Hidden Intentions and Shifting Focus

"Welcome, Your Highness."

"It's been a while since I've greeted you. I'm sorry I haven't seen you often, Professor."

"Haha, no. They say that when you first enter the academy as a freshman, you're out of your mind just trying to keep up with the classes. I totally get that."

The one who greeted Princess Francia with a hollow laugh was the head professor of magic, Felon Jabir.

The old man, with his head half-blown away, a gray beard, and a plump physique, had sparkling eyes.

"So, why did Your Highness the Princess bring me…"

"It's nothing special. I heard that there will be a Magic Academy seminar during this vacation."

"Ah, I see. Just in case, Your Highness the Princess will be invited as a distinguished guest."

Professor Felon nodded immediately and answered so. At this, Princess Francia slightly shook her head and smiled faintly.

"No, that's not why I came…"

"Then what happened?"

"Have you selected any students who will perform magic demonstrations at this seminar?"

"A magic demonstration?"

"Yes."

Professor Felon couldn't help but tilt his head at the sight of Princess Francia nodding. Even though she was a princess, she had no official authority over the affairs of the Magic Academy seminar, which fell under his jurisdiction as head professor and president.

In some ways, her behavior now could be seen as very rude. But he didn't show it at all, just smiled faintly and answered sincerely.

"The selection hasn't been completed yet. Of course, I have a list of candidates, but may I ask why you are curious about that?"

Princess Francia's eyes slightly darkened at Professor Felon's question.

'Why? Of course…'

At the same time, she thought of Sol Krensch, who had come to see her a few days ago. He introduced himself as someone who was originally Lucas's confidant and claimed to know all of his behavior patterns and principles.

"It seems like Lucas Voss can't use magic. No, to be exact, something seems to be wrong."

Princess Francia had been dumbfounded by his sudden appearance and outrageous claims. But...

"I also heard from a member of the group that participated in the dungeon study exam with me. They said he didn't use any magic throughout the exam and only relied on items."

"..."

He didn't use magic during the dungeoneering exam? Why?

Furthermore, Sol explained that Lucas was originally a person who used magic as easily as breathing. However, Sol claimed he hadn't seen Lucas use any magic since his suspension and demotion.

'Is something really wrong?'

Of course, she did not intend to blindly believe the words of Sol Krensch, who had come to her with little credibility. But it was worth checking to see if something had truly changed with Lucas Voss.

So...

"I was wondering if Lucas Voss was on that list of candidates."

"Huh? Lucas?"

Professor Felon looked momentarily taken aback by Princess Francia's sudden question, but quickly nodded and continued speaking.

"Yes. Student Lucas is very likely to demonstrate magic at this academic seminar. Is that what you were curious about, Your Highness?"

Princess Francia smiled brightly at Professor Felon's answer and laughed heartily.

"Oh, I see. Thanks for your answer."

"Hahaha. No, Your Highness. If you have any questions or requests in the future, please feel free to come to me. I will always be on your side."

Professor Felon tried to smile kindly, but the old man's smile was more sinister than bright.

'You're always on my side… You must be greedy for the power of the royal family.'

Princess Francia knew Professor Felon's true nature better than anyone else.

A person with great ambition and a strong desire for power. She thought that if he was like that, she could use him to her advantage.

As expected, she couldn't help but smile in genuine satisfaction at his predictable behavior.

"Then I will ask for your continued support, Professor Felon."

"Of course, of course! Hahahaha."

---

"As expected, you're a top student, Chelsea. Once again, you've received A+'s in all subjects except one… Are you at the top of your class?"

"Thank you."

Despite the praise from her counselor, Professor Dejan, Chelsea couldn't take her eyes off the single A on her report card: Basic Magic.

"Anyway, since you've received such high grades, you'll be eligible for both a full scholarship and a top scholarship next semester as well."

"Oh, yes."

One of the biggest reasons Chelsea couldn't give up the top spot was revealed by Professor Dejan.

"Your dormitory fees and tuition will be covered by the scholarship. As for the top scholarship, the administrative office will contact you at the beginning of the next semester, so you can collect it then."

"Yes, Professor."

"You worked hard this semester too. Let's aim for all A+'s next semester."

Chelsea only nodded with a blank expression as Professor Dejan smiled brightly.

After the consultation, she stepped outside, where the cold winter wind immediately hit her cheeks.

"...It's over."

The second semester was already finished, and she hadn't lost the top position in her grade. But…

She crumpled the report card in her hand, glaring at the lone A in Basic Magic that caught her eye.

"Lucas..."

Of course, one A wouldn't cause Chelsea any major harm.

She maintained her position as the top student in her class, even though her overall score dropped by only 0.1 points. But it was still a significant blow to Chelsea, who strove for perfection in everything.

"..."

However, Chelsea soon shook her head, her rising frustration fading slightly.

'If it weren't for that guy, I wouldn't have gotten an A+ in Dungeoneering.'

Chelsea was more objective about herself than anyone else, and after reviewing the exam, she realized something important.

Without Lucas Voss's performance, she would never have been able to surpass Kyle Jeo record.

"You give one and take one?"

Because of Lucas's selfish behavior, she lost the A+ in Basic Magic, but thanks to his efforts, she secured the top grade in the Dungeon Studies class.

"I can't figure him out."

Lucas was an enigma—a person who she couldn't tell if they were a help or a hindrance.

"Fine. From now on, I just need to avoid getting involved with him."

If she hadn't been tangled up with him, there would have been no reason for her to be this conflicted.

Chelsea, having gathered her thoughts about Lucas Voss, nodded and muttered firmly to herself.

"I just have to work harder. Let's focus on that."

Having resolved herself, Chelsea began to burn with determination. She would not miss out on the top spot in the upcoming third semester and would ensure she got all A+'s this time.