Chapter 430 - The Cost of the Future
After hearing a brief update from the Student Council President, it was finally time for club activities.
As I strolled through the campus and made my way to the club room building, I saw the vibrant energy of the students all around. Their gazes followed me, and I walked with the confident stride of a violent instructor. Maybe it was the change from my usual track suit to my combat attire that caught their attention. Naive brats, enjoy this beautiful sight as much as you like.
I arrived at the club room, which felt like it had been ages since I last set foot in it.
I arrived more than an hour late, but that's fine for an advisor. With a growing sense of anticipation, I pushed open the door.
"—Just one more!"
"Yes!"
The voices that reached my ears were full of spirit. The commanding voice that usually belonged to the club president was being handled by someone else today. The cheerful tone was familiar, and I had a feeling I'd heard it just a moment ago.
I didn’t dwell on the immediate question and scanned the entire room.
At the supervisory position stood a girl I didn't recognize, shouting commands. Her back was turned, making it hard to identify her. The rest of the members were practicing the basic movements of the magic dolls in unison with her commands.
They were all manipulating the dolls with as little variance as possible, but with high intensity, pouring just the right amount of mana into the movements.
The dolls moved forward, stopped, changed direction, and thrust their spears. They quickly retracted the spears and lowered into a defensive stance, holding their shields.
It was a repetitive practice of basic movements, much like a martial arts kata. While I hadn’t invented this exercise, it was a well-thought-out foundational practice passed down through the club's history, a legacy from the days when the Academy was a powerhouse.
When the movements are synchronized and the dolls are handled proficiently, the practice takes on a certain level of intensity and aesthetic appeal. Given that many of the students were performing at a high level, despite having been away for a while, it was impressive.
Manipulating the magic dolls to mimic human movements requires a significant amount of practice. While it wasn’t perfect, considering it was their first time gathering after a long break, it wasn’t bad.
Improving mana perception and manipulation is crucial for advanced control of the dolls. Reflecting on their performance before the summer break, it was clear there had been no significant deterioration, which was a very good sign.
However, considering the increased number of members, it seemed a bit odd.
The number of members practicing the basics had more than doubled since before the break. This level of synchronization suggested that they must have gathered during the summer and practiced diligently.
While many members were engaged in the advanced practice, a group in the corner was working on simpler exercises.
"Newcomers, I see."
These were definitely not students I had seen before the break, and they were not the same as those who had left and then returned.
The ones assisting the newcomers were the twins and Harriet. Given their exceptional skills, I could trust them to guide the new members.
I had overheard Hermira, the club president, discussing the return and addition of new members. The increase in numbers was more significant than I had anticipated.
Counting quickly, the total was just a few short of the full quota. If the new members were not just trying out the club, we were doing pretty well.
The members who noticed me entering the room started to stop their practice and move to greet me, but I gestured for them to continue.
I wanted to observe them properly first.
Hmm, let’s see. Looking closely at the members performing the kata, there was a noticeable range in skill levels.
Some had clearly improved since the last time I saw them, while others showed minimal change. The returning members also varied in their abilities. Considering their break, I would say they were doing well overall.
Upper-class young ladies are reportedly quite busy during long breaks. While I’m not particularly interested in what they do, it seems they found time to practice diligently, which has paid off in maintaining their skills.
On the other hand, the members who improved must have made an extra effort to find time for practice, despite their busy schedules.
Some had even gathered for intensive training sessions, and a few seemed to have practiced non-stop during the break. Their improved control of the dolls was a clear indicator.
While the overall improvement is encouraging, the varying skill levels are a concern.
In a team-based magic doll combat scenario, everyone, including the newcomers, needs to reach a certain level of proficiency. Differences in skill levels can lead to significant disparities in movement speed and effectiveness.
Using the beginners as decoys might be an option, but relying on that alone won’t help us through multiple battles. It’s essential to bring the less experienced members up to speed.
There are many challenges, but there’s also potential.
If the members are motivated, it’s up to the instructors to meet their expectations.
Having a general understanding of the situation, I saw that the basic practice had come to a temporary halt.
"Everyone, line up!"
The president’s command was followed by the members quickly forming a neat line in front of me. Even the new members were included, and they stood at attention, clearly nervous.
"Evilbanshee-sensei, I welcome you back. I hope we can work together well from today onward."
"We look forward to working with you, Sensei!"
The enthusiastic and spirited greetings lifted my spirits as well. I nodded calmly, crossing my arms, and simply said, "I look forward to it."
While I didn’t need formal introductions since I was familiar with the students’ profiles, building a rapport was important. I didn’t want to come across as overly friendly, but I also didn’t want to be seen as unnecessarily intimidating.
Let’s start with some communication. Then we can discuss our plans moving forward.
"I see there are new faces, Hermira."
"Yes, Sensei. We’ve been recruiting since before the summer break, and we managed to gather this many members."
"Impressive. From what I see, it looks like you’ve all done some independent practice. Let’s take a closer look at each of you."
Wearing my thin grey sunglasses, I examined each member’s face, cross-referencing their names in my mental database.
It was clear that most of the new members were returnees. Out of the more than twenty new faces, only five were entirely new recruits.
From the practice earlier, it was evident that the club had not only recruited but had also organized practice sessions during the break.
I could trust the members to take the lead in future training. As an advisor, I could oversee the practice, make necessary adjustments, and ensure everyone was on track. Letting them think and experiment would make the club stronger.
A good advisor must have the skill to teach and, more importantly, be respected. Under a weak advisor, the students wouldn’t take the club seriously. By creating a dedicated environment, they would naturally improve.
This club already has the foundation for growth. Now, it’s about maintaining it.
I looked at each member, confirming that there were no problematic individuals, such as rebellious students or troublemakers.
Satisfied with the serious faces, I nodded, and one person broke the line to step forward. The long-haired girl, with her hair in two braids, was obviously nervous, her face stiff and her hands tightly clenched, which made her look quite endearing.
The president seemed slightly surprised by her sudden move, while the other students watched silently.
She must have something to say. I waited, and she finally spoke up.
"Evilbanshee-sensei, I want to apologize. I was disrespectful before, and I’m truly sorry!"
Ah, that’s what this is about.
"There’s no need to apologize, Former Vice-President Mildree Hadd. The magic doll club welcomes anyone with the drive to participate. Keep it up."
"Thank you, Sensei. Also, may I ask if I can return to the position of vice-president?"
She asked hesitantly, her voice and face showing her apprehension.
The vice-president’s position had been vacant for a while. The president and the other members must have been waiting for her to return.
Moreover, she was the one giving commands during the earlier practice. It was clear that the other members already trusted her, and Hermira had been convincing her to return earlier.
I recall her saying something about returning today, but seeing her take charge so quickly was a bit surprising. It’s likely that the members had already agreed on her taking this role before I arrived.
"If the others accept you, I have no objections. You are recognized as the vice-president. I also see that there are many returning members."
Mildree relaxed and responded gratefully.
"I’ve heard about the club’s activities and the enthusiastic recruitment efforts. My family also encouraged me to return. The others felt the same way."
"Understood. If you have the drive, that’s all that matters. Let’s get one thing straight."
I dismissed the vice-president and then addressed the members.
"I am here to make this club strong. I will train those who are eager, answer any questions, and provide whatever resources are needed. However, slackers will be dismissed without hesitation. The effort comes from you, not me. Whether you thrive or falter depends entirely on you. Remember that."
"Yes, Sensei!"
Their enthusiastic response was satisfying. I continued.
"Be aware of and appreciate the privileged environment you are in. You have access to top-notch facilities with no restrictions and no financial worries. This is a luxury provided by your parents and not a result of your own effort. This is a distinct advantage over students at other schools. Therefore, a lackadaisical attitude will not be tolerated. However, I will not force you. You must choose to work hard, and I will support you. As young ladies of good families, you must take this responsibility seriously. Is that clear?"
"Yes, Sensei!"
Looking ahead, we need to empower the members to take more initiative. I will leave this place by winter, and a new advisor will take over. But the foundation I help build will ensure the club’s continued success. This requires discipline and autonomy from the members.
"Sensei, may I ask a question?"
The low, almost deflating voice belonged to the former troublemaker, Edith Ribbonstrat. Despite her rebellious past, she has been surprisingly diligent in her practice. She always carries an air of uncertainty, and I wondered what she would say.
"You said you will support us, but is that all you plan to do?"
She’s still a cheeky brat, probably trying to be sarcastic.
Fine, I’ll indulge her a bit.
"Support is enough. As an advisor, I will provide you with unique experiences that you can only get here, at Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy’s magic doll club. You’ve already had a taste of these, especially you, Edith."
"...Yeah, I guess you’re right. I’m counting on you, Sensei."
The reformed troublemaker is now one of the most engaged members.
Providing these unique experiences is part of my role as an advisor. Anyone can coach a sport, but the experiences here are irreplaceable. Working hard with a common goal in a limited time, experiencing success or deep disappointment—these are rare opportunities that will leave a lasting impact on the members.
This is a chance to create unforgettable memories that will shine brightly in their lives. I am committed to making this happen.
And, in time, they will learn something else. That I am the leader of the up-and-coming malicious organization, the Kikyo Society.
Should their families or future homes ever come into conflict with my interests, they might reconsider any plans to eliminate the Kikyo Society. My students will not grow into submissive women; they will become strong, assertive individuals.
Hehe, don’t think you’re getting all this for free.
I will instill a deep, unbreakable influence.
In exchange, I will give you the best memories.