Chapter 431 - Restarting Club Activities
Alright, let's wrap up the greetings. Hermira, Club President, what's the plan moving forward?
I leave the day-to-day operations of this club to the president. I rely on her for everything from equipment procurement to arranging practice matches with other schools, especially anything that involves leaving the Academy.
Of course, I do receive regular updates and consultations, but after the break, we haven't had a chance to catch up yet. There are probably a few things I haven't been briefed on.
Besides, the other members need to be informed, and even those who think they know might have some misunderstandings. So it's important to realign everyone's information.
Hermira responded and ran over to the book bag she had left by the wall, pulling out a notebook. She then stood by my side and began speaking.
"I'll distribute a detailed schedule tomorrow, but for now, let me give you a brief overview of what's coming up—"
As expected, she had everything prepared. I listened through the plans she laid out in a matter-of-fact manner.
The biggest goal is the Magic Doll Tournament, which will take place in mid-autumn. Everything we do is leading up to that.
From late summer until the tournament, we have about two hundred days. While that might seem like a long time if you just count the days, I’m sure the closer we get, the more it will feel like it’s not enough. There’s no limit to improvement, and aiming higher is what it’s all about.
"—To summarize, we have a schedule set up to prepare for the main event. There could be sudden practice matches added, but the most important date is the briefing by the Magic Doll Federation ten days from now. Hermira and Vice-President Mildree will attend this meeting to confirm the rules and receive an explanation of the magic items that will be distributed. We will likely need to review our strategies, so until then, we should focus on intensive foundational training. Moving on to the more detailed schedule..."
Magic doll battles have shifted from indoor stages to larger outdoor venues.
The transition from a confined stage to a military drill ground introduces significant distances and blind spots, making it impossible to control the dolls within a visible range. To address these issues, the distribution of magic items was planned. We will finally have the tools we need.
However, the fact that these items are being 'distributed' is concerning.
The Federation likely decided on distribution after realizing it was unreasonable to force the purchase of expensive magic items, especially with the drastic rule changes. Doubling the number of magic dolls allowed in a match is a heavy burden in itself. The purchase assistance included in the rule changes is a practical solution.
Given the budget constraints of each school, it makes sense to distribute or provide subsidies. However, I’m not a fan of the free distribution.
The items are bound to be cheap and of poor quality, and the thought of using them is exhausting.
To level the playing field with wealthier schools, the use of these distributed items will probably be mandatory. I’ll have to accept that.
We also need to decide on the one magic item each team can bring. This item is crucial as it could be the key to victory, a trump card for each team.
With magic items involved, there are many strategic decisions to make, and the training content needs careful planning.
There are other concerns, too.
The main issue is the Magic Doll Federation, which has been profiting from the popular magic doll-related events.
I haven’t done anything to anger the Federation personally, but I did disrupt a new profit scheme they had planned. The Federation was trying to enter the military sector to tap into the massive profits there.
However, a new profit scheme proposed by me and the Berliza Intelligence Department was approved, completely nullifying their plan.
While this was done behind the scenes and didn’t become public, the Federation has its own sources of information.
The Berliza Intelligence Department aside, the Magic Item Guild and the Knights have many people involved, and it’s likely that some information about me has leaked.
Even if they don’t have all the details, they can probably figure out that I was involved in some obstructive activities.
From past experience, I know the Federation’s methods.
These devious people will likely try to sabotage the Magic Doll Tournament in some way, even though it’s supposed to be a showcase for the students. We must be ready to counteract their schemes and ensure that Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy makes a comeback.
Thinking about it calmly, I realize that I, as the advisor, might be a hindrance... or so it seems.
But if any petty interference comes up, I’ll deal with it discreetly. The students don’t need to know. Everything will remain in the shadows.
"—That’s the overview of our future plans. Please review the detailed schedule I’ll distribute tomorrow."
While I was lost in thought, it seems the president finished her explanation. She then continued.
"As you heard from Evilbanshee-sensei, we need to refocus our efforts on practice. I’ll reiterate this as the president, too."
What’s going on here? Usually gentle and kind, Hermira now spoke in a stern tone and with a serious expression.
"The first thing we need to acknowledge is that we are currently 'weak.' I know that many of you did some independent practice over the break, but that’s not enough. The students from other schools have been working just as hard, and some of them have been practicing together as a team every day. We should assume that they have surpassed us in both individual and team training. Especially the top schools. Furthermore, with the new rules, we’re already lagging behind in practical training."
She’s right. We need to forget the good results from our practice matches before the break. The rules are completely different now, and our club only did independent practice during the break. We need to recognize the gap and intensify our training.
"I’m sure most of you have a sense of this, but I want to make it clear. Let’s discuss why we need to undertake rigorous training and what our goals are."
Hermira paused for a moment, took a deep breath, and continued.
"Ever since Evilbanshee-sensei joined, this club has changed. I don’t believe that settling for a decent result at the autumn tournament is good enough. I believe all of you share this mindset. We aim for the best possible outcome. With Sensei’s guidance and this team, I think we can aspire to that."
"... President, are you saying..."
"At the autumn tournament, the Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy Magic Doll Club will achieve the best possible outcome: victory. Does anyone have any objections? If you do, please speak up honestly. We can’t achieve great goals with divided hearts."
The club room suddenly felt charged with tension. Many of the members seemed to be setting their sights high.
Before the break, our club was doing exceptionally well. It’s only natural to aim high with such momentum. Many of the students have family members who were once part of this club when it was a dominant force, and they likely have high expectations.
As someone who aims for a comeback, I naturally aspire to the best outcome. However, I wasn’t sure if all the members shared this level of ambition. Achieving the top spot in a popular competition isn’t easy.
Especially after a long break, people’s attitudes can change. Considering that other schools were practicing daily, it’s understandable to feel anxious.
By making our intentions clear, we can avoid a situation where only a few, including the president, feel the pressure. This is a good step.
However, talking about victory so casually isn’t appropriate. If we’re truly committed, we need to back it up with resolve.
There might be members who are swayed by the atmosphere or hesitant to voice their concerns. But in the end, they should be able to look back and feel that the challenge was worth it. I will cultivate an atmosphere of determination.
Even with an excellent leader, maintaining a team’s cohesion over a long period is challenging. Individual drive and the intensity of training will inevitably lead to problems. Creating a consistently positive and hardworking environment is difficult. Some members will inevitably fall behind. This is a natural part of any group.
That’s why adult guidance is crucial. We need to create a supportive atmosphere and steer everyone in the same direction, even if it means being disliked.
Being disliked isn’t enough; respect and capability are essential. Only then will the students follow. They need to believe that following through will bring results. Earning that belief and respect is key.
I’m confident that the president and the returning members recognize my contributions.
"No one has any objections, it seems. Our club’s goal is set."
Hermira turned to me.
"Sensei, I request more rigorous training from you. We’ll follow any regimen you set."
There’s no way I would refuse such a request.
"Alright. Prepare yourself for training that will push your limits. Our goal is victory, and it won’t be easy. You’ll probably feel like crying and want to quit at times. Even then, it might not be enough. Other schools have been just as dedicated. To beat them, we need to outdo them. Time is equal for everyone. While we’re training, they won’t be resting. Chasing the top is never easy."
I stopped Hermira from responding immediately, giving everyone a moment to absorb the gravity of the situation.
Visualize the intensity. Steel your resolve. No regrets later.
We need to maximize our practice time to stay ahead. Density and efficiency are key to achieving victory.
However, with consistent effort, the training will eventually become enjoyable. Humans adapt, and this training, while challenging, is nothing compared to what the Kikyo Society’s training entails. I won’t accept anything less.
What needs to be done is clear. It’s a matter of determination.
After ensuring that everyone was on the same page, I looked at each member, confirming their renewed resolve.
"On behalf of the club, I humbly request this. Evilbanshee-sensei, please make the Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy Magic Doll Club a winning team."
Victory is never guaranteed, no matter how favorable the conditions. We can only aim to improve our chances. But there’s no harm in speaking boldly.
"I’m counting on you. The time for hesitation is over. I won’t repeat myself. I will respond to your dedication and determination. Now, let’s start the practice. As for the rest of you, let’s go back to the basics. I want you to focus intensely. Don’t just go through the motions. Be aware of your mana output and remaining mana, the density you’re imbuing into the dolls, and the environment around you. Keep your mana perception sharp."
Shift your mindset to a higher level and be aware of your surroundings. This is a team sport, and commanders need a broad perspective.
"Visualize the ideal movements of your doll in your mind. Imagine the perfect actions and try to replicate them as closely as possible, paying attention to the details. Don’t cut corners. I saw what you were doing earlier, and that’s unacceptable. Follow Mildree’s lead, and Sigurdnaught will demonstrate. Beginners, gather around me."
Half-hearted practice is inefficient. Aiming higher means more detailed feedback.
"Yes, Sensei!"
"Mildree, set a slightly slower tempo for the commands, and gradually speed up as they get used to it. Sigurdnaught, keep an eye on everyone and give pointers when you see something that needs correction. Don’t hold back; if they hate it, they’ll thank us later."
"Understood, Sensei."
Having Sigurdnaught demonstrate is a safe choice. Harriet’s level is too advanced for a baseline, but Sigurdnaught is just right. She’s popular among the members and exemplifies the level they should aspire to.
"Also, we’ll increase the amount of physical training. Strengthening your body improves mana recovery, which is crucial for long matches or successive battles. With more members, we’ll start with a fitness assessment tomorrow. Be prepared."
"Yes, Sensei!"
I observed the repetitive training, offering immediate feedback on aspects the members might overlook. Continuously pushing for higher standards will undoubtedly raise the overall level.
Intensive training is effective for uncovering weaknesses and building perseverance. It might seem like a detour, but solidifying the fundamentals is the best approach. For the time being, we’ll repeat this process until they’re sick of it. Physical conditioning is also foundational.
They’ll probably get bored in a few days, but once they truly understand the importance of the basics, their mindset will change.
The importance of fundamentals is a universal truth. Everyone knows it, but how many truly understand its significance?
Mastering the basics allows for greater versatility, but few commit to such rigorous training. It’s easy to get bored.
But if you’re serious about improving, you won’t have the luxury of getting bored.
First, I expect a complete mindset shift and a solid foundation. As an advisor, I’ll start with these expectations.
"Sensei, what about the five of us?"
"You five, come with me."
I led the beginners to a corner of the club room. They needed to improve their skills. Initially, I thought sheer numbers would suffice, but after today’s discussion, I’ve changed my mind. I won’t put anyone on the field who isn’t up to my standards. Incompetent members would be an embarrassment to the Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy Magic Doll Club.
I approached the beginners, who were standing a bit hesitantly compared to the more experienced members. I smiled and spoke gently.
"Don’t worry. Everyone starts as a beginner. Even the best were once beginners. There’s nothing to be nervous about."
I used a soft tone and a warm smile, even touching their shoulders to help them relax.
"Y-Yes, that’s true."
"Being told to aim for victory right away was a bit shocking."
"I heard that fifty students can participate in the match, but since we’re short, beginners might be included..."
"At my current level, I’d just be a liability."
"W-Will we be okay?"
They must have been quite anxious. After the abrupt shift in atmosphere, they opened up more readily.
Of course, it’s understandable to feel anxious. For beginners, suddenly hearing about winning and rigorous training is overwhelming. But their hesitation to speak up earlier was their own fault. Once they’ve taken the first step, they need to commit fully.
"Don’t worry. You’re all in this together, and I’ll be here to support you. As I said earlier, everyone starts as a beginner. With effort, people improve rapidly, and this club will guide you. You might even catch up and surpass them in no time."
"Really, that fast?"
"Think it’s impossible? I believe you can do it. If you approach it with the right mindset, you’ll make progress. Remember, you’re part of a team aiming for the top."
My seriousness must have come through. They gulped.
I’ve already asked for their commitment. I won’t ask again.
"So, how long do you think you’ll be a beginner? You there."
"M-Me?"
"Yes. How long until you’re not a beginner anymore?"
"Well, it’s hard to say..."
"Even in a lackluster club, being a beginner shouldn’t last more than a few dozen days, at most. In our club, with such high aspirations, it should be even shorter. Don’t you agree?"
A few dozen days, in my old experience, translates to a few months. In a school club, that’s far too long to still be a beginner. For an elite club like ours, we can’t afford that.
With about two hundred days until the autumn tournament, there’s ample time to improve. Each day counts for significant growth.
Naturally, I expect them to contribute in the field. The sooner they improve, the better for everyone.
Thinking that we have two hundred days is a mistake. Time is precious. Beginners, in particular, need to shift their mindset quickly.
"Listen, I believe in your potential and your dedication. From now on, stop thinking of yourself as a beginner. I’ll help you improve quickly. The skills you develop here will benefit you in the future. Make every moment count. Understand?"
"W-Well, I—"
"Answer me!"
"Y-Yes!"
And so, on the first day of the new semester, the Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy Magic Doll Club embarked on intense practice, with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome in the autumn tournament.
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Club activities have started. However, rest assured. This story always includes behind-the-scenes and action-packed segments. The next chapter is titled: 'A Welcomed Invitational Match.'