A Villain's Will to Survive

Chapter 113: Bachelor of the Mage Tower (1)

The main office of the Imperial Ministry of Public Safety, which operated under the direct control of the Empress, was known as Equilibrium. For Deputy Director Primien, peaceful days simply didn’t exist.

Every day, over a dozen unreported Scarletborns were captured, while Bethan immersed himself in developing blood magic to categorize them. Meanwhile, the Great Elder of the Desert sent nothing but cautionary messages.

On an otherwise monotonous day, something sharp and unexpected pierced the dullness. With a look of irritation, as though pricked by a thorn, Primien asked the Intelligence Agency agent, “... Why is this name on the list?”

"It’s a surveillance and observation list authorized by the higher-ups," the agent in a crisp suit responded, maintaining a formal tone.

These assholes never change. It’s like they’ve rounded up a bunch of brain-dead morons or beaten the emotions out of them. But this name... this one’s way too important to brush off, Primien thought.

Surveillance Priority List:

Sylvia Von Yossepin Iliade

"If Iliade had truly crossed the Empress, you’d be dealing with it yourselves. But passing it off to me like this... Was this a favor for the eunuchs?" Primien asked.

The Iliade family wasn’t one the Intelligence Agency could easily touch. The agency did everything in its power to avoid drawing attention to itself, especially when it came to investigating noble families—something they would only attempt under a direct order from the Empress.

"The Intelligence Agency has been conducting its own investigation and surveillance. This isn’t about shifting responsibility but rather a request for cooperation. Should you agree, we’ll provide the necessary documents."

Primien tapped the list with her fingers, signaling her approval. The agent promptly handed over the file.

Imperial Magic Law, Article 3, Section 3 Violation Suspected: Second-Degree Magical Murder

Imperial Magic Law, Article 8, Section 1 Violation Suspected: Invention of a High-Risk Spell

Imperial Intelligence Law, Article 1, Section 8 Violation Suspected: Was found to be accompanied by Idnik, a former colleague of Rohakan.

Summary: Classified as a high-risk individual under close observation.

"So, Sylvia committed murder?" Primien asked.

"Technically, it was her spell that devoured the person. A similar incident happened on the Floating Island, but immunity was claimed under Bail Rights."

"And?"

"Only the incident on the Floating Island was resolved. The murders within the Empire remain under Imperial jurisdiction, and the investigation is still ongoing—"

"Do I look like a complete fucking idiot to you?" Primien interrupted, leaned back in her chair and glared at the two agents. "Even if she killed a few people, with talent like that, no one’s going to touch her. Push too hard, and she’ll defect to another nation, which would be a loss for the Empire. She’s exactly the kind of asset you want for your great Empire."

In truth, only the Floating Island, Berhert, or the Empress herself held the authority to punish a mage of Sylvia’s caliber.

"So, the real reason she’s under surveillance is her ties to Rohakan and Idnik?" Primien asked.

"Deputy Director Primien, this matter now falls under your responsibility as well."

Primien let out a bitter chuckle that never reached her cold eyes and replied, “Even though it’s my responsibility, dealing with it personally would be inefficient. Only a mage can fully understand another mage. We’ll need advice from one of their own.”

"Is there someone you have in mind?"

At that question, Primien’s thoughts drifted to a certain individual. Whether for persuasion, capture, or interrogation, there was one person best suited for the job. He was also the one Primien herself regarded as the most dangerous. Yet, involving him meant they would need to treat him with the utmost respect, as if they were serving a master.

"Deculein."

~

On the 77th floor of the Mage Tower, Primien took in the meticulously cleaned office. She sniffed the air, noting the faint yet surprising scent of soap.

Flick— flick—

Deculein reviewed the fifty-page cooperation request, his cold expression giving the impression he was merely reading a novel.

“It’s not a serious matter. We’ve already put together our own surveillance and observation team. We only require a bit of assistance from you,” Primien explained calmly as Deculein looked up.

Primien continued, “Whether Sylvia has committed a crime or is simply associating with the wrong people, we will only be observing."

Deculein stayed silent.

“We have no intention of imprisoning her. She simply requires guidance before she veers any further off course. Sylvia’s magical talent demands national supervision and close observation.”

Deculein had picked up his pen, and Primien had watched his hand intently. Without saying a word, he signed the document.

“As expected from her former mentor,” Primien remarked, her satisfaction evident as her assumption proved correct—Deculein hadn’t refused.

“... Deputy Director Primien,” Deculein spoke, a crease forming on his brow.

“Yes?”

“Do not cross the line.”

“... Yes, Professor,” Primien replied, handing over a crystal orb— a direct link to the newly established Sylvia Task Force under the Ministry of Public Safety. “This will be your means of communication. Regular meetings will be held, and relevant materials will be provided—”

“I have one condition,” Deculein interjected.

"Professor, you’ve already provided your signature."

"No way he would change his mind now," Primien thought, reaching for the document Deculein had signed.

“One more person needs to be investigated,” Deculein said. “Cielia, Sylvia’s mother. I need a complete account of her life and background.”

Primien’s hand paused in mid-reach. She glanced up at Deculein, noticing the shift in his expression—his face darkened, casting an unexpected shadow over his sharp features.

“Trace every step of her life, and bring me everything.”

Deculein, head professor of the Mage Tower and the head of the Yukline family, wasn’t he known as a man so cold that he wouldn’t bleed even if pierced? A man who ruthlessly suppressed the Scarletborn? So why, now of all times, does he seem worried about Sylvia?

“... Will that information aid in completing this task?” Primien asked.

Deculein gave no reply, and Primien, understanding not to push the matter, merely nodded in acknowledgment.

"Yes, I see."

Primien had shown obedience when it was required.

~

“... Rumors are spreading in the Mortal Realm, but whether or not they exist, it is already a fact that the Intelligence Agency is keeping you under surveillance,” Idnik said, handing the notes from her journal to Sylvia. “You need not be concerned. Both Adrienne and I have undergone this process before.”

News had reached Sylvia that both the Intelligence Agency and the Ministry of Public Safety were monitoring her, and that Deculein would be joining the task force. She silently opened her eyes. The landscape around her was that of an island—vast and solid, with streams flowing between lush trees and the mana of Primary Colors shaping the Nameless Island.

“So, what course of action will you take?” Idnik asked.

For three days and nights, Sylvia had worked on creating this island. In that short time, a new land had formed within the Floating Island’s orbit. Her eyes, cold and weighed down with emotion, met Idnik’s as she stared at her.

“I’m thinking,” Sylvia muttered. Her expression, her entire body, was riddled with torment. Yet, she never faltered, seemingly oblivious to the full weight of her own suffering. “... I have an idea.”

She hadn’t yet lived twenty years, and more than half of them had been steeped in sorrow. A child immersed in pain, her daily existence shaped by suffering. The agony had become her normal.

“I’m going to create a spell.”

She had become so used to pain that she no longer recognized it for what it was. She simply embraced the new darkness creeping in, as though it had always been a part of her.

“A spell to observe him.”

Idnik’s gaze shifted to Swifty and replied, “There’s an escort knight by Deculein’s side. A formidable one. Swifty is a well-made creation, but—”

“I know,” Sylvia interjected as a sudden gust of wind swirled up from her feet. “I’ll bind the spell to the wind.”

“... To the wind?”

“The wind will serve as my ears. Deculein won’t be able to escape it, and he won’t even realize he’s being watched.”

The sky had been thick with rolling clouds. A full moon, larger than usual, cast its light down onto Sylvia, bathing her in a soft glow.

“I will even track down the monster my unconscious created,” Sylvia concluded.

At that moment, Idnik realized she had underestimated Sylvia.

The spark that was Deculein within her heart had grown beyond a mere flicker. It wasn’t just a small flame anymore—it was turning into an unstoppable wildfire, consuming everything in its path...

***

Late at night, the assistant research lab was surrounded by thick darkness, though the lights inside illuminated the space brightly. Epherene, Drent, and even Allen had been deeply absorbed in their studies.

Drent muttered as he scratched his temple with his pen, “So, if I get this theory right, I can apply this Characteristic to my magic too?”

Epherene nodded and said, “Yes, that’s what it looks like.”

“... You’ve already figured it out?” Drent said, casting an envious glance at Epherene’s notes.

Epherene smiled and shook her head, saying, “Don’t be jealous. Are you planning to steal my notes again?”

“No, it’s not jealousy at all...”

“If you just ask, I’ll share. Do you really think I’m that stingy?”

“... Well, um, could I borrow your notes later?” Drent mumbled, awkwardly rubbing his shoulder.

“Buy me a coffee, and you’ve got a deal. Actually, I’ll go get it myself—I need some fresh air.”

“Oh? Oh, sure. Here you go,” Drent said, pulling a one hundred elne bill from his wallet.

Epherene accepted the bill with a wry smile. “Since when did coffee start costing a hundred elne for four cups? Anyway, I’ll be back soon.”

“Ah, yeah. Go ahead, I’ll see you in a bit~”

“See you in a bit, Miss Epherene~” Allen said.

Epherene left the lab, descended to the lobby via the elevator, and stepped out of the Mage Tower.

As Epherene neared a 24-hour café named Blind, she stopped in her tracks. Through the glass, she spotted two familiar figures inside the otherwise empty café. Soft jazz played in the background, and across from each other sat Deculein and Adrienne.

Instinctively, Epherene had drawn upon her magic, channeling the element of wind into her eyes and ears. The spell, Whirlwind Sense, heightened her senses to an extreme degree, sharpening both her vision and hearing.

“... When are you finally going to publish that research?! It’s been three—no, almost four years now! The hearing’s coming up soon!” Adrienne’s voice rang through the café, brimming with energy.

Deculein took a slow sip of his coffee before replying, “In due time.”

“The Invention of Pure Elements and the Four-Categories Magic Founded Upon It! It sounds incredible!”

Invention of Pure Elements? Epherene thought, her eyes widening as the words echoed in her mind, capturing her full attention.

"Yes. It is almost finished."

“Hmm~ That’s good to hear. But, tell me—did you really write it yourself?! You didn’t steal it from someone else, did you?!”

At that moment, Epherene bit her lip and thought, Could this be the research my father wrote about in his letter?

“Oh, by the way! My term as Chairwoman is nearly up! Either this winter or next spring!”

“Is that so?”

“There will be another candidate for the position! But of course, Professor Deculein, you’re still the strongest contender to replace me!”

Her term was nearing its end, signaling that Adrienne's ascension to Archmage was imminent.

“But I don’t mean anything by it! But having only one candidate would make the Mage Tower look weak! It’s the greatest on the continent, after all!” Adrienne continued.

“And who would that be?”

“You know him! Monarch Ihelm from the Rewind family! He’s an Imperial mage and the leader of the Dukan School, with an impressive background. He’d make a worthy rival! But since he’s your old friend, I’m sure he’ll step aside. So no need to worry!”

At that exact moment...

“What is it that you’re staring at?”

Epherene jolted as if struck by lightning and quickly turned to face the source of the voice.

“Oh, were you observing Deculein?”

The man speaking was none other than Monarch Ihelm, the very subject of their recent conversation.

“You startled me...” Epherene said.

“There was no need for that,” Ihelm replied.

His bright blond hair was still damp, and his crimson eyes gleamed with a lazy glint. Ihelm von Gerian Rewind—a name well-known even to Epherene, familiar from publications like the Wizard’s Journal.

“H-huh? D-do you know me?”

“Of course,” Ihelm said, leaning in as he examined the mana flickering in Epherene’s eyes. “You weren’t merely watching; you were listening in. Like father, like daughter.”

“Excuse me?” Epherene said, gritting her teeth.

Ihelm shook his head and said, “Take it easy. It was a compliment.”

“... A compliment should be pleasant to hear.”

Ihelm looked down at her, and she held his gaze, refusing to waver. His sharp, crimson eyes gleamed with an unsettling intensity. The way these tall, overbearing men always seemed to tower over her had started to wear on her nerves.

He looked down at her and said, “Luna’s daughter. What did your father tell you? Or more to the point, are you following Deculein to kill him, or to serve him?”

“... I’d advise you to stop mentioning my father while I’m still holding my patience.”

“Is that so? Well, let me tell you this. The research Deculein is about to publish? It was originally your father’s,” Ihelm said, brushing past her, his white cloak billowing behind him as he delivered the bombshell.

“What the hell is with that blond idiot...!” Epherene muttered, stomping the pavement in frustration. Almost reflexively, she glanced back through the café window. “... Oh.”

Deculein and the Chairwoman were already staring at her. Deculein wore his usual, unreadable expression, while Adrienne’s eyes sparkled with mischief, her smile playful and sly.

***

Under the fragmented moonlight scattering across the street, Epherene walked uphill toward the Mage Tower after leaving the café.

Tap, tap, tap—

“... I wonder if he’s even curious about what we talked about,” Epherene muttered as she walked beside Deculein, pretending to speak to herself.

He didn’t respond. Keeping up with his long strides had always been a struggle for her. If she lost focus for even a second, he would quickly pull far ahead.

“He said that the research you’re working on originally belonged to my father,” Epherene said, still struggling to keep pace behind him.

Deculein neither responded nor slowed his pace.

Annoyed, Epherene puffed out her cheeks and muttered, “Is he really not going to say anything?”

"Your father lacked the talent to complete that research by himself," Deculein said at last.

“Wh-what?!“ Epherene exclaimed, anger rising at his remark. She hurried forward, taking four quick strides to match his two. “And you, Professor? Can you finish it all by yourself?”

“The research will be published next month. You’ll see the results for yourself then.”

Heat flushed through her body, warming her back as her breath grew heavier. But she held firm—she couldn’t allow her anger to take control.

“Is that so? Then I’ll report you for theft. You won’t be able to become the Chairman after that, will you?” Epherene said with a sly smile.

Deculein continued walking without so much as a glance in her direction.

Epherene trailed him determinedly, refusing to give up as she said, “I mean it. I'm going to report you.”

“And who do you think would believe your words?”

“Why wouldn’t they? How about that guy we just met? Ihelm, or whatever his name was.”

Ihelm knows Deculein’s flaws, and he’s aware of my father. Sure, he’s not exactly pleasant—kind of a pain—but if Deculein keeps ignoring me like this, I might have to settle for the lesser of two evils, Epherene thought.

Epherene pressed on, “I don’t want to take his side either, but—”

Deculein halted abruptly. For the first time in a long while, he turned to face her and said, “Epherene, follow your heart's will.”

That was it. Without another word, he resumed walking, his long, deliberate strides carrying him forward. Epherene stood there, speechless, staring blankly at his disappearing figure.

“Professor!”

She was just about to shout, demanding why he had even chosen to sponsor her, when a voice from nearby interrupted her.

“Why should I trust you? We’ve only just met today.”

Epherene spun around at the voice. In the shrubs along the uphill path stood Ihelm and Adrienne.

Epherene pouted and said, “Believe it or not, I don’t care.”

“Hmm~ But isn’t it fascinating? Ihelm and Deculein—weren’t you two super close at one point?” Adrienne said with a playful smile.

Ihelm shrugged, gesturing toward Epherene and said, “Do humans ever stay the same? Only a monster remains unchanged. ... You, Luna’s daughter. What’s your name?”

Epherene replied stiffly, “... Epherene.”

“Leaf?”

“Epherene.”

“Alright. Make sure you pick a side, Leaf.”

“Epherene!”

Ihelm leaned casually against a tree, idly picking at his ear, and said, “If you stay on the fence, nothing will change. You won’t get anywhere. You’ll end up just like me.”

“What exactly couldn’t you accomplish?”

"Do you know why I’m here? I’m fully aware I have no real chance at becoming Chairman, and that I’m only here for appearances."

"... Then why are you here?"

“I came to fight.” n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Epherene narrowed her eyes in confusion.

Ihelm chuckled, a bitter sound like a sigh, and said, “I refuse to be cast aside like an idiot without even making an effort. Standing by and being pushed out without a fight—it's pathetic.”

His self-deprecating voice continued, “The longer I remain idle, the higher that bastard climbs. I thought he'd stumble eventually, but no—he keeps rising, without the slightest sign of faltering.”

Epherene stayed silent. To some degree, she understood his frustration.

“I’m prepared to die in a fight.”

She had sworn to catch up to Deculein, but his strides had always been longer than hers. Each day, he drew further away, like a mountain forever out of reach.

“If you hold a grudge, deal with it the right way. Stand idle for too long, and you’ll end up like me—a shell of a man,” Ihelm concluded, his lips curling into a smirk before he turned and walked away.

Adrienne leaned in toward Epherene and whispered with a playful grin, “... You know, Ihelm and Deculein used to be close. But during the faction wars, he got pushed aside—lost his research, his achievements, everything. Oh, and he had a thing for Knight Yulie too. Not sure if that’s still the case, though.”

Epherene frowned and asked, “Then why did you choose him as a candidate?”

Adrienne threw her arms wide, flashing a bright grin as she said, “Because it’s fun!”

"... You do realize you're about to become an Archmage, right?"

“That’s exactly why I’m doing this~” Adrienne said with an unexpectedly bittersweet smile. “Once I become an Archmage, I’ll have to leave the continent”

“... Why?”

"An Archmage can't be tied to just one country! Sure, I can visit the Empire or the Mage Tower, but if I stay too long, I'll draw too much attention!"

Whoooosh—

A warm summer breeze drifted through the trees.

Rustle, rustle—

The leaves gently swayed in the breeze.

Epherene gazed up at the distant moon and asked, “... Why not just refuse to become an Archmage?”

In that moment, a vision of the future flickered in her mind—one where she stood as a far stronger and more powerful mage. But strangely, that future version of herself looked sorrowful.

“I can’t just abandon my responsibilities,” Adrienne said.

Epherene turned to look at her again. Adrienne was short, making her far easier to face than Deculein.

“You should take responsibility for your talents too, Miss Epherene. Hahaha!” Adrienne said with a cheerful laugh as she spun around.

Epherene watched as Adrienne walked away, her small figure disappearing lightly into the night.

***

The next morning, in the Head Professor’s office, Epherene was called by Deculein. She felt more than a little nervous—extremely so. She had rushed over the moment she woke up, still unsettled by what she had done the night before.

Gulp—

Epherene stood before Deculein, her heart racing as she watched him seated in his office chair.

"Take this," Deculein commanded.

Thud—!

A thick stack of documents, nearly a hundred pages, dropped onto his desk with a heavy thud.

"This is the research I spoke of earlier," Deculein said. "As you can see, it contains part of your father’s idea."

“... Ah! A-and?”

"If you can comprehend this and master it completely by the time the hearing in October takes place, I will withhold the paper and return it to you."

Epherene’s eyes grew wide in surprise.

Deculein, with an indifferent tone, asked, “Do you accept the challenge?”

"Ah, well!"

There was no need for further thought. Her father had always intended for her to carry on his research. Without a moment’s hesitation, Epherene hurried forward and shoved the stack of papers into her bag.

"Y-yeees—! This is just what I wanted—!"

"Leave."

"Yes, sir!" Epherene exclaimed as she opened the office door, only to find someone waiting outside.

Golden blond hair and red eyes—it was Ihelm, the man she had met yesterday. Raising an eyebrow, he remarked, "Ah, it seems Leaf arrived first."

"It’s Epherene!" she snapped, giving his shoulder a shove before storming off, her footsteps heavy and loud.

“What’s gotten into her...” Ihelm muttered, watching her leave with a hint of disbelief before turning his gaze back to the office.

Inside, Deculein sat, as poised and aristocratic as ever, revealing no trace of weakness.

"... Professor Deculein," Ihelm said, "shall we engage in a mock cross-examination between the two Chairman candidates?"