kscans

Chapter 364 - Home Turf Advantage and Newcomer Woes

=== CHAPTER 364 START ===


If you think you can do it, then go ahead and try!

A curse, you say? Bring it on. While unknown magic is certainly a threat, you can't exactly stay in the villain business if you're scared of every little shadow.

I'm fully aware that I've spent my life doing things that make it perfectly natural for people to resent me, hate me, and curse me. There's no reason to start getting cold feet now.

That's right, bring it on. If you can curse me, then give it your best shot!

With renewed resolve, I braced myself.

"Alright, first stop: the church..."

I marched right back into the church I’d just left and bought out every single talisman they had in stock. I took the whole lot.

Yeah, okay, I wasn't scared, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. It was probably for the best that Imouto-chan had some on her too. I’d just have to squeeze the costs out of the enemy later.

That same day, I shared the information with the rest of the crew and Imouto-chan, then waited for Moore to get in touch.

Unfortunately, it seemed like even the intelligence bureau members didn't have much info on curse-type magic. I didn't leave the search for Badoo Lot’s whereabouts entirely to the Bertlezia intelligence department, either; I had my own people look into it.

After all, a curse was a completely nonsensical form of magic.

I didn't know the activation conditions, the effects on the target, or even the effective range and power. According to Moore, it was supposedly magic that invited misfortune, but...

I hadn't felt even a hint of magic when that talisman shattered. Even if the spell was cast from an extreme distance, I felt like I should have been able to sense it right before it reached me. Still, when unknown factors were involved, I couldn't be a hundred percent sure.

Besides, I could pretty much rule out the possibility of this being unrelated to Badoo Lot’s curse, given the timing.

It was also strange that there hadn't been any follow-up attacks since then. If it was an ability that couldn't be used consecutively, then maybe having the talismans would give me a little breathing room to handle it. I’d likely have to catch whoever was using the curse and beat the answers out of them.

Badoo Lot. They were certainly turning out to be a pain. Since this involved Imouto-chan's protection, and since I’d been targeted personally, I had no choice but to crush them as an involved party.

For now, I decided I should stay on good terms with the church sisters.

By delegating the sneaky investigative work to others, I could focus my time on being a proper academy instructor.

Steering clear of anything suspicious, I spent another day energetically patrolling the academy grounds.

By now, the students were used to the sight of me in my gold-rimmed teardrop shades, purple tracksuit, and an iron bar slung over my shoulder. The suspicious glares had mostly vanished. Not that any students were brave enough to chat with me casually, though.

Lately, thanks to the active efforts of the Disciplinary Committee, there weren't many delinquents trying to stand out anymore, so there wasn't much point in me playing the demon instructor.

I could have changed my style back to my original, refined mode, but that felt too late now. Blatantly putting on an act would probably just annoy the girls, so I had no choice but to commit to this look.

"It's nice that things have calmed down, but I'm so bored..."

Humans are such selfish creatures. We complain when we're busy, and we complain when we're idle. Even if things were just right, we'd probably get used to it and complain about being bored anyway.

However, since there were no delinquents skipping class, spending my entire lecture period on patrol was starting to feel futile.

Wait, I was in a prestigious school; I should be making the most of the perks. I decided to start camping out in the library I’d been curious about.

The library at Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy wasn't just a room; it was a full-scale library in every sense of the word. An entire large building functioned solely for that purpose.

It was strictly managed as a facility for research and study. Because it housed many precious materials, records were taken whenever anyone entered. It wasn't the kind of environment where delinquents could just wander in to slack off during class. Consequently, there had never been a need for me to visit to enforce discipline.

"I guess it's my turn to slack off then."

No, no, it wasn't really slacking. I intended to study properly; I was just making efficient use of my time.

As an academy instructor, no one would question me for using the library. I walked through the front doors with my head held high, completed the entry procedures, and wandered inside.

The library was an old Romanesque-style building, likely constructed at the same time as the main school building. Since classes were in session, it was nearly empty. I’d heard that graduates often used it too, but from the looks of it, that didn't happen very frequently.

"Hmph, as expected of a traditional school with so much history. There's plenty to choose from."

The sheer volume of books was overwhelming. I couldn't even guess how many volumes there were, but as a bit of a bibliophile, just seeing it put me in a good mood.

My goals were books that could give me insight into magi-minerals and, of course, anything that might provide clues about curse-like magic.

First, I searched on my own without asking the librarian. Since it was my first time there, just walking around and looking was fun. The books were neatly categorized by shelf, so it didn't seem like it would be too much trouble to find the knowledge I was after.

Once I finished a quick exploration of the interior, I started browsing the shelves that looked promising.

Mineral magic expanded in scope the more knowledge I had about magi-minerals. This was vital information that directly affected my combat strength. Because I was always seeking it out, I hadn't had many opportunities to come across new information lately. I had high hopes for the collection of a prestigious school that Bertlezia was so proud of.

Searching with eyes like saucers, I found a decent number of interesting books.

Every time I saw one that caught my eye, I’d pick it up, flip through it, and either put it back or keep it. After gathering a few, I moved to a desk and started reading, finding several fascinating bits of information. As expected of a prestigious school's collection. I decided to keep going at this pace.

I spent the time through lunch until the start of club activities immersed in my books, and managed to find a few truly important materials.

I found data on rare magi-minerals that weren't produced on this continent, and even gained a little knowledge about lost magi-minerals often found in artifacts used by ancient civilizations. This was incredibly useful. With this insight and my magic, I might even be able to find things that had been lost to time.

It would require a bit of time and research, but my magic now had room to expand even further. I’d definitely be able to power up eventually.

Alright, that was enough for today.

Oh, I’d pushed the curse-magic research to the side and forgotten about it. I was curious, but it was time for club activities, and I didn't expect to find any major clues in just a day or two anyway. In fact, there was a chance I’d find nothing at all, no matter how much I searched.

"I'll look again tomorrow while hoping Layla and the others have caught something..."

Normally, researching unknown magic should have been fun. But considering the current situation where I was under attack, it just left a bad taste in my mouth.

As I passed the counter on my way out, I spotted some familiar students.

"Imouto-chan, and Harriet too. What are you guys doing here?"

"Returning some books before the club starts... You're the one in a rare place, Sensei."

"Hey, I'm quite the scholar, you know?"

"Is that so? Please wait a moment."

After Imouto-chan finished the return procedures, I walked outside with her and Harriet, who seemed to be accompanying her.

"Come to think of it, we've never really walked through the school like this before. How's the club? Isn't it boring having to keep pace with the others?"

"No, I find it quite interesting. All the club members are wonderful people. Is it a bit boring for you, Harriet-san?"

"Not at all. I can study the President's techniques, so it's very fulfilling. Besides, as someone on the teaching side, there's much to learn from President Hermyra as well."

As an executive assistant for our Kikyo-kai, Harriet possessed strength that was incomparable to the other students. Even as a beginner in operating magical dolls, she was already overwhelming them, making both her and Imouto-chan quite popular in the club.

"By the way... regarding that man, I still can't shake this feeling of unease."

Imouto-chan changed the subject, likely referring to that scion. I’d heard before that the brat from the Anastasia Union didn't quite fit the image Imouto-chan remembered.

"You mean he's not the type to use roundabout methods like curses? But there's no doubt he's hanging around with Badoo Lot."

"It has been quite a while since I last saw him, so I cannot say for certain, but..."

She looked unconvinced. I could understand why.

"He's the kind of idiot who’d pick a fight with his own father and kill him in a fit of rage just to take the throne. The image of a pure battle-maniac definitely doesn't match a method like using curses. Plus, it’s strange that he hasn't laid a hand on Imouto-chan yet."

The persona I’d heard about from people other than Imouto-chan was also clashing with the way things had played out so far.

Up until now, I’d been focused on keeping him as far away as possible, but maybe it was actually better to meet him. Then again, the guy was a stalker. If Imouto-chan sent a message saying she wanted to meet, it might give him the wrong idea, which would be far too dangerous.

"President, we might need to consider the possibility that he's being manipulated by someone inside the Anastasia Union."

"Maybe. Well, since they're the ones picking a fight, the truth will come out eventually. For now, we keep him away from Imouto-chan and crush Badoo Lot. We'll stick to that plan."

"If it becomes necessary, I am willing to meet him. With your protection, there shouldn't be any danger."

"However, unpredictable situations can occur. Let's avoid it unless absolutely necessary."

Harriet seemed against it as a guard, and I was also against letting her face that stalker. Still, I couldn't just ignore this lingering sense of wrongness. Heidi and the others were trailing the scion, so new information was bound to surface soon.

The three of us headed to the club, and as the advisor, I watched over the practice session.

It was easy now, since I could basically leave things to the students and just answer questions if they had any. As I watched the practice in a daze, I thought back to our earlier conversation.

It really was strange that the scion hadn't taken any direct action.

I didn't want to understand the mind or heart of a stalker, but from what I’d heard, he was the impulsive, direct type. Normally, he should have been the type to approach her directly rather than using roundabout harassment.

Would a guy like that suddenly try to curse her guard without any prior contact?

Even if the advisor's mind was wandering, the president and the capable members handled the instruction. It was a good thing that I wasn't needed, since I’d already decided to leave in the near future.

When night fell, the members gathered again for an information-sharing session.

We met in Imouto-chan's room to first confirm the current situation.

"Layla, begin."

"Understood. While much has happened since the advance team entered Bertlezia, there have been no signs of anyone trying to contact Sigurdnaut. There was no contact from the scion; while we had a skirmish with a delinquent group during the process of settling a student problem, that was all. Our only connection to Badoo Lot is the fact that they were backing the leader of that group, Jienko Nigi."

If it hadn't been for that incident where the student council intercepted Jienko Nigi's drugs, I don't think we would have ever gotten involved with Badoo Lot.

Imouto-chan had nothing to do with the contact with the delinquents. It was the student council who stole the drugs, and the delinquents who planned a kidnapping in retaliation. While Badoo Lot was behind the delinquents, according to information from the Blue Coats, there's no evidence they ordered the kidnapping of the students. It was just a stupid incident Jienko Nigi caused on his own.

I suspected our involvement with Badoo Lot through the delinquents was just a coincidence... but if there were things we weren't seeing, I couldn't be entirely sure.

"When the President and I learned of Badoo Lot's presence behind Jienko Nigi and went to investigate, their hideout had already been destroyed. From what we saw from a distance, it appeared many had been killed, but..."

"According to the Bertlezia intelligence department, several incidents involving 'curses' have occurred that seem like Badoo Lot's handiwork. And it looks like I was targeted, too. I don't really feel it myself, but the talisman I bought at the church broke."

"The destruction of the Badoo Lot hideout was a ruse, and the current reality is that the President has somehow been marked as a target."

Me being targeted by bounty hunters or assassins was par for the course. But since Badoo Lot was said to be closely related to the Anastasia Union's scion, it was a problem.

If they were targeting Imouto-chan's guard, I could only assume they were finally reaching out for her. Since the other members were also her guards, there was a high possibility they’d be targeted by the curse as well. It was a very good thing we’d obtained those talismans as a countermeasure against the unknown magic.

Still, it was bizarre to suddenly try and kill me without any contact from the scion first. Was the guy really that insane? And even if he was going to attack, for a man aiming to lead a ultra-militant organization to rely on curses seemed incredibly pathetic.

"Targeting Onee-sama... Heidi, any leads on them yet?"

"Unfortunately, we're outsiders here, and they seem to be a step or two ahead when it comes to staying hidden. However, now that a mysterious magic like a curse has actually been used, we can't afford to be complacent. To speed things up, we might have to stop caring about the methods, but..."

We were a bit outside the realm of common sense. I didn't think we'd be easily taken down by a roundabout 'curse' that just invited misfortune.

Personally, whether a car came barreling at me or a steel beam fell on my head, I could manage an emergency dodge, and even if I took a direct hit, I was sturdy enough that I wouldn't die. And as long as I didn't die, I could just heal. So, I didn't think there was any need to be overly afraid.

I didn't intend to let them win. However, I also felt I had to respect the unknown magic. I had to at least consider the possibility that the degree of misfortune invited might exceed my imagination.

I figured we should rely on the local pros for this.

"The Bertlezia intelligence department is searching for Badoo Lot, so it would be bad if we made a scene. We'd just get in the way. Plus, if something unmanageable happens, they might try to pin it on us."

"Ah, that's true. Should we just hope they find them quickly and pass the info along?"

"That would be best. They're not slacking; they're working day and night. It seems Badoo Lot is tied to forces outside the continent, so the intelligence bureau is desperate for leads on that front too."

"In that case, it wouldn't be good to stir things up. Should we just quietly continue monitoring the scion?"

It was stressful to just sit on our hands, but it couldn't be helped. In exchange, when we finally did find them, I’d crush them without mercy.

As guards, we just had to stick close to Imouto-chan and keep an eye on the enemy leader whose location we actually knew.

I suppose I’d just have to gauge the sense of danger by how often my talismans kept breaking.

For now, I didn't think the situation was desperate enough to panic.

=== CHAPTER 364 END ===

=== CHAPTER 365 START ===


Heidi and the rest of the intelligence bureau members monitored the scion relentlessly.

They watched him from a distance, tracked him with mana perception, and placed magic tools everywhere to ensure he wouldn't disappear. It was a constant surveillance system that followed him even when he went out.

As the biological child of the previous Anastasia Union leader and the expected next head, many factions other than us were also watching him, and they were quite a nuisance. Even when we tried to monitor him while staying perfectly hidden, I could imagine things not going well because of the others.

However, the one being watched seemed used to it and didn't pay it any mind, so the surveillance work was apparently easy.

"Heidi, from your perspective, what’s your actual impression of the scion?"

On the empty school rooftop during class hours, I asked for her personal opinion after receiving various reports.

"Let's see... the scion spends most of his time in the martial arts hall on the estate, so there aren't many chances to see him. On the rare occasions he does go out, he looks more like a cheerful man than the reckless person I’d heard about. Either way, he doesn't seem like the type to weave complex schemes."

Hoh. Surprisingly, he didn't seem to have a bad reputation.

"And there's been no contact with anyone who looks like Badoo Lot?"

"None at all. His destinations are always blacksmiths or shops dealing with martial equipment, and there haven't been any specific people waiting for him there. It seems he leaves all negotiations with other people or organizations to his aides and subordinates, so there aren't many chances for him to contact suspicious individuals. The guys from the Bertlezia intelligence department and other organizations who are watching him look much more suspicious."

I’d imagined him as more of a playboy, but he actually seemed quite stoic. According to Heidi's observations, he hadn't gone out drinking or womanizing recently. Far from being a profligate son, he was a serious guy who spent his days focused on self-discipline.

What was this? The more we actually looked into him, the more our initial bad impression seemed to fade.

"...If he's acting while knowing he's being watched, he's quite the actor."

"Yes. But as I reported earlier, a suspicious person has appeared. I'm planning to focus on him from now on."

Apparently, it was one of the aides surrounding the scion.

The Anastasia Union was an exceptionally large and powerful organization that could throw its weight around in the great nation of Bertlezia. When many people gathered and factions formed, various ways of thinking would emerge. Even traitors.

"There's no point in us keeping this to ourselves, so should we leak it to the Bertlezia intelligence department? Though they might have noticed already."

"They've probably noticed even without us telling them. The intelligence bureau seems to have plenty of personnel, and they're monitoring other executives besides the scion."

"So, it feels like they haven't caught the tail yet."

"Probably. We'll keep watching from our side too, and we'll put our backs into it with the intention of outmaneuvering them."

It wouldn't be bad to show up the intelligence bureau of a major power. For Heidi, it was probably a nice little test of skill.

"And there's one more thing that's been bothering me."

"What is it?"

"There's one building on the estate that's very strictly sealed off. It's quite old and has an atmosphere of being poorly maintained, but the fact that it blocks mana perception caught my attention."

Hmm. We had sealed rooms in our headquarters too. In our case, they usually held dangerous potions I’d made during experiments, but it wouldn't be strange for the Anastasia Union to have dangerous tools or medicines they couldn't just throw away.

"Isn't it just a warehouse for magic tools? The lack of maintenance is a bit weird, but maybe they just shoved useless antiques in there."

"True. It just caught my eye for some reason."

"Imouto-chan might know something? If it really bothers you, you can ask her later."

Even if I smelled treasure, I couldn't exactly go in and steal it. We were on friendly terms with the current Anastasia Union leader, after all.

Besides, it was only natural for an organization neck-deep in the underworld to have some nasty things. It wasn't something to worry too much about.

A few quiet days passed, and then I got another call from Moore at the intelligence bureau.

He wasn't an idle man, so it had to be something important. Maybe he’d finally caught Badoo Lot's tail.

After finishing my work at the academy that night, I headed to our usual bar with a bit of expectation.

As soon as I entered the dim shop, I noticed something was different. My contact hadn't arrived yet.

I’d met with Moore several times now, but he had never been later than me, even though I usually arrived right at the last second or a little late. Also, there were always a few people who looked like intelligence bureau members other than Moore in the bar. They blended in subtly, but I could tell they were watching me. Those people were missing today too.

When things were different than usual, it was a sign to be on high alert.

Well, maybe his work was just running late. I decided to wait a bit.

Just as I was slowly finishing my first drink, Moore finally showed up.

"You're late."

"Sorry. It's become difficult for me to move around."

He looked exhausted. From the way he spoke, it sounded like more than just being busy with work.

"What's going on?"

"It's nothing much... no, there's no point in keeping quiet."

"Sounds like it won't be good news. If you don't want to say, I won't ask."

"Listen. It's a tedious story, but there's a conflict at the top of the intelligence bureau, and pressure is being put on the field agents. As a result, we can't move our personnel."

The top of the intelligence bureau? Since Moore was a minor noble himself, the cause must have been some very high-ranking people.

"You're having a carefree faction struggle while outside forces are infiltrating and talking about war? You guys seem to have a lot of leeway."

"You're talking like it's someone else's problem, but you're not uninvolved."

"Huh? How does this involve me?"

Getting noticed by the Bertlezia intelligence bureau or the nobles above them... well, yeah, there was a possibility I’d done something.

"I'll omit the details, but there's a noble who objects to our cooperation with you. There are plenty of plausible reasons, but the real reason is likely just that they don't like you."

"A noble who can influence the intelligence bureau? And this big shot doesn't understand how bad the current situation is?"

If they didn't want to rely on me, that was fine. I was just an outsider from Exenbla, after all.

In the first place, if I could avoid getting involved in messy things, that would be for the best.

We were only in a temporary alliance because the Anastasia Union's scion seemed involved with the infiltration of foreign forces. If they wanted to dissolve it, I didn't care at all. But meddling in the field because of personal likes and dislikes made them sound like a real pain.

"I can't say much from my position, but you should try asking Cleados's daughter."

"Cleados's daughter... you mean Ruth Cleados, the Student Council President. Why her?"

"More importantly, about Badoo Lot and the scion. It's been discovered that one of the scion's aides is actually from the Empire."

He blatantly changed the subject. Fine.

But the Empire. If he meant the Medek Legisamo Empire, they were a military nation plotting an invasion of the Brenark Kingdom and were neck-deep with the Legisamo Cartel. They’d also been in a hostile relationship with Bertlezia for years.

"You managed to dig that up. The possibility of him being a sleeper agent sent by the Empire seems quite likely."

"Erasing one's history completely is no easy feat. If you try to fake it, suspicious points always remain somewhere. We went back to the basics and thoroughly re-investigated, and we finally caught the tail."

Heidi had mentioned a suspicious person around the scion too, so this pretty much confirmed it.

"But what about the scion's intentions? Does he actually plan to pull in the Empire or foreign forces?"

"It's just my unfounded opinion, but probably not. He only cares about his own strength and Sigurdnaut Granzo."

"So he's devoted to Imouto-chan. Yet he hasn't made any approach."

"We've confirmed that he has written numerous letters. If they haven't been delivered, they must have been intercepted somewhere."

To think they were stealing love letters. What a bunch of nasty people.

"Wait, don't tell me they think I'm the one intercepting them? If I’m being cursed because of that, I can't stand it."

"There are countless reasons why you might be cursed. A new concern we've uncovered is the assassination of Sigurdnaut Granzo."

"...Maybe for me, but why kill Imouto-chan?"

"Likely to manipulate the scion and the Anastasia Union. If they spread rumors that the assassination was our country's doing, the simple-minded scion might fly into a rage and go on a rampage without even verifying the truth. Or they could make it look like your doing and set you against each other. Either way, it benefits the Empire and the foreign forces."

What a joke.

On top of the Empire's schemes and foreign interference, there was even a power struggle within Bertlezia. If it were someone else's problem, that would be great, but apparently, I was right in the middle of the storm.

And to top it off, some noble powerful enough to influence the intelligence bureau had some kind of motive concerning me. Being a popular woman is tough, really.

"Tch... what about Badoo Lot?"

"There's no progress worth mentioning. Because of the interference, we're in a situation where we can't move even if we wanted to."

"Then I'll look for them myself. I don't need any more troublesome people popping up. I can just crush them on my own, right?"

"As long as you can do it secretly. It's difficult for the paralyzed intelligence bureau to provide support."

I’d thought I could leave Badoo Lot to the intelligence bureau. What a bunch of useless people.

If this were the Brenark Kingdom, I could probably eliminate troublesome nobles while having Rosmerta's backing. Naturally, we didn't have that much pull or trust in Bertlezia yet. If we could play a part in solving this mess, we might gain someone's backing in the future.

Our Kikyo-kai had a track record of dealing heavy blows to the Empire, and we were also on intimate terms with the sister of the Anastasia Union leader. Looking only at the positive side, we could build a decent relationship with Bertlezia.

Thinking about future profits, I decided to put in the effort even if it was a pain.

"...Anyway, I understand your situation. For now, I still think our interests and yours are aligned. However, if interference comes from nonsensical backlashes or grudges, I'll crush whoever it is. If it's someone you don't want crushed, I'm telling you now that you better say so before it's too late. Besides, the intelligence bureau isn't completely paralyzed, right? Then I want you to at least keep those who try to mess with us in check."

"Naturally, that is the intention. And I don't plan to stay in this state forever."

"Fine then."

I suppose a power struggle is exactly what happens during troublesome times. If this was normal, the intelligence bureau must have one or two units they could move in secret. Even if we were in a cooperative relationship, I was still just an outsider. They wouldn't reveal everything.

after confirming each other's situations and the various current events, I decided to move more carefully and left the shop.

The next day, I immediately met with Student Council President Ruth Cleados.

Moore had said there was a noble objecting to my cooperation with the Bertlezia intelligence bureau. When I asked who it was, he told me to ask Ruth Cleados.

How did that student council president know about such things? I wondered if Ruth, as a student, could grasp such complicated matters that even involved the intelligence bureau.

It was strange, but if he told me to ask, I would.

"President Cleados, come with me for a bit. It's urgent."

"Yes, that's fine."

After school, I caught Ruth before she went to the student council building.

When I invited her to my personal instructor's office to talk, she responded as if she’d known this would happen. I suppose I don't need to treat her like a child anymore.

"You seem to know why I'm here."

"I can imagine. My father told me to answer any questions from Evil Banshee-sensei, so please, go ahead."

"Hoh, Count Cleados did? Well, as long as my questions are answered, anything is fine. First off, do you know what I'm doing?"

"I've heard you are in a temporary cooperative relationship with the intelligence bureau."

As expected of a high-ranking noble's daughter. If she knew that, she knew the general situation. She probably knew my true identity too. It wasn't something a normal academy instructor would do, after all.

"Someone's interfering with that cooperation. Who is it and what's their goal?"

"There are more than a few nobles who find you troublesome. Especially the noble ladies who have feelings for Prince Maximilian, I suppose."

"Maximilian? I heard that name somewhere recently..."

If he was a 'Prince,' he must be royalty. I didn't quite understand what was going on.

"You don't seem to realize it yourself, but Prince Maximilian has taken an interest in you. It's not strange for there to be women who are unhappy about that, don't you think?"

Of course it's strange. Even if it's all under-the-surface movements, we're in a situation that's close to a state of emergency.

Women with feelings for the Prince? It was nonsensical to be talking about such things now.

"You mean, because of a woman's jealousy? That's deathly stupid. If you're going to get in my way for such a pathetic reason, I'll go give you a taste of hell right now. Besides, I've never even met this Maximilian guy."

"The jealousy of a woman in love can sometimes be more terrifying than you can imagine. It's not just women; there are also nobles who don't want any political involvement. While there are factions that want your cooperation, there are also factions that want to eliminate you by any means."

I was naturally aware that I personally, and the Kikyo-kai as an organization, weren't the type to be fully accepted. I suppose that was finally coming to the surface.

But to try and strike at a collaborator when the Empire's schemes and foreign forces are trying to infiltrate... what were they thinking? They really felt like out-of-touch, high-and-mighty nobles who didn't understand the hardships of the field.

"What are Count Cleados's intentions? What's your father's stance in all this?"

"Father has a favorable stance toward Evil Banshee-sensei. He doesn't seem to mind that you interfered with my plans."

This girl and the Curly-hair had a history of trying to create and hold weaknesses over students to use as political negotiation material.

I’d crushed their misdeeds without realizing they had such intentions, but apparently, I wasn't resented for it.

"Hoh? But if he's favorable, I want him to at least keep those who are interfering in check. I'm moving for my own reasons, but it's based on shared interests with Bertlezia. Interfering with me should mean going against the national interest. Someone in Count Cleados's position should be able to do that."

"Even without you saying so, Father is already moving. He's not fond of the Anastasia Union, so he said he has expectations for the Kikyo-kai, which could become a rival force."

Hoh. The Anastasia Union and Bertlezia have had a close relationship since ancient times, even being entrusted with guarding nobles. Certainly, there must be countless people who find that unpleasant. Especially those in the military. I don't know the details, but there seem to be people called Royal Knights and the like.

But it's hard to openly object to the Anastasia Union, which even has influence over the royal family, and trying to eliminate them poorly could lead to a civil war. If another force could keep that Anastasia Union in check, it would be a very satisfying story.

We, the Kikyo-kai, were one of the few forces that could openly oppose the Anastasia Union with strength.

I could understand wanting to at least have some influence over us, even if they didn't want to fully take us in.

Besides, in the current situation, the Anastasia Union itself has become a source of trouble, and our Kikyo-kai is moving to eliminate external enemies. Furthermore, since we are an underworld force, we are only interested in practical benefits and don't need honor or credit. It was only natural for nobles to appear who want to snatch that credit by having a track record of cooperating with us.

Yes, I understand. If it's because of anticipated profit rather than some creepy, pure goodwill, I can trust it.

"Sensei?"

"Tell the Count. I understand his intentions."

Among villains, many words are not needed. This would be enough.

Anyway, it looked like the maneuvering among the nobles would be handled well by other nobles.

I'll just wait and see how useful Count Cleados can be.

---

The seeds sown by each faction are beginning to sprout and move.
Before that, we continue in the next chapter: "First Steps Toward Mastery: The New Golem Club."

=== CHAPTER 365 END ===

=== CHAPTER 366 START ===


Most commoners hadn't noticed, but the great nation of Bertlezia was under threat.

The schemes of the Medek Legisamo Empire were using the Anastasia Union as a cover, and related to that, even forces from outside the continent were beginning to infiltrate.

The Anastasia Union, which was even entrusted with guarding the country's VIPs, was split into two factions, and regardless of the truth, one leader was even suspected of aiding the enemy.

There was also the situation where weapons had been smuggled in secretly many times, so there was no telling when or where a disturbance might break out. Considering everything was related, a single spark could set everything ablaze.

We, who were currently active here and planned to set up an office in the near future, couldn't just think of it as someone else's problem.

The fact that significant deregulation of magic tools was carried out in anticipation of a possible intercontinental war in the future added a fair amount of truth to it.

The enemy was definitely eroding Bertlezia, and it was reasonable to think that the once-stable great nation was falling behind.

Many nobles were having a field day with power struggles as if the pinch was a chance, and there were even fools who did whatever they wanted out of personal jealousy. I suppose it's an unavoidable situation in a way because it's a great nation, but objectively speaking, it was a truly pathetic story. From my perspective, as someone involved, they were nothing but a nuisance.

To top it off, there was even a creepy organization called Badoo Lot that used 'curses' to eliminate targets. And it looked like I was one of their targets.

Threatened by an unknown magic, the only thing we could do for now was carry talismans that could supposedly counter the curse.

Since it would be my own fault regardless of when or by whom I was cursed, I couldn't really care about it every single time, but thinking about the fact that a talisman had broken once made it difficult to completely put it out of my mind. I felt a fair amount of stress.

Well, whether I'm cursed or attacked, I don't feel like I'll be taken down, but the problem is the person I'm guarding, Imouto-chan.

The Bertlezia intelligence department had suggested the possibility of Imouto-chan being assassinated.

If the sister of the Anastasia Union leader was killed, it would incite the scion, who has a one-sided affection for her. The scheming enemy could guide the scion and lead to a development that is unfavorable for Bertlezia.

In any case, I won't let them have Imouto-chan.

Whether it's the country's circumstances or someone's intentions, if I can't protect a single friend, the future is dark.

Personally and as the head of the organization, I'll find a way to pull through. Even if I have no moves and I'm falling behind.

As I watched the practice of the Golem Club in a daze, I could tell I was frowning at the unstable situation.

"Evil Banshee-sensei, the mock battle is over... is there something?"

Oops, did I give them the wrong idea? Well, it's perfect timing.

"Overall, your mana manipulation is becoming a bit sloppy. Just because you've switched to new dolls doesn't mean you should stop minimizing wasteful consumption. Even a tiny bit of waste will show up as a huge difference during long battles or consecutive fights. Go back to basic training and get your sense back."

Even if it was just a tiny bit of waste, I could tell immediately because I was so good at mana perception.

It was probably such a small amount of consumption that the club members weren't even aware of it. But by not overlooking it and making them aware, they could definitely level up.

"Everyone, you heard her. Perhaps we, including myself, had started to rely too much on the high performance of the new models. Let's spend the rest of our time focusing on going back to the basics."

"But we have a practice match tomorrow? Shouldn't we be confirming tactics and cooperation?"

"Daily accumulation with an eye on the actual performance is more important than victory in a practice match. Let's work toward the actual performance ahead rather than tomorrow."

As expected, the President understood well. Besides, tomorrow's opponent was a lower rank. It was better to refine the basics than to spend time on measures against a lower-rank opponent. Once you get used to unconscious waste, it's hard to get it back.

"Alright, it's been a while since I looked at your basics. Sigurdnaut and Harriet, focus on your own mana manipulation too. Curly-hair, don't you slack off."

"...I'm not slacking."

"You're saving too much mana. You should be able to maintain it even if you increase the density. I won't overlook any waste or unnecessary saving from anyone, so be prepared."

"Yes!"

The practice with increased tension would probably sink in more than usual.

Then, the day of the practice match arrived.

As the current Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy Golem Club, this was only the second practice match. For the first one, we were still using dolls from two generations ago, and the opponent was a school that was a candidate for the championship.

I’d had enough of tasting defeat. Today was a match to learn the taste of victory.

None of the club members were absent, and they all boarded the large bus and set off for the opponent's school.

Today, Imouto-chan and Harriet were also participating. If we stayed shut in for fear of the enemy, our precious study abroad would be wasted, and I couldn't stand the situation where our activities as the Golem Club were restricted. Besides, no matter how we moved, the enemy would just move how they wanted, when they wanted. There was no point in worrying.

"This is Heidi, no abnormalities in the vicinity so far."

"This is Layla. There are no suspicious points at the opponent's school either."

The support system was perfect. The two people I could rely on were watching both at our destination and on the way. If there was an abnormality, the plan was to have them eliminate it immediately.

While receiving secret protection, the club members, without knowing it, were looking forward to the practice match. Even if something happened, I intended to make sure they didn't notice at all and treat it as if there were no problems.

Just like the school we faced before, the opponent school gave us a pompous welcome because students from a prestigious girls' school were visiting.

It's a pity when the opponent is a commoners' school, but we can't consider social status when selecting practice partners. They'll just have to accept it.

The expressions of our students were very bright.

It was the first external match with the magic dolls that had been replaced with new models. They looked like they couldn't wait.

When they were using dolls from two generations ago, they must have felt ashamed just by having them seen, thinking they were old-fashioned. Just by no longer feeling that pathetic inferiority, they would be released from stress. They should be able to do it freely today.

"——We look forward to working with you today."

Following the same flow as last time, the students greeted each other, and the advisors greeted each other.

The only thing different than usual was that my appearance was in refined mode. This was a look that reflected the lesson from last time, when I intimidated the opponent just with my appearance and the follow-up was a pain. From now on, I decided to go with this when I went out for school-related things to avoid unnecessary trouble or misunderstandings.

"Do whatever you want in the first match. If it doesn't go well, you can think and change things during the match... President?"

"Ah, yes."

"What kind of spineless reply was that?"

"It's just... I can't help but be bothered by how different you are than usual, Sensei."

Even though she’d looked like she wanted me to stop wearing the tracksuit last time.

" I just thought this would be less of a pain. More importantly, focus on the match."

Today, I was wearing a navy short-sleeved flared shirt dress, which I’d only worn on the first day I went to the academy, and oval-shaped fake glasses.

With my hair in a half-up style and my usual arrogant attitude of natural intimidation held back, I probably looked like a completely different person.

This was also to dispel the rumors I’d caused last time.

Last time, I got a bit carried away and destroyed the opponent school's facilities. Apparently, the academy provided compensation for that, and there hasn't been any trouble since.

However, as I’d imagined, rumors had flown around with added details, and Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy had attracted quite a bit of attention. Because of that, there was a situation where we had to refrain from external matches for a while.

This time, I figured the fuss had finally died down, so I tried to make even the advisor's appearance decent, applying the lesson from last time.

As expected, the atmosphere didn't become strange or fearful based on my appearance. It was going well so far.

"Sensei, we're off."

"We don't have a numerical disadvantage today. Let's win!"

"Alright! Let's give it our all!"

The club members, who had finished their preparations, headed to the match arena. I didn't give them any particular tactics and let them do as they pleased.

As per my initial plan, today would be a winning match, so I’d just watch without saying anything.

On the stage, the magic dolls of both schools wearing bibs were lined up, and their formation revealed their plan for the battle.

Apparently, this can be changed until right before the match starts, and they sometimes move around to keep each other in check. It means they don't want to be at a disadvantage in the initial formation, even if they have to waste mana.

Changing the formation for a group battle takes a fair amount of time and creates a corresponding opening. If it's not done well during a match, it can determine victory or defeat by itself, so the initial placement is very important. This was also an interesting element.

Last time, they were at an overwhelming disadvantage as soon as they used dolls from two generations ago, and the opponent didn't see the need to engage in maneuvering. So there were no such elements of offensive and defensive maneuvering beforehand, and this time was a good experience starting from things like this.

How did the opponent school see Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy? This must be quite difficult for them.

The situation was completely different than when we were using dolls from two generations ago. Even though we were once a prestigious school, that was just a story from the past. They probably wouldn't have any data on us since we haven't had any achievements in recent years, and it would be difficult to imagine how the match would unfold before fighting. Hesitation could be seen in the placement of their magic dolls.

In contrast, there was no hesitation on our side. Since I told them to do whatever they wanted, they just went with the form they were used to from practice.

In the center, the President and the Curly-hair were lined up in a dense formation, on the right wing was a unit led by Imouto-chan, and on the left wing was a unit led by Harriet. We were split into three.

As if to deepen the opponent's hesitation, they were enjoying the maneuvering by pretending to change the formation when they actually weren't moving much at all. They were doing quite well for their first time.

And then, the match began with the signal.

"Advance!"

At President Hermyra's command, the magic dolls moved in an orderly fashion.

This was what it meant to move in perfect unison. The dolls, which had perfectly matched their pace while moving quickly, surged forward all at once with shields and spears at the ready, while overflowing with just enough mana.

All of the center, right wing, and left wing were powerful movements accompanied by a sense of intimidation.

Perhaps because the opponent school didn't have data on us, they were taking an ambivalent, halfway, and passive response to both attack and defense so that they could handle anything with an orthodox horizontal line. Furthermore, instead of responding immediately upon receiving the charge, their panic was clearly transmitted.

At this point of the initial movement, the victory or defeat was already decided.

The basic principle of my teaching is to strike first and win. Do it before you're done.

The strong don't need to match the opponent. They don't even need to see their moves. They just impose their own battle, overwhelm, and win. It doesn't matter what the opponent does. That's the battle of a sovereign.

I’ll have Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy Golem Club make a glorious comeback. My role is to make them reign as sovereigns and leave behind a tradition that sustains it.

I watched the match thinking that today was the beginning of that.

Hermyra and the others were calm even while riding the momentum.

The three units timed their strike against the enemy and forced them back with pressure.

They struck with spears, pushed with shields, and crushed the will to counterattack. The units on the left and right gradually deployed as if to surround the enemy, leaving them with nowhere to escape but to the rear.

Retreating while showing their backs was unthinkable in a magic doll battle. So, while facing forward, they were pushed from the front and squeezed from the left and right, as if they were being crushed by pressure.

Instead of gradually, they were forcing the enemy back rapidly, and eventually, they cornered them at the edge of the stage and knocked them off. Falling from the stage was treated the same as being incapacitated.

In a magic doll battle with almost the same weight, equipment, and numbers, a development like a mass fall off the stage usually wouldn't happen.

The opponent's magic dolls were shaken by such an unthinkable development and just repeated dropping out and reducing their numbers without any chance to recover. It was one-sided.

This was overwhelming even beyond my expectations. I intended to have a winning match today, but the opponent was supposed to be a middle-ranked one. So I didn't think there would be this much of a difference. It must have been the same for all the club members. They couldn't hide their excitement while fighting, and there were large disturbances in their orderly movements and mana manipulation.

"Thinking that the long-awaited first victory is right before them, this much is unavoidable."

In the end, it was a victory won by just forcing through, without using any superior tactics.

"Evil Banshee-sensei, we won!"

"It's our first victory, Sensei!"

"We did it! I mean, aren't we strong? Weren't we amazing?"

Hmm, they're more carried away than I thought.

Well, I intended to overlook it for today, but there's still more. This wasn't the only match.

"Hey, don't get ahead of yourselves. For the next one, even the opponent will know your way of doing things. It won't be easy enough to bring about the same development. Reflect on the match just now and prepare for the next one. I didn't miss that you got sloppy at the end!"

"Yes!"

And so, we finished everything scheduled for today.

When it was over, I think the opponent had been demoralized in the first match. The brilliant and overwhelming victory had ingrained the difference in rank into the opponent's consciousness.

From the second match onward, even though they tried various different tactics, it didn't seem like they could draw out the opponent's full power. It was such a gap in strength that it made me feel a bit sorry for them, so for us, it was an unexpected complete victory, and for the opponent, it must have been a nightmare-like time.

Well, in any case, our initial goal of 'victory' was achieved. I have to show them even further.

In front of the cheering club members lined up, I wrapped things up as the advisor.

"Listen up, you lot. You must be happy, but this was just a practice match. A victory in the actual performance won't be like this. Besides, the higher you go after winning, the more exceptional the taste of victory becomes. We're going to savor that to the fullest!"

The victory waiting in the future would be even more joyful than the first victory they were tasting now.

A victory in the actual performance, and a victory at the end of hard work. Something this joyful is not something you can easily experience when you're a student.

It's still just an imagination, but even the Curly-hair had an excited look on her face and was laughing happily with Hermyra and the others.

That's right. Have expectations, work hard, and you lot will go up.

The results of the practice match will definitely reach other schools.

Especially since Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy had messed up in the previous practice match, the level of attention was high.

This time, it wasn't about destroying facilities or starting a fight for nonsensical reasons, but a decisive victory in their first match after replacing the magic dolls with new models, fought properly. I'm sure the powerhouse schools will be scrambling to collect information.

That's fine. Go ahead and investigate. And do your best to prepare.

No matter how much they prepare, a sovereign is one who just treads over them with ease. They should take a good look at how Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy has changed.

At this point, I'd rather have the powerhouses become a big wall standing in our way. I'll make good use of them as stepping stones.

I’ll have them break through the powerhouses and make it not just a glorious comeback, but a club that surpasses its past glory. With me and those girls, I'm sure it can be done.

=== CHAPTER 366 END ===

=== CHAPTER 367 START ===


On the way back from the practice match.

The inside of the bus was noisy with excited students for a short while, but it soon became quiet. Perhaps because it was already evening, most of them seemed to have fallen asleep from exhaustion.

When I stood up to check on them, I saw even the reliable President and the Curly-hair, who was the representative of sass, sleeping with innocent, childish faces. It was a calm and peaceful time.

Among them, Imouto-chan and Harriet were awake without letting their guard down because the time during transportation was the most dangerous.

Whether it was truth, a lie, or overthinking, there was supposedly a concern about the assassination of the Anastasia Union leader's sister. Imouto-chan looked no different than usual on the surface, but her heart probably wasn't calm.

Since I, her guard, had been targeted by what appeared to be curse magic, some kind of danger was definitely nearby.

Waiting alone was stressful, so I was filled with a feeling that if they were going to attack anyway, they should just come at me already.

"This is Layla. President, a suspicious vehicle is approaching from the rear. It's gradually increasing its speed and is almost in a state of rampage."

Even though my inner thoughts shouldn't have become reality, a disturbing report came in with perfect timing.

"This is Yukari, copy that. So they're targeting us during transport after all. Do they intend to ram us with suicidal intent?"

"I think so, but something is strange. It doesn't feel like a determined charge, but more like a drug addict is just in a frenzy... I'll eliminate it for now."

Whether it was a demonic hand sent by the enemy or not, I should consider that we were being targeted. It was best to repel them before they got close.

"This is Heidi. There's one from the opposite lane too, unnaturally increasing its speed. This one looks like they're falling asleep, but I don't think a rampaging vehicle from both front and back is a coincidence."

"Hoh? A pincer attack? Layla, Heidi, eliminate them as quietly as possible. I don't want the students to notice."

"Layla, understood. I'll try."

"Heidi, understood too."

They would carry out the high-difficulty order I’d casually given.

As I closed my eyes and sensed the presence broadly, I could tell that vehicles had crashed into what appeared to be roadside trees in separate locations at the front and back. I didn't know how they did it, but it seemed they’d successfully caused minimal accidents for each.

"Alright, continue to monitor the surroundings."

I thought while being satisfied with their work.

A rampaging vehicle from both front and back couldn't be a coincidence. It was a situation that could only be considered a suicidal pincer attack. That being said, it was also a situation that was hard to call a deliberate assault.

One driver was a junkie and the other was falling asleep. People in that state couldn't possibly carry things out with normal judgment, and at least they were different from decent hitmen. A sacrificial pawn using the power of drugs was possible, but falling asleep at the wheel was surely not.

Just a series of accidents with the worst luck. If they weren't hitmen, then objectively, maybe I should consider that was the case.

"This is Layla. President, something is falling from the sky this time... it looks like a bird-type magical beast, but it doesn't feel like it's attacking. It's quite large."

"Don't tell me it's a magical beast that died mid-air? And it's on a direct collision course with this bus? In the first place, it's rare for a large magical beast to approach a city?"

"It's clearly strange... whatever the reason, I'll divert its trajectory for now."

No such coincidence could possibly exist. Unless there was someone's malice, such unfortunate events wouldn't continue.

"As I thought, this is Badoo Lot... it's the work of that curse-like magic."

I should consider it their work. But this time, there was no abnormality with the talisman. If it was a curse against me, it should have become a substitute... wait, come to think of it, many students were on the bus.

If the curse wasn't cast on me or Imouto-chan, but on someone who happened to be on the bus, then it might mean there's no way to prevent it other than having everyone carry a talisman.

I really couldn't keep up with this kind of thing.

I was searching for Badoo Lot, but I had no choice but to push through even with some recklessness, find them, and put an end to it. Involving unrelated students was the worst.

"Tch, what a pain. Heidi, I can't afford to take it slow anymore. We're going to crush Badoo Lot with everything we've got."

"This is Heidi. But so far, we haven't even caught the shadow of a tail. There was no information in the Phantom Thief Guild either, and it'll be difficult without any leads."

Because they could only do roundabout things, they were perhaps third-rate, but they were top-notch when it came to hiding. That's why they were a pain. But as long as they existed, there were bound to be clues somewhere.

If I could get a foothold, it would surely be through someone knowledgeable about the underworld.

"Right, I'll meet with Count Cleados. It's hard to imagine the scion being involved in Imouto-chan's assassination. The one moving Badoo Lot is bound to be some out-of-touch, idiotic noble. Count Cleados, who offered his cooperation, should have at least some idea."

The faction that aimed to weaken the Anastasia Union, which was deeply embedded in the country's interests, was Imouto-chan's enemy and my enemy. Furthermore, they were trash nobles who had a common interest with hostile foreign forces.

A power struggle in a historic great nation meant that you couldn't be a winner unless you did something that extreme.

"A Bertlezia noble... it might be quick, but I hate the idea of being used. Don't you think he'll just conveniently name someone who's in the way of the Cleados family?"

It was obvious that we'd be used conveniently, but that went both ways.

"At this point, it's fine to play into his intentions. The Cleados family is undoubtedly a powerful noble, so if I think of it as an opportunity to sell a favor at a high price, I'll overlook a few things. More than that, Badoo Lot is just too much of a nuisance."

His daughter, Student Council President Ruth Cleados, said I was being hated to the point of being cursed because of a woman's jealousy toward me.

If I recall, she mentioned that some royal Prince or other was taking an interest in me... to think I'd be cursed without even knowing it because of such a reason. Even if it's the fate of a popular, good woman, it's a nuisance.

Those who want to eliminate me personally, those who want to eliminate the Kikyo-kai which might newly bite into the interests, those who want to weaken the Anastasia Union, those who want to throw the nation into a whirlpool of turmoil for the sake of power struggles, and so on; there are surely many other motives intertwined in the current situation of this great nation of Bertlezia.

Power struggles are like the job of those in power, and it can be said that it's somewhat unavoidable for me or the Kikyo-kai to be targeted if we get involved in interests.

However, actions that benefit other countries' forces and attacks involving children are truly beyond the pale. Even the villains of Exenbla, which prides itself on being a den of iniquity, have a bit more sense than that.

"...I'll show them who they picked a fight with."

Since it's come to this, I'll crush the enemy even if they're a noble. Those spoiled brats of a great nation, looking down on people like that. Curse someone and you dig two graves. Don't think you'll get away for free.

After that, while keeping a strict watch on the surroundings, I returned to the academy as if nothing had happened on the surface.

The day after returning to the academy, I asked Student Council President Ruth Cleados if she had any idea about Badoo Lot, but as expected, she wasn't knowledgeable about underworld organizations.

So I had her arrange a meeting so I could see Count Cleados directly, and I got a reply early the next day.

"Sensei, my father said he can make a little time five days from now, in the evening."

"Five days from now? What's the specific place and time?"

"Since we don't know where there might be eyes and ears, he said he'll let us know right before."

"I see. Then I'll see you in five days."

Bertlezia was in a difficult political situation. Cleados must be busy as a powerful noble, and he probably couldn't easily meet with the head of the Kikyo-kai, a foreign force.

Besides, as the power struggle intensified, he must be careful about his personal protection. It was different from a peaceful situation where he could go out whenever he wanted.

Thinking that the air was getting a little more ominous every day surely wasn't just my imagination.

Even we, who didn't see the full situation, could somehow feel that the situation in Bertlezia was getting worse.

There was no word from the intelligence officer Moore, and I heard from Thompson of the Blue Coats that incidents such as murders and kidnappings were on the rise. He even asked us to help from the shadows if the opponent seemed tough, and I had Heidi and the others help.

However, there have been no signs of curse-like magic since the bus attack, and there have been no strange movements from the scion and his surroundings.

I’ll maintain my composure and wait for the meeting with Count Cleados while doing my daily routine and work as a temporary instructor. Once I find the enemy's whereabouts, I'll settle things all at once.

"President, I think the situation where we can't pay attention only to the inside of the academy and the Anastasia Union has become tough with our current numbers."

"That's true, Layla. I thought it would be fine since we had Heidi and the others as backup, but the situation has been getting worse since then."

Heidi and the others were already busy with monitoring and information gathering. We were finding it difficult to move because we were strengthening the personal protection of Imouto-chan and the defense of the academy and its surroundings.

We might have no choice but to hire temporary help from some guild with money. But we’d have to assume that spies would infiltrate, and thinking that some might betray us, it seemed better not to do it at all. It's quite difficult.

Tch, this feeling of being on the back foot is really stressful.

"This is Valeria, Onee-sama!"

It wasn't a communication with a sense of urgency. The voice of my little sister, who was active in the drama club, was one that was tinged with joy.

"What's wrong?"

"A signal flare went up! That's the Delta!"

To think they launched a light magic signal flare and appeared with the large armored personnel carrier, the Delta. There was no way to mistake our unique signal flare and that armored vehicle. Which meant.

"Truly, they're doing it flamboyantly."

"Could it be, the Third Seat herself?"

"Only Gradena would go through the trouble of bringing out the Delta. It looks like she's brought additional reinforcements."

Great timing. This wasn't a coincidence, but surely Sieglinde and the others at the headquarters had read the situation from the reports Layla sent and sent them out. My heart was racing at the replenishment of our combat power.

"I'll go meet them."

"Yeah, I'm counting on you, Layla."

A short while later, another communication came in.

"This is Gradena. Yo, Yukari! I've come to back you up."

"This is Yukari, glad you made it. Where are you?"

"There aren't many places where I can park the Delta, so thanks to Layla's guidance, I'm at a hotel near your school. We have no choice but to use this hotel as our base for now."

Apparently, she was at the hotel where we stayed for one night when we first came to this city.

The hideout Heidi and the others were using couldn't accommodate the Delta. Besides, a flamboyant woman like Gradena couldn't stay in the same hideout as the intelligence bureau, which was carrying out covert activities. I couldn't invite them to the academy either, so using the hotel was the safest bet for now.

"I'll come show my face tonight."

"Yeah, I'll be waiting. But it's only just past noon. I'm bored as hell, so I thought I'd go around and give some greetings."

"Greetings? It's not a bad thing. But you promised the Leader not to do anything flashy until the handover of the turf is done?"

"I've already cleared it with that Leader, so it's fine. He's well aware of the situation over here."

"No problem then. As the Third Seat of the Kikyo-kai, give them a proper greeting."

"Leave it to me, I'll do it without a hitch."

Actually, we weren't supposed to do anything flashy until we put up the Kikyo sign in this city, but now that we've been involved in various things, the situation has indeed changed to where details don't matter anymore. Above all, if the Leader said it's okay, it's not a breach of promise.

Anyway, I was grateful for the backup. With this, we could divide roles: the academy team, mainly focused on living as instructors and students while Imouto-chan was studying abroad; Heidi and the intelligence bureau, active while lurking in the darkness; and Gradena and the additional forces, drawing the enemy's attention with their flashy appearance and movements.

Alright, alright, I feel like I've somehow gained a plan to settle the trouble.

After finishing even the night practice of the club, I left Valeria and the others to guard Imouto-chan and drove an armored vehicle to the hotel alone.

There was no need to be sneaky at this stage. Since Gradena and the others appeared with the flashy Delta, they must already have monitors on them, and I'm already a target for surveillance. It's not a strange movement at all for two people under surveillance to meet if they're members of the same Kikyo-kai. For people like Moore and the intelligence bureau who have common interests, our increase in combat power would probably be welcome.

On the other hand, for the factions that were hostile to us, the increase in Kikyo-kai members who were each a match for a thousand would be a cause for alert. Maybe they'll get impatient and make a crude move. I welcomed the situation moving.

Come at me with whatever you've got. I'll counter every single one and whittle down the enemy's strength.

And since it was out anyway, there was no need to hide from anyone, and since I even got the endorsement of the Anastasia Union leader, there was no problem with proudly showing the Kikyo crest. I also went back to my usual style for activities other than school-related work.

After a long time, I put my arms through the ink-colored coat and even attached a ribbon rack with amethyst badges and insignias. I felt somehow braced.

"President, we've been waiting for you."

When I entered the hotel parking lot, five members were waiting to meet me. There were no newcomers, and they were all familiar faces.

An imposing group in ink-colored and moon-white coats, carrying weapons, had a powerful sense of intimidation. Even at night, it had been a while since I felt the sensation of standing out around the hotel where many people were passing by.

"Everyone looks well. Is Gradena in her room?"

"Yes, I'll show you the way."

I wondered what the guys monitoring our movements would think. I'm sure they wouldn't have any easygoing thoughts, and they should just think that we're in full combat mode.

Come on, come on. If you don't come soon, we might keep increasing our combat power.

Searching for the enemy was a pain. Luring them out and finishing them off was quicker and easier. Anytime, anywhere, come at me!

=== CHAPTER 367 END ===

=== CHAPTER 368 START ===


When a group in combat uniforms enters a hotel, they naturally become the center of attention. But since they're guests other than me, there's no reason to reproach them.

They must have shown their wealth by paying in advance, which is our usual method. When the air of violence is combined with the power of money, most people stop complaining.

And a wise guest should try to keep a distance from an imposing group. The conspicuous appearance includes a message of warning to the surroundings.

If you want to avoid trouble, get out of here. If you're near us, the probability of being involved in a terrible incident surely isn't low.

Ignoring various stares, we moved through the hotel and entered the finest room on the top floor, where I saw a familiar grinning face.

In addition to Gradena, there were two others in the room, so including the five who met me, a total of eight had come. Including Heidi and the others, the reinforcements were quite numerous.

"I've been waiting for you, Yukari. But look... I thought you'd have more of a teacher-like atmosphere, but you haven't changed at all. With that, the brats are bound to be scared out of their wits."

"In school, I have a more casual outfit and make myself more approachable."

The intimidation when wearing the special coat was incomparable to when I was in a tracksuit. I thought the tracksuit was creating a certain fear as a demon instructor, but I personally thought it also had a somewhat comical atmosphere.

While exchanging meaningless small talk, we shared our recent situations.

I told them about what happened in Bertlezia through reports, and I heard about what happened in Exenbla from Heidi and the others, so we had a general grasp of each other's situations. The center of the conversation was the trouble that occurred recently.

"——A curse? Someone used such a strange magic."

"It seems it can be prevented by wearing a talisman. You lot should buy one at a church too."

"A church, I'm not good with those."

"I understand, but countermeasures are necessary. More than that, I heard Exenbla is in a pretty tough situation. Was it okay for you to come as backup?"

According to what I heard from Heidi and the others, the small problems were too many to count.

I thought they'd manage with executives like Sieglinde and the many members, though.

"The post-war confusion is within expectations, so it's not a problem. At least I was relatively free, so it's not something you and the others on the expedition should worry about, Yukari."

"Fine then. Things are quite troublesome over here, so I have expectations."

"Hmph, bring it on. At least it's better than being idle in Exenbla. Right, you lot?"

The Third Seat asked for agreement from the members she brought. All of them had a fearless smile. They probably enjoyed the idea of dealing with a new enemy in a new land.

"We weren't idle in Exenbla, either. But this does seem more interesting."

They were reliable people. They probably still felt like they were on a trip to a major city in the continent's greatest nation, but they should enjoy sightseeing too since they're here.

"By the way, you said you were going around to give greetings. Where did you go?"

"I showed my face to the major guilds for now. Each of the guild leaders in Exenbla asked me to deliver something too. Even though I'm not a delivery person, they sure used me conveniently."

"Asking to carry things? But you got something in return, right?"

If the Third Seat of the Kikyo-kai was carrying it herself, they could surely entrust her with important deliveries. We had built a relationship with the guilds in Exenbla where we helped each other out.

"Well, yeah. I got some good information from the Merchant Guild and the Healer Guild, and I got some one-of-a-kind items from the Blacksmith Guild and the Magic Tool Guild. And it was new information about unexplored areas from the Adventurer Guild; those were the main ones."

"That's not just not bad, it's a huge reward for just carrying luggage. What are those guild people up to?"

"I'm also told to bring back information about Bertlezia. Even with inter-guild communication, you can't take information from your own people at face value because of factors like pride and factions. It's funny, but it probably means they can trust what they hear from us much more."

Hehe, ironically, villains have to value trust if they're to do things on a large scale. I feel like there's a sense of solidarity from having the same den of iniquity as a base. In any case, it's an interesting story.

"I see. What's the Anastasia Union in Exenbla doing? They must be busy over there too, but they probably can't be indifferent to their headquarters."

"Since that Leader is standing firm, at least they're staying calm on the surface. They're even nonchalantly expanding their turf in the old Letnark territory."

"Hmm, I see."

While we were involved in trouble and having a hard time, things over there seemed to be business as usual. Well, the calm and collected feeling was quite like the Leader.

"More importantly, I'm thinking of going to the Anastasia Union to give a greeting tomorrow."

She said something outrageous in a nonchalant way.

"They'll think it's a raid?"

"Well, if that happens, it happens. But I actually have a letter from the Leader."

Not just from the guilds, but from the Leader too? That was a concern.

"Hoh, what's in the letter?"

"I haven't heard, but since he's entrusting it to someone else, it's probably either nothing much or something that only the person who's supposed to see it will understand."

"...I see. Well, if you were asked to deliver it, you have no choice but to go."

"That's the point. Haha, it's going to be interesting."

She was grinning and looked like she was really enjoying herself. Tomorrow would probably be a stormy day.

"Anyway, you came to Bertlezia as the Third Seat of the Kikyo-kai. Since you're also in a relationship where the three major families work together in Exenbla, thinking about it, not going to give a greeting would mean not fulfilling your obligations."

"That's right. If I neglect my obligations, it's like picking a fight. It's not unnatural at all. I'll push my way in early in the morning."

"From the morning? I can go if it's at night."

"It's not like I'm going to raid them, and it's better to visit while it's light. And I heard from Layla that if I make it in the afternoon, that idiot son might not be there."

I think she mentioned that the scion spent a lot of time shut in and practicing on his own. If he didn't use an excuse of being out when we went suddenly, he'd probably be there if it was early. If we took the time to make an appointment and let him prepare, the impact would be lessened.

Gradena isn't just a hotheaded idiot. Whatever the development, I can leave it to her. It's a pity I can't be there because of school.

"Sis, the alcohol and snacks have arrived."

"Oh, perfect timing. Bring them in."

"Keep your guard at a minimum and drink and eat as much as you like. You'll be busy soon enough. Heal the fatigue of the trip early."

Now, I wondered what would happen. It's surely better for us to move the situation forcibly than to have it moved by the enemy. There aren't many such opportunities in enemy territory. Gradena might ignore the enemy's intentions and make things interesting and funny. I'll look forward to how it turns out.

Even after a night of drinking with members I hadn't seen in a while, I didn't particularly sleep in and led my usual academy life.

However, my turn to act has noticeably decreased. Thanks to the newly formed Disciplinary Committee, the academy has become peaceful and there's no point in going on patrol.

After a quick patrol out of a sense of duty, I’d spend my time reading in the library, which has become a daily routine. The library during classes has almost no people and is a very quiet and comfortable space. My reading was progressing.

I spent about two hours focused on reading and finished a book on ancient magic theory.

I wondered if Gradena was seeing the scion about now. Even if they're turned away, I just hope it doesn't turn into a fight.

As I was thinking idly and resting my head, I felt someone approaching.

"Are you here, Evil Banshee-sensei?"

"The Disciplinary Committee you lot appointed seems to be excellent, so my lifestyle guidance is idle. Do you want something?"

It was Student Council President Ruth Cleados. I had a meeting scheduled with her father, the Count, tomorrow. I heard he'd let me know the time and place right before, so it was probably about that. She wouldn't have gone through the trouble of finding me to chat since she doesn't adore me.

"Can you leave now? My father has called for you."

To move tomorrow's schedule to today and specify the time as 'right now' was a very cautious response. It seemed he was moving so that no one could grasp his schedule. That meant the Count was feeling that much of a personal danger.

What should I do? Since it wasn't after school yet, I was still on duty as an instructor. And since the Count was moving in secret, I couldn't exactly say it was because of the Count as my reason for leaving early.

Well, whatever. I'll just go on my own. If I need an excuse, I'll think of one then.

"I see. Where is the place?"

"I will guide you."

"It's still morning. Are you planning to slack off even though you're the student council president?"

"It's not rare for a student to leave early for family business. It's hurtful for you to call it slacking. Besides, my father told me that I should be the one to guide you. A car is already waiting."

That was well-prepared.

"I'll go change, so wait a bit."

I couldn't exactly have a meeting with a powerful noble while in a tracksuit and sandals. I had my pride as the head of the Kikyo-kai too.

I rushed to the dormitory, quickly changed into formal-looking clothes, and put on the moon-white coat. I thought the moon-white coat had a different kind of intimidation than the ink-colored one. Even with minimal weapons, I had to make sure I wasn't underestimated.

Walking through the academy in the morning, a woman in a white coat and sunglasses was deathly conspicuous. I felt countless stares from the school windows.

"This is Valeria. Onee-sama, are you going somewhere?"

It seemed my little sister found me immediately.

"Tomorrow's schedule was moved up to today. It probably won't take long, but take care of Imouto-chan for me."

"This is Layla. It's the meeting, right? Should I have Heidi and the others follow you?"

"Right, if you can move them, have one or two follow me. Gradena should be seeing the scion about now, and there's no telling what might happen where, so let's set up a broad alert. Layla, keep an eye around the academy, and Valeria and the others, do your best to guard Imouto-chan."

"Yes, Onee-sama."

I communicated briefly through my earrings as I walked, and in the parking lot near the main gate, Ruth Cleados was waiting in a vehicle.

A middle-aged man who looked like a butler and guard respectfully opened the door to the back seat, so I got in. In the large back seat, there was Ruth and a woman who looked like an attendant.

"Sensei, you stand out too much."

"If the Count is being monitored, you're bound to be a target as his daughter. Since you're taking a different action than usual from the morning, even if you made it a bit plain, it wouldn't mean anything. And a good woman like me is bound to stand out anyway. If you wanted to hide it, you should have been more thorough from the start."

The luxury car started moving as if it were sliding.

"Do you think we are being monitored?"

"There are always more than ten people monitoring the academy. I don't know if they're targeting you, but you should just assume so since you're in a certain position. By the way, where's our destination?"

"You'll know when you get there."

She's being pretentious. Well, whatever. I decided to stay quiet for a while and ignore the piercing stare from the woman who looked like an attendant.

The attendant woman, the middle-aged man who looked like a butler, and the middle-aged man who was the driver; all of them felt like they were quite skilled. Even if they were calm on the surface, there was an atmosphere that people who were used to combat, like former knights or former mercenaries, had.

And this vehicle wasn't an armored one, but many magic tools were embedded in it. They were probably to increase its defensive power. It seemed they were paying quite a bit of attention to the daughter's protection.

While I was secretly searching each person's ability and magic tools, it seemed we arrived at our destination without much time passing.

It was the foot of the academy on the hill, the hotel where Gradena and the others were staying. I wondered where she was taking me, and it turned out to be a familiar place.

While this hotel was fine, it didn't have a special status that high-ranking nobles would use, and it wasn't excellent in terms of security either. The Count was in a place like this?

Hmm, they might be able to catch the enemy off guard. But for a person who felt a threat to his life, it wasn't a place I would recommend. I wondered what he was thinking, unless he was waiting with a readiness to fight.

Leaving the driver in the parking lot, I followed Ruth Cleados, who was accompanied by the middle-aged butler and the woman who was a servant.

"This is Heidi. One other person is heading toward the President's location."

An extremely small sound that only my sharp ears could hear reached me. It seemed they were heading to support me.

I didn't respond to the communication and focused on searching for the air in the hotel. Perhaps because the Count was there, there were many suspicious people, unlike when I was here before.

There were people keeping an eye from the hotel lobby or the upper floors, people who stayed in vehicles in the parking lot, and there seemed to be strange people in places I couldn't see. But it's unclear if they're the Count's enemies or allies.

Gradena and the others, who were supposed to be staying at this hotel, were apparently out seeing the scion or doing other things. Since they had just arrived, they had mountains of things to do. It would have been perfect if there were members left on standby.

"Sensei, it's this way."

Ruth Cleados didn't use the elevator and entered an area I hadn't been in, going further in.

The orderly interior of the passage was different from the employee area. Which meant it must be a room for a special guest.

We moved through the empty passage and eventually came out to a place that looked like a back garden. In that unexpectedly large place, there was only one building that looked like a small mansion. I wondered if it was a detached house for a special guest.

We broke through the security of the magic tool at the entrance of the small mansion and entered the room beyond.

The small room that looked like a front room was a cramped space where three stalwarts in full knight equipment were waiting. The knights looked at me without reservation while staying alert.

"Ruth-sama, go inside, the Count is waiting. Sorry, but we have to have Evil Banshee-dono undergo a body search."

"Huh? I don't have any weapons."

"You must have magic tools. We'll have to take your accessories and that coat."

They called me in the middle of the day and they were quite arrogant. And they want me to hand over my equipment? I can't accept that.

First impressions are important. I have no intention of acting subservient or doing as I'm told. Who do they think I am? I'll be strong here.

"Look, I can kill all of you even if I'm naked. Don't waste my time. I have no intention of entrusting my things to you lot."

It's only natural that I'm not trusted at this point. But I don't trust these guys either. There's no way I'm handing over important equipment.

Besides, this is an unofficial place. In an unofficial place, status doesn't matter. Since I'm not carrying anything that looks like a weapon, if I give in, they'll surely make more troublesome demands. What a bunch of annoying people.

I didn't take off my sunglasses and nonchalantly asserted my claim, being quite brazen.

"...Then we can't let you through here."

"Stop it, it's useless. Instead of taking them away, you should just have her wear a magic-sealing bracelet. And Sensei doesn't have any weapons, nor does she have any ill intent. Isn't that right, Sensei?"

As expected of a student council president who has had some experience with me at the academy. She understands well.

In the first place, no matter how great Count Cleados is in this country, it has nothing to do with me. Rather, I'm going to take on an enemy for Bertlezia. I don't have to be treated like that.

"That's right. Well, I can understand your concern too. You can give me the magic-sealing thing; I'll wear it."

That's meaningless, though. As a service, I opened the inside of the moon-white coat to show them that I hadn't hidden any weapons.

The knights seemed to have given up after being convinced by Ruth's words or by the fact that I didn't have any weapon-like weapons.

"Then take this. Removing the bracelet in the room will be considered a hostile action, so be prepared."

I put on the magic-sealing bracelet the somewhat anxious knight offered. This was a type that could be easily removed, the same as the simplified version I saw at the dance hall. It might indeed be unreliable. In any case, it's meaningless for me.

This kind of trouble was within expectations. Negotiations include having disagreements.

I'll hope that good information will be available in exchange for the trouble. It would be a great success if I could get information on Badoo Lot's base and the nobles who are moving them.

---

I visited a secret hideout after being invited by the Count, but things almost turned ugly right away. It's a rough start.
Continuing to the next chapter: "Curse or Circumstance."

=== CHAPTER 368 END ===

=== CHAPTER 369 START ===


I slipped the magic-sealing bracelet onto my wrist, and for now, I was cut off from using magic.

Since it was the type that could be easily removed, I didn't break it; I simply accepted the temporary state of being unable to cast spells. This much wasn't a problem at all.

Even with the bracelet on, the mana leaking from my body was enough to keep the defensive properties and engraved spells of my coat functioning. While significantly limited, my combat strength remained high. When you considered my raw physical fighting skills alongside that, I was still an undeniable threat from an objective standpoint.

The Count’s guard dogs likely knew the reputation of the Bramble Witch. The fact that the Empire had a bounty on my head wasn't just for show. They were quite wary of me, even without me showing off any power.

They stayed in a posture where they could draw their weapons at any moment, and not just the three knights, but even Ruth’s attendants were glaring at me with sharp eyes.

Honestly. If you're going to be that guarded, it just makes me want to tease you.

"Evil Banshee-sensei, please refrain from your antics."

"I haven't even done anything yet."

Ruth Cleados was remarkably perceptive. She turned a reproachful gaze my way, keeping my playfulness in check. And here I was, just trying to ease the pointless tension.

"Father, it's Ruth. I've brought Evil Banshee-sensei."

"Enter."

The door opened casually to reveal a room that felt like a large reception parlor, occupied by several men.

Perched on a sofa in the center of the room was a massive, incredibly obese man. I had rarely seen anyone that large. Based on his attitude and attire, that had to be the Count. He didn't look like his daughter Ruth at all.

That aside... what was this stench?

"Stinks."

My honest impression of the unexpected foul odor slipped out.

It seemed my candid comment was taken as an insult, as a wave of resentment rippled through the Count’s subordinates.

The room filled with tension in an instant. I feigned ignorance and decided to try to smooth things over.

"Nice to meet you, Count Cleados... By the way, what's with this horrible smell?"

Smoothing things over was impossible. It really did stink.

"We had an unscheduled visitor a little while ago. I'll have it cleaned up now."

At the Count's signal, his men began what they called 'cleaning.'

I see, so that was it. It looked like someone had been dumped behind the sofa.

From the glimpse I caught, it seemed like someone who had just been tortured with violence or drugs. The smell was a mixture of those drugs, blood, and whatever else.

Good grief. I felt like he should have finished cleaning up before giving us permission to enter. If he thought I’d be intimidated by something like this, he was sorely mistaken. I wondered if he was just looking down on me.

No, perhaps he wanted to see how a notorious villain like me would react. If I had so much as paled, he would have likely deemed me an easy target.

Whatever the reason, I felt sorry for Ruth, who had been forced to see that and smell that stench.

"For someone so cautious, it seems your information leaks quite easily."

"Bugs find their way in everywhere."

From what I gathered, they had just repelled attackers shortly before I arrived, and the person dumped in the room was the traitor who had led them there.

It seems I’d walked in right after they’d interrogated and disposed of that traitor. The Count's daily life was quite hardcore.

Still, regardless of the surveillance by hostile factions, having a traitor on the inside was rough.

"Want to change locations?"

"I have another appointment soon, so I don't have much time to spare."

The worst-case scenario would be making it look like I had assassinated the Count. If it happened during a secret meeting, suspicion would definitely fall on me.

Besides, the location's information had already leaked, and it was a scene that had already been attacked. There was no guarantee there wouldn't be a second attempt, so moving quickly would be the wise choice.

"...As for me, I'm fine right here if you are, Count. Or we can reschedule. I'm busy too, but your safety should come first."

I mean, what even was this room? It didn't feel like a normal hotel room, leading me to believe it was one of the Count's hideouts. It even had a massive safe that didn't look like it belonged in a hotel.

"Your concern is unnecessary. Let's hear your business. Have a seat."

I was saying it for my own sake more than his.

Well, fine. I wanted the information on Badoo Lot as soon as possible anyway.

"Is that so? Then don't mind if I do."

"Ruth, return to the academy."

"Yes, Father."

Watching Ruth obediently leave, I settled into the sofa across from him and thought about how to proceed.

Since this was an unofficial setting, roundabout greetings were unnecessary. Given that we were under attack, we didn't have time for idle chatter. Normally, I’d want to feel him out through conversation first... but since he said he was short on time.

Right, let's get straight to the point.

"I'll keep it brief. I want to know Badoo Lot's hideout and the mastermind behind them."

"I've heard from my daughter. I don't know their hideout, but I have a good idea of which nobles are suspicious. You should ask them."

This guy was quick. Unlike some mid-level nobles who were unnecessarily arrogant, he didn't show any dissatisfaction with my lack of humility. Even though he was a big-shot noble of a major nation, it was rare to find someone who wasn't trapped by authoritarianism, which I liked.

"As expected of a Count, you already have leads. Is it someone I can visit openly?"

"If you're thinking about the cleanup, do it as secretly as possible. That way, it'll be easier to get the intelligence bureau's cooperation later. I have a list prepared. Wait a moment."

At the Count's command, a middle-aged man who looked like a secretary began opening the locked safe. It looked like it would take a bit of time to bypass the strict and complex locks.

I sipped the tea that was served with perfect timing, listening to the Count talk about the details of the attack as a way to pass the time while I vaguely nodded and tried to organize my thoughts.

Initially, Badoo Lot was thought to be tied to the scion, but upon investigation, that was likely not the case.

It was probably a malicious rumor spread by those who wanted to cause turmoil in Bertlezia to weaken it, and in turn, weaken the scion and the Anastasia Union as well.

Since there was even an assassination plot against the current leader's sister, it was hard to believe that the scion, who was so infatuated with her, was moving Badoo Lot. The scion didn't seem suited for conspiracies based on his personality, either.

According to the Bertlezia intelligence bureau, a Medek Legisamo Empire operative had infiltrated the scion's inner circle. With malicious foreign forces lurking everywhere, it even felt like the enemy factions were collaborating.

Furthermore, the enemy wasn't limited to external forces.

While one might think only foreign nations or the Empire would benefit from turmoil in Bertlezia, Bertlezia nobles were actively involved in pursuit of interests and power struggles.

Our Kikyo-kai, which might newly cut into their interests, was seen as an enemy by these people. On top of that, I was apparently liked by some Prince or other, and was hated by foolish young ladies who were so jealous they'd practically curse me to death. What a ridiculous story.

With massive conspiracies and personal greed intertwined, the relationships among the enemies had likely become quite complex.

Enemies within and without. Thanks to that, the main line of Bertlezia and our Kikyo-kai ended up facing common enemies, and we inadvertently formed a connection with the country's high-ranking officials and the intelligence bureau.

For our organization, which was planning to set up an office in Bertlezia soon, this seemed like quite a good deal in exchange for getting involved in trouble.

If things went well, a mere outsider could become a major contributor. Looking ahead, this situation wasn't so bad.

Of course, that was if things went well. In the worst-case scenario, we could have some kind of responsibility pinned on us and never be able to set foot in Bertlezia again.

If a powerful person deemed us a threat to their interests rather than just a benefit to the nation, they would easily cast us aside. We had to position ourselves as a mutually beneficial existence. Just like the position we built in the Brenark Kingdom.

"—Whoa!"

A sudden scream pulled me out of my thoughts.

Looking toward the sound, the middle-aged man who was opening the safe was doubled over.

"What are you doing?"

"M-my apologies. It seems... a malfunction... occurred..."

The man collapsed while trying to explain. Based on the situation, a trap set in the safe must have triggered. Ah, he was pricked by a poison needle.

An unexpected mistake filled the room with a sense of exasperation and confusion.

"Heal him. But how could it malfunction like that?"

"I'm not sure. It's an old safe, but this has never happened before... Wait, I'll check it out."

While the collapsed man was carried to the back room, another man approached the safe.

"Hmm? Whoa! Agggh... My eyes, my eyes are burning!"

Again? A pathetic scream rang out, and white smoke began billowing from the safe.

"What are you doing?! My Lord, guest, this is dangerous. Let's move to another room for now."

I wasn't sure what kind of poison gas it was, but the poison was slowly spreading through the room.

I was fine since I was protected by the purification engravings on my coat, and based on the Count’s calm demeanor, I assumed he also had a magic tool that could counter poison. Still, we couldn't just relax while poison gas was floating around. I followed the butler's words and moved to another room.

In the noisy detached mansion, the Count and I once again sat across from each other in chairs.

The windowless room felt oppressive, and would likely give an average person a sense of heavy pressure. That kind of atmosphere was likely intentional. This room was quite good in terms of defense against secret meetings and attacks.

The alert network was being spread with a high degree of tension. Since they had been attacked before I arrived, everyone seemed sensitive to presence and sound.

Even the administrative aides were in a defensive posture within the room. Everyone seemed to have some basic self-defense skills and was prepared to act as a shield for the Count if necessary.

I wished they'd stop giving me such harsh looks, but they were quite the capable subordinates.

"I've shown you something embarrassing. My apologies, after inviting you here."

Nobles don't usually admit their mistakes or apologize easily, but after a series of pathetic blunders in front of a guest, I guess he had to say something.

It was amusing, and since I was immune to poison it was fine, but normally, someone would be furious if such an accident happened in the room.

"Still, do you really think it was just a safe malfunction? And in a way that endangers the user's life? It's impossible."

"I agree, but we can't help what has already happened."

"It's not some cheap, unidentified safe, is it? Then you can't be naive enough to just dismiss it as an unfortunate accident, right?"

"...Could this be the Badoo Lot curse I've heard rumors about?"

He finally made the connection.

"Probably. Besides, you were attacked before I got here, right? There's no way these overlapping incidents and accidents are a coincidence."

There was no way. If you just dismissed it as bad luck, you'd be a complete idiot.

But for me, it was convenient. Now Badoo Lot wasn't just someone else's problem for Count Cleados. He'd see it as a personal threat.

"Does this mean these accidents will continue until they are eliminated?"

"Poison gas is one thing, but the trouble is you don't know what will happen where. Besides, having failed once, they'll definitely try again. You can only pray it's not an unavoidable tragedy. If you just leave them be, that is."

"...I had intended to help from the start, but I want this settled as soon as possible."

"The list of suspicious people is in that safe, right? If you give me that, I'll get to work tonight."

The Count sent his subordinates back to the room they'd just left. Even if the poison hadn't dissipated, they must have some magic tools prepared to handle it.

However, it seemed they failed.

"The door won't open? Is that also due to the malfunction?"

"Due to the effects of the malfunction, it's not accepting mana authentication. I'll call a magic tool technician and have it repaired immediately."

The Count, who had remained calm no matter what, finally seemed irritated by the series of troubles.

He had mentioned having another appointment, so he likely didn't have time to linger.

"Count, if there's nothing else you wanted to tell me directly, I'll just take the list and leave. Feel free to prioritize your next appointment. And if you don't mind me breaking the safe, you won't have to wait for repairs."

"My Lord, we must leave soon or we won't make it."

"I see. The safe is already broken anyway; you can destroy it if you are able."

"Then I'll get right to— wait, Count. It looks like you'll have to wait to leave after all."

"What?"

"We have uninvited guests."

The guards hadn't noticed yet. I only knew because of a communication from Heidi, who was keeping watch around the hotel.

Startled by my ominous words, one of the administrative aides rushed out to tell the guards outside.

"Again... are you sure?"

"At the very least, there's no doubt that a group of suspicious people is heading toward this hotel."

"My Lord, please take shelter. Guest, you as well, hurry!"

"Better not move. There are... fifteen attackers? That's quite a showy setup for an assassination. And while there are few, there are some skilled ones among them. Wouldn't it be better to stay and defend this mansion rather than trying to escape half-heartedly?"

I drained the rest of my tea while still seated.

Alright, it's been a while since I've had an opponent I could enjoy. Bring on the fight!

And since a source of information is coming right to us, there's no way I'm letting them go.

"...Our reputation would be in tatters if we were seen fleeing in a panic. I suppose I'll follow our guest's lead."

"But My Lord, with fifteen enemies, we are outnumbered."

"Don't panic. We'd be even more vulnerable if we were attacked while trying to escape. Let's make our stand here and whittle down their numbers."

That was the right move. Most importantly, I was here. I wouldn't let anyone get through.

Heidi and the others keeping watch nearby intentionally didn't move. Normally they'd move to whittle down the numbers, but the fact they didn't without me saying anything was impressive. They knew it would be more beneficial this way. It's a classic move, but the favor of saving someone in a pinch can be sold for a high price. I couldn't miss this opportunity.

Hehehe, Count Cleados. Be grateful, for I'm about to become your savior.

After waiting for a few minutes, a loud alarm rang out. A blaring warning sound like a fire alarm that would wake anyone up. This was likely a diversion. The hotel security would have no choice but to respond to it.

Count Cleados's guards were competent, but the enemy was numerous and strong. It would be a good fight, and I'd likely get a turn.

"They're almost here. This is getting interesting."

That irreverent mutter was my honest feelings, which I couldn't help. I was aware of the corners of my mouth turning up. I really was a good-for-nothing who could only live in this kind of world.

Ah, my heart was racing a bit at the prospect of an opponent that felt like they'd be worth the effort.

I'll show them the battle of a boss from the three major families of a den of iniquity, a woman whose head the Empire was after.

---

Bertlezia's true situation has become very severe.
Perhaps I'm poking my nose in and enjoying it because I'm in a position where I can escape at any moment.
Continuing to the next chapter: "The Path of Thorns."

=== CHAPTER 369 END ===

=== CHAPTER 370 START ===


The battle began quietly.

Rather than an explosive blast of magic, the first sign of conflict was the subtle, metallic ring of clashing steel. The Count's guard knights had evidently allowed the enemy to close in, resulting in an immediate melee.

They likely would have preferred to thin the enemy’s ranks before they got close, but the attackers seemed to possess the stealth skills typical of assassins. The blaring fire alarm also undoubtedly served as a perfect distraction.

Next came the roar of voices and the intermittent sounds of destruction as magic began tearing up the surroundings. At this rate, it wouldn't be long before the Blue Coats arrived. The enemy, clearly intending to complete their objective before then, was attacking with reckless abandon.

Among the fifteen attackers, I judged more than half to be inferior in skill to the guard knights. However, they were superior in number, and a select few were clearly more powerful than the knights. I based this on the magnitude of their mana. While mana alone doesn't determine a fight, it's an undeniable barometer of strength.

Still, this was the Count's base of operations. This terrain surely held various advantageous traps and mechanisms, so the battle wouldn't be decided simply by numbers or individual combat ability.

The guard knights might actually repel them on their own, or they could be breached, allowing the enemy to reach the Count. At the moment, it felt like a fifty-fifty chance. The guards were actually doing a better job than I had initially expected.

Now then, regardless of how things played out, I needed to be fully prepared. I pulled a small vial from my pocket and downed the contents in one go!

The physical enhancement potion surged through me, providing an almost unfair amount of energy.

"What was that?"

"Just a little something to liven things up. Want some?"

"...I'll pass."

The Count seemed to find the potion suspicious, despite it being harmless. My unnervingly cheerful attitude, even as we were under attack, likely made him suspect some kind of stimulant.

"By the way, Count, what about this?"

I was still wearing the magic-sealing bracelet. While it was a type that could be easily removed, those watching me likely didn't think they'd miss the motion required to do so.

From the Count's perspective, I was likely still an uncertain element, a high-level threat that he couldn't fully trust to be an ally.

If he carelessly allowed me to use magic, I might turn my fangs on him in coordination with the attackers.

Perhaps I was actually in league with the enemy.

He likely found it unsettling that I was so relaxed while we were under attack. I just didn't see the situation as a threat and was ready for a fight.

A series of enemy attacks, betrayal by his own people, and accidents that seemed like a curse from Badoo Lot—all these things had descended on the Count at once.

It was a situation where he couldn't help but feel suspicious of everyone and could never truly trust anyone else.

Yet, the threat was closing in. He surely wasn't optimistic about the battle between his guards and the attackers.

Confronted with a formidable force he could use, he struggled with whether he could trust it. My casual question might have been a malicious one that he couldn't answer immediately.

When the Count remained silent, a young aide spoke up.

"W-we'd prefer you didn't. We'll handle this ourselves, so please, guest, stay as you are..."

"You want me to act like a guest and stay quiet? Fine."

While it was a bit of a pity and I really did want to go wild, I didn't intend to force my way into the fight. If the guard knights could handle it, that was fine. However, based on what I was sensing with mana perception, that seemed unlikely. The fifty-fifty situation was tipping toward the enemy.

If my turn was coming anyway, there was no need to argue now.

Heh, besides, even though I'd brought it up, I didn't mind having my magic sealed. The physical enhancement potion was already taking effect, and even with the unpredictable elements, the probability of me losing to the enemy was extremely low.

And by following the Count's request in this situation, I would surely gain a massive amount of trust. I intended to sell every bit of favor and gratitude at the highest possible price.

The tension in the room was so thick it was hard to breathe.

The blaring alarm, the roars, the clashing of swords, and the sounds of magical destruction from outside the room grew more intense, while Count Cleados and his attendants remained silent. I was the only one relaxed and drinking tea as if it were someone else's problem.

This tension was likely due to both the threat outside the room and their pointless wariness toward me.

I wanted to ease their unnecessary tension, but I felt like anything I did would only make them more tense. I decided to stop teasing them.

While listening to the periodic battle reports from Heidi, I prepared for the coming moment.

"—You shall not pass!"

"Someone, give me a hand over here!"

"Don't just charge in! We just need to buy time! Reinforcements are on the way!"

They were doing quite a good job. But the threat was already close to this room.

Two attackers with powerful mana signatures—it would be difficult to stop them. And then.

"M-My Lord, flee..."

A pained voice was cut off as the door was smashed open. Well, the guards had done well against superior numbers and skill.

Beyond the smashed door were two massive men covered in blood. While they had injuries, most of it was likely from their victims. And as I'd heard from Heidi beforehand, the reason I could only sense a faint presence from these massive guys was likely due to magic tools. It seemed that was why the guards hadn't noticed them until they were right on top of them.

Furthermore, their blown-out pupils clearly suggested the use of some kind of drug. They might be similar to the warriors of the Legisamo Cartel who felt no pain.

The two massive warriors stepped into the room with casual strides, their large swords hanging low. Their target was undeniably the Count. I was secretly relieved that the target wasn't actually me, given that they weren't even looking at me just because I wasn't using enhancement magic. Their judgment was bottom-tier. Perhaps that too was a side effect of the drugs.

The Count and I remained seated. The Count's secretary-like aides looked like they were frozen in fear for a moment, but they steeled themselves and took up positions around the Count. They had some guts.

Right, time to move.

"Looks like my turn has come. Count Cleados, you don't mind if I handle this, right? Oh, and don't worry, I won't be taking this off."

I spoke with a hint of sarcasm and a great deal of confidence as I stood up excitedly.

If they were warriors who felt no pain, I knew how to handle them.

Inflicting pain was meaningless. I just had to kill them quickly, or if I were to capture them alive, I just had to break their bodies so they couldn't move.

As assassins focused on mobility, the enemies were lightly armored. They weren't wearing full suits of magi-mineral armor, so it wouldn't be difficult for me at all.

"I'll borrow this."

I took a spear from a man who looked like a secretary-cum-guard who had stepped forward with a look of grim determination, not even waiting for a reply. The aide, whose weapon had been taken so easily, surely realized the gap in our strength.

Yes, as expected of a Count's aide, he had a very good spear. Likely a custom-made piece.

The massive assassins, their faces devoid of emotion, were undoubtedly focused on Count Cleados. I was glad the target wasn't actually me, as they completely ignored me because I wasn't using enhancement magic. Their judgment was bottom-tier.

To make the Count and his people realize the situation, I purposefully let the enemy make the first move.

I'm giving you the first strike; you should weep with joy in the depths of hell.

And so, the assassins moved. The two giants showed an unexpected level of coordination, activating magic tools to launch fireballs first. Using those as a distraction, they rushed toward the aides standing on either side of the Count. They seemed intent on completely ignoring me.

Their timing and coordination were better than their actual speed. Both giants were about to swing their massive swords at the same time.

Not bad. While watching both their movements, I threw my teacup at the incoming fireballs.

The perfect throw hit the center of the fireballs, causing them to explode on the spot. Since they were weak spells from weak magic tools, the shockwaves and heat were at a level I could ignore.

Still, was that all? These two assassins, who had made it this far and possessed quite a bit of mana, weren't utilizing their combat abilities effectively at all. Unfortunately, they were even weaker than I'd imagined.

"You're so slow it makes me yawn."

Now that I'd seen enough, that was as far as I'd let them go.

I kicked my chair away without any telegraphing and got in the way of Giant Number One. Simultaneously, I thrust the spear out, holding it long, and bored a deep hole in the side of Giant Number Two's head. The lightning-fast thrust, with almost no telegraphing, allowed the enemy no chance to react and dealt a one-sided death. One was enough to capture alive.

The chair I'd kicked almost hit Giant Number One in the face, and although he swiped it away, he missed his chance to attack.

If he'd ignored the damage and swung his sword down, he might have reached the Count. But the fact that his defensive instincts took priority meant he was either a third-rate assassin or a victim of the drugs' side effects.

Regardless, I wasn't going to let him do anything, and having missed his one chance, he was out of options.

By the time he'd readied his sword again, I was already behind him, grabbing him by the collar and throwing him violently against the wall.

The wall, being sturdily built, didn't budge under the impact of the giant hitting it. What a fine building. I could afford to go a bit harder.

"If you're going to surrender, say so soon!"

I closed the distance in a single step to the giant, who had been slammed cleanly against the wall, and struck his shoulder with the stone-end of the spear, the side opposite the blade.

Feeling the sensation of crushing something like sugar candy, I followed up by crushing his other shoulder with the stone-end. As I pulverized both muscle and bone, the force was so great that the stone-end of the spear became embedded in the sturdy wall.

Before the sword could even fall from his weakened grip, I unleashed my next attack with ferocious speed.

"We're not done yet!"

Still using the stone-end rather than the bladed tip, I unleashed a series of rapid-fire strikes.

I thrust the spear with a sound that seemed to pierce the air, and the barrage of strikes crushed his hip bones, his thighs, his knees, and his ankles. I thoroughly destroyed his bones and muscles as if pinning him to the wall, rendering him immobile.

The enemy likely felt no fear of death and no pain due to the drugs. Indeed, the man being beaten to a pulp showed no change in expression.

Normally, you'd expect someone to die of shock from these injuries. I could tell he wasn't normal because I was carefully monitoring him even as I beat him senseless.

I completely destroyed his lower body so he couldn't stand, and I was actually a bit chilled by his unblinking, eerie eyes. He had an unsettling, zombie-like quality.

Finally, I delivered a thrust to the hollow of his throat and pinned him against the wall to suffocate him.

A third-rate like him likely couldn't do it, but an ultra-first-rate like me could move their body with mana manipulation even if their bones and muscles were destroyed. Even if he wasn't at that level, given he was on some suspicious drug, the right move was to keep going until he lost consciousness. There was no telling what kind of trump card he might have hidden.

"...Alright, he's not dead yet."

Even with no pain, a person will lose consciousness if their brain is deprived of oxygen. I'd successfully captured him alive. Though he was more half-dead than half-alive.

"Don't just stand there, bind this guy. He might be a valuable source of information."

I gave orders to the stunned aides and sensed the surrounding combat.

I judged that the two I'd just defeated were likely the strongest among the attackers. You'd think they'd notice they'd been defeated, but the enemy showed no sign of retreating.

Even if it was a futile death, they seemed prepared to fight to the end... No, perhaps they were disposable. It was either succeed or die; retreat wasn't an option.

There's nothing more terrifying than an enemy who charges in with the intent to die from the start. Even if they're inferior in skill, you can sometimes have the rug pulled out from under you.

There might still be enemies who would blow themselves up. Given the sturdy construction of this mansion, it would take a significant explosion to reach the Count... right, I'll focus on mana perception in case of an emergency and stay here to protect the Count.

"This is Heidi. Yukari-san, there doesn't seem to be any backup. Also, I found someone watching from a high vantage point. Perhaps an observer for the attack? I'll let them go and see where they return to."

"...Got it. Leave the rest to me."

While exchanging secret communications, I probed the mana of the mansion.

There was no longer any threat in this room. The aides were binding the fallen giant and carrying the corpse to another room. The Count, showing no outward sign of being shaken, remained in his chair.

The battle outside was also progressing in our favor. Once they moved past the initial surprise attack, this was home turf for the guard knights. They were beginning to demonstrate their true abilities along with the geographical advantage.

This disturbance would likely be settled before long. Based on his regained sense of composure, the Count seemed to have reached the same conclusion.

"You've saved me... and you did that without using magic?"

"It's sealed, so I can't use it. If I could have, I would have finished them before it even became a fight."

I wasn't bluffing; it was entirely possible. If I made the surrounding area my domain, I could have struck all the enemies with my bramble magic. A single strike from below—that would have been the end for third-rate trash.

Still, I don't care for such a flavorless battle. Even when my life is on the line, combat is both part of my job and a form of entertainment. I'll do as I please, depending on my mood at the time. I won't let anyone complain.

"Why didn't you remove it? Your own safety was also at stake; I wouldn't have complained."

"The young one there told me not to. Besides, 'safety' isn't a word that exists in my vocabulary."

Normally, that would be the case. You should do everything you can to protect yourself, and anyone other than me would have removed the magic-sealing bracelet without a second thought. From a common-sense perspective, that was a perfectly reasonable opinion.

"Heh, so there is no safety in the underworld. A young woman like you sure talks like she's seen it all."

"I am indeed young. But a villain like me isn't allowed to walk a safe path. It's because I'm the kind of fool who chooses the more dangerous path that I'm feared. That's how I can act like a big shot and do business as one of the Exenbla Three Families."

"Safety? If I wanted that, I'd have retired and disappeared long ago."

The path I choose is always the one most fraught with danger—the path of thorns. I do it because it's fun. I play the villain, walking the streets with a swagger, not caring who hates me. That is the Kikyo-kai.

In fact, if you start weighing combat against safety and begin to value safety more, you should probably wash your hands of this world. You wouldn't have the mentality required to survive in a world of cut-and-thrust.

"H-hah, hahahahaha!"

Whoa, he suddenly started laughing. You surprised me. Well, laugh if you want. A Count whose life is targeted in power struggles is likely in a similar boat.

After laughing for a while, the Count said something to his attendants and then turned back to me.

"I'll take this as a favor. If you're ever in trouble, tell my daughter."

"It's a huge favor, so be prepared. More importantly, didn't you have another appointment?"

"Yes, thanks to you it looks like I'll make it if I hurry. Feel free to take the materials from the safe."

Count Cleados stood up as he spoke, gave instructions for the cleanup and interrogation to his subordinates, and left the room with heavy footsteps.

Even though a battle had just ended and there were likely many fallen enemies and injured guard knights. He didn't seem to care at all and was going to go through with his next appointment.

He was an impressively paced fellow. Normally, a person would either be too shaken for their next appointment or would be preparing for further attacks. A high-ranking noble was something else.

Alright, it looks like I'll finally get the information on Badoo Lot. Let's see what's in this safe.

=== CHAPTER 370 END ===