Chapter 443 - Mediation is Also a Crook's Job
“What’s going on!?! Unilaterally cancel matches, no less?”
“There was a match they asked to set up, right? What are they thinking?”
Mildree and Edith grumbled after yet another practice match was canceled. The club president had just announced today’s cancellation, which added to the growing list of cancellations, each more frustrating than the last.
The heated voices of Mildree and Edith stood out, but the entire club was in an uproar. It was understandable. Even if there were compelling reasons, being canceled on unilaterally was infuriating. With multiple cancellations happening at once, it was hard to believe it was a coincidence. Someone had to be behind it.
“Teacher, what do you think about this?”
Hermira, trying to keep a calm demeanor, approached me as I sat in a chair by the wall.
Even the reliable president seemed anxious about the situation.
“Sure, lots of schools are canceling matches without much explanation. If there’s an overarching reason that affects magic doll battles in general, it could be something like a directive from the federation or a social event that makes club activities difficult.”
“I don’t think so. If there were a valid reason, they’d just explain it.”
“What about practice matches between other schools?”
“I haven’t heard of any being canceled.”
“So?”
“…It seems our school is being singled out, and the other schools are being coerced in a way that we can’t understand. But why? It’s not as if we’ve been forcing anyone to accept our challenge. Even matches they initiated have been canceled.”
Looking at the facts objectively, it was clear that Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy was being collectively boycotted. A boycott.
Why was this happening?
Moreover, for all the schools to cancel their matches at once, someone with significant influence must be involved. The Magic Doll Federation alone wouldn’t have enough power to orchestrate this.
The Saint Emeralda Girls’ Academy Magic Doll Club had been conducting its activities responsibly since the incident with Glams Academy. There was no reason for them to provoke trouble. If anything, their serious and dedicated attitude was commendable, and anyone who encountered them would probably agree.
As a prestigious girls’ school known for its wealthy students, any normal school would be hesitant to stir up unnecessary conflict.
Even if the Magic Doll Federation disapproved of our school, they couldn’t secretly coerce multiple schools into boycotting us without a significant reason. The Federation’s assertiveness in the past likely stemmed from hidden motives, but I hadn’t sensed any suspicious activity.
There was a cunning enemy lurking, but they were clever enough to remain undetected.
I had thought it was unwise to engage in too much underhanded work through club activities, but now it seemed I needed to bring my full resources to bear.
It was a hassle, but I could handle it. Once I set my mind to it, I could resolve the issue at any time.
“To be safe, assume there won’t be any external matches until the main event. We can’t force a school to play if they don’t want to.”
“That’s true, but…”
As Hermira and I talked, the club members began to gather, curious about our conversation. The canceled matches had thrown everyone off, and the practice session was losing its focus. Maybe it was time for a change of pace.
“Really, this is so frustrating. Why are you so calm about it, Teacher? I thought you’d be the one to get angry.”
Vice-President Mildree, who usually had a relaxed demeanor, plopped down next to me and teased with a playful tone.
I didn’t remember being particularly friendly with them, but they seemed to have grown quite close.
“Of course, I’m irritated too. The stronger we are, the more they’ll be wary of us, and we’re prepared for all sorts of harassment. Refusing practice matches isn’t a big deal.”
“Really? That’s how you see it?”
“Being the one who sticks out gets you hit the most, so you might as well take it in stride. Show confidence, and don’t let them see you sweat. That just plays into their hands.”
I spoke lightly, and the members seemed to accept this philosophy, easing their negative emotions.
“By the way…”
Mildree, now completely relaxed, leaned in and studied my face.
“What?”
“You know, Teacher is actually really beautiful. Your hair is gorgeous, too.”
What is she talking about?
“Actually, what do you mean? I’m way better-looking and have a better figure than any pretty face out there. I’m also super strong, rich, and have connections everywhere. Compared to what exactly?”
“Eh, ah, yes.”
“Mildree, there’s no way you’d get flustered just because you complimented this unconventional teacher.”
Edith called out Mildree, and the members laughed. So, they were teasing me. Brave little things.
“Still, Teacher is extraordinary in many ways. It’s strange I don’t recognize your family name.”
Hermira, sensing the relaxed atmosphere, seized the opportunity to question me. Everyone was probably curious about my true identity, but I wasn’t about to reveal it.
The connection between the notorious criminal from Exembra and a prestigious girls’ school teacher was obscured by common sense. I wasn’t hiding my face, and someone would eventually figure it out, but I wouldn’t disclose it myself, and if anyone found out while I was at the Academy, I’d simply brush it off.
“I’m not from Berliza, so it’s natural you wouldn’t recognize my name. Anyway, let’s end the break. With the canceled matches, we have plenty of free time, and I’ve got some special training lined up. Get excited for it.”
“Special training! That sounds great. Everyone, back to practice.”
“Sure thing!”
The club members eagerly resumed their basic drills as I watched over them, lost in thought.
Many schools were boycotting matches with us, which suggested they were under pressure from somewhere. So, who could be exerting that pressure?
Saint Emeralda Girls’ Academy was a prestigious school for influential families’ daughters. If the parents of the students found out about such political interference, it could cause significant problems. Therefore, whoever was behind this had to have a very good reason to risk such trouble.
Who could oppose Saint Emeralda Girls’ Academy without hesitation? Considering this, the culprit was easy to guess.
I hadn’t paid much attention to other schools, focusing instead on the Magic Doll Federation. I already had leverage over the key figures in the Federation and could deal with them at any time.
The true enemy was likely someone connected to a different institution. I knew their name, though.
Berliza Royal Romariel Magic Academy. Someone from there was probably behind this.
This prestigious royal academy, named after a massive spiritual peak, was the top school in Berliza, attended by the leading noble families.
The academy was coeducational, with both male and female students. For upper-class girls, it was one of the top choices along with Saint Emeralda Girls’ Academy.
Saint Emeralda Girls’ Academy was a pioneer in girls’ education and had a long and distinguished history. The Royal Academy, on the other hand, was where noble boys were expected to attend, and girls who went there were often looked down upon by those from Saint Emeralda Girls’ Academy. It seemed there was a rivalry, but I wasn’t well-versed in these school politics.
In terms of club activities, the Royal Academy’s girls’ magic doll club was not particularly prominent. If you were serious about magic dolls, Saint Emeralda Girls’ Academy was the obvious choice. The Royal Academy’s club had been struggling recently, so it hadn’t been on my radar.
The reason for the current boycott of Saint Emeralda Girls’ Academy’s magic doll club? The most likely conclusion was that it was harassment from someone connected to the Royal Academy.
Whether it was out of jealousy from the girls or a scheme by the boys concerned about the rise of girls in the realm, I couldn’t say. But the backing of a powerful noble family allowed the Royal Academy to pressure the Magic Doll Federation into action.
Once I pieced it together, the reason was simple.
However, a rivalry between prestigious schools would be a serious issue. If it was indeed a conflict between women, it might be even more complicated.
Could it be that women from both schools were clashing in social circles and carrying the feud into the schools? No man would want to get involved in such trivial and dirty disputes and risk unnecessary enmity.
Was I expected to resolve this from the start? Probably an overthink.
Regardless, I needed to confirm the facts first.
I watched the members focus on their basic drills and discreetly called out over the communicator.
“This is Shinogami. Heidi, can you spare a moment?”
“...Yes, this is Heidi. Are you in the middle of club activities? Is it urgent?”
“It’s not urgent, but it’s related to the Magic Doll Federation. Do you know about Berliza Royal Romariel Magic Academy?”
“I know the name and location, but… you don’t mean the Royal Academy is involved, do you? Another club issue?”
“It’s still just a hypothesis. Our school is being boycotted, and I don’t think the Federation alone has the authority to issue such directives.”
“The Federation has backing, then. I haven’t noticed any signs, but if there’s no frequent communication, it’s possible I missed it.”
I decided to follow up and gather more information about my suspicions.
“That makes sense. Given the circumstances, I don’t think you’re off base. Please investigate thoroughly. How will you address the issue if it’s true?”
“They’re nobles, and this seems like petty rivalry. There’s not much we can do in the underworld. The best approach would be a proper mediation, don’t you think?”
“I agree. If we’re going to get involved, we should make it beneficial for the Kikyo Society. I have some time, so I’ll think about it.”
“Alright, thank you. Talk to you later.”
I ended the call and continued to think about the situation while watching the practice.
Mediation is actually a common job for a criminal. A strong and intimidating presence can intervene in conflicts. Because they’re strong, they can assert their will on anyone.
Do you know what happens if you don’t listen to me?
I can handle you all any way I want.
If you try to embarrass me, you’ll find out what it means.
This is how it works.
On the surface, I’ll be polite, but I’ll make it clear that I can be violent. I’ll apply pressure to make them comply. My goal is to mediate, so I’ll make fair demands that both parties can accept, making it easier to reach a resolution.
Conflicts can become intractable, so mediators are valuable. However, emotional conflicts are the exception. Reason doesn’t work when people are in similar positions of power and don’t get along. It’s not easy to resolve such conflicts, even with underworld muscle.
They think they’re protected by their status and don’t fear physical force. To correct this, I’d need to demonstrate a strong stance and do a lot of groundwork to avoid broader complications.
These emotional conflicts don’t respond to logic. They won’t stop, and they’re often unreasonable.
To resolve such conflicts, you need to offer something they can’t resist, like a juicy carrot.
But it’s not easy, usually.
A few days later, at night.
I invited Heidi to my dorm room.
“Yukari-san, we’ve uncovered the details. It’s a noble from the Royal Academy, working with the Magic Doll Federation.”
“Did you find out who they are?”
“Yes. I’m also working on how to approach them, but it won’t be easy since it’s a powerful noble.”
“Huh, a big fish. Troublesome. What’s your plan?”
“I’ll start by finding a local merchant I can work with, probably through the Commerce Guild. Since it’s a noble woman, my usual methods should work. What do you think?”
“No problem with a big fish. Exembra’s Epic Junebel magic potions are really effective and easy to use.”
“I agree. I don’t think there’s a woman who can’t be swayed by those potions. There are also potential benefits.”
“Let me know once it’s settled.”
“Understood.”
Depending on the negotiation, my information bureau and I can handle it. I’m relieved it’s playing out as expected.
With this, the problem should be easily solved.
Beauty is something women of all ages desire. While many ailments can be solved by magic, aging issues affecting the skin and hair are harder to address, even with magic.
I’m secretly popular among upper-class women in Exembra because I’m the source of highly effective beauty potions. These potions, developed by Rosabel-san and the Kikyo Society’s Healing Bureau, are unmatched in their quality, making them coveted by beauty enthusiasts.
Naturally, this extends to Berliza as well.
Rumors about these potions have spread, and they are seen as rare and desirable items. I’m careful not to distribute them widely, even to my close associates.
If a foreigner could obtain these potions, the opportunity would be irresistible.
Through Berliza’s Commerce Guild, the transaction would seem legitimate, and they wouldn’t suspect a scam.
They’d choose the chance to buy these miraculous potions over trivial conflicts.
To maintain the allure, I’d carefully select customers and offer limited quantities at a high price.
It’s a win-win. As a thank you for the trouble they’ve caused, I’ll include the transportation costs and guarantee the effects.
Once they try the potions, they won’t be able to resist buying more.
This would solidify our presence in Berliza’s upper class and allow us to form favorable relationships with the local Commerce Guild.
I didn’t plan to create enemies by entering the local market so soon, but a limited supply shouldn’t cause major issues. Despite the lack of preparation, I need quick results this time.
Here comes the cheat!
While the world of this story is fairly advanced, there’s not much typical ‘modern’ cheating. However, the Kikyo Society, leveraging Yurari’s unconventional magic and the talents of Rosabel-san and others, is leading in the cosmetics and beauty industry.
It’s a luxury business for the wealthy, not openly advertised, but strategically used for political purposes, as seen in this chapter.