him either; Jolang had approached her specifically because he didn’t want Deculein to gain any more power than he already had.

The butler spoke gently, “... Lady Yeriel, this territory has always stood by your side.”

Though those words offered some comfort, Yeriel couldn’t shake the deep sadness that lingered. Deep in her heart, she still yearned to be close to the man she once called her older brother, to share a bond with him again.

“Thanks. You can leave now.”

“Yes, Lady Yeriel. Rest well.”

Alone in the darkened office, Yeriel switched off the lights, letting the night sky spill through the windows. In the darkness, she replayed the recording from the necklace. As Deculein’s cold words echoed and she reviewed the incriminating contract, Yeriel silently wiped away her tears.

***

Students trickled back with their luggage, the air filled with the distant clashing of swords and the shouts of knight cadets. The once-quiet shopping streets had come alive with renewed energy. It was clear that the new semester at Imperial University was just around the corner.

“Head Professor!”

While students returning from their hometowns or vacations rested leisurely in anticipation of the new semester, it was a different story for the professors. Both the general faculty and magic professors were fully occupied with preparing their lessons for the term ahead.

“Here it is, sir.”

I glanced up as Allen approached, shuffling through some documents. Despite earlier signs that he might leave after the last semester, it seemed he had chosen to stay on a bit longer.

“These are the previous course proposals you asked for,” Allen said as he handed over a stack of documents.

These proposals were written by Epherene’s father, a figure still wrapped in mystery. I planned to use them as a reference for the upcoming semester.

“... Hmm,” I muttered.

I reviewed the Course Proposal, Pure Utilization of the Four Elements. The curriculum focused on refining elemental control, but it was clear why Deculein had rejected it—it was far too advanced, more appropriate for postgraduate or doctoral students than undergraduates.

“This seems like it will be quite an advanced course.”

“An advanced course?!” Allen repeated, his eyes widening in surprise.

I nodded, noting the admiration on Allen’s face. I intended to adjust the course title to better suit my strengths, perhaps to something like Pure Utilization of the Four Elements: Manipulation Category or Pure Utilization of Earth and Fire, reflecting my own expertise. After all, Deculein’s talent lay in the manipulation category, particularly with the elements of earth and fire.

"You've done well. You're dismissed."

“Oh, and there’s a letter as well. It came in the mail,” Allen said, handing over the mail from the sponsor’s mailbox—likely just a single letter from Epherene. “I’ll take my leave now.”

After Allen departed, I immediately opened the letter.

To My Esteemed Sponsor,

I hope this letter finds you well.

I am writing to inform you that I have now officially become a Solda, leaving behind my status as a Debutant. However, I must admit that I feel less fortunate now than I did before. This is largely due to my decision to volunteer under Professor Deculein—a far more demanding mentor than I ever imagined. Though it was my choice, I find myself questioning it at times...

(Content omitted)

Unfortunately, your generous sponsorship funds have quickly diminished, taken by something known as intellectual property fees, which seemed to consume them as quickly as a snail devours leaves.

Nevertheless, I want to assure you that I, Solda Epherene, am determined to surpass this blue snail and become a mage worthy of your support. I will prove that your belief in me was not misplaced.

Until that day, I will continue to work diligently and strive toward excellence.

With sincere gratitude,

Solda Epherene

"A blue snail, huh..." I murmured, carefully folding the letter before placing it in the drawer.

Then, I activated the crystal orb that displayed the interior of the Assistant’s Research Lab.

Whiiir—

The hologram of the research lab materialized, revealing Drent and Epherene. Epherene was immersed in her studies while Drent concentrated on his research.

“It feels somewhat vacant.”

The lab was filled with high-end items—luxurious desks and chairs, premium air purifiers, and advanced temperature regulators. Despite being spacious enough for dozens, it felt empty with only two people present. Sylvia's absence was particularly evident; she had been exceptional in every way, from her attendance to her grasp of the material and natural talent.

“... I trust she’s managing well on the Floating Island.”

It was better for Yukline and Iliade to keep their distance. Anything closer could provoke unpredictable chaos from Glitheon.

“It’s time,” I said, checking my watch before stepping out of the office.

Today's task was an inspection in my capacity as Director of the Planning and Coordination Office. My first destination was the 43rd floor, where the most resources were currently being consumed—Louina’s office.

Ding—

As soon as I exited the elevator, a frown crossed my face. The hallway was packed with mages.

Louina, who was overseeing the group, noticed my presence and said, "Ah, you've arrived, PCO Director.”

I smirked and remarked, "... You certainly have a large number of assistants."

"Ah, they're only interns for now."

“Interns?”

“Yes.”

"How many interns do you have?"

“One hundred. We had so many applicants that we had to limit it to that number,” Louina replied casually.

It really wasn’t significant. Even if you added up the skills of ten of those interns, they still wouldn’t match Drent, and all one hundred of them combined couldn’t hold a candle to Epherene.

“It’s as if this place is crawling with pests,” I remarked sharply before I realized it.

The bustling hallway went silent. Nearly all of Louina’s hundred assistant interns turned to look at me but quickly returned to their tasks when our eyes met.

Louina crossed her arms, her tone slightly offended as she said, "Pests? Isn’t that a bit too harsh?"

“... Just give me the report.”

"Here it is, fully organized," Louina said, handing over the report as if she had anticipated this request.

After a quick glance, I tucked the report into my briefcase.

"By the way, PCO Director, I heard you took in a child from the Luna family. What do you intend to do with her? She appears to have talent."

I stared at Louina in silence. She met my gaze, looking up at me. It occurred to me that she was an alumnus and might know something about the connection between Deculein and Epherene’s father.

Louina blinked before continuing, “Well, that’s your concern. In any case, here are the Lokralen tickets and the conference invitation. The Academic Conference requested that I deliver them to you.”

The Lokralen Academic Conference cordially invites Head Professor Deculein to attend our upcoming conference! We would be honored by your presence!

[Main Quest: The Eccentric Lokralen Conference]

◆ Store Currency +1

◆ Mana Point +50

The Lokralen Academic Conference—known among mage players as a key location for main quests.

I accepted the invitation letter and asked, “Will you be attending as well?”

“Sorry? Ah, no, I’m too busy~ The Lokralen ticket allows you to bring three guests, so feel free to take whomever you choose, Boss.”

***

"Hey, Sylvia, 'bout time ya showed up~" Rogerio greeted as Sylvia finally reached the Floating Island.

Today, they were meeting at Pentamol, located on the 10th floor of Megiseon, the largest and most renowned library on the island. This was the grand repository of the world’s knowledge, a place Sylvia had dreamed of visiting for a long time.

“Here ya go. A day pass,” Rogerio said, handing her the pass.

Only those ranked Lumiere, the 5th rank or higher, could enter, while only those ranked Ethereal, the 2nd rank or above, had the authority to grant access. Rogerio had given Sylvia a day pass.

“Thank you,” Sylvia said.

“No worries. Let’s get in heah,” Rogerio said, swinging the door wide like she’d done it a million times.

The 10th floor of Megiseon was an expansive library that filled the entire floor. The immense scale of the space and the scent of countless books left Sylvia in awe.

“It’s enormous.”

“Ayuh, an Archmage’s wicked strong magic made this place. Betcha it’s bigger than the whole capital, no lie. They got damn near every book in the world here, from them fancy grimoires to plain ol’ lit too.”

“May I borrow anything?” Sylvia inquired.

“You can grab up to three books at once, but if they’re copyrighted, ya gonna hafta cough up some dough for the intellectual whatever that was.”

“Intellectual property fees,” Sylvia corrected.

"Yeah, that," Rogerio nodded, like the word was too fancy for her regular lingo. Big words weren’t really her thing.

“See that desk ovah there? If ya need anything special, just ask that kid. He’s known as the Library Addict,” Rogerio said, pointing to a robed mage behind the desk.

"The Library Addict?" Sylvia asked, her tone reflecting a hint of confusion.

“Yup, that’s right. The Floating Island’s got all kinds of addicts, but this guy’s the best of ’em. He knows where every damn book is in this whole place—his brain’s wicked fused with the library,” Rogerio explained.

Sylvia nodded and approached the desk, asking, “Are there any books authored by Deculein?”

“There are ten books by Deculein, but two of them are currently under copyright protection,” the Library Addict replied.

Rogerio's eyes went wide as she asked, “Whaddya lookin’ for Deculein’s books for? Mosta his old stuff’s junk, ‘cept these three right here.”

She then waved her hand, pulling three papers from the heart of the library—Concentration of Pure Elements, The Complexities of the Four Elements, and Methods for Element Creation.

"After these three, Deculein lost his edge. Sure, he’s made a comeback lately, but these works are what got him that head professor gig. I was just a wicked young teen when they came out,” Rogerio continued.

"Haha. Even now, I still don’t believe Deculein wrote those. Even with his current status as a renowned professor, there are still plenty who think those three papers were ghostwritten," another voice chimed in.

Sylvia turned to find a mage stroking his long beard—Gindalf.

Rogerio scowled and said, “What’re ya doin’ here, old man? Why ya buttin’ in on my explainin’?”

“I’m here to meet Sylvia, who will soon reach our rank,” Gindalf said warmly, his eyes resting on Sylvia. “You’ve made a wise choice coming to the Floating Island. What more could you possibly learn at the Mage Tower?”

“By the way, Sylvia, did ya know? This old fella once squared off with Yukline ‘cause of Iliade,” Rogerio said.

“Haha, that’s hardly worth bringing up,” Gindalf replied with a chuckle.

Gindalf had taken Iliade’s side during the war with the Yukline family. Though he had benefited from Iliade’s support growing up, his true motive was a deep-seated disdain for the former head of the Yukline family.

“Thank you,” Sylvia replied briefly before turning back to the Library Addict. “What’s Deculein’s most recent book?”

“This one, Understanding Pure Elements: Yukline Edition,” the Library Addict said, pulling a floating book.

“Ah, Sylvia. Ya ain't gonna be able to rent that one,” Rogerio said, smiling bitterly.

Sylvia looked at him and asked, “Why not?”

“Deculein only sold it in small batches to a chosen few, right?” Rogerio asked.

“Yes, that’s correct. Deculein gifted this book to only seventeen individuals, and it’s been highly acclaimed. While I haven’t personally read it, Lumiere Kreto called it the definitive textbook, encompassing everything from the fundamentals to advanced concepts in Pure Element theory.”

“So, even Kreto, the Empress’s brothah, gave it the nod?” Rogerio asked, clearly impressed.

“Yes. Astal, the Addict who reviewed the book, also included it in the 100 Essential Mid-Level Theory Books for the Floating Island. He praised Monarch Deculein for his precise articulation of the previously vague concept of Pure Elements, calling him a defining figure of our time.”

Rogerio furrowed her brow and said, “Ain’t that somethin’? Why’d they go and write a masterpiece like that and not sell it? Nobody’s gonna know how wicked good it is if it ain’t out there. I’d love to get my hands on it myself.”

“So, I can’t rent it?” Sylvia asked again.

“Didn’t ya hear, Sylvia? ‘Course ya can’t—”

“You can. Solda Sylvia is permitted,” the Library Addict interjected, contradicting Rogerio.

Rogerio squinted and asked, “Huh? Whaddya mean? If I can’t borrow it, why can she?”

The Library Addict turned mechanically to face Rogerio and said, “Solda Sylvia is listed among those authorized by Monarch Deculein to rent it.”

“... Sylvia? Really? That true?”

“Yes. It’s true.”

Rogerio turned to Sylvia, who appeared confused, while behind her, Gindalf stroked his beard thoughtfully.

“Did ya know ‘bout this?” Rogerio asked.

“No,” Sylvia responded, shaking her head in apparent confusion.

The Library Addict repeated, “Would you like to rent it?”

“Y-yes, I’ll rent it,” Sylvia stammered.

The book, Understanding Pure Elements: Yukline Edition, settled gently into her hands. Sylvia ran her fingers over the soft cover in silence.

Rogerio licked his lips and asked, “Sylvia, can I get a peek at it latah? Or at least fill me in on what’s in there? I’m wicked curious—hey! Where ya goin’?!”

Clip-clop—

Sylvia wasted no time. She turned on her heel and sprinted away.

***

Late at night, in the assistant research lab on the 77th floor of the Mage Tower.

“I can’t take it anymore! How am I supposed to finish all of this before the semester starts?” Epherene shouted, her frustration echoing through the empty lab. She had only made it halfway through the third book, Harmony of the Four Elements.

“Are you okay?” Drent, another assistant, asked with concern as he focused on an experiment involving mana stones to test spell responses.

Epherene sighed deeply and asked, “Drent, why did you choose to become Deculein’s assistant? There are rumors that he blackmailed you into it.”

Many believed that Drent, with his bright future ahead, had been coerced by Deculein. The notion that he had been blackmailed was almost taken as fact among the students at the Mage Tower.

“Of course I wasn’t blackmailed,” Drent said, shaking his head firmly to dismiss the rumor. “He helped me fix my mistake, so I decided to come here. I’m sorry about what happened before. I must have been out of my mind, too focused on the results.”

“... It’s fine. I guess it just shows how good my idea was.”

“Haha. It truly was. I’m sorry.”

“Sigh... But,” Epherene muttered, glancing at the towering stack of books on her desk. There were thirteen in total, but each one was so dense it felt like reading sixty regular books. Each was nearly 700 to 800 pages long. “This can’t be real. Thirteen advanced texts? It’s impossible.”

Her sponsorship funds had disappeared, swallowed up by something called intellectual property fees. Now, she couldn’t even afford her favorite snack, Roahawk, ever again.

Drent gave her a sympathetic smile and asked, “Is there anything I can do to help?”

“No, it's fine... The professor left already, right?”

“Yeah. About two hours ago, I think.”

“Ah~ In that case, I’ll wrap up for the night. I need some rest.”

“Alright. Take care,” Drent replied, remaining behind to finish his work.

Epherene exited the lab, planning to head directly to the elevator. However, she hesitated and glanced down the corridor at the large door at the far end—the Head Professor’s Office. Epherene swallowed nervously, her throat tightening with anxiety.

At some point, her father had sent her a letter, explaining that he had hidden his research records inside Deculein’s office. He had no choice but to conceal his work there, right under Deculein’s watchful eye, as it was the only place where he could evade the professor’s relentless scrutiny.

“So, the professor left two hours ago,” Epherene reminded herself, scanning the dark, empty 77th floor.

At this hour, the floor should be deserted. It was already 2 a.m. Moving with light, cautious steps, she made her way toward the Head Professor’s Office.

Sneak-sneak—

Moving cautiously, she reached the door in just thirty seconds, though it felt much longer. Sweat formed on her forehead as she grasped the doorknob and pushed it slightly. To her surprise, the door opened. Epherene tensed, startled—it wasn’t locked. Or perhaps it had been, but somehow it had unlocked the moment she touched it. Maybe her father had anticipated this.

“... Gulp.”

The office was shrouded in darkness, every corner swallowed by shadows. Moving carefully on her hands and knees, she brushed her fingers over the cold tiles. Her father had promised she would recognize the hidden spot instantly, but nothing felt right. Maybe it was further ahead, or perhaps Deculein had already taken everything as Sylvia once mentioned.

“No,” Epherene muttered, shaking her head as she kept crawling forward.

Struggling to see, she gathered mana in her palm, using its faint glow to light her search.

Then, her hand brushed against something solid. Confident she had found the spot, Epherene gripped the edge, but it refused to budge. As she looked closer, she realized it was a shoe. She slowly raised her eyes.

"... Huh?"

For a moment, her mind went blank. She froze, still holding the shoe. Above her, a pair of cold, glowing blue eyes stared down, their intensity cutting through the darkness. It wasn’t a special arrangement by her father after all. It was simply...

“What is it that you’re searching for?”

Deculein, the master of the office, was still there.