Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 159: Chapter 158- I am fineSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC159: Chapter 158- I am fine
Max had been through the same phase Richard was experiencing now—the overwhelming urge to kill someone for hurting someone close to you. Max knew that feeling all too well.
However, with that feeling, he also knows what kind of consequences one has to suffer if they don't think rationally.
A murder conviction would ruin Richard's life as a student and lead to his arrest. The law clearly states that all crimes must first be reported to the authorities—no citizen has the right to pass judgment. At present, Richard hasn't reached a position where he could lawfully pass judgment, no matter the severity of the culprit's crime.
"Richard, you need to calm down and listen to what we have to say," Lucy argued, however,
"He won't listen to you or anyone right now, Lucy," Max responded in Richard's stead as he prepared to counter any attack that Richard might release.
Richard's eyes sang the tale of his emotions and intentions. He was not in agreement with resorting to anything other than killing Kevin. And as a teacher, Max has taken the role of protecting him.
"If that's your choice," Richard growled, his voice a dangerous whisper. "Then burn."
With a flick of his wrist, a fierce blaze erupted from his hand, surging straight at Max. The ground beneath cracked and blistered, peeling away as the searing flames tore their path forward.
Max's eyes narrowed. Without hesitation, he clapped his hands together, fingers locking tightly. In an instant, he formed a hollow shape, palms open and poised.
A violent, ripping sound exploded from his hands, sending brutal sonic waves barreling into the fire. The force shattered the flames, scattering fiery embers in every direction as they clawed their way toward Richard.
Kevin staggered back, clamping his hands over his ears to block out the deafening blast. The air crackled and split, both fire and sound raging in a fierce clash of power.
Richard clicked his tongue, springing back and narrowly evading the vicious wave of sound.
In mid-air, he brought his hands together in a forceful slam, his lips moving in a relentless chant. His eyes burned with focus, channelling overwhelming energy.
"Damn…" Lucy gasped, watching as seven massive magic circles ignited around him. Richard, barely sixteen, unleashed a power that made the air tremble.
exclusive content NovelBin-lempyr
From the centre of the circles, a colossal dragon roared to life, forged entirely from blazing flames. Its scorching glow lit up the dark clouds, casting a fierce light across the battlefield. The dragon's eyes bore into Max, a silent, fiery promise of annihilation.
Max narrowed his eyes; as he thought, the scion of the strongest witch could not back down just by a single spell.
"Lucy, back off!" Max ordered, his tone edged with urgency. He twirled his finger in the air, etching the chant of a spell he never imagined he'd use against a student.
With chilling, unblinking eyes, Richard unleashed the blazing dragon, a serpent of death hurtling straight toward the professor.
In response, a massive, radiant frog took shape around Max, its pure light casting a protective aura like an ethereal guardian. Max's eyes glowed fiercely, his hair lifting as raw energy surged through him. Fixing his gaze on the incoming dragon, he opened his mouth wide.
The frog mimicked his movements, and with Max's voice, the beast let out an earth-shaking, ear-splitting soundwave. The wave ripped through the air, colliding head-on with the dragon, a storm of fire and sound colliding in a devastating clash.
**THUUUUMMMMMMMMM**
The ground splintered, cracks spiderwebbing out in every direction as the surface shattered beneath the clash of these titans. Nearby windows exploded, shards scattering as several alarms shrieked, their wails lost in the chaotic symphony of raw power.
Richard frowned, his fist clenched tight as he poured every ounce of ether the blazing dragon could contain. His entire being surged with the intent to overpower, to unleash a force that could crush any enemy. But Max wasn't just any opponent—he was an S-rank ex-soldier, hardened by battles and far beyond the common criminals of Endless Hold.
With unyielding resolve, Max held his ground against the relentless dragon, his radiant frog guardian amplifying his defiant roar. The soundwaves intensified, pushing back against the flames with devastating force. Bit by bit, the dragon faltered under the pressure, its fiery form peeling away, layers of ether torn apart until, with a final resounding blast, it shattered down to its very core.
Richard's spell crumbled, dissipating in a burst of embers as the reality of Max's power settled heavily over the battlefield.
Once both sides settled, the scene of the front campus was no longer the same. Students from each dorm have come out, and so have the other instructors and staff members.
Max's breathing was a little ragged. He had used his soul beast after too long, which surely tolled over his body. However, the very thought of continuing like this shattered when he noticed the other students around.
'This is bad...we both are dealing in wide area spell.' Max gritted his teeth. Another confrontation meant the students would get injured and taking them away would take a lot of time.
'Do I have to ask for other instructors help?' Max wasn't prideful and nothing was bigger than his students' safety for him.
He was contemplating what he should do when suddenly Richard returned to the surface with his aura no longer radiating blood lust.
Max was surprised as he asked, "Have you finally calmed down?"
Richard nodded, "Yes, and for the damage I have caused, send me a report about it. I will provide compensation."
Saying so, Richard walked towards Max, but rather than stopping before him, he walked past the older one and after holding a familiar raven-haired hand, Richard walked away.
Max and the other students stared at Richard's retreating figure with complicated emotions in their eyes.
Max couldn't comprehend what was going on with Richard for him to suddenly cease-fire. However, if he pulled back without any damage being dealt to anyone, then it was all fine...
"Max," Hearing her voice, Max turned towards Lucy, only to hear the violet-haired saying, "Kevin is dead."
....or so he thought.
--------**-------
Richard brought Amelia back to his mansion.
He was going to make her stay here from now on after he realised the level of security the dormitories provide.
Amelia was abducted the previous time and no one spotted Ethan. And this time, Kevin barged in without anyone noticing as well. Too lenient they are.
Lilia was silently following them from behind. She arrived near the school, the moment she sensed her Master's presence. However, when she reached there, the chaos had already come to a pause and she spotted her master escorting Lady Amelia out of the school.
She faintly heard the students' murmurs and understood the whole situation.
'I have to inform the Duchess...' Considering Amelia killed Kevin and Richard attacked a professor, surely some action would be taken against the two.
If Amelia had killed Kevin back when he was still in her room, then no one would have raised their voice against her. After all, Kevin would have been charged with sexual assault.
However, things have turned problematic now that Amelia beheaded Kevin in front of everyone's eyes.
But naturally, she wouldn't get imprisoned, given the other party in question already had several allegations pending. And even Viscount Butcher wouldn't interfere considering his relationship with his son.
'In the end, all that matters is Lady Amelia's feelings.' With those thoughts, Lilia entered the mansion not so long after the two.
Richard led Amelia to the reception area and made her sit down.
He asked for some water which Lilia instantly brought.
Kneeling before the girl he asked, "Are you fine now? Did he harm you in any way?"
Amelia drank a few mouthfuls of water before she shook her head, "No, he just touched my shoulders, and that was enough for me to know that it wasn't you."
Richard's eyes went to Amelia's shoulders as a rush of anger surged within him. However, to not make Amelia worried, he contains his emotions and asked her,
"He didn't use any spell on you, right? I have a healer-"
"Richard, " She suddenly held his face so his eyes could only remain on hers before the raven-haired clearly stated,
"I am completely fine. Until you are here, I know nothing can affect me. Neither physically nor mentally."
Amelia was aware of Richard's source of worry. She was recently kidnapped and just a few days after that, someone came into her room with evil intentions.
Any person would get paranoid, however, Amelia wasn't. As she said, the only thing that can shake her up is something happening to Richard. And until he is with her, nothing can go wrong.
Richard leaned forward and planted his head against hers. With his eyes closed he softly whispered,
"I love you, Amy."
"The feeling is mutual~"
-------**-------
A/N:- I think we got an arc with every heroine by now. Thanks for reading.
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 160: Chapter 159- SolutionSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC160: Chapter 159- Solution
Within the closed space situated in a faraway land, secluded and inaccessible by those who don't know the exact location of the place.
The surroundings gave the impression that the room was carved within a cave. The rocky walls, the damp smell, and the faint sound of running water created an ambience that resonated with the residents. Ether stones embedded in the walls cast a soft glow, lighting the hall just enough for everyone to see each other's faces.
The atmosphere of the place remained far from pleasant, a testament to the fact that none of these people knew each other on a personal level, but were connected by a common thread. The thread of belief and devotion.
Around the round table, there were twelve seats; however, three of them were left vacant, signifying the absence of the members who should have been playing a vital role in this meeting. However, what no one expected or could have envisioned, came to reality.
The apostles of Light had betrayed their God to take the side of Darkness.
"We are gathered here to discuss the next course of action which could bring us closer to our goal." The blond girl with elongated ears began. Her whole demeanour oozed with calmness, and her beautiful face was mesmerizing enough to prevent anyone from stopping her from taking the lead.
The girl continued, "Our goal, as I'll briefly explain again, is to bring the Emissary of Light closer to an immortal state. This way, when the Death God descends, we'll have someone from our side able to confront that darkness."
"And how will we do that? By training him? And why him? Why can't we, the apostles of light, can do it?" The dark-skinned man with a shaved head asked, as in general.
The apostles of light were aware of their existence as special beings from the moment they were born. However, they were told about the Emissary of Light, Ethan that is, recently.
Now, having the mindset of being the pillars of light against the Death God since childhood, only to be told that they were only responsible for protecting the Emissary, would surely affect the Apostles. Of course, negatively.
A long, curly, green-haired woman, who was petting a small fox, answered that question that began with a sigh, "How foolish can you be, Theodore? We are called mortals for a reason."
The man, Theodore, snarled, "Then what's the point of being an apostle?"
"Are you regretting the decision of siding the light now?" A slim black-haired boy, who looked no older than twelve years old, asked with a thin frown knitted on his brows.
Theodore's mood worsened, however, he was aware of the consequences of answering that question recklessly. So he stayed silent.
The blond elf continued, "Lord Ethan is the only hope that can save us and all humanity from their impending doom. As such, we have to make him see on which side he should rely."
The news about Richard being involved with Darkness, and Ethan being closely connected to the evil worshippers has reached the ears of the Apostles. And it created a strong surge of urgency, bringing them together for a meeting for the first time.
"How can we do that? Brainwashing him?" This time it was a young girl with twin tails and bright, unblinking blue eyes who asked.
"Foolish." The youngest one in the room, the same boy who gave Theodore the warning, mocked.
"Are you here to insult others or do you have any suggestions to provide, James?" The woman with the fox asked.
The boy, James, heaved a sigh before relaying what he had in mind, "We can just make him see what is the reality of Darkness and let him decide whether he wants to stay there or...." James allowed his words to trail off, considering it wasn't necessary to finish.
The blond elf looked contemplative hearing that, while Theodore asked, "How can we accomplish that? Make him read history books or something?"
The twin-tailed girl bluntly said, "Did you drop some brain cells en route, Theodore?"
The red-eyed male growled, his aura intensifying, making the room appear smaller than before. However, none of it was enough to make any of them flinch here except for one beside Theodore, who instantly hid herself under the table.
"Stop it, you two. We need a plan here." The green-haired woman chided before she directed her eyes toward the person who was the reason why they all were present there.
The elven woman asked, "Eleanor, do you have any suggestions?"
Finally, the teenager with violet hair leaned forward and without looking at anything particular, she said,
"We first need to break his trust in Richard. And for that, there are a few sacrifices we need to make."
A simple set of words escaped her mouth but it was more than enough to make others feel the weight of the determination and rage she has been containing within herself.
Eleanor hasn't forgotten anything. Betrayed by Emily, the insult she received from Elizabeth, and the disappointment she saw in Ethan's eyes.
And especially, that threat from Richard.
She hasn't forgotten anything, and now, Eleanor's whole existence is devoted to getting back on those people who have somehow inflicted wounds on her.
And when the dust settles, she will disappear with Ethan and start a new life. Just the two of them.
'You might not understand me now, Ethan, but soon, I will make you see that you can't trust anyone except for me...'
---------**--------
The next morning, Richard and Amelia were summoned by the Headmaster, for obvious reasons.
Inside the office, there were two more people: Lucy and Max.
Richard stood close to Amelia with their hands connected, ever since he entered the Academy. And this gesture was not something which the others didn't notice.
"I heard from Lucienne and Professor Max about the whole ordeal. However, if you may, Student Amelia, can you tell us what happened from the beginning. So we can reach a conclusion? Please don't force yourself if you can't talk about it though." Very calmly, Marcus asked.
Amelia glanced at Richard and after receiving a nod from him, she told the whole thing that happened last night in her room.
From Kevin appearing in her room to the fact that an unidentifiable being showed its presence, she didn't leave a single detail out of the statement.
The other three listened to her words intently, frowning at the mention of the darkness she defined in her statement. They had suspicions of Kevin being involved with Ambrobates and after listening to Amelia, they were sure,
"Someone manipulated Kevin and converted him into an Ambrobate. I sensed the Aembr from him last night." Max added once Amelia finished.
Marcus offered some water to the girl and suggested she sit down. Upon Richard's urging, Amelia sat down across from the Headmaster while the other three remained standing.
Marcus looked at how protectively Richard was standing behind Amelia, which ushered the older one to ask, "You are paranoid, Richard, aren't you?"
"Can you blame me?" The redhead asked, "Amelia has been attacked twice at a place where students should feel the safest in the academy. And both times, the warden and the security soldiers were unable to catch the intruder."
The allegation was justifiable, and so was his frustration.
Marcus heaved a sigh before apologizing, "I should be blamed for what you have faced, student Amelia. As compensation, tell me what I can do."
"Just release us from this matter. I don't want Richard to get involved in this mess anymore." Amelia wanted Richard to have a normal student life for once, but again he was dragged into a matter which surrounded him by rumours and contempt.
Marcus looked troubled. He cannot just let this slip. After all, Richard attacked a Professor. If he doesn't take any action, then other students will also become rebellious and might even disrespect their teachers.
Sensing the severity of the matter and the dilemma in which the Headmaster was stuck, Max suggested, "Headmaster, announce to the students that I was under Kevin's control, and Richard was just trying to bring me back to my consciousness."
Lucy gasped, and Marcus was also shocked hearing that, "Don't you understand, Max? You will lose your job as a Professor here."
Max smiled in defeat, "I have a lot of other jobs I can do to survive, however, if the students start to go against the teachers, the very foundation of the academy will be shaken. I cannot let that happen."
Lucy had a frown on her face, but she didn't say anything here, knowing she could not stop Max from taking his life decision.
Marcus also looked troubled, considering this was probably the best option they had to keep things in order.
Amidst the growing silence, suddenly Richard spoke, "I have a better option," Every eye turned towards the redhead before the Scarlette heir voiced something completely unexpected,
"I will simply apologize to Professor Max."
---------***-------
A/N:- Character development? Thanks for reading.
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 161: Chapter 160- What to do?STRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC161: Chapter 160- What to do?
Nora has been in a dilemma recently.
She first joined the academy with the thought of assisting Ethan and helping him get stronger. Her life goal was to push him to that stage where he could face the Evil God and come out victorious without incurring much from his side. Last time, he had to sacrifice his life to seal the God of Death.
Nora didn't want things to repeat, worse, things going in a far worse way than they did last time. And the way things have happened recently, with all the drama which Elizabeth and Eleanor caused, Ethan hasn't been able to grow his strength at all.
Forget about helping him to become stronger, the four regressors have somehow prevented him from reaching the stage where he should have by this point.
This is bad news. Not only for Ethan but for humanity as a whole.
'Eleanor has become a hindrance..., but for some reason, the Goddess is still supporting her...' Nora was forced to think whether Eleanor had taken the right path of isolating Ethan so he could grow significantly and make him see Richard and the Scarlette family in a bad light.
Was it really necessary to antagonise someone who could become a great asset during the war? And even if Richard had joined the dark side, the method of abducting someone close to him, to corner Richard is not the method on which Nora would ever rely.
This is outright evil. Something that suits Ambrobates.
"Nora," Hearing that voice, the elven princess looked up from the book and found the blond Princess standing there.
Elizabeth had a frown on her face as she approached her.
"Did you receive the signal for gathering?" Elizabeth asked, and unusually she was alone at the moment.
As she sat down, Nora shook her head up and down, "Yes, I did. But it soon disappeared before I could have realised what it was about."
"Possibly a meeting between the apostles, from which we were excluded," Elizabeth spoke with a roll of her eyes.
Nora felt slightly anxious, "Are they planning to snatch the blessing from us just like Emily? Given none of these meetings happen against the will of the almighty one."
Nora was apprehensive to be stolen from her memories and so was Elizabeth. Considering the recent behaviour of the Apostles excluding them and also the deities no longer contacting them, their fear has elevated.
Elizabeth remained silent, before she solemnly suggested, "What do you suggest? Shall we go against Richard to show our purity?"
Nora was flabbergasted, "After fighting Eleanor to protect the Scarlette family, you are willing to go against them now? Won't Emily's sacrifice go to waste like this?"
Elizabeth snarled, "Listen, Nora, all I care about is my memories and Ethan. I don't care what happens to this world. I never understood all this crap about Light and Darkness. And if I have to go against Scarlette Richard to retain my memories, I am willing."
Nora turned silent upon hearing that. Truth be told, she has several doubts regarding this situation now after she gained knowledge about the Dark Star in this life.
If not counting Scarlette's family guilty of siding the evil, then was there any other way of not getting discarded without going against Richard?
"Eli....you know...that Ethan sees Richard as his friend, right?" Nora asked; her tone suggesting uncertainty.
Elizabeth heaved a sigh, "I know...that's why I am hesitating until now." Clenching her fist she added, "As much as it pains to say this, Ethan respects Richard for the kind of person he is. His strength, confidence and devotion for his family has become a source of Ethan's admiration.
And proving to him that Richard is a being who would be standing with the other side during the war, would be a tough task."
Nora was about to respond when suddenly, there was an uproar from the nearby,
"Let's go! The headmaster is announcing something!"
"In the auditorium right?! I think it's about the matter related to yesterday!"
"Let's go!"
Hearing those words, Elizabeth frowned and instantly got up.
Nora hurriedly asked, "Where are you going?"
As Elizabeth began to walk, she answered the girl, "Ethan earlier said that he was going to the auditorium. I have to be with him."
Nora, naturally, followed the Princess to the place where everyone was moving. Earlier, there was an announcement of a gathering in the hall. However, Nora was so preoccupied with her thoughts that she didn't pay attention.
Inside the dome, there were numerous students gathered, some to skip the classes, and some were eager to hear about what happened yesterday.
Nora didn't come out of her room to check on the situation. However, in the morning, she heard from the other students that Kevin Butcher had tried to force himself on Amelia.
That's why, when Nora heard that Kevin died, she didn't feel surprised. At all.
"There he is..." Elizabeth muttered under her breath, and Nora also looked at the place she was looking at; only to find Ethan sitting there all alone.
The duo approached the silverhead before Elizabeth asked, "Did you come here for the announcement?"
Ethan smiled, "Yes, I wanted to hear what the Headmaster has to say regarding the matter. Come, sit with me." Ethan, as gentlemanly as ever, offered his seat to Elizabeth and brought two more for Nora and himself.
Nora, for now, was on friendly terms with Ethan, and the elven princess was quite happy with the development. She wasn't as proactive as Elizabeth in jumping on him, so this slow progress was more than enough for the girl.
"Did you have lunch?" Elizabeth asked, to which Ethan nodded.
"And your medicine? Did you take it?" Ethan, with his teeth peeking out, grinned.
Elizabeth sighed before she softly reprimanded, "Once we return the first thing you do is to take your meds, okay?"
"Aye, aye."
Seeing them so close made Nora's heart warm, and a very slight pain of envy born within her. But well, Elizabeth has earned that spot beside him.
"Students," Every eye turned towards the stage where the older one stood. The noise of the chattering died down as the Headmaster began, "As you all must have received the news of the crime that transpired yesterday."
No one responded, but everyone agreed. They, indeed, have heard about what happened yesterday outside the girl's dorm.
Marcus added, "The act of entering someone else's personal space, more so, a female's dormitory cannot be regarded as a mischief or a prank. That's a crime, through and through."
The heaviness in his voice seemed to have made the quiet room, even silent. Marcus, by no means, seemed pleased. He was extremely upset.
After a brief pause, he said, "Kevin Butcher was executed by the same person whom he offended. She would have only been held accused if the father of the culprit, that is, Viscount Butcher, had filed a complaint against her. However, the wise Viscount accepted the punishment which his son suffered from and doesn't hold Amelia responsible."
Some people gasped and some were too astounded to give a reaction. Which father, in their right mind, refuses the opportunity to bring justice to his own child?
Many people thought that it was the influence of Duke Hawkbridge, that prevented any further proceeding in the matter.
But the only one, Hopper—the sidekick of Kevin—knows the real reason why Viscount Butcher didn't show any interest in accusing Amelia. That man just doesn't care about Kevin. At all. If anything, Hopper believes that the Viscount might be satisfied with the results.
"Silence," Max commanded in a stern tone, and instantly, everyone quieted down.
Once they gained everyone's attention again, Marcus restarted, "As about student Richard, then he attacked Professor Max since Kevin was under his protection. And since Student Richard holds a deep relationship with student Amelia, he wasn't able to hold himself back from harming Max."
Without taking any break this time, fearing that students might start to gossip again, Marcus said, "However, after thinking about it with a calm head, Richard realized his mistake and wanted to rectify things by apologizing to Professor Max. After all, Student Richard understands the importance of law and order, as such, he feels-"
"We won't let it happen!" Suddenly, a group of fifteen students rose to their feet and interjected the Principal.
Every eye turned towards them as they heard one of them showing protest, "Lord Richard did nothing wrong! You can't make him apologize!"
"Yes!"
"Lord Richard didn't do anything wrong! This is injustice!"
They were apparently, the fan club of Scarlette Richard, showing protests against letting their Lord lower his head in front of anyone.
Very timidly, Ethan also raised his hand in protest, making Elizabeth slam her hand against her forehead.
Nora now realized what Elizabeth was saying when she talked about Ethan being respectful toward Richard.
Richard helplessly sighed, as he felt Amelia pressing her foot on his, to show her displeasure.
Glancing at her, he found the raven-haired smiling sadistically, as she said, "Lord Richard~why is it that every fan of yours is a girl?"
Richard, truthfully, was curious as well.
-----------***----------
A/N:- Thanks for reading.
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 162: Chapter 161- CharmSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC162: Chapter 161- Charm
After Richard apologized to Max, despite how much the others protested, he left the academy with Amelia on his side.
About his fan club, then Richard had no idea when and why this group formed when he hadn't done anything notable in the academy to gain himself some little fans. The most astonishing part was the fact that some of those members were from the second and third years.
Richard didn't approach them just yet and decided to talk about their activities tomorrow. Just like today, if they interfered in the future, it might become a hindrance, so it was better to get rid of them when he could.
"The rate of female attraction has elevated after your return. Must be the mature aura you now possess." Amelia commented; her voice laced with slight frustration as she saw several students(female) glancing at him as they walked.
Richard's face has turned a little more chiseled after he spent months in Endless Hold. The remaining baby fat from his face completely disappeared and the new short hair he had gave him a serious and hot look. His body, just a little, has bulked up as well.
"Trust me, I never seek attention. The moment I stepped into this academy, my second priority was to remain low-key." Richard spoke and ended his sentence with a sigh.
Amelia raised a brow, "And what was the primary?"
Richard held her hand gently before whispering, "Spending time with you."
A thin smile elevated her lips before she could even resist it.
How much she tried, she couldn't stay upset with him for long.
Not only their hands but also their arms were soon interlocked as they stepped out of the school building and approached the entrance of the academy when suddenly someone ran to stand before them.
"Rose?" Richard asked as he saw a dishevelled pink-haired girl standing before them while breathing unsteadily.
Her bountiful bust was going up and down with each breath, as she barely remained standing on her weak legs.
"What happened to your hair?" Amelia asked, seeing the girl's face barely visible behind the curtains of pink.
Rose first calmed her breathing rate as she responded, "S-Someone...asked me for...my hair clip..."
Amelia heaved a sigh before she stepped forward and stood behind the girl, taking her hair in her hold and arranging Rose's hair gently.
Rose purred in delight, feeling the fresh air finally hitting her face, and also with delight, there was slight shyness being seen like this.
"You two seem pretty close," Richard commented.
"She sometimes swings by the Council Office. Got to know her recently. The clumsy book lover." The last bit made Rose hide her face with her hair, only for Amelia to slap her hand, and the girl instantly released her hair.
Richard chuckled seeing the two. Amelia was like her elder sister, braiding her hair and chiding Rose for her behaviour.
"Then....what did you need, Rose?" Richard asked.
Rose suddenly seemed to have remembered what she had come for as she hurriedly responded, "The President! She said we should study together for the competition."
Richard hummed a bit as he cupped his chin. Indeed, it would be best to study together since, if Richard participates, he would be the replacement for Rose. Then the focus of his study session should be aligned with Rose's.
"Got it...if you are okay then wait for me in the morning so we could get some hours of study in the morning before classes."
Amelia suggested, "Rose can come over to the mansion if that's all right with you, Richard."
Richard raised his brows and Rose looked flustered.
"I don't have any problem but I don't think Rose will come with us."
Rose shyly spoke, "Y-Yes...it would be bad for me to leave the academy."
Amelia shrugged, "Up to you then. I just thought that since there are still two hours before curfew, you can come along. After all, Rose wakes up late, no?"
Rose was flustered even more as she nodded in assent, "I-I have a problem waking up early."
Richard heaved a sigh, "Then come with us? I will send someone to drop you back at the academy gate."
Rose slowly nodded, "Okay...sorry for the intrusion."
Richard smiled, "You aren't intruding. This is for the contest."
Soon after Amelia neatly tied her hair in a bun, the trio left the Academy and headed toward his mansion situated not much far away.
"Welcome home, master." There, five maids awaited them, and all of them bowed in unison upon seeing Richard.
Richard nodded as he stepped inside and allowed Lilia to take off his blazer. While he was doing so, he asked, "When did she arrive?" His question was directed at Jasmine's presence in the mansion.
Lilia informed, "In the afternoon. She was restlessly trying to go into your room but I prohibited her."
Lilia's tone suggested how tired she was because of Jasmine's endless antics.
Richard was feeling bad for Lilia so he assured her, "I will talk to her, don't worry."
Lilia nodded, before she asked, "Will the young lady stay for dinner?"
Richard nodded before he asked, "Where is Bella?"
Lilia looked troubled, "She is on the...rooftop. She spends most of her time there."
Richard heaved a sigh. He has sensed the growing distance between himself and Bella recently. After a few days, they spent the mansion back in Dukedom, after coming here, Bella has become a little unusual. She mostly spends time alone and only comes to meet him during breakfast or on a walk.
Was she missing the old world—he wondered.
"I will talk to her after dinner," Richard told her before he returned to the duo who were already sitting in the reception.
Violet was standing nearby, ready to serve tea. Richard asked her, "Are you fine now? No dizziness right?"
A few days ago, Richard went berserk when he was attacked by that clone, and Violet got severely attacked by his flames. Although she was healed a week ago, she was told by Richard to rest as much as possible and slowly get back to her working schedule.
"I am fine now, Master. Thank you for your concern." Strangely, the frost around her hasn't reduced. She was stern and unreadable as ever.
"Tomorrow, I am taking her to the Academy. I have already talked to someone who can recruit her."
Richard was informed that Amelia had talked to the chef of the Academy regarding Violet. If Violet can impress the chef, then she will get herself a job as a cook. If she could get some experience there, she can pursue the life of a chef in the future.
"Okay I will-"
"Master," Suddenly, Violet interjected, which was surely unusual.
Richard turned towards her and urged her to continue.
"I-I don't want to change my job, master."
Her words urged Richard to encourage her, "If you are worried about your parents, then you don't need to worry. I have already-"
"No, it's not like that!"
"Violet," Lilia warned the blue-haired, given she interrupted Richard twice now.
However, Richard gestured toward the brunette to not say anything here. It was very rare for Violet to show emotions, and Richard didn't want to restrict her words once again.
"Go on, tell me what you want to do." He encouraged.
Violet, with her eyes drawn to the ground and fist clenched, spoke, "After I witnessed how much young master cares for me....respects me...I believe I can never be myself if I leave my job. I have a hobby of cooking new dishes, inventing them...bringing innovation. However, it's a fact that I only feel content while cooking when..."
Her tear-filled eyes lifted as she looked at Richard with a soft smile and uttered, "...when I am cooking for my master."
A brief pause followed before Violet added, "So please...let me serve you, my lord. I can only feel the worth of my life while I am serving you."
The mansion was enshrouded in silence after that. It could be seen from Violette's demeanour that she was determined to serve Richard. Her devotion towards him suddenly surfaced, and Richard couldn't think of a reason.
However, denying the girl what she desired would be heartless of him. This was no longer about the debt her parents took from the Scarlette family which the girl was trying to repay.
Violet genuinely wanted to show her usefulness by being on his side.
Richard heaved a sigh before he placed a hand on her head gently.
As Violet looked up, she heard him saying, "If you show that adorable smile once in a while, then surely I can let you serve me as long as you desire."
Fighting the blush that threatened to bloom on her face, Violet nodded, "I will try my best, my lord."
Once seated with the other two, Amelia couldn't help but compliment, "Not only among students, you got yourself maids fawning over you as well."
Richard grinned, "Well, blame it on the irresistible charm that only I, Scarlette Richard, could possess."
----------**----------
A/N:- Harem of a hundred girls!!
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 163: Chapter 162- TrickedSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC163: Chapter 162- Tricked
While studying with Rose, Richard observed that she became a little bit more open with him; at least she didn't stutter as much as before.
When she talks about things related to history or any book she has read in the past, she becomes a different person. The enthusiasm in her eyes made her seem like a small child who likes to tell their older sibling about the cartoons they like.
Although Richard was more into magic mechanisms, he was interested in learning about the history of the world as well. In the past, when he reincarnated he read the history books in the greed of widening his knowledge of this world where he has reborn. But now, after regaining his memories, his perspective has changed.
Now, all the knowledge he collects is to prepare for the upcoming war.
"The strongest of the seven." The topic came up and Richard perked his ears,
"The First Empire was named after the strongest warrior in existence and someone who came up with the idea of setting up kingdoms across Clion." Rose began,
"The Star child and the entity who, despite being the strongest, held no pride in his strength at all. The Grand Magus, and the leader of the seven—Eden Dracon."
"He was a man of very few words and someone who directed his fellow warriors on the right path. Leading a war against the God of Death in that era, when the evil god was at its peak strength. Not only did Sir Eden fight the Death God head-on, all alone, but it's said that Sir Eden even left a grave wound on his enemy before his ultimate demise."
"He became a symbol of strength and peace for others, and after his demise, his descendants held the mantle of preserving humanity."
Closing the book, Rose said, "He is the man who caused great envy from several beings and the Flame Warden was one of them."
Richard has heard about it from his mother. Originally, the Flame Warden was devastated after realizing that he was far weaker than Eden, which urged him to dwell deeper into the secrets of the elements.
However, after he attained the true elemental form, he was captured by the Sages and was caged in before the Warden could prove his worth.
Amelia casually asked, "Is there anything mentioned about Sir Eden's skills or abilities?"
"I am also curious.", Richard added. For someone to be hailed as the strongest means the Sorcerer Supreme must have a broken ability.
Rose looked uncertain as she spoke, "There are no books that contain Sir Eden's abilities; however, I have heard things from my grandfather that I can tell."
Amelia and Richard wirelessly urged her to speak.
The pink-haired girl became a little nervous being looked at with such interest. However, she didn't make them wait long and uttered,
"Spell Creation."
"---!!" Richard's eyes slowly widened upon hearing that, and Amelia had a similar reaction.
Rose added, "He had a vast amount of ether in store, and through his knowledge and creativity he manufactured spells."
Richard slowly said, "That's why he was the strongest mage. The ability to weave spells makes one practically impossible to predict."
Amelia agreed, "Indeed. No one can make a plan against someone who can build their attacks based on any situation."
After a brief moment of silence, Amelia asked in general, "Did any of the successors receive the same ability as Sir Eden?"
Richard shook his head, "I don't think so…at least not in the previous three generations since it would have been all over the news."
For someone who can produce their spell would be a great addition to the side of Light. So, if any of those successors has indeed awakened that power, then surely the Heaven residents must have already made them one of their apostles.
"I-I think I should go now." Suddenly, Rose got up from her seat, making Richard raise his brows.
"Okay, I will send someone with you," He proposed but,
"N-No I am fine on my own." Saying so, she hurriedly made her way out of the mansion.
For some reason, her behavior returned to how it always has been.
'Did I somehow make her uncomfortable?' Richard wondered before he heard Lilia's voice,
"Young master, shall I prepare the bath?"
Amelia's ears perked with interest. She was thinking to soak in warm water with Richard…however,
"No, not now." With his eyes turning upward, he added, "I have something to do first."
—--------**---------
Bella was silently sitting on the rooftop of the mansion where no stairs led. She just jumped up here from the outside and spends her time here mostly.
To say she enjoyed her time alone would be completely wrong. She wants to stay with her brother more. Each moment she spends with him becomes a major source of her happiness. And later, she thinks of those moments, contemplating what if she would have said this or that.
It was natural for her to yearn for him so much. She desperately searched for any route that could have led her to him. After arriving in this world, it was as painful as death to keep herself away from him.
However, it was necessary. She wanted to make things a little dramatic so that when her brother approached her, she could inflict a great impact through her words.
And finally, it's happening.
"Bella." He called her. The gentleness and concern in his voice made her heart flutter but she kept her face straight.
"You didn't come down for dinner." He asked. Each of his words, and the sadness blended in it made her heart wrench. But she held herself together and remained silent.
Richard sat down beside her and held her face.
Urging her to look at him, he asked, "Have I done something to upset my precious?"
Bella's eyes were moist as she looked into his warm ones.
She slowly shook her head before saying, "You won't understand."
Richard heaved a sigh as she turned away again. It was very rare for her to throw a tantrum and right now, she was genuinely worried and scared about something.
"Unless you don't tell me, we won't know if I can understand you or not." He urged.
Richard sensed the change in her attitude after they arrived here. However, he didn't have a clue why she was upset.
Bella remained silent for a moment before she finally turned to look at him and asked, "Did you know our mother takes a pill to control her emotions? A medicine to suppress her anger and this uncontrollable blood lust she often feels?"
Richard frowned, "I….never heard about it."
Bella added, "Whenever she feels she can't stop herself from harming someone related to you, she takes that specific medicine. Otherwise, how could she have tolerated you having so many wives?"
Richard was rendered speechless. Such a thing existed? And his mother had to take it regularly?
Bella added, "And you know what, brother? She gave it to me as well." Bella showed a small pill in her hand which Bellarine gave her before she came here.
Richard…now realized what was the case. And Bella's following words proved his hunch to be true,
"Because she knew, I won't be able to hold myself when I see someone else in your arms. She knows me because I am a part of her. And just like Bellarine, Bella loves Richard as a man, as well!"
She confessed it. Her eyes blurred with tears but behind the curtains, there were flames of determination.
She could never be double-minded about this. Her love for Richard transcends every realm and is something akin to insanity. Without him, Bella feels lost. Years ago, she decided that if she could let anyone have her heart, mind, and body, then it was Richard.
Richard remained silent. Should he say he was completely unaware? No, that would be a lie.
He has noticed things on earth that could easily make someone realize that Bella doesn't see him just as a brother. But after so many things happened that he nearly forgot that this side of hers still exists.
Bella pressed, "I am not asking you to reciprocate my feelings immediately. I just wanted you to be conscious of my feelings." She said while pressing his hand against her cheek.
Richard heaved a sigh and remained silent for a few minutes. Each minute was like an hour for the raven-haired woman but she didn't urge him to answer.
After what seemed like an eternity to Bella but only seven minute had passed, Richard parted his lips and told her,
"Okay…I will keep it in mind and will try to change my perspective on things…between us."
Belle beamed, the gloomy clouds over her head vanishing instantly.
Richard was about to get up and ask her to come down with him when suddenly Richard recalled something and took the pill from her hand.
"Sorry to tell you Bella…" Crushing the small pill between his fingers, he added, "Mom tricked you. There is nothing like an anger-suppressing pill; this was just a candy she likes to have after dinner."
Bella's eyes widened and face turned red. She was tricked by that woman and using that pill she confessed everything.
'You damn woman!!!'
—-------**---------
A/N:- Thanks for reading.
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 164: Chapter 163- NervousSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC164: Chapter 163- Nervous
"Do you understand the consequences of your words?" Inside a certain grandeur hall, sat several men wearing noble uniforms and their faces containing a similar frown.
That expression and those words were aroused by a certain teenager sitting inside the room who suggested something unnerving.
The said person didn't show any reaction to the growing aura of the others and smilingly said, "You want his head and so do I. Joining forces to help the apostles of light is the only method I deem right."
The person had drastic similarity to a certain silver head from the Obsidian Citadel.
The person who had the most superior command in the room voiced, "We didn't let Your Majesty know about this whole situation, or your head would have been rolling on the ground by now." The man had a long moustache and flowing, long red hair braided in a rough tail.
The proposer shrugged, "I mean, if we succeed, which we surely will, then you can offer the greatest present to the Emperor, no? After all, Scarlette Richard is the biggest threat to all of you and your Majesty, or am I perceiving things wrong?"
That name made many of them shift in their seats uncomfortably. The news of Scarlette Richard unlocking the Elemental form has reached the ears of the people in the Emberclad Empire.
An entity enshrouded in fiery flames was the identity of the Flame Warden and the founder of the Emberclad Empire. And after him, none of the descendents have been able to ascend to that realm...except for Richard who is also indirectly connected to the lineage.
If Richard proposes his right over the throne, the people of this continent would surely support him and many of those loyal to the Flame Warden would also rebel against the current monarch.
Those who are loyal to the current Emperor deem Richard as the biggest nightmare currently. As such, when someone proposed the idea of getting rid of this nightmare, they weren't able to prevent themselves from showing interest.
The proposer pressed forward, "Think about it, there could be no better opportunity than this. You can officially visit the Obsidian Citadel given the academy is participating in some competition. And when the third party attacks, you can launch your own as well."
Someone from the group asked, "How do you know that the Apostles...or whatever they call themselves, are, going to attack Scarlette Richard during the competition?"
The person in question grinned, "I would like to keep the source of information out of this discussion."
The one who asked, snarled, "And you think we would believe you when you can't even disclose such a crucial factor to us?"
The atmosphere grew heavy as the clone's smile slowly faded, and indifferently, he asked, "I never forced you to do anything; it's just a suggestion. And in the first place, even if you don't intend on attacking the Scarlette scion, you will be going to Eldoria in two weeks, no?
Just keep the preparation and after reaching there, decide how many of you still possess the courage of a warrior and how many of you have become a pussy."
"You....!!" The man got up, enraged and flames began to swirl around him.
However, the superior one gestured for him to sit down.
The clone smirked at that before voicing, "Based on what choice you make, the future of your Empire will be decided. So think carefully before making any decision."
-----------**----------
For the next few days, Richard's schedule remained limited within the school. He spent most of his time in the class, and if not, then in the library with Rose.
The role of the backup team is to replace the main ones if, under any circumstances, they fail to participate. As such, the backup team has to be fully prepared to replace the participating ones.
The teachers also gave them the freedom to skip some classes and spend more time in the library for the sake of the contest which was about to happen.
Now, it was the last day before the contest, and today, Richard and Rose decided to keep the studying hour brief so they could give their mind and body some much-needed rest.
Although Rose is a bookworm and loves to discuss things which are within the range of her interest, before the main event, even she was dead nervous.
"I think this should be enough for today." It was only five on the clock, but Richard decided that pushing any further would cause a backlash.
Rose also nodded in assent as she began to close the books and arrange her notes.
Richard stretched his body and looked around a bit. There weren't many students since most of them were busy preparing for the event tomorrow.
Once Richard saw that Rose had done packing, he raised his hand for a shake, "Let's do our best tomorrow."
Rose flinched for a moment before she slowly brought her hand to meet his.
Richard, with a smile, was about to say something again, but suddenly, he felt a droplet of warm liquid dropping on his thumb.
Not only one but several droplets of tears began pouring down on his hand, urging Richard to ask, "Hey, hey....are you crying?" He held Rose's face and urged her to look up.
Her eyes were filled with tears as she bit her lips to prevent herself from letting out any strange sound.
Richard knelt before her and, taking her hand in his, he asked, "Are you nervous?"
The girl slowly nodded, too worked up to utter a single word.
Richard asked, "Aren't you prepared to win this? I have seen how hard you have worked for the quiz and now you are getting nervous?"
Rose sobbed as she used her other hand to rub her eyes—only to be stopped by Richard as he held her hand and put it back on her thigh. Taking out his handkerchief, he gently wiped her tears as he told her,
"The ones who should be scared right now are the students of the other school. After all, the prodigy genius of the Obsidian Citadel would be the one they have to face."
His words held confidence and warmth, almost like Richard trusted her more than Rose could ever trust herself.
In recent times, when he spent hours with Rose, he got to know things about her and the range of knowledge she carries in her head. Not even once did she show impatience when Richard had a hard time remembering something. And also, she intently learned new things which Richard was aware of.
In Richard's eyes, if someone can compare to his mother in terms of brains, then it was this silly girl.
Rose eventually calmed down, feeling his gentle gaze never leaving her. That heart which was beating rapidly a moment ago, was now much more peaceful.
"I know you will do fine, Rose. Just don't focus on the audience, other contestants or any of the judges. You have to keep your mind converged on the question and express every single detail you know about it in your response. And if you do, no one will snatch the first position from us."
His smile made her heart flutter, but despite how much she tried she couldn't feel good about tomorrow.
In a barely audible voice, she asked, "Why do you trust me so much?"
Richard shrugged, "Maybe because of your brilliance or maybe it's your cute cheeks? Or maybe both?"
That response made her blush but she couldn't stop herself from smiling at his words.
Richard also grinned before asking, "Do you feel better now?"
Rose nodded before Richard got up and helped her to leave her seat as well.
The duo soon made their way out of the library in silence.
Rose seemed contemplative about something, and since Richard believed that she was still thinking about tomorrow, he didn't disturb her.
Just as they were about to reach the dormitory, Rose turned on her heels and extended something towards Richard, "Here, have this. This is a good luck charm!"
There was a small pendant in her hand with a silver chain attached to it.
Richard was perplexed, "Thanks...but don't you need this charm more? I mean you would be participating, no?"
Rose didn't say anything and after handing the charm, she turned away and dashed into the building.
In those tears she shed, there wasn't any nervousness for the quiz but something else which Richard failed to discern. However, this sudden lucky charm indeed made him wonder if there was something wrong.
Her behaviour has been fluctuating a lot these days. Sometimes, she appeared excited, and then suddenly, all the vigour disappeared. It was almost like she was sad about something that was about to happen.
Richard was unsure of what was going on within her mind as he watched her walk away.
Suddenly, Richard had a thought...something he recalled which was mentioned a long time ago.
'System, you said I can read the thoughts of any heroine right? Does Rose also come in that category?'
[Ding!]
[Indeed host!]
[Does the host want to read the current thoughts of the target?]
[Y/N]
Although he doesn't like prying into someone's head, at that moment, Richard doesn't hesitate to choose the 'Y'.
And when he did...
--------**--------
A/N:- Thanks for reading.
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 165: Chapter 164- UnwellSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC165: Chapter 164- Unwell
"Are you nervous?" The blond elf—Tia, asked the violet-haired teenager who had the supreme command amongst the apostles. Not because Eleanor was the strongest but because Eleanor was blessed with the Light brighter than any apostles.
She was trusted by the deities and was given the authority to command the other apostles as she deemed right.
Only a few hours remained before they would begin their plan; however, rather than resting, Eleanor could be seen seated near the window, looking out of the mansion.
This mansion was close to the Obsidian Citadel and there are several secret passages to reach the Academy from here.
Eleanor's eyes never wavered from where it was as she responded, "Despite having everything under control, a part of my mind always remains directed at the 'what ifs.'"
Tia couldn't help but ask, "Isn't it concerning? Thinking something bad will happen can affect your decision-making during the event."
Eleanor slowly shook her head, "Having a second thought allows me to make a backup plan, in case everything goes against what we planned."
Tia was impressed, "That's the reason why you always escaped safely despite having the situation favoring your opponent."
Eleanor shrugged, "I was lucky on several occasions as well." Heaving a sigh, the girl added, "The major concern of Duchess Bellarine is out of the way. She left for a faraway land two days ago, and even if she gets the information regarding the attack, she won't be able to reach the Academy in time."
A few days ago, the Emperor was attacked when he was making a tour around Eldoria; as such, all the strong warriors, including Bennet and Bellarine, were immediately told to reach the Emperor as soon as they could.
Naturally, Eleanor was behind this attack to keep the two monsters out of the Academy or their presence would have hindered their mission.
Bennet, who was originally supposed to be security in charge, wouldn't be present there as well.
"The minions within the Academy are also prepared to backstab," Eleanor added. "Everything is under control… but I fear that if we fail this time, we won't get another chance like this again."
The minions she just mentioned would surely get caught after this mission, and after that, Marcus would surely go through a thorough background checkup of every student by himself. And in that scenario, it would become impossible to plant more minions among the students.
Then there was a chance of Ethan getting into danger because of this…although the blame wouldn't land on her or the apostles, considering Ethan's personality, he would jump in to save people immediately. Hence, there was a huge risk to his life.
Tia rested her hand on Eleanor's shoulder before assuring her, "When everything is over, Lord Ethan will be sharing the table with us…and then, we can finally start our preparation for the war."
Eleanor seethed, "The war…."
This time, it would be do or die. Either they end up eradicating the God of Death or die trying. There is no middle path this time, and losing Ethan was never one of those options.
This time, Eleanor wouldn't let anything go awry.
—--------**---------
The day of the competition arrived.
The people from the Emberclad Empire along with the students of the central academy of that continent, arrived last night.
The accommodation of those people was done in the same dormitories where the students who enrolled were initially accommodated before they were given their permanent room in the academy.
The competition goes on for two days; the first consists of multiple-choice questions. On the second day, subjective-type questions are asked.
The atmosphere around the Obsidian Citadel was quite charming. The entrance of the academy was decorated with flowers. A choir was arranged to welcome the guests.
Richard was not involved in the welcoming ceremony since currently, he was in the waiting area with the other contestants.
The contest would begin in an hour and until then, the participants were given some time to relax.
Surprisingly, inside the room, the familiar face of the Council President was also visible.
She waved her hand at Richard when he entered the waiting area, drawing several others' attention towards Richard.
One of the members of Richard's fan club was also there, who clasped her hands together and looked at Richard with a bright smile.
Richard walked towards the President before asking, "I didn't know you were participating, President." His previous interaction with the lady occurred back then when he visited the council office to submit his name.
Ruby smiled, "I might not look like it, but I am quite smart, you know." She winked near the end of her words.
Richard raised his brows, "Are you in the main team?"
She shook her head, "Nope~I wanted to be, but my vice-president turned out better in magic mechanisms than me. So I had to back off."
Richard's eyes traveled towards the bespectacled teenager who huffed and turned away while reading a book.
'Can't take a compliment I assume…'
"What about you, Richard? Are you prepared?" Hearing her words, he nodded,
"More or less. Well, I don't need to be prepared since I know Rose can handle everything."
Ruby's eyes traveled towards the pinkhead who was silently sitting in a corner, pretending to be reading a book but the girl looked dazed at the moment.
"I heard Amelia didn't come today?" Ruby changed the topic, "Is she unwell?"
Richard affirmed, "Yes…she mistakenly ate red meat last night, and couldn't sleep because of a stomach ache. In the morning I gave her some meds and told her to relax."
Looking at the President, he asked, "It didn't affect the security much, right?" Amelia was on the disciplinary committee, so naturally, she had a duty to patrol around the campus during the event.
However, "It's okay, there are many others to fill in. And given Amelia is in her first year, I would have most probably asked her to take it easy."
Ruby wasn't completely honest, but to not make Richard feel bad, she lied a little.
Suddenly, the doors of the waiting room were flung open, and from the other side, a very thin man entered.
"Students, gather around," Max commanded, and slowly, every participant began to make their way toward the front.
However, all of them suddenly paused when they heard a thud from the corner of the hall.
With a frown, Max looked at the pink-haired student who had fallen to the ground and was completely unmoving.
"Rose?!" He exclaimed as he made his way toward the student. The others also grew worried and followed him.
Picking up the girl, he flipped her and was shocked to see her face turned flushed red.
"My god…she has severe fever…and her breathing is shallow as well." Max assessed her condition and from what he could sense, this was no mere result of stress and anxiety.
'She is infected by something…her ether flow is quite disturbed….' He couldn't discern the cause behind her condition, but he knew that whatever Rose was suffering from could not be healed here.
"I am taking her to the infirmary, wait here." Max picked the girl and hurriedly made his way out of the room.
The others began to whisper the possible reason behind her fall. Some said she was just stressed out and some said she must have eaten something funny last night.
Ruby has a frown on her face as she glances at Richard…only to be surprised to see him indifferently looking at the door.
"Richard?"
"Ah, yeah?" He asked, his previous nonchalance disappearing.
Ruby unsurely asked, "Are you okay?" She didn't know why but his indifference towards this unfortunate situation made Rose shiver.
Richard heaved a sigh, "Yeah, I am fine…just a little worried since I think I might be the reason why Rose fainted."
Ruby grew worried, "What do you mean?"
"I mean…because of me, she had to study more hours so she could help me get to that mark where I can be a proper substitute. And because of all that overwork…" he ended the sentence with a heavy sigh.
Rose slowly brought her hand on his shoulder, before consoling him, "It's not your fault…in the first place, I don't believe that her current condition is anything related to stress."
For some reason, Rose's condition suggested that…she was drugged. However, as Ruby was concerned about her condition, she couldn't go and check on Rose as of now.
Soon, Max returned to the waiting room and informed the unfortunate news, "Rose is unwell, and it's highly unlikely she will be waking up today."
The news earned a few gasps and many of them were shocked. Rose's presence among the five allowed them to be rest assured that the points from civilization and history are in their pocket.
However, their ace is no longer in the condition to participate.
Max turned his attention toward Richard before informing the obvious, "As her substitute, Richard, you will be participating in the contest now."
—--------**----------
A/N:- Thanks for reading.
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 166: Chapter 165- UnexplainedSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC166: Chapter 165- Unexplained
The Wisdom Face-Off allows an academy to participate in a competition that is held globally and showcases their brilliant minds.
The inventions which are brought in that contest are introduced to the general masses as well, and the profit earned by the product is given to the inventors as well. So, in the eyes of those students who come from a commoner's background, winning the Wisdom Face-off so they could participate in the second round is quite important.
Apart from Richard and one other person in the group, the other three were commoners, which is why it could be seen in their eyes how determined they were as they walked down the gallery that led them to the stage.
Richard's mind was clustered with so many thoughts that he couldn't feel the nervousness about the contest. In the first place, he knew this whole thing wasn't going to conclude.
"Let's do our best!" Ruby pumped her fist and encouraged him.
Richard helplessly smiled, "Yes, let's do our best."
As they exited the small gallery, the booming voice of the audience reached them. They were singing the name of the academy and the students they were supporting.
Richard looked at the other side and found the students of the Luminary Order standing on the other side of the stage
Their uniform was bright and intimidating. Crimson red blaze over a black shirt and a pair of formal black trousers gave them an aggressive appearance.
They were glaring at the students of Obsidian Citadel, and in return, the latter was doing the same.
One of the ten students from the other side, the one with broad shoulders and flaming red hair just like Richard, was looking at the Scarlette heir with an eye full of disdain.
Richard knew his identity; the Prince of the Emberclad Empire—Aston Emberclad.
Although Richard had never visited that Empire and not even once met the people from there, somehow he was being hated by the Prince.
'Strange creature...' Richard heaved a weary sigh and waited for the announcer to step on the stage.
Looking around, he found that Lucy, along with several others from the security department, were patrolling around the premises, and there were mages stationed at the top of the buildings as well, just in case.
The view from a higher point would allow them to see the danger arriving from afar—Richard thought.
The higher ups from both empires were sitting at the front along with the Headmasters of the two academies.
A man wearing a black three-piece suit stepped up on the stage, and with a voice-enhancing spell, he voiced, "Silence, everyone."
Instantly, the voices from the audience died down as they heard the man continuing, "Greetings to everyone; I am Austin Willson, the host of the contest."
The man held a certain aura around him which made him look imposing even though he wasn't releasing his ether to intimidate others. His tired eyes didn't match his clear and fluent voice.
Looking at the audience, he voiced, "There are three rules all the participants should be away: First, you would be given time before you need to answer the question. The team that gives the correct answer gains five points. If you pressed the buzzer first and answered the question correctly, you got an additional point. And providing the wrong answer would take three points away from you."
Understandable. There were buzzers provided for every member, but they couldn't just press it on a whim. After all the negative marking would feel like a stab in the eye during the contest.
"Second, you cannot interrupt a speaker until he has given his answer completely. Once the buzzer is rang, the one who pressed it has to answer the question immediately without wasting time discussing it with your teammates. Interrupting or delaying can cause you negative points."
"Third, you got only two chances to answer a question. One, when you sound the buzzer first, and second, if after failing to answer the question for the first time, and the opponent team also fails."
"Any questions?" Since the rules never change unless some unprecedented occasion occurs, the students have already explained the rules before the contest. As such, no one asked anything.
Austin nodded before he took out several small envelopes from his pocket, each one of them having a number printed on them.
The students held their breath and so did the audience.
Under the growing silence, the clear voice of the quizmaster echoed,
"First question: The first person to unlock a seven-circle spell faced several failures. However, among one of those failures, a new invention was brought to light, which we use even in today's world. Who is the one who discovered the first seven-circle spell? What was the spell? And what mistake did they make?"
Students began to discuss among themselves, and the substitute was a part of it as well.
The group of nine from the Citadel side was also abuzz,
"I think I know the name but a mistake? What was the mistake?" The girl with the glasses asked.
"I think it's related to space-time theory. One of the three biggest failures in history." The vice president of the council fixed his glasses and spoke.
The others also began to give their opinion, when suddenly Richard asked, "Why are we discussing things?"
Every eye sharply turned toward Richard, and the one who asked him was Ruby, "What do you mean, Richard? We need to answer-"
"But I know the correct answer of all the three parts. Remember? I am in charge of the history and civilisation. Surely I know about that incident."
The others looked unsure, but that single silver-haired fan of Richard beamed, "If Sir Richard is sure, then I fully support him!" She pumped her fist and showed sincerity in her claim.
Ruby then nodded, "Okay Richard, go for it."
*BZZZ*
The one who was about to ring the buzzer from the Emberclad side, stopped himself as Richard beat them to it and stood up to deliver the answer.
"The magic experiments of Thalia Winchester. Year 349 AW, her experiment with the seven-star circle continued for two years and seven hundred sixty-seven failures she faced during that period." Richard confidently spoke, his fluency defined how certain he was about his answer.
He continued, "During her three hundred fifty-third attempt, she distributed the particles of a stool and in haste, she rearranged those particles....but a few inches away from the initial spot."
Many of the students made their expression of realization as they understood the nature of the accident.
"Teleportation. Something which Thalia started as a mistake is still used by us in recent times. Teleportation portals are spread across the world and follow the same fundamentals which Madame Thalia Winchester defined in her diary. That's all."
Austin didn't take time to announce, "Six points."
Richard smiled before sitting back down. The audience applauded and cheered for the correct answer. Considering it was the first question of the morning, the roar was quite high.
Austin raised his hand and everyone quieted down before he asked another question, "The basic factor that determines the..."
After that, a series of questions were asked, and the two sides seemed competent enough to keep the score going.
Richard didn't participate in any other questions, both because they didn't need his help and also because his focus was diverted to his surroundings and all the activities happening around him.
His senses have magnified, and his Observation range was quite wider in area compared to the time when he entered the academy. And just to be on the safe side, he had activated his 'Perceptive Burst' to pick on the finer details of everything happening around him
Although the cries from the crowd were causing him a headache, Richard didn't lower his guard.
Hours passed by, and finally, the contest came down to the last question.
Richard glanced at the scoreboard and found Obsidian Citadel to be four points behind the Luminary Order.
He focused on the host for the final question, wanting his school to win so that Rose wouldn't cry once she woke up.
Everyone held their breath for the last time as the man finally revealed the final question,
"The immortal wound inflicted on the Death God during its battle against the greatest Hero, what was the nature behind that spell and what curse was inflicted on the Evil deity?"
A round of gasps echoed across the crowd as no one imagined the question would be directed towards the God of Death.
One from the Luminary Order raised his hand and said, "But sir, nothing is mentioned in the books regarding that battle."
Austin remained indifferent, "If you don't know the answer, don't speak. Minus one from the Luminary Order."
The gap between the two academies was reduced to three, thanks to a certain someone's idiocy.
Even Richard didn't know the answer, and looking at the others from his team, he could tell that they were the same.
'Well, can't be helped...'He closed his eyes, intending to reach his mindscape and search the books stored in it, to find the possible answer to that question.
However, the moment Richard closed his eyes....he was not in the white space where he was supposed to be.
....rather, in front of his eyes, he could see a battlefield. And the two entities standing on the battlefield were familiar(?).
Richard was witnessing the battle between the Monarch of Death and the strongest warrior among the seven heroes.
---------**---------
A/N:- Thanks for reading.
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS
Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 167: Chapter 166- Betrayal(1)STRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC167: Chapter 166- Betrayal(1)
The scene in front of his eyes was unfamiliar yet...Richard could tell that on the left side was the entity whom everyone feared, and on the right side stood the greatest Hero of history.
He has never seen Eden Dracon before but has only heard his name and tales. However, seeing the pink-haired man casting a seven-circle spell effortlessly, Richard knew that this person was the leader of the seven founding heroes.
On the other side, the figure enshrouded in darkness stood tall, his very presence was a promise of death.
'Is this another memory of Zulcriz?' Richard wondered, but his train of thought suddenly broke when the old man launched the waves of water in Zulcriz's direction, and along with it, roaring thunder wrapped around the waves.
'Synchronized double elemental attacks...what the....' Richard had never seen someone using two elements at once and with such control that the electricity seemed to be embracing the aqua, forming a vast and deadly spell.
Zulcriz made no movement which could suggest that he was bracing for the impact, rather, he just thumped the butt of his scythe on the ground, and the dual elemental attacks began to disintegrate into cinders even before it could have reached the Death God.
Followed by that attack, several spells, each one of them complex enough to make a current era's mage kneel before the man and worship him as a deity.
Eden was restless, almost like a single second of gap it would all take for this battle to conclude. On the other side, Zulcriz lazily held his scythe, showcasing his evident control over the phenomenon called 'End'.
Death is the end of everything, and before the concept of Death, nothing prevailed. Zulcriz was that dead end that every being, god or human, had to reach one day.
In front of an immortal God, Eden was launching attacks one after another and each one of them held destructive strength to obliterate a whole town in one full sweep.
Richard didn't believe in the books when it was stated, but now he could say that this man, Eden, indeed is the strongest mage in history.
Richard tried saying something to show his presence to Zulcriz, but it didn't work, so he waited for this one-sided onslaught to stop.
After some minutes and hundreds of spells, Eden finally plopped down to his knees, breathing roughly, and his complexion suggesting how exhausted he was after exerting himself this far.
*THUMP*
The God of Death stepped toward and in his bone-chilling voice, he asked,
[Why do you engage in a meaningless war with something inevitable?]
Eden, all tired and on the verge of falling, retained his eyes on the ground and uttered, "A being who has taken an oath...to take down...the heavens...needs to...perish...."
Richard scoffed; these people were so deeply brainwashed that they couldn't even make a simple deduction: The deities hated Zulcriz because he could become their death one day.
From what Richard has discerned until now, the Goddesses don't want to perish, ever. And they expect the same from those who devote themselves to them. That explains why, in earlier times, people used to live over hundreds of years before either they simply became one with Ether or arrived in heaven to serve the deities.
Zulcriz paused before the man, and in a tone which wasn't much different from before but still held slight weariness, he said,
[You are being their puppet, human. I can see, the potential in you. Be rational and hold my hand. You can become one of my generals...maybe the strongest one.]
Zulcriz spoke those words with no Aembr being used, but the temptation being offered by a deity could be seen in Eden's eyes as he stared at Zulcriz's offered hand.
Slowly raising his hand, Eden uttered, "Throughout the battle you never retaliated, knowing I am not worth it. And now you are also offering a helping hand...but,"
Zulcriz clenched his fist but before he could step away, Eden's body exploded with a massive surge of ether detonating.
His ether was so thick and pure that it became tangible like liquid, and despite how much Zulcriz tried to swat it away using his scythe, the cursed ether of the strongest hero damaged his arm which was holding the weapon.
Richard....was speechless. How devoted could one be to sacrifice oneself at the drop of a hat just to inflict an injury on their enemy? It was apparent that Eden couldn't defeat him that's why he killed himself....but that doesn't matter since Zulcriz is still alive.
"You see it?" Richard was startled hearing that voice from near him even though Zulcriz was still dealing with the aftereffects of the attack.
He looked around but there was no one. However, strangely, now Richard could move and speak.
"The betrayal?" Richard asked.
"No, that was expected so there was no betrayal. I am asking you, did you see the grasp on the human mind they have?"
Richard was perplexed why Zulcriz, despite knowing that Eden could pull something like that, still went to offer his hand. However, he didn't ponder over it for long and responded,
"Yeah, I noticed. Even the strongest hero doesn't have control over his mind....what could I expect from the teenagers of today's world."
"That's where you are wrong." Zulcriz's voice echoed, his tone disapproving of what Richard suggested.
Taking a pause, he added, "The stronger a warrior is, the easier is it to control them. Those with a stronger presence and connection with ether are easily manipulated by those Divine residents of the heavens. However, in your era, none can be compared to the heroes of the first generation."
Richard's eyes were dazed as he absentmindedly asked, "Do you...want me to recruit them to our side?" If it's easy to manipulate the children of light, from what Zulcriz is suggesting, then to strengthen their side, should Richard turn more people into Ambrobate?
"That role is unworthy of you. I contacted you, with the intention to warn you: You aren't obliged to kill all the children of light just because they stand on the other side. Light or Dark, they all are warriors who are stuck in this farce. Guide them, if you must. Just don't feel burdened because of your origin."
The world around him began to fade away as Richard returned to his consciousness.
The people were still all around and none of the two sides had rang the buzzer until now.
Richard looked at the distant sky and could see numerous flying creatures advancing toward them. Just before the calamity descended, he informed, "Left arm."
Austin was surprised to hear the answer, but before he could have announced the winners, a loud explosion was heard,
*BOOOOOOM*
Everyone immediately sprang to their feet before turning around and witnessing a beast out of mythics.
A dragon.
---------**--------
Hearing the roar and explosion outside, Rose clenched her fist
'So it finally started...' She was aware of the attack planned by Eleanor and the rest of the apostles. After all, being the descendent of the greatest Hero, Rose was also selected as one of the apostles.
The apostle is a being who is responsible for maintaining peace and finding a way to defeat the God of Death. However, when she heard the whole thing about Richard and Ethan, she was left complicated feelings within her heart
She was told that Richard is an Ambrobate...someone whom they have to eradicate. Although Rose didn't have much of an interaction with Richard before he disappeared, she could tell that he wasn't a bad person.
And after she began spending more time with him because of the contest she got to know more about the redhead.
A person can only act for an hour and two, but in those two weeks, Rose and Richard were almost ten hours a day together. As such, she can confidently say that Richard was a good person at heart and very considerate of people around him. Not only does he care about the opinions of others, but he tries to act upon them to not hurt them.
She has a very bad impression of nobles, however, after meeting Amelia and Richard and after spending time with them, she realized that no…not all nobles are the same. Amelia and Richard are the proof that tells that Rose was being stereotypical.
**RUMBLE**
The building shook under the impact of the draconic presence....a soul beast of one of the apostles.
Touching the pendant which her grandfather gave her, Rose couldn't help but ask,
"What should I do..." She believed in the Light and those beings who gave her the opportunity to make things right....but as an apostle, is this her duty to create chaos and let people die?
And Richard? He is a good person..... does he really need to die? There are so many people who love him...and-
[Rose.]
The voice was heard from within, and Rose's eyes became blank. Getting up from the bed she looked down from the window.
Her target was now clear, her mind void of every other thought.
She has to eliminate Richard.
-------**------
A/N:- Noooo....she gonna die....
Report chapter CommentsContact - ToS