…
In a space where only the cold air circulated, I contemplated countless possible futures to resolve this situation.
… No matter how much I thought about it, there really was no other way.
Because these guys weren’t actually believing I had jumped Senna, they were just messing around and creating this atmosphere for fun.
The quick way out of this situation was only one:
Senna needed to explain it.
…
Senna’s eyes widened when she caught my gaze.
Come on, you’re not that dense!
Resolve this for me!
With what seemed like a determined expression, Senna nodded her head and then buried it in my chest.
Wait, buried…?
“Aiyee~ You’re too bold~ Let’s continue later~?” Senna said with hearts in her eyes.
“…”
“What the hell is wrong with you?”
“Huh… Too much…”
And so, Senna was dragged away by Ariana.
Though her acting was clumsy, it seemed the misunderstanding was cleared up, which was fortunate at least.
“So? Why did such a scandalous scene unfold?”
Ariana sat down, propping her chin on her hand as she asked.
After brushing off some dust, I sighed lightly while sitting down.
“It was just a misunderstanding.”
“Misunderstanding? What kind of misunderstanding?”
“That’s…”
“The professor and Amy are getting married!” Senna suddenly blurted out.
“Pfft!”
Startled by Senna’s bombshell statement, Amy spewed out the tea she was drinking.
Lux, who got drenched, pulled out a handkerchief from her bosom and spoke.
“…What is all this about?”
“I heard Professor was called son-in-law by Amy’s father?”
“T-That’s dad going overboard again!”
As Ariana realized the situation, she nodded her head.
“Uncle Helios does have that side. Looks like he took quite a liking to you if he said that.”
“Haha, it’s good if you see it that way.”
I thought we could wrap this up easily, but Ariana’s teasing question came right after.
“What do you think, Professor? Are you going to marry Amy?”
“… Isn’t talking about marriage still too early?”
“Why? There are many people our age who get married! Even among my friends, there are those already engaged.”
Ah, that’s right…
Both Senna and Ariana looked at me with sparkling eyes.
It was impossible not to feel awkward in this situation.
In times like this, it’s probably better to be a bit firm for both our sakes.
“Let me make it clear, but I don’t have any plans to get married yet. So let’s drop this topic.”
“…”
Though the atmosphere grew somewhat chilly, it was necessary to this extent.
I thought the situation was settled…
“True. The Professor needs a companion befitting his position.”
Lux, why are you adding fuel to the fire…?
With those words, Ariana, who still had lingering anger, flared up immediately.
“What? Are you saying Amy doesn’t suit the Professor?”
“Of course! Amy may have a bad temper but she’s a kind girl! Besides, she’s from a wealthy family!”
Whether mocking or defending, Senna’s argument made Amy bite her lips.
“Grmph…”
“Is there a better bride candidate than Amy? A noble lady higher in rank than a duchess’ daughter? Unless you mean…”
Other than the imperial princess, there was no woman higher in rank than a duchess’ daughter.
Realizing this obvious fact, not only Ariana but everyone’s mouths hung open.
“… It’s just talk.”
Isn’t it too late to step back now?
“You also like the Professor…”
Knock knock
“Your meal has arrived.”
Just as Ariana was about to speak, a waiter arrived with the food.
Thinking it was time to wrap things up, I quickly spoke up.
“Let’s eat first. Aren’t you all hungry?”
That way, the situation was temporarily resolved and we quietly enjoyed our dinner.
Still, Lux likes me…?
Because of these complicated thoughts, the dishes I had enjoyed during lunch tasted like nothing.
***
After finishing the meal, we returned to the hotel and parted ways to our respective rooms.
My mind was so jumbled that I barely remember how I got here.
After taking a rough shower and lying on the bed, I stared at the ceiling lost in thought.
“Lux likes me…”
Was she serious, or was it just a joke?
Who would’ve thought I’d be having these kinds of worries at this age?
Though I hope it was a joke…
I’m far too unworthy to receive the affection of an imperial princess.
When exactly did I start feeling this way towards her?
Since the Island of Wisdom? Or when we solved the curse?
Thinking about it, so much has happened in the short span of half a year.
Or maybe it just feels that way because each event was so intense…
To be honest, I had somewhat noticed that the other girls felt something for me.
While it might sound like a prince complex, I can’t deny it completely…
Perhaps other students feel the same way towards me.
After all, among the professors, I am the youngest.
While love knows no age, there should be an appropriate range, right?
I was probably the only one within dating age range.
Most young professors disappeared in wars, hence the average age of Minerva Academy faculty was at least in their 30s.
And most of them were already married.
“What nonsense am I thinking about…”
It seems I was quite shaken by the possibility that the empire’s only princess might like me.
Honestly speaking, it was an honor.
Not because she’s a princess, but because someone likes me – how could I dislike that?
But regarding romance…
Well, it feels a bit premature.
“I haven’t even found that girl yet…”
Speaking of which, the reason I volunteered was also related to finding that girl.
The one who gave me a reason to live.
Until I meet her, I feel I can’t move forward.
She’s definitely from nobility, though.
How frustrating that I’m so busy I can’t even search for her.
“Once I graduate these students and solve Lux’s curse… Then I’ll be free to look for her.”
Anyway, if I just wipe out all the heretics, my mission will naturally conclude.
I’ve earned enough money already.
If worse comes to worst, I could just quit.
But for now, sleepiness is creeping in…
Putting aside these complicated thoughts, I fell into a deep sleep.
***
“… Therefore, Miss Amy Helios and Miss Ariana Selene have been decided to advance to the finals.”
“But wasn’t it said that it goes against fairness? Why now?”
Professor Angela’s sharp critique made the royal official wipe the sweat streaming down his face before replying.
“At that time, we didn’t know these two students were at this level. Now everyone understands since both ladies have proven their abilities. Also, being daughters of duchess families, they’ve drawn media attention, as seen in this article.”
The official pointed to the newspaper he was holding.
It was today’s edition from the most famous newspaper in the empire.
Amy’s photo was prominently displayed on the front page.
[Next Generation Archmage! The Helios Family Remains Strong!]
Indeed, a student bound to attract media interest.
Ariana’s article was on the next page.
Even though she reached Expert level, Amy’s act of reducing the arena to ashes with a single magic spell obviously had more sensational appeal.
If I were the editor, I would have featured Amy on the front page too.
“Yesterday alone, six students suffered critical injuries from Miss Amy’s magic. Others sustained burns too… Well, it’s understandable, isn’t it? When children get hurt, parents go ballistic.”
“Oh dear, it seems you’ve been through quite some trouble.”
As Cain nodded in understanding, the official shook his head vigorously.
“Don’t mention it. It felt like I handled a year’s worth of complaints in just a few hours yesterday. Anyway, given the current situation, the rules have changed slightly.”
“Rules?”
Certainly, Amy did demonstrate magic beyond standard, but was it enough to change the rules?
I thought allowing them to advance to the finals concluded the matter.
“An overwhelming number of participants withdrew early this morning. Probably close to a hundred. I imagine withdrawal requests are still coming in.”
“… Ah.”
Guess they figured they wouldn’t stand a chance and decided to withdraw early.
After all, unless one is exceptionally skilled, they’d likely only end up injured.
Apparently, there aren’t many students who enjoy battling strong opponents.
“So we’ve reduced the finalists to 32. According to our calculations, the preliminaries should conclude today or tomorrow at the latest.”
“Ho, that’s good news for us. We do have schedules, so it would be troublesome if it dragged on too long. After all, vacation is approaching soon. Though it’s inconvenient for you.”
Angela’s cutting remark prompted the official to manage his expression.
From the royal perspective, the longer the tournament lasted, the better it would be.
After all, it’s a rare festival.
“… Heh, speaking of which, the royal family planned for the Olympiad to last at least two weeks. But with this turn of events…”
“There will be extra time.”
As Cain responded, the official nodded in agreement.
“Yes. Hence, we’ve prepared another event. The friendly duel of the Golden Way Zodiacs.”
“… The Golden Way Zodiacs?”
“They’re dueling?”
Seneca and Doris widened their eyes.
Being able to witness the exhibition match of the empire’s top asymmetric power was an event so sensational that it could overshadow the Olympiad itself.
“Yes. Fortunately, they kindly agreed. The Lion Palace, Gold Eagle Palace, Thousand Gale Palace, Opposite Palace, and Infantry Palace have agreed to participate.”
“Wow! Really?”
“That’s certainly…”
“Interesting.”
The official, who had been quietly enjoying the professors’ reactions, continued after a pause.
“This event will take place three times: once before the main tournament begins, once before the final match, and once after the final concludes. The opponents will be decided by draw.”
“Hold on, doesn’t that mean there’s one person missing? If they’re not ranking, then…”
For three matches, only five people are participating, the numbers don’t add up.
Could they be planning a battle royale style match?
At my question, the official looked at me with sparkling eyes.
“Ah, Professor Allen, right? That’s a good question. As you said, we’re one person short. The other members of the Golden Way Zodiacs declined due to personal reasons. When we consulted with the Lion Palace…”
“Lion Palace?”
Suddenly, an ominous feeling…
“Recommended Professor Allen. How about it? Could you help us out? All we need is for you to participate in one match.”
“Eh?!”
“Professor Allen… Going up against the Golden Way Zodiacs?!”
The other professors turned their shocked gazes toward me.
Damn, I knew the looks I was getting earlier felt strange…
“Ah, thank you for the offer, but I’m afraid my skills…”
“You don’t have the right to refuse, Professor.”
The official cut off my refusal and quietly whispered in my ear.
I sensed magical energy fluctuating.
The same flow of mana used in soundproofing magic that Haines once employed.
“As it’s a direct imperial decree issued to the Special Task Force Commander, I assume I don’t need to elaborate further?”
“… Imperial decree. Understood.”
Unable to help myself, I reluctantly nodded, causing the official to widen the distance and smile brightly.
“Wonderful! Thank you for your generous acceptance! Since I’ve conveyed everything, I shall take my leave. Hopefully, we’ll meet again soon.”
Watching the official vanish like the wind, I couldn’t help but mutter under my breath after a long time.
Shit…
