The Extra’s Academy Survival Guide - Chapter 214

During the Grand Crestle Festival, outsiders were allowed to enter Acken Island and the academy.

However, there weren’t many people who traveled all the way to Acken Island—located on the southwestern edge of the Empire—just to see the school’s festival. Most citizens within the empire were busy with their own lives and primarily enjoyed festivals in their own respective places of residence.

After all, the festival was a moment when the entirety of the Kroel Empire gathered together in bliss. Of course, the level of excitement differed depending on the region.

In a countryside like Pulan, Yennekar’s hometown, it was so remote that the energy of the festival never fully reached it. And in the Holy Father Building, where Saint Clarice came from, a solemn atmosphere had to be maintained year-round, so they didn’t enter a particularly festive mood either.

Still, because Silvenia Academy was filled with young people from all over the empire, the festival held there was rather grand. Thus, those who had some spare time and lived near Zahul’s frontier territory tended to visit.

They might have been accustomed to Silvenia from living nearby, but there was no other landmark as large as the academy in the southern part of the Kroel Empire. So, if one couldn’t afford to travel all the way to the empire’s capital, going to Silvenia Academy instead to partake in the festive atmosphere wasn’t a bad idea.

Of course, all of that only applied to those who could actually afford to enjoy the festival.

Most of the visitors tended to be wealthy aristocrats or members of influential households who sent their children to Silvenia Academy.

“Thank you for visiting Silvenia. The accommodations for visitors are at Dex Hall, so you may leave your luggage there. Melik, the manager of accommodations, will inform you of the details. If you head toward the outskirts of the education district, where Dex Hall is located, and continue toward the commercial district, you will see an information board.”

“O-Oh. Th-Thank you.”

Orte Palerover stepped down onto the pier, with his wife Saila following shortly after.

They both worked on a ranch where taking even a single day off was impossible. Their daughter, Yennekar Palerover, would never have imagined that her parents had come all the way to Silvenia Academy.

They wouldn’t have been able to make the trip without the help of the kind villagers of Torren, who agreed to take care of their ranch while they were away.

Since a festival was taking place, Silvenia was allowing outsiders to enter the campus. It was finally time to verify the facts behind all the letters that had been arriving at the ranch recently.

If Yennekar really had become a baroness and raised her family to the status of nobility, then it was only right for her parents to come and confirm it in person.

It just so happened to be the perfect time to visit Acken Island. After deciding on what to do, they rushed straight there.

“U-Um… Where is Ophelis Hall? A-Are you a student…? You’re a student, right?”

“You may address me informally. I am Ziggs Eiffelstein, an executive member of the student council. At the moment, I’m in charge of guiding visitors arriving from the pier. If you speak with any other student council members throughout the school, they will also gladly assist you.”

Ziggs, who had been standing near the pier checking documents, looked up at their question and turned his gaze toward the school.

“Most facilities within the education and commercial districts are open to outsiders, but… Ophelis Hall is strictly forbidden. It’s a place frequently visited by powerful nobles and influential figures. Is there something you need there?”

“U-Um… Our daughter lives there…”

Yennekar Palerover hadn’t told her family that she had been expelled from Ophelis Hall and was living in a cabin in the forest. She didn’t want them to worry.

Thus, the Palerovers—who believed Yennekar was still living in Ophelis Hall—wanted to go there to meet her.

“Hm… Due to personal circumstances, I’m currently living in Lorail Hall, but I used to reside in Ophelis Hall as well. If you tell me your child’s name, I can personally contact Ophelis Hall and inform them.”

“Ohh… Yennekar Palerover… Our daughter is a good child, and she was even the top student for a few years… Hahaha… Saying it myself feels a bit embarrassing…”

“…The third-year student Yennekar?”

Ziggs, who had been checking his documents, paused.

“Hm… I’m actually quite close with her. What a coincidence.”

“Oh! You’re friends with our Yennekar?”

“Yes. She’s very kind. We came to know each other after getting involved in various things.”

At that moment, Orte’s eyes, fixed on Ziggs, began to sparkle.

With his clean and reliable appearance, Ziggs seemed like the ideal son-in-law—especially to parents who had lived their entire lives in the countryside.

Honestly, the Palerovers would have been fine with anyone as long as they worked hard. Seeing such a dependable young man, imagining he might be the person Yennekar cared for, they couldn’t help but smile.

Orte grabbed Ziggs’s hands, his eyes shining.

“Are you really close with Yennekar…?!”

“…Yes?”

“Our Yennekar is very kind and sweet, right?! What do you think of her after getting to know her…?!”

Ziggs stared at Orte in bewilderment.

“Wh-What are you suddenly saying…?”

“Don’t you agree that our Yennekar is destined for great things?!”

“I appreciate your thoughts, but I already have a lover. And to begin with, Yennekar is someone far beyond my reach.”

“I-Is that so…? I suppose Yennekar is in a position where she can choose any man she wants at the academy…!”

“That’s a peculiar way to put it, but there are certainly many students who admire her. She has a great personality, outstanding talent, and is quite attractive. Even her underclassmen speak highly of her…”

Ziggs stopped himself, unsure how much more he should say.

Talking further about Yennekar’s personal life might cross a line. He had no idea how much she shared with her family about her life at Silvenia.

Judging by the situation, she was clearly hiding the fact that she’d been expelled from Ophelis Hall. If Ziggs misspoke, Yennekar could end up in serious trouble.

“I see… Our dear Yennekar…! Sob…”

Seeing Orte’s satisfied expression, Ziggs realized he didn’t need to say anything more. No parent disliked hearing praise about their child. He decided to leave the rest to Yennekar herself.

Watching Orte and Saila gave Ziggs a strange feeling.

Yennekar was living in a camp after being expelled from Ophelis Hall. Even after becoming a baroness, she struggled to suppress her commoner habits, causing unnecessary trouble. And on top of that, she lived in close proximity to a man.

Just imagining how her parents might react terrified him.

He wanted to warn Yennekar in advance, but he had no idea where she was. With the festival ongoing, he was overwhelmed with responsibilities himself.

“We were just curious about Yennekar’s life at the academy and wanted to hear some recent news… But meeting one of her close acquaintances as soon as we arrived—how wonderful is that?”

“When you say recent news, do you mean her being granted the title of baroness and an estate?”

“Yes… I’ve spent my entire life milking cows, so suddenly becoming the father of a baroness… There’s a lot to adjust to. I also heard that a young man from House Rothstaylor helped her greatly. Since we’re here, we should greet him as well!”

“I-Is that so…?”

“I don’t know if he’ll like it, but I slaughtered one of the highest-quality cows from our ranch as a gift…”

“Honey, since he’s from House Rothstaylor, I’m not sure that kind of gift is appropriate…”

“I told you, Saila. Nobody hates food! From our position, he’s our benefactor. It’s only right to show him proper respect! He’s the one who elevated us commoners to nobility and gave us land!”

Orte smiled broadly, wrapping his muscular arm around Saila’s shoulders.

“Since we want to meet both our daughter and the young man of House Rothstaylor… Where do you think we should head first for the fastest chance?”

They could meet both of them at the North Forest camp.

But Ziggs couldn’t possibly say that.

Cold sweat ran down his back.

“R-Right now… I-I’m not sure… Ha ha… Ha ha ha…”

***

The grand opening ceremony held in the Student Square came to an end.

Faculty members gathered throughout the square, using magic to create a spectacular display.

The sheer number of visitors and students was so immense that it was impossible to see them all at once. The fact that only a handful of faculty members could draw such a massive crowd demonstrated the extent of their abilities.

Cheers erupted as Student Council President Tanya gave her speech. Then, following Deputy Headmistress Rachel’s address—delivered in place of Headmaster Obel Forsyth—firecrackers were set off.

Buildings across the education district were decorated, transforming the area into something entirely different from its usual appearance. Stalls lined the streets, bustling with commerce, while outsiders wandered excitedly through Silvenia, which was normally closed to the public.

A stage stood in the center of the Student Square, hosting performances by invited artists and bands. There were also academic presentations by students, small magic shows, and various martial arts contests.

Looking through the festival guide, there were so many attractions that it was impossible to experience them all.

However, not every part of the academy was swept up in the excitement.

A religious ceremony led by Saint Clarice was scheduled later in the cathedral. Even during the festival, there were those who sought spiritual observance. For followers of the Telos Religious Group, being able to see Saint Clarice in person was a tremendous honor.

Clarice would be busy handling the ceremony, and bearing such responsibility surely wasn’t easy.

“What about you, Ed…? Your duel isn’t until the day after tomorrow. Are you planning to just take care of the camp until then?”

In the crowded Student Square, Yennekar approached me with a smile.

We were standing close together, having been grouped by grade level.

Just because the festival was underway didn’t mean the camp could be neglected. There were still matters I needed to handle, and I couldn’t abandon my training either.

Yennekar seemed to understand that, which was why she asked.

“I’m going to rest for now. Though I still need to handle the essentials.”

“Really…? My underclassmen in the Elementalism Society are holding an academic presentation, so I’m heading there first. I’ll probably look around the stalls in the afternoon…!”

Yennekar fidgeted, glancing around before stepping closer and whispering.

“Then… would you like to walk around with me in the afternoon…?”

“Sure. Since I worked in Assistant Professor Cleoh’s lab before, I should stop by and pay her a visit.”

Walking around with Yennekar would be far more enjoyable than going alone, so I happily agreed.

I planned to return to the camp in the morning to finish my tasks, then visit Trix Hall around lunchtime to see Assistant Professor Cleoh. After that, I could explore the stalls and have dinner with Yennekar.

“That’s great. You’ve been so busy lately that I was worried you wouldn’t get to relax during the festival. Honestly… you’ve seemed rather impatient recently.”

“Impatient?”

“Yes… the way you train, and… what you told me about Velbrok last time… It feels like you’ve been growing more restless.”

Even though I had shared most of the situation with Yennekar, there was still something I hadn’t mentioned.

Something Ayla told me by the campfire before the festival.

Remembering it stirred a sense of urgency within me.

“Yennekar. Sit here with me for a moment.”

She tilted her head but complied, sitting beside me.

***

All business within the Imperial Household had concluded, and it was nearly time for Emperor Kroel to tour the empire.

During the Grand Crestle Festival, it was tradition for the emperor to visit major institutions across the empire. Since this inspection occurred only once every four years, everyone under the Imperial Household had to remain vigilant.

Princess Selah walked through the corridors of the luxurious Rose Palace.

It was nearly time for her to act—traveling alongside Emperor Kroel during his inspection. It was a rare opportunity to gain a decisive advantage in the struggle for the throne.

Princess Penia was at Silvenia and couldn’t accompany them. Meanwhile, Princess Persica had chosen to remain within the Imperial Household.

Selah couldn’t understand Persica’s reasoning for abandoning such a valuable opportunity, but she had no time to dwell on it.

As she continued down the corridor with her attendants, she encountered Persica, who stood waiting with a single servant.

“Oh, you seem rather busy these days, Persica.”

“You must be busy as well, Selah.”

Though they exchanged smiles, their attendants swallowed nervously.

The rivalry for succession was nearing its conclusion. Emperor Kroel had implied that the competition would end after the festival.

Selah’s political fate hinged on this journey.

“I heard you’re going to Silvenia as well. I suppose you’ll see Penia there. Please give her my regards.”

“Of course. Since we’re sisters by blood, I’m sure she’ll be delighted.”

“You’re quite straightforward these days.”

“It’s a necessary skill.”

A tense atmosphere lingered between them.

Penia openly opposed Selah, while Persica kept her distance due to Selah’s overwhelming influence.

“This time… I’ll take proper ‘care’ of Penia. I’ll ensure she focuses solely on her studies and stays out of politics.”

Selah smiled. To Persica, she looked like a lion intoxicated by power.

“I wouldn’t be so certain. Penia has many allies… and one of them is rather troublesome.”

“You mean Ed Rothstaylor?”

“It seems you’ve thought the same.”

“What kind of emperor would I be if I couldn’t control a single member of a declining house? This time, I’ll nip it in the bud.”

At Silvenia Academy, status mattered less than ability.

“I’ll show Father just how different my followers are.”

“……”

***

[Princess Selah has high expectations for this duel.]

Reading the letter from the head of House Elpelan, Daike frowned.

[Whenever House Elpelan stumbled, she stood at the forefront as our benefactor. Thus, we cannot afford to appear inferior to House Rothstaylor, which stands in political opposition to us.]

In the combat department’s observation room—amid the festive atmosphere—Daike let out a deep sigh.

He recalled the figure of a young man.

The prodigy of House Rothstaylor, who had risen at an astonishing pace and claimed the title of top student in the third-year magic department.

He was talented, diligent, and humble—a man who fulfilled his duties without flaunting his accomplishments.

Compared to him, Daike’s potential felt insignificant.

[House Elpelan places its faith in you, Daike. You must win this duel to bring honor to Princess Selah. Our future depends on this. I regret failing to recognize your efforts sooner. However, in this duel, upon which our future rests, I ask that you achieve great results.]

If Daike lost, he would be blamed without hesitation.

The praise rang hollow, but Daike folded the letter calmly and slipped it into his pocket.

“Daike.”

A worried underclassman approached.

“Will they excommunicate you if you lose?”

“They probably will. It’s the easiest way to avoid responsibility.”

“Damn… That’s awful. Then you should—”

“Watch your language, Bellun.”

Despite everything, House Elpelan had given him shelter and sustenance.

“Either way, I’m not fighting for politics or my house.”

“Then…?”

“It’s simple. I’ll give the duel everything I have.”

Tomorrow, Princess Selah would arrive. The duel would follow the day after.

Daike smiled bitterly and merged into the crowd.

***

“At first, I thought what you said was absurd. But after calming down and thinking it through, I began to suspect there was a reason you went so far to provoke Taylee.”

Ayla Triss removed her hood, her expression resolute.

She had spent days searching the library.

Even during the festival, she locked herself away, consumed by her research.

“Would you like some coffee?”

“No… thank you.”

Taylee visited her daily, worried by her fixation.

Even amid celebration, Ayla remained buried in ancient texts, sweating as she searched relentlessly.

“Are you worried about Ayla?”

Elka approached Taylee gently.

“She’s done this before, but never to this extent. If only she’d tell me what she’s looking for…”

“I’m sure she has her reasons. Ayla always thinks of you.”

“What books is she reading?”

Elka hesitated, then whispered.

“Celestial magic… and records of the Holy Blue Dragon sealed long ago.”

Taylee stiffened.

Velbrok.

“And lore regarding the Great Sage Silvenia.”

Ayla stared at her notes, deep in thought.

“The Great Sage Silvenia used Celestial Magic to maintain Velbrok’s seal eternally. A spell that should never weaken over time.”

Ed’s face across the campfire was vivid in her memory.

“If someone is to release that seal… it would have to be the same person who cast it.”

“If Silvenia were still alive… what would you think?”

***

Yennekar’s face stiffened.

Even she couldn’t easily accept what I had said.

, Final Act.

In the original story, the Great Sage Silvenia was merely background lore.

Yet if someone truly stood behind the curtain…

It could only be her.

If she truly released Velbrok’s seal…

Then finding her would end everything.

That possibility burned into my mind.

And now, it was time to uncover the truth.