NOVEL NEXT Chapter 10.2
Stage 1-10. Time To Commit New Mischief
…I see.
“I would like to recruit you both into the Student Council.”
So that’s her move.
Understanding her intention, my excitement quickly subsides.
Heh, that was close. My inner magic geek almost got the better of me, clouding my judgment.
She’s dangerous, indeed…
…For this genius of evil!
“I refuse.”
I firmly express my rejection.
The Student Council President’s true aim is to keep me under her watchful eye.
She’s likely concerned because Mashiro has already fallen under my influence, so she’s trying to tie me down before things escalate.
After all, if things continue as they are, talented individuals will end up working under me, the soon-to-be villainous lord.
She approached to prevent that, but it won’t work.
Pretending to be kind, only to strike when I let my guard down…
You’re like a savage predator, Student Council President.
“…May I ask why?”
“I want to focus on what I wish to do right now.”
“If you join the Student Council, Vellet-kun, your reputation will change for the better.”
“I don’t care about that at all.”
“…I see. That’s unfortunate.”
Perhaps realizing my resolve, the Student Council President backs down.
“However, I will always be here for you. If you change your mind, don’t hesitate to reach out.”
She gently releases our hands and walks past us toward the door of the practice hall.
“Please, go ahead. With me accompanying you, you can enter the practice hall.”
This offer is another attempt to gauge my abilities.
Naturally, I can’t accept it.
“No, since I’ve already refused, I wouldn’t want to trouble you further. We’ll give up and return to class.”
“Y-Yeah, that’s right. Sorry, President, for turning down your kind offer.”
“…You don’t need to be so reserved.”
“Ouga-sama! Sorry for the wait!”
At just the right moment, Alice’s voice rings out.
“My companion is calling for me, so we’ll take our leave now.”
Turning my back to the Student Council President, I walk away.
No footsteps followed us.
It’s a shame I couldn’t see Mashiro’s abilities, but…
“Ouga-sama? Aren’t we heading to the practice hall?”
“Oh, actually…”
As we walk, I explain the situation to Alice.
She claps her hands together in realization.
“In that case, Ouga-sama, I have a perfect suggestion for you.”
“A good suggestion…? Tell me more.”
“I have an acquaintance who runs an orphanage, and apparently, some scoundrels have been eyeing their land. Recently, they’ve been harassing the orphanage more intensely… I was originally going to handle it with you, but how about letting Lady Rieche join us as well? It would be good for her to gain some combat experience.”
“Hmm… not bad.”
Indeed, as long as it’s outside the academy, using magic won’t be a problem.
If I have Mashiro’s help from a safe position, I can gauge her strength.
I’m not thrilled about Alice including me in her plans without asking, but I probably would have ended up going anyway.
After all, if I leave it to Alice alone, she’ll likely kill all the scoundrels before I have a chance to use them.
As someone who plans to secure multiple income streams in the future, I can’t let that happen.
This plan kills two birds with one stone, but there’s one more advantage.
That is, I can gain favor with the orphanage.
There should be plenty of children without family there.
In other words, it’s an opportunity to secure labor.
As their savior from the villains, they’ll surely trust me unconditionally.
If I get them to sign a contract without Alice knowing, they’ll be mine.
Heh heh heh… Sorry, unknown kids.
You’re going to be the foundation of my bright future.
“Mashiro, are you okay with this?”
“Y-Yes…! I figured this day would come eventually… and I want to be useful to you, Ouga-kun!”
Since she’s eager, the decision is made.
“We’ll carry out the plan on the weekend. Make sure to contact the other side.”
“Yes! For Ouga-sama’s future, let’s go kill those villains together!”
Alice says this with a wide grin, making Mashiro recoil a little.
You’ll get used to it.
She’s just that kind of person.