Chapter 456 - Thorough Foundations and Uncompromising Pursuit
Two days have passed since the Beltoria Preliminary of the Magic Doll Tournament.
Unpleasant premonitions or predictions tend to come true more often than not.
Since that day, vexing rumors have persistently spread throughout the Academy and the bustling streets. It’s evident from the chatter that can be overheard in such places.
Naturally, few take these rumors seriously. They’re just using them as amusing conversation starters.
But being the subject of such talk is no laughing matter. Even someone like me, a self-proclaimed villain, finds it annoying. For an immature kid, it can be quite damaging.
So, I have no choice but to address this strictly as the Advisor of the Magic Doll Club and as the Life Guidance instructor. Particularly within the Academy, it’s part of my job as a teacher.
“Hey, have you heard the story about the Magic Doll Club?”
“Yeah, I did. Something about a technical win, and they’re saying there was foul play.”
“That story? Using power and influence for such things just tarnishes our Academy’s reputation. Really, it’s such a nuisance.”
This kind of talk needs to be addressed one at a time. If left unchecked, these kids will spread it endlessly without regard for others’ feelings. And it’s not just kids—there are plenty of adults who do the same thing. They enjoy malicious rumors for entertainment, hiding their jealousy while attacking others. Some even believe these rumors are true and see themselves as righteous in their attacks. If such children grow up, they become adults who unconsciously spread harmful rumors.
Every time I think about it, I disagree. But I’d rather be a villain with clear intentions and explicit malice than someone who mindlessly spreads rumors. In my line of work, I never engage in such behavior.
If I did, I’d face consequences. At the very least, we are prepared for retaliation. Those who think they’re safe from repercussions while spreading baseless malice are mistaken.
Well, it’s time for a lecture.
I don’t like having to rehash these trivial stories, but it’s part of my job.
“Three of you over there, I’d like to hear what you were just discussing.”
After school, in a quiet corner of the hallway, their conversation carries far enough for me to hear, especially with my sharp hearing. They seem surprised to be called out and freeze. I continue speaking to the three who remain silent.
“Why, what’s the matter? Is it a secret conversation?”
“No, it’s just that—”
“It’s not something we need to tell the teacher.”
“Hey, hey—”
When I’m on campus, my standard outfit is a black combat suit with sunglasses. I approach and glare at each of them through my sunglasses.
They seem to realize there’s no way out, their faces a mix of resignation, sadness, and discomfort.
“Come to my office. I’ll make you some tea at least.”
With no room for argument, I start walking, and they follow obediently.
In my small office, the three sit in a row in front of me. Despite my offer of tea, the tension is palpable, and they don’t touch it. I’m a bit disappointed, but it’s fine.
“Now, I want to hear everything about that conversation without any sugarcoating. And I’d like to know who told you these ridiculous lies, and who you’ve spread them to. Give me the full story.”
“It’s not a lie, really—”
“We just heard it—”
“It’s not like—”
“Interesting. You didn’t think it was a lie? So, you heard it from someone trustworthy enough to believe everything they say. Someone close to the Magic Doll Club, perhaps? Someone who could verify the story with the club members directly. So, who is this person?”
There is no such person. It’s a cruel question, but these fools only learn through harsh lessons.
“You can’t hide it from me. If you don’t tell me, I’ll go around and ask everyone you know. I’ll investigate all your friends, relatives, and even the places you frequent, to find the person who fed you these lies. I’ll find them, and it won’t be difficult. After all, you believe everything they say. If I conclude there’s no such person, then you’ve lied to me, a Life Guidance instructor. Do you know what that means? I don’t hesitate to take disciplinary action. I thought this was widely known, but apparently not.”
I push them to their limits, making it clear this isn’t a bluff.
And I don’t tolerate accusations of abuse of power. I’ve earned my reputation for turning this once-chaotic Academy into a model of order.
“…I apologize.”
“Sorry, it’s just—”
“We didn’t mean—”
“I didn’t ask for apologies. Who told you that story? I have no interest in your apologies. Who?”
They must abandon the idea that they can get away with apologies or excuses. There’s no escaping my questions.
After a tense silence, during which they exchanged glances, they finally speak up.
“Someone in our class—”
“I heard it from someone in the club—”
“I just overheard it in the hallway—”
“Tell me the specifics. What did they say, and how much of it was true? Remember, I can tell if you’re lying.”
“Um, well—”
One by one, they recount similar stories of bribery, threats, and other absurd rumors.
“Those rumors are completely false. I’m telling you this. Now, who did you spread these lies to?”
“It’s not a lie—”
“I don’t need your excuses. Answer me.”
I dramatically jot down the names they mention.
“Got it. I’ll be having a talk with these students, so be prepared. You’re quite impressive, you know.”
“What do you mean?”
“What else? You believed everything you heard without a second thought. A random, unverified rumor, and you treated it as gospel truth. You were even discussing it, calling it a nuisance. And you spread it further. What do you plan to do about it?”
I’ll spell it out for those who can’t understand.
“How will you compensate for the damage your rumor-spreading has caused to the Magic Doll Club, its members, and Saint Emeralda Girls' Academy? Whether you realize it or not, you’re part of the problem. The Academy’s donations are being affected.”
“…What?”
“Wait, please—”
“There are many rumors, and we didn’t mean—”
“Don’t give me that aristocrat’s whine. Your family has no reputation to speak of, and neither does the Academy. The responsibility for damaging it is beyond what you can bear. So, your families will have to take the blame. This isn’t a minor infraction. Do you understand the gravity of the situation?”
The students turn pale, but I show no mercy.
“One more thing. Anything you do has consequences. It won’t go away, and you can’t pretend it never happened. The fact that you three spread baseless rumors or were easily deceived will be known throughout the noble circles. It’s not a lie; it’s the truth.”
If you act, you’ll face consequences. Learn through experience.
But as they say, rumors die out after seventy-five days. This, too, is a lesson.
“…What should we do?”
“Not a question of forgiveness. Your parents will be angry, and your future partners will judge you. But don’t worry; there are many others like you, so you won’t stand out. If you lead a proper school life from now on, I’ll spare you harsh disciplinary action. Since you’ve come clean. If you enjoy spreading rumors, you’re welcome to spread this one. But if you add lies or exaggerations—”
“I understand!”
“I’m glad you understand. By the way, today alone, I’ve spoken to fifteen students, including you. Some refused to talk and were punished accordingly.”
“I see.”
“You are noble daughters. Not just nobles, but be mindful of your words. Once you speak, those words become yours, regardless of where you heard them or who else is saying them. Dismissed.”
The students nod and leave, their heads hanging low.
Tch, such a hassle. I do it because it’s my job, but I’d rather not deal with such trivial matters.
But I’m used to being disliked. It’s part of the job.
After my routine post-school patrol, I stop by the Magic Doll Club, as usual. The rumors have inevitably reached the club members. Even though they know they shouldn’t let it bother them, it’s hard to shake off. It takes time to get used to it.
But the club president and vice-president are working hard to keep everyone focused on the final tournament. Many members are responding positively to their efforts, creating a surprisingly good atmosphere. There’s even a sense of unity.
I sit in a chair by the wall, watching their basic training. When they finish, they gather around.
“How are you holding up?”
“To be honest, I’m a bit distracted. I don’t want the rumors to interfere with our focus before the final tournament.”
“There are people who use the rumors as a pretext to challenge us. On the other hand, some even apologize, which is confusing.”
“That happened in my class too. Someone came up to me and apologized out of the blue.”
“Rumor has it that Evilbanshee-sensei is cracking down on it?”
Good to hear.
“Of course. False rumors that cause harm can’t be ignored, whether as a teacher, a life guidance counselor, or the Magic Doll Club’s advisor. I’ll pursue this thoroughly and hold people accountable. You’re from prominent families, so be mindful of your actions.”
“We are your students after all.”
“But, sensei, have you heard back from the Federation?”
“Not yet, Edith. If they continue to ignore us through official channels, we might have to take matters into our own hands. The deadline is in seven days, so we’ll wait and see. I know you’re worried, but try not to let it affect your daily practice. Winning the final tournament will silence all the rumors.”
“Yes, that’s right. As club members, that’s all we can do.”
“Let’s get back to practice!”
That’s the spirit.
“—This is Layla. We’ve identified another location. Can anyone nearby spare the time to head there?”
The communication on the Kikyo Society’s open channel is aimed at suppressing the groups spreading rumors about our school’s alleged misconduct during the Magic Doll battle.
It seems this time the target is the home of a third-rate tabloid’s head.
They’re just low-level operatives. We won’t kill or even beat them. We’ll just have multiple unidentifiable figures visit their home and silently demolish it.
There won’t be any evidence to point to us, and any complaints will be ignored. That’s how real power works.
No warnings, no explanations. We’ll destroy them thoroughly. The reason lies within their hearts.
They can beg for forgiveness or lash out in anger; we won’t budge. We’ll see this through.
If they were higher-ups, we’d be even more ruthless.
The closer we get to the core, the higher the price they’ll pay.
We’ll track them down one by one and crush them like lice.
We’ll pursue them relentlessly, one by one.
This is our way, and we’ll keep it up until they truly understand.
We’ll go as far as it takes, through and through.
This time, I played the role of a stern instructor. Next time, we’ll go after the Academy’s external enemies with a vengeance.
It might get more complicated the more we act, but I’ll try to keep the story moving smoothly.
Also, I’ve updated the activity report, so please check it out!