I Am The Game's Villain

Chapter 415  [Event] [Semester-Exam At Vanadias] [3] New Motivation

"Is that our sleeping place?"

I gazed ahead, captivated by the building before us. It was a stunning structure, seemingly crafted from wood, yet it radiated an air of opulence that rivaled even the most luxurious palace dormitories. The architecture was a harmonious blend of nature and craftsmanship, with trees artfully intertwined with the building's design, their branches elegantly draping over and jutting out from various parts of the structure. Rather than obscuring the building's beauty, the foliage added to its allure, giving it a unique and stylish charm.

Standing before the grand entrance, Professor Harvey turned to address us. His stern expression indicated that he was about to give us some important instructions.

"The dormitory is, of course, divided between boys and girls. I expect you all to act with maturity and not squabble over rooms like children. There are more than enough for everyone. And remember this well: you are guests in Vanadias. Treat the residents with the utmost respect, and do not, under any circumstances, act recklessly. I implore you to avoid causing any trouble."

As he spoke, I couldn't help but notice that his gaze lingered on me, as if his words were meant specifically for me. Why are you looking at me like that, Professor Harvey?

"I'll give you all half an hour to settle into your rooms, unpack your belongings, and prepare yourselves. After that, we'll be heading to the palace to greet the Queen," Harvey continued.

At his announcement, the boys burst into action, rushing toward the dormitory like a pack of wild hyenas. Their eagerness was almost embarrassing, especially when compared to the girls, who strolled leisurely, unhurried and composed. I could only shake my head at my fellow males' behavior—they were likely vying for rooms closest to the girls.

As I was about to follow the others inside, a voice called out to me. "Amael."

I turned to see James Raven. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

"What's up, Professor?" I asked.

James Raven fixed me with a stern gaze. "I hope I don't need to remind you of where you are. Don't let your emotions get the better of you, and make sure to restrain yourself."

Feigning hurt, I replied, "Who do you take me for, Professor? I'm an exemplary student."

He didn't buy my act for a second. "That won't work on me, Amael. I know you well enough by now, which is exactly why I'm telling you to keep yourself in check. If you get into trouble here, I won't be able to help you. Remember, you're in the Teraquins Kingdom."

Despite his indirect approach, I could sense James Raven's concern for me. He had been my mentor over the past few weeks, and we had gotten to know each other quite well. His words were a subtle warning, but they were also tinged with genuine worry.

"I can't make any promises, though..." I trailed off, knowing full well that if something truly inappropriate happened, I wouldn't hesitate to act again, just like I had an hour ago.

James sighed deeply, as if resigning himself to the inevitable. "Listen, I've spoken with the Heads and the Guardian. If you perform well in this Exam, there's a chance the Guardian might allow you into the Holy Tree."

"Really?" I asked, taken aback.

I had asked James for a favor—to help me gain access to the Holy Tree. To be honest, I hadn't expected him to put much effort into it, but it seemed I had underestimated him. He had actually gone through with it.

"Thanks, Master!" I said, my sudden display of gratitude catching him off guard.

James grimaced at my uncharacteristic politeness. "Anyway, do you understand what I'm telling you? Achieve the highest possible results in this exam, and stay out of trouble. If you can manage that, I'll do everything in my power to ensure you're granted access to the Holy Tree."

"I'll definitely do my best," I promised, feeling a surge of motivation.

Originally, I was driven to avoid Christina's inevitable scolding and to cheer up my mother once she returned. But now, with the prospect of entering the Holy Tree on the line, I was even more determined to excel and outshine everyone.

I really sound like a Protagonist now.

"If you cause any trouble, the first person I'll inform is your sister," James added with a stare.

"M-Master?" I stammered, taken aback by the threat.

"Don't think you can butter me up with a few polite words," he replied, his cheeks twitching slightly as he turned and walked away.

Why does everyone think I'm such a troublemaker?

[<Because you are a problematic child. I'm certain you'll find yourself in some sort of predicament during your stay here.>]

No way, I thought, though the Teraquins already despised me enough as it was.

I eventually selected a random room for myself. It was quite cozy. The bed, seemingly made from a blend of cotton and leaves, was surprisingly comfortable, offering a softness that belied its natural materials. The room itself was spacious, equipped with a private bathroom and all the essentials needed for a few days' stay.

Once I was ready, I exited the building and noticed that many others had already gathered outside. Among them was Earth, casually chatting with a group of girls as if he had no care in the world.

I couldn't believe I was letting this bastard walk free. I wasn't the only one glaring at him murderously—John was doing the same. What kind of grudge did he have against Earth, anyway?

"Is everyone here? Then let's depart," Harvey called out, turning on his heel as we all boarded the carriages once more. This time, however, the carriages were flanked by Teraquin Knights for added security.

The palace wasn't far from the dormitory, and it didn't take us more than twenty minutes to reach the Royal Teraquin Palace. The palace was a stunning structure, resplendent in white and green, adorned with leaves and flowers that gave it a unique, almost ethereal atmosphere. It was unlike any other palace I had seen, and as we entered, the grandeur of the place only became more apparent.

The gardens were expansive, dotted with sculptures and small, carefully pruned trees, all contributing to the serene and majestic atmosphere. The air was filled with a pleasant, almost magical ambiance that made it clear we were in a place of great importance.

Instead of entering the palace through the main entrance, we were guided along a different path that led directly to the throne hall. This detour allowed us to circle around the palace, taking in more of its splendor. The maids and gardeners we passed were all hard at work, their movements precise and diligent. Though they acknowledged us with nods as we walked by, their faces remained stern, devoid of the welcoming smiles one might expect.

Guys, at least try to look a little friendly…

After a few more minutes of walking, we finally arrived at the imposing doors that could only lead to a throne hall. The sheer size and grandeur of the doors were enough to convey the importance of what lay beyond. The guards stationed there didn't hesitate upon seeing Toran at the front of our group; they clearly knew we were expected and promptly swung the doors open, revealing the hall within.

Since I was walking near the back, it took a moment before I could fully take in the sight of the throne hall. When I finally did, the view was nothing short of breathtaking.

The hall was vast and magnificently designed. The pillars that supported the room were made from gleaming white wood, each one wrapped in delicate, vibrant vines that flowered with blossoms in an array of colors. The floor beneath our feet was crafted from polished white alabaster, so smooth and pristine that it almost seemed to glow.

Looking ahead, I noticed a single, solitary throne at the far end of the hall. It stood empty, waiting. Harvey quickly organized us into neat lines, ensuring that we didn't stand haphazardly scattered around the hall. We stood in silence, waiting.

Soon enough, the sound of footsteps echoed through the hall, drawing all eyes toward a door near the throne that had just opened. The first figure to step through was one I immediately recognized—someone I had seen just weeks ago alongside the other Heads.

It was Queen Tanya Teraquin.

She had long, flowing blonde hair that gradually transitioned to a rich green at the tips, giving her an ethereal appearance. Her greenish-yellow eyes were striking, and there was a noticeable resemblance to Alvara. Despite her regal bearing, she possessed a youthful appearance that belied the fact that she was a mother—a trait typical of elves, who seemed to defy the passage of time.

I could see some of my male classmates completely entranced by her beauty. She was dressed in a traditional elven gown, intricately designed and flowing elegantly around her. A crown rested atop her head, adding to her regal aura. Despite the coldness in her gaze, there was no sign of disdain toward us. She carried herself with the dignity and poise of a queen, her expression stern but fair.

Queen Tanya took her seat on the throne, and as she settled, she finally spoke.

"I welcome all of you to my kingdom."