Chapter 330 - Welcome to St. Esmeralda Girls' Academy!
We decided to come to Berliza with a light-hearted attitude and a sense of future investment. Even if it's in exchange for benefits, I have to pretend to be a teacher.
I thought I could handle it with ease, but now that the day has come, I find myself unusually tense.
I'll just do what I usually do... or maybe not. It'll probably turn out fine, I guess.
Today, I finished my morning training in the hotel room quickly and had breakfast alone. Then, I took my time to get ready.
After a shower, I did my skincare and makeup, and chose a suitable outfit for a traditional school with an upper-class clientele. I can't wear my usual coat with the Kikyo emblem inside the school.
However, the mountain of clothes Torietta-san sends me every season proved to be very useful this time.
The Master Tailor made these clothes specifically for me, and they are both functional and stylish. Most of them are made from materials I provided, and some even have Charlotte's engraving magic on the invisible parts. Almost all the clothes I brought have these features.
Today's outfit is an elegant piece with unconventional defensive capabilities, despite its appearance.
"...Hmm, I look quite sophisticated. A bit too plain, maybe."
The reflection in the mirror shows a slightly warm outfit for summer, but the temperature regulation function makes it comfortable.
The navy blue flared shirt-dress has a voluminous skirt and a belt cinched at the waist, with cream buttons that add a nice touch. The half-up hairstyle in a deep purple complements the look.
Overall, it's very chic and would likely make a good impression on even the most strict people. I debated about accessories and settled on a necklace with the Evil Queen's ring and a communication earring. The necklace is hidden inside the dress, so no one will see it.
Finally, I added oval glasses to soften my appearance and complete the look.
This is quite different from my usual intimidating style.
"Oh, it's already time."
I packed my belongings into a large suitcase and headed to the lobby, where everyone was gathered.
I had the girls stay in a large room to foster camaraderie. Thanks to this, they seem to have bonded even more than during the journey. They now feel like a group of friends, and to an outsider, they don't look like a single target and her five guards.
Valeria noticed me first as I approached.
"Ah, Onee-sama!"
"Yukari-san, good morning. You look amazing!"
"You look completely different. You look smart and beautiful."
Everyone compliments me, but of course. I can't give off a violent organization leader vibe here. I need to create a more suitable image through makeup and fashion. It's part of the job.
"I'm surprised. You seem more conventional than I expected."
"What do you think I am?"
I smirked at my sister's impolite comment. In Exembras, I would have probably made a grand entrance in a flashy manner.
This time, I'm in a foreign place with a new job, so I'll be a bit more cautious. It's better to change my style gradually.
"Speaking of which, you all look different too. Valeria, you look good."
"It's a bit uncomfortable, but I'm happy."
They all look very different from their usual selves. Their prim and proper student uniforms are surprisingly well-suited to them.
The top is a long-sleeved white blouse that's classically designed and lacks any playful elements, fitting the image of a traditional school uniform. The only distinctive features are the embroidered school crest on the left sleeve and the gray bow tie around the neck.
The bottom is a deep gray pleated skirt that ends five centimeters above the knee. It's simple but exudes a sense of purity, especially when worn by someone with a good figure. The uniform is a perfect embodiment of the 'less is more' philosophy.
The shoes are the school's designated black loafers, and the gray socks have the school crest. Even the shoes are classic.
The hairstyles are less strict, and ribbons or headbands are allowed. However, overly flashy accessories like rings or necklaces are prohibited. Valeria and the others will keep their communication earrings in their pockets and use them as needed.
Hmm, the uniform looks quite good. Despite being simple, it's still cute.
The six of us, dressed in brand new uniforms, feel a mix of embarrassment and freshness. We look like typical schoolgirls, and this should help us blend in.
"Let's keep in mind that from today, we need to behave appropriately for a school full of young ladies. Everyone except my sister should remember this is a job. Pay attention to your language and manners."
"Got it! We'll enjoy our student life as reserved and capable young women!"
"Roberta, you're a bit too excited."
Ha, well, this level of excitement is probably more student-like. I'll trust that none of them will forget their job.
"Don't worry. Members of the Anastasia Union will have a special status."
"Even so, we need to be careful. There are high-born and wealthy young ladies who will be troublemakers. We can't just discipline them, so we need to be cautious."
To the noble-born and wealthy, we might seem like outsiders. We're essentially strangers to them, and no matter how well we blend in, something will give us away.
However, as my sister mentioned, members of the Anastasia Union have a different status. This organization, known for its powerful security forces, has connections both openly and secretly. They might even protect us one day, so the young ladies won't mistreat us. Some of their relatives are currently under the care of the Anastasia Union.
In fact, the Grand Master is the Headmistress's savior, and he has agreed to help with this matter. They might tolerate some misbehavior.
"I'll compile a list of people to watch out for and investigate to avoid getting involved in student conflicts."
"Thanks, Layla. Let's go, it's a bit early, but let's head out."
For over a year, I'll be living in a closed school environment. The first day is crucial, so I'll put in my best effort.
We left the hotel in two small armored vehicles, speeding through the quiet, early morning streets.
The school, located on a small hill, is easy to spot, which is helpful. Once we leave the main road, Beltoria's streets become complex and maze-like, even for locals. Narrow roads and many stairs make it quite challenging.
We were careful not to get lost and arrived at the school just as it was still early morning.
"Sigurdnaught-ojou, we've been waiting for you."
At the top of the hill, we were greeted by a fence, gate, and a guardhouse. The school is large, and there are four entrances, with this being the main gate.
When my sister poked her head out the window, several guards from the Anastasia Union gathered to greet her. She seems quite popular, and the atmosphere doesn't suggest any factional conflicts.
"Everyone, thank you for your hard work. We'll be in your care for a while."
"If you have any problems, please let us know!"
"If you ever want to sneak out, just tell us, miss!"
They seem to have been informed that we are my sister's guards. They scrutinize us, likely to assess our skills, but I ignore them. We don't know who's friend or foe, so we won't try to get along.
After a brief greeting and Record Card check, we pass through the grand gate and enter the girls' school.
We park the vehicles in a covered parking area near the entrance and proceed on foot.
"We'll head to the dormitory. What about you, 'Teacher'?"
"There are already several teachers in the main building, so I'll go meet the Headmistress."
The student dormitory and teacher dormitory are separate, so there's no need for me to go with them.
Many students who live in Beltoria commute to school. Only those from other regions or those whose parents want them to experience dormitory life stay in the dorms. The situation is similar for the teachers.
Using magic to sense the area, I detect a large building with many people, which is likely the student dormitory. It's a bit far from the parking area.
The main building, which is closer to the parking area, likely houses the Headmistress and other teachers. There are enough people there that I should be able to find the Headmistress by asking someone.
"I'll see you later, Onee-sama."
"When others are around, call me 'Teacher.'"
"Yes, Onee-sama."
I wonder if she really understands... I bid farewell to the excited girls and enter the main building with my luggage still in the vehicle.
"Wow, it has such a unique atmosphere."
Even from the outside, the old, heavy stone construction exudes a Romanesque style.
The small windows and arched openings at the top of the walls are characteristic. The thick walls give a bulky feel, but they also convey a sense of history.
Despite the old impression, the use of white stones makes it look bright and clean, which is quite nice. It shows the maintenance and cleanliness of the place.
The first impression is that of a prestigious school. It feels like an old but beautiful castle.
"Excuse me, are you the new Yukareed Evilbanshee-sensei?"
I was unexpectedly called by a fake name I prepared for this role. I'll use it when dealing with teachers and students.
I noticed someone outside the open window but didn't realize they had noticed me. I didn't feel their gaze.
"Yes, that's me. May I ask who you are?"
"Oh, I apologize. I'm Woolard, in charge of facility management. Are you about to meet the Headmistress?"
The woman in a black outfit with a white apron looks like a typical custodian, but she's a bit unusual.
Despite her seemingly gentle smile, her posture is without any gaps, ready to move at any moment. She's skilled in magic manipulation and has a physical enhancement spell active without revealing it.
While it's obvious to me, she seems quite capable. She might be associated with the Anastasia Union. In any case, she's not just a custodian.
"I was, but I'm not sure where."
"Of course, let me show you."
Without waiting for my response, the woman moved away from the window, likely heading inside the building.
While waiting, I idly looked outside and saw several well-maintained flower beds and gardening tools. I must have interrupted her work.
"I'm sorry for keeping you waiting. This way, please."
"Thank you, Woolard-san."
"Not at all. By the way, you must have come from quite far, yes?"
"Yes, quite far."
Small talk is fine, but her probing tone makes me uncomfortable. I don't know who, besides the Headmistress, is aware of our situation, but it seems the custodian might not know.
I'll have Layla investigate this custodian.
The Headmistress's office is surprisingly close, and the awkward small talk ended quickly. After thanking her and observing for a bit, it seems she has no intention of monitoring me. She simply walks away.
Regaining my composure, I knock on the door. Without a response, it opens after a few seconds.
A fashionably dressed, extremely thin woman steps out. She has a stern aura, likely the Headmistress. After a brief moment of eye contact, I introduce myself.
"Nice to meet you. I'm here at the recommendation of the Grand Master of the Anastasia Union—"
Ugh. Midway through my introduction, my hand is tightly gripped.
"Thank you so much for coming! We've been expecting you. Welcome to our St. Esmeralda Girls' Academy!"
I'm loudly welcomed while my hand is still held.
Hmm, what is this? She looks like a pretentious, unpleasant woman, but she's overly enthusiastic.
Her welcome is overwhelming. I wonder what this is about."
---
"Our school was founded 522 years ago by the devoted Saint Emeralda, who was passionate about women's education. Starting as a private school teaching etiquette and general knowledge, it has evolved into a prestigious institution with a long and storied history, supported by the Berliza Royal Family. It is one of the most renowned schools in the world."
Invited to the Headmistress's office, I was immediately subjected to a lengthy school introduction.
I did my research before coming here. The school, while part of the church system, was founded by Saint Emeralda, who ignored the church's methods and pursued her own path. This approach was well-received by the Berliza Royal Family, which is why the school has continued to this day.
"Our school is also known for producing women who support noble families. Almost all the queens of Berliza have graduated from our school, as have many prominent noblewomen. Many famous researchers and influential business partners are also our alumni. Their contributions and the teachings of Saint Emeralda have played a significant role in their success. Furthermore—"
Enough with the long speech.
In essence, the school's basic educational philosophy is to instill the knowledge and cultural refinement needed to support husbands and children.
I think if someone has that much ability, they should step into the limelight themselves. However, in this old country, outdated ideas are deeply ingrained, from the nobility to the common people. This is not unique to this school.
The Kingdom of Brenark, after collapsing once, was rebuilt and ruled by the female Rosmerta. Over time, the mindset in that country has changed significantly. The situation there has been stable for a while, and the differences in thinking and perception between an old, traditional country and a newer one are stark. In Exembras, the Kikyo Society, a women's organization, holds considerable influence.
Phew, I wish she'd wrap it up soon. Listening quietly might encourage her... I decided to interject while nodding along.
"That's wonderful. I'm a temporary instructor, but I feel a sense of responsibility. By the way, Headmistress, has the Grand Master informed you about our situation?"
I interrupted just as she was about to start another anecdote about someone's wife's contributions.
My mental fortitude in listening to this tedious speech without yawning is commendable.
"Of course, I am aware. This is a favor from the esteemed Grand Master. Please do your best to protect Sigurdnaught-san. Additionally, I have a request from our school. I have high expectations for you."
"Huh? A request from the Headmistress... I haven't heard anything about it."
What's going on? I've never heard of this.
"There might have been a miscommunication. You are assigned as a deputy instructor for Foundational Magic Theory, but that's not the main point."
"The main point?"
"Exactly! The Grand Master has high hopes for you."
Despite her fervent tone, I have no idea what she's talking about. What does she mean by 'recommendation'? The way she says it makes it sound like my role as my sister's protector is unrelated to the Headmistress's request.
It seems that my role as an instructor is secondary, and she wants me to do something else. Well—
After the conversation with the Headmistress, I was introduced to the other teachers and staff and given a small, personal office.
I am a dangerous individual, targeted by the Medek-Legisamo Empire and somewhat well-known in the underground circles of the eastern continent. Every teacher and staff member here is of noble blood, making me stand out. Therefore, all my personal details are fabricated, and only the Headmistress knows my true identity.
However, the unstable situation of the Anastasia Union is now public knowledge, so the staff are aware that we are here on the Grand Master's request to protect my sister. It seems that I am also expected to take on a special assignment from the Headmistress.
The teachers and staff are not fools and likely suspect that my profile is fabricated. They don't complain because it's a Headmistress-led initiative.
They probably consider me a typical member of the Anastasia Union. This is a reasonable assumption, and my true background is irrelevant.
Here, I will work as the new instructor Yukareed Evilbanshee and fulfill my duties.
We haven't revealed the Kikyo emblem in Berliza, so there's no need to flaunt it. I'm not here to start a fight or show off the Kikyo emblem.
Reflecting on my small, lifeless office, I think about the future.
"Well, it's fine. As a deputy, I don't need to worry about the main instructor's lesson content."
During the introduction to the staff, I greeted the main instructor as a deputy. It seems that I'm expected to focus on other tasks, and I was told that I don't need to do anything unless specifically asked.
They weren't cold to me but were prioritizing my sister's protection and the Headmistress's request. Given my association with the Anastasia Union, they might have been considerate, thinking I shouldn't be burdened with the role of a new instructor.
If I had to teach my own unorthodox theories or contradict the main instructor, it would have been a complicated and tiresome task. Being largely exempted from the deputy instructor role might have been a blessing. I was a bit disappointed to be sidelined, but—
The atmosphere among the staff seemed tense. It's likely related to the mission given by the Headmistress.
From the staff, I sensed both expectation and unease. The expectation is probably due to the Headmistress's initiative, and the unease is due to my unknown background. I can understand that.
"Being a deputy instructor is probably less challenging, but it could be more fulfilling."
It might be more troublesome, but I seem to enjoy trouble. I might as well embrace it.
Let's stop daydreaming and get to work.
I explore the school while classes are in session.
My sister and the others are likely in class. I feel a bit rebellious, like a new transfer student playing hooky on the first day. Technically, I'm an instructor, but being back in a school makes me feel a bit giddy.
"Focus, focus, I need to work."
Indeed, Valeria and the others are probably more giddy. I need to stay composed.
Using both magic sensing and visual observation, I thoroughly explore the school. My top priority is to know the school inside and out for my sister's protection.
Our primary goal is to protect my sister, and we must also fulfill the Headmistress's request. Though it's an additional task, I intend to complete it as part of my efforts to establish the Kikyo emblem in Berliza.
Even if it's extra work, if it leads to benefits, I'll be motivated to do it.
"Mission one: Disciplinary Action! Let's dive into it with enthusiasm."
I don't know what the Grand Master told the Headmistress, but she seems to have high hopes for me. One of the tasks she wants me to take on is student life guidance, including enforcing school discipline.
It's ironic that they expect me to do this, but surprisingly, I might be the right person for the job.
The teachers and staff here are all of noble blood. Therefore, it's impossible for them to be completely free from the factions and connections of the nobility, even within the school.
They might pretend otherwise, but they are still aware of each other's social status. If everyone respected each other, there would be no problems, but such a utopia doesn't exist. There are many problematic individuals.
The Headmistress seems to have connections to a ducal family but finds it difficult to be strict with nobles from factions she doesn't get along with. It's a sad situation, but everyone has their reasons. It's not as simple as others might think.
While prestigious, a school with a long history and tradition can be very complex. Entrenched privileges and connections create a tangled web that can become corrupt. This is true for any country or organization, and Berliza is no exception. Despite being a strong and overall excellent country, it can't escape corruption.
The bad teachers, being adults, are careful not to get caught, but the arrogant students are different. Their bad behavior is worse because they use their status as a shield. Even the teachers find them challenging. One might think that a well-behaved parent would have a well-behaved child, but it seems the opposite is often true.
Considering the influence of bloodlines, factions, and substantial donations, even dealing with students requires caution. The staff, all from noble families, prioritize noble customs over their position in the school. This is a clear sign of corruption.
However, I am different. I am a foreigner and a temporary instructor recommended by the Grand Master of the Anastasia Union.
The Grand Master of the Anastasia Union has connections not only with the nobility of Berliza but even with the royal family. As the top combat force that transcends social status, I have unique advantages.
Being recommended by the Grand Master, I can leverage his authority. Borrowing the tiger's power to act like a fox might be a bit embarrassing, but I'm a woman who will use any means necessary. I'll use and exploit everything and everyone to my advantage.
In this way, I can act as an untouchable presence. I have this privilege!
Indeed, being a mere instructor would be less interesting.
It might be more troublesome, but I enjoy such challenges. Let's approach this with enthusiasm.
Let's start working.
I explore the main building, the special wing, the club wing, and the training grounds. I familiarize myself with the magical devices, the layout of the buildings, and the locations of doors and routes.
The students I encounter are generally polite on the surface. Not all are delinquents. The news of a new temporary instructor and transfer students has spread, and many approach me socially.
"Good day, are you the new instructor?"
"Yes, that's me."
How many times have I had this exchange?
My fashion, including the oval glasses, seems to have successfully softened my appearance. In my usual style, I wouldn't be approached so easily by strangers.
It's endearing to see the curiosity of these young women, who gather around me.
Despite the prestigious reputation, the school has a diverse mix of personalities. There are bright and cheerful girls, serious and diligent ones, quiet and introspective ones, and even those who seem to be troublemakers but are only putting on a front.
I exchange pleasantries and enjoy brief interactions during breaks. Yes, it's nice to take a break from time to time.
I politely respond to each one and continue exploring, revisiting areas I had postponed.
It's around the end of the last morning class. The rooftop of the special wing, with its beautiful garden and several gazebos, is a pleasant spot, despite the strong sunlight. The entire garden is covered with a cool breeze, and the air conditioning provided by magical devices makes it comfortable, even on the rooftop. It's likely used as a café-like space during breaks and after school.
It's a nice spot, but it's also perfect for delinquents to skip class. The tall hedges make it difficult to see through. In a secluded corner, I find some students skipping class.
I approach them without hesitation, making my presence known. When I reach the gazebo, I see the troublemakers lounging with a tea set and snacks. Despite their preparation, it's almost endearing.
This is the first disciplinary action. Let's get started with the school's discipline enforcement.
"You're not supposed to be on break, right?"
My first words are a bit too gentle. As Yukareed Evilbanshee, I need to be polite to these young ladies.
Ideally, I would start by giving them a good beating to show them the difference in strength and authority. But this gentle approach is fine for students who will listen."
---
The young ladies on the rooftop were visibly shocked by my appearance.
The fact that they were surprised to be reprimanded while skipping class suggests that this school is in a worse state than I thought. Prestige and tradition aside, this is a serious issue.
"Alright, clean up and return to class."
I start with kindness. If they listen, there's no need for harsh measures.
They are young ladies, not rough kids from the slums. I need to be polite and elegant.
As a temporary instructor, Yukareed Evilbanshee, I must remember that I am different from Nijouoohashi Shinogami of the Exembras Three Great Families.
"Who are you, suddenly appearing here? That's quite impolite!"
"Do you think you can just order us around? Who do you think you are?"
"I don't recognize you. Why don't you introduce yourself?"
Ah, typical delinquent young ladies. Their impertinent remarks, delivered in polite tones, are oddly amusing.
However, they are the daughters of Berliza's nobility. I haven't reviewed the student roster yet, so I don't know who they are. I approached them on impulse, but perhaps one of them is a high-profile individual. It's best to handle the situation calmly.
"...You're right. Let me introduce myself. I am Yukareed Evilbanshee, a newly appointed temporary instructor."
Elegant and refined, embodying the epitome of grace, I aim to guide the immature ones.
"Hah! A mere temporary instructor can casually speak to us?"
"Evilbanshee? I've never heard of such a name. Ha, where are you from, some backwater?"
"A third-rate baron's family is still nobility. Don't you think you should show some respect?"
Tsk, they get too cocky when I show restraint. I have to suppress the urge to punch them.
Stay calm. Maintain elegance and grace. I must not be swayed by their empty words.
Every teacher and staff member at St. Esmeralda Girls' Academy is of noble blood. They likely assume I am too, interpreting my surname as that of a minor noble from the countryside. This prestigious school, attended even by royalty, is expected to have only well-vetted and excellent staff. Their assumption that I'm a minor noble is overly simplistic. Of course, I am not a noble at all, but that's beside the point.
The number of nobles in Berliza is staggering. There are nearly 700 noble families, considering the vast territory, including distant territories and islands. The complex historical and administrative reasons necessitate such a large number of nobles.
The leader of each hereditary noble family alone numbers nearly 700, and including their families, the number is even larger. Memorizing the coats of arms alone is challenging, and remembering the faces and names of the current heads is nearly impossible unless it's a dedicated role.
Additionally, there are one-generation nobles who receive titles based on their positions, increasing the number of nobles. It's normal not to know anyone outside the most powerful and relevant nobles. The world of nobles is complex and demanding.
The ringleader of the delinquent group is a young lady with curly hair. She must be Edith Ribbonstrat.
The Ribbonstrat family is not one of the most powerful among the counts, but it is a prestigious family with a long history. They possess considerable influence, and from the outside, it's hard to gauge their true power. In reality, I know very little about them.
However, the family's influence doesn't extend to the girl herself. I am an instructor tasked with student life guidance by the Headmistress. Regardless of her family's power, it's inappropriate for students to defy teachers. While I plan to use the nobility, I do not fear them. Those bound by connections and obligations are making a grave mistake if they think I am the same.
The flunkies are barking loudly, but the curly-haired ringleader remains silent. I hoped she might be the sensible one, but she seems to be just as problematic.
Her murky eyes reveal a twisted personality. She might be more trouble than expected and needs close attention.
"Stop being silent and say something!"
"You're being quite a nuisance. Leave immediately!"
"Yes, such a person should not be tolerated."
Let them say what they want. No matter how eloquent they are, a delinquent is still a delinquent.
Even if they use their family's influence, my backing is the Headmistress, who has connections to the royal family, and many more powerful individuals. The school's main sponsor, the Berliza Royal Family, must be aware of this harsh approach. Otherwise, I wouldn't be tasked with student life guidance at this prestigious school.
The Headmistress, a duchess, cannot make such decisions unilaterally without the approval of the royal family and other major nobles. I recently learned that almost all the queens and influential partners of powerful figures are graduates of this school, which gives me a clear idea of the situation.
I am, in a sense, the joker.
Unbound by any connections, I am a formidable force, equipped with companions, gear, and ample resources, and above all, free. Unconstrained by outdated customs and bloodlines, I am the strongest card. Yet, as someone who makes a living in the underworld, I value loyalty and always keep my promises, as credibility is crucial in my line of work.
As the joker, I will thoroughly disrupt the delinquents' complacent daily lives.
"Hehehe, this is interesting. Truly, this is quite interesting."
Mission one: Discipline.
Generally, it means enforcing school rules and maintaining order. It's about what happens as a result of this initiative or during the process and what challenges they might try to push on me. I will enjoy this to the fullest, even as the one responsible for it. In the end, it's just someone else's problem. I don't need to worry or agonize over it. I will discipline the delinquents with ease.
I left the rooftop of the special wing and had a quick lunch in the faculty dining room. I ate quickly but maintained proper posture and perfect table manners. As Yukareed Evilbanshee, I must exude grace and not appear crude.
The other faculty members are likely giving me space due to my special position or may not welcome me. I wasn't approached for conversation, making for a quiet meal.
Since I'll be a temporary instructor for a considerable period, I should probably communicate more. But I can think about that later.
After finishing my meal, I returned to the rooftop of the special wing.
The delinquents were gone, but I had something to take care of.
The gazebo I needed was hidden in the garden, and beyond it, in a secluded area behind the hedges.
"Stop hiding and come out."
Someone had been hiding since the delinquents were there. Why are they still here?
Confident in my abilities, I waited. Eventually, a young girl appeared, seemingly giving up.
Her uniform was neat, but her red, tear-streaked eyes and unnatural hairstyle revealed something was wrong. The delinquents must have cut her hair. Cutting a girl's hair is a particularly malicious form of bullying. However, such blatant methods are usually not used in bullying.
They must have wanted to avoid being caught, yet they acted so brazenly. There must be more to the story, especially since they tried to hide her. I need to investigate the curly-haired countess further.
"Classes have already started. Go back."
There's no need to ask what happened. It was clearly the work of those delinquents.
She's quite cute, but her timid demeanor makes her an easy target for bullies. They would assume she wouldn't resist no matter what they did.
I, a criminal, will not show mercy.
"Go on. If you can't attend classes, go home. Are you a dormitory student?"
"B-but..."
She started to speak but looked down again.
The delinquents probably ordered her to stay here. Otherwise, there's no reason for her to linger. She might be trying to cover up her uneven haircut later. Perhaps she brought a wig or something.
"Do you expect me to ignore this? Go on."
I won't consider what kind of trouble she might face if she disobeys the delinquents. With me here, it's unnecessary. The daily life of the school will change dramatically. From now on, the delinquents might be the ones to fear.
Moreover, the weak are destined to be oppressed and exploited. Whether in or out of school, it's the same. The world is not kind, and it is always harsh on the weak.
I am on the side of exploitation. I won't easily offer salvation. The weak must change and rise up on their own. No one will help them. If they don't change, they will never find peace. Hoping for divine intervention is futile. If they are dissatisfied, they must change themselves. Teaching them this is also part of education.
After sternly telling her to leave, the girl began to cry and walked away.
"Wait. You look unkempt."
I stopped the girl as she was about to leave and smoothed her hair.
I am particular about women's beauty. Her messy hairstyle was unacceptable. Correcting her appearance is part of my role as a life guidance instructor. My magic can restore lost hair under certain conditions. The girl, unaware of the advanced magic I used subtly without a mirror, had no idea what happened.
After finishing, I sent the girl away and continued my work. As long as I, the joker, am here, I will crush any foolish actions.
Taking advantage of the rooftop, I observed the school from a high vantage point.
Using the higher gazebo, I surveyed the area, looking for suspicious activities. The morning exploration focused on the areas where ordinary students were active. The school on the hill is vast, with many secluded spots.
Students in classrooms are not a problem. The issue is those who act out during class hours. There are more of these than expected. Given that the school asked me to handle life guidance, this level of delinquency is unsurprising.
The school has many students. With most of the noble and wealthy girls attending, the number is naturally high. There are nearly 700 hereditary noble families, and noble families often have many siblings. Even wealthy merchant families, regardless of noble blood, are numerous. If everyone wants to attend this prestigious school, the number of students is considerable. There are other schools, but this one is the oldest and most prestigious, making it incredibly popular.
Moreover, in such a situation, admitting students based solely on bloodline and wealth without a rigorous entrance exam naturally leads to a decline in standards. The current state of the school is a result of its own making.
Expanding my magic senses and enhancing my vision, I observed through the windows of the club wing and the surrounding forest. What I saw was...
"Well, even in a wealthy school, there's extortion. Oh, a fight? They're even using weapons. This could be deadly. And is that... drugs? No, this is worse than I expected."
Is this a prestigious school? Don't make me laugh.
It's a typical bottom-of-the-barrel delinquent school.
There are countless problems. A peaceful life as a teacher is out of the question...
The second mission will be covered in the next chapter.
Next: 'The Demon Instructor of the Girls' Garden.'