The Banished Villainous Noble Son Who Was Used as a Stepping Stone in the Original Work Awakens to Combat and Destroys the Laws of the World - Episode 28: The Academy's Emissary

Episode 28: The Academy’s Emissary

The moment I stepped through the guild’s doors, a faint sense of tension brushed against my skin.

The hall that was usually buzzing felt somehow different today. Even the faces of those looking at the quest board carried a slight unease.

(…It’s today.)

I quietly exhaled and made my way to the reception counter, to the usual receptionist.

“Good morning, Alphonse-san. A message from the Guild Master. —As scheduled, a ‘meeting’ has been arranged for today.”

“Understood. The location?”

“It will be in the interview room. We’ll call for you once preparations are ready.”

I gave a small nod and decided to kill some time near the quest board at the edge of the hall.

Starting today, the “Academy’s request” would officially begin. The first step: a meeting with the investigation’s leader. I still hadn’t been told what kind of person would show up.

(They said he was logical-minded.)

Judging from that wording, there’s a high chance he’s a difficult type. Researcher-type people often have their own “world” they live in.

(Well… I won’t know what kind of world that is until I meet him in person.)

◆

When the time came, a staff member called for me. Following them, I once again stepped into that quiet interview room.

Inside was Irina. And sitting beside her — a man I didn’t recognize. He was sitting straight-backed in his chair.

“You’re here, Alphonse. This is the emissary dispatched from the Academy for this investigation.”

“…I’m Lucrane, from the Academy’s Second Research Division. Pleased to meet you.”

The man introduced himself in a calm, subdued tone. Wearing black-rimmed glasses, a slim frame dressed in practical clothing, and eyes that moved without waste.

(A “logic man” indeed.)

“I’m Alphonse. Pleased to meet you as well.”

Once I gave my name, Lucrane pulled out several documents and began explaining them plainly. It felt like a lecture.

“This investigation targets the ‘Magic Ore layer’ located in the northeastern mountainous region. The mana reactions there have become unstable. And our main goal is to investigate that. As for entering dangerous zones, the decision will, in principle, be left up to you.”

“…The decision?”

“Yes. I am only in charge of investigation and recordkeeping. I cannot respond to combat. Therefore, in all situations, your judgment takes priority. And so does the responsibility.”

(I see now… Irina’s warning makes sense.)

Lucrane’s words were calm and to the point. But within them, I sensed a slight trace of interest.

“I heard something quite intriguing. That you’ve — acquired multiple skills in a short period of time?”

“…Well, something like that did happen.”

“Thought so. I’ve seen a few reports myself. And I found them quite interesting. Your approach, not limited to just combat but also skilled in observation and adaptation — it’s a quality that holds academic value. —Being able to follow your actions closely is very meaningful.”

(To ‘follow me,’ huh… So I’m just a subject of observation.)

Still, I didn’t sense any hostility or condescension. Just the pure curiosity of a researcher.

(Well… that kind is actually easier to deal with.)

“Then, departure is tomorrow. We’ll gather in the morning and head to the site. —That concludes the outline of the matter.”

“Understood.”

Irina had been quietly observing the exchange. She gave a small nod.

“…I’m counting on both of you.”

Just as I nodded in response to Irina’s words, I brought up something I’d been curious about.

“—May I confirm one thing? If we find any ores or materials at the site that can be harvested, is it acceptable to collect a portion for personal use?”

Lucrane’s expression shifted ever so slightly at that question.

“As long as it does not interfere with the academic investigation, there are no particular restrictions. Recording and reporting of harvested items is required. But the decision will be left to you on-site.”

“Thank you.”

Irina also nodded lightly and added a comment.

“I’ll review the reports myself as well, just in case. If there are no issues, it’s fine to leave it as is… well, knowing you, I’m sure you’ve got some ‘target’ in mind.”

“Who knows?”

I gave a vague smile. Irina let out a small sigh but didn’t press the matter further.

◆

—Night.

The inn’s lights were soft. And the air was wrapped in quiet.

After finishing the inspection of my gear in my room, I sat in a chair and stared at my equipment.

I took the leather belt in my hand and adjusted the tool pouch’s position several times.

(In case of emergency… the potions need to be within reach of one hand.)

In a game, you just pick the item and press a button. But this world isn’t like that.

A one-second delay can lead to a fatal mistake. I’ve felt that firsthand too many times.

A small tool pouch passed through the leather belt. A polished sword. A potion case. Each one is essential gear for fighting in the “now.”

(This setup is good enough. What remains — depends on me.)

Skill composition, tactical choices. I already know painfully well that combat in this world isn’t just a contest of power.

Especially “reading”—detecting signs, sensing slight shifts, predicting the next move.

In the mock battle, I was convinced that could be a viable technique. But at the same time, what supports it isn’t a skill. It’s one’s mental state.

An undisturbed mind. Sharp observation. Thoughts stripped of excess.

(That’s why, I want to fight using “reading.”)

So I can stay true to myself even in combat. If it’s for that reason, I don’t care how clumsy my choices are.

That’s why… I’m still captivated by its depth.

Everything is being tested. My mind, my heart, my technique — and my resolve.

That’s what “combat” is in this world.

I quietly exhaled. I wasn’t sure if I could sleep. But even just closing my eyes would be better than nothing.

Outside the window, the night wind gently rustled the trees. Even that sound felt comforting to me now.

(I am here.)

Not in the past or the future — I’m living in the “now.” And “fighting” has become something that truly holds meaning to me.

I closed my eyes. When I next open them, I’m sure a new world will be waiting for me again.

Original Author’s Comment:

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Thank you so much for staying with me until the end!!

I truly appreciate all the support — I’d be so happy if you’re looking forward to the next chapter!!

(Here’s the link if you want to support the Author: https://kakuyomu.jp/works/16818622176303375188.)