Drawing Manga in a Romance Fantasy – Chapter 71

This year, Empire Academy caught everyone’s interest with some rather sensational stories.

Every admission period is usually filled with talk about the new students. However, this year’s group had such a gorgeous appearance that it attracted even more attention than usual.

The most famous of the newcomers was Edric Bell, the empire’s third prince and hailed by the Sword Saint as his greatest student. Until recently, there were even rumors that he might replace the current crown prince as the most likely candidate. He definitely stood out among this year’s entrants.

Of course, with the current crown prince’s popularity reaching the skies, those rumors have since died down.

Next was Amelia Bluewell, heir to the House of Duke Bluewell, the empire’s foremost noble family. Known for her exceptional talent in magic, she was second only to the crown prince in terms of interest.

Joining them were other notable names, including the heir of the northern frontier, Count Prious, and even the second prince from the Kingdom of Sylvania, with whom the empire had fought a war not too long ago. Although the war had ended, there was still deep animosity between the two nations, especially from Sylvania, which had suffered greater losses. The decision to send a prince of high succession rank as an exchange student was surprising, sparking theories from political exile to hostages as part of the war’s ending terms.

With such a gorgeous collection of new students, whispers about this being the academy’s most remarkable year yet spread around.

But the excitement wasn’t only about the students. The faculty at Empire Academy were renowned for comprising the best in each field, drawing significant attention as well.

At the center of the buzz was a new professor for the Art Department, Rupert Somerset.

“Is he the new Art Department professor?”

“Watch your tongue. He’s a professor now, and it’d be unwise to cross him.”

“It’s absurd that someone younger than me is a professor.”

Appointed at just seventeen, an age typical for new students, Rupert’s hiring was nothing short of shocking. Some remained skeptical, but with recommendations from Yustaf and endorsements from the crown and emperor, no one openly objected.

During the admission ceremony, Rupert simply sat quietly, a focal point of intrigue as Yustaf introduced him alongside other professors.

When the Art Department‘s turn came up, Rupert rose. Despite knowing all eyes were on him, his demeanor remained relaxed, causing a stir.

“Some young kid got lucky.”

“He has no respect despite being under royal protection?”

“Such arrogance for a minor house heir!”

Rupert’s appointment had been controversial due to his young age. Despite his successes in selling comics and picture books, being a peer of some students brought mixed feelings. At the academy, a badge of talent in the empire, this was a difficult pill to swallow.

Finally, Rupert began his introduction.

“I have a dream.”

His unexpected opening drew attention.

“People don’t yet understand art’s true purpose. They ask why we need paintings when we have photographs.”

Everyone, students to faculty, agreed. Paintings couldn’t be as precise as photos.

“A painting is like a technicolor photo borne of boundless imagination.”

With conviction in his voice, Rupert continued, captivating listeners.

There was no more murmuring in the crowd.

“I dream of uniting the continent through my comic creations and beyond.”

His dream sounded far-fetched, but Rupert pressed on.

“I dream of drawing in ways that transcend fairy tales and comics for people.”

“We will achieve these dreams together here at Empire Academy.”

As Rupert concluded, the audience woke from their trance.

“I promise a new experience for those who attend the Art Department class.”

What could possibly unite a continent and offer new experiences? They wondered, but Rupert, finishing up, only promised further details in class.

The rest of the professor introductions faded away as the ceremony ended, leaving a lasting first impression.

—

“You’re remarkable, my lord. You would’ve succeeded as a merchant, too.”

“Well, you have to aim high, right? The more recruits, the better.”

In Rupert’s faculty office, provided generously by Yustaf, Rupert and Esteban sipped tea, discussing the self-introduction.

Rupert had crafted an inspiring introduction, drawn from memorable quotes from Earth, expecting decent reactions but receiving exceptional ones. Even Yustaf invited him for tea, saying it was impressive.

“To gather talent, we need to draw as many students to the common liberal arts classes since specialized courses alone won’t suffice.”

Rupert and Esteban’s focus was on animation, and their joint efforts were just groundwork for it.

Rupert’s teachings would focus on two lectures: one for the Art Department and a liberal arts class open to other students. The latter, ‘Understanding Art,’ wasn’t popular even among art students, risking the academy’s talent recruitment plans.

There was hence a need to leave a strong impression with his introduction to draw students in. Rupert hoped his bold opening would attract many attendees.

“The projector you mentioned is under study at the Mage Tower.”

“Great! That means there’s potential.”

Technology was crucial to his plans, and the projector was the key piece. While modern ones varied, Rupert aimed to develop a film projector.

Using film to project images via light and shutters, this vintage device could show animations despite its limitations compared to modern devices.

‘I never imagined college knowledge would be useful.’

Reflecting on studying such topics as a student, Rupert realized the practical value he hadn’t foreseen.

Not to say he expected to apply it in another world.

“Film development began, but it’s complex.”

“Even after your explanation, I still struggle to understand it.”

Challenges remained as Rupert, unfamiliar with modern tech in minutiae, outlined concepts without complete details. Film, requiring nitrocellulose and camphor, was one of many hurdles.

Despite recalling ingredients, he lacked specifics on synthesizing them, leaving craftsmen and alchemists to tackle those challenges slowly.

“Is it true you’re working on drafts for volumes 9 and 10?”

“Yes, with less time once classes start, we must work ahead.”

“Shame that Iron-Blooded Alchemist concludes. As a reader, I’m saddened; the public can’t imagine the loss.”

“Don’t worry. They’ll be too amazed by what’s next to care.”

Rupert’s confidence intrigued Esteban.

The brilliance of Iron-Blooded Alchemist made one wonder what Rupert envisioned as a follow-up.

Even without specifics, Rupert only directed preparations for expanding merchandise and stores, fueling anticipation.

The next update will be at 11 p.m. on September 14th.