My Family in the Novel?

Chapter 9: Meeting the Protagonist

'I'm Number one?'

I was in a predicament right now; I didn't think the potion that I created would boost me into the number 1 spot in the alchemy department.

'What about Euphemia's potion that was supposed to be heralded as the best potion ever created on the academy's entrance exam?'

I know I copied one of the potions she was supposed to create in the future, but from what I remember in the novels it didn't really gain much attention, compared to the potion she made on the entrance exams.

'Did I miscalculate something?'

"Truly how did you make that potion?" Principal Victoria asked

'Oh, right I forgot about her'

Right now, I'm personally talking to Principal Victoria via magical hologram, at first, she congratulated me with all sorts of praises for taking first place.

However, her intent slowly shifted towards asking me questions about the potion I had crafted, and she's not even hiding it.

"And you only even used 4 out of the 12 reagents provided, how is that possible?"

'This Greedy snake'

"Well, I can't exactly tell you that Principal Victoria"

"You know of the alchemic rules, right? I replied firmly

"Yes, I know that's what makes it so frustrating" Principal Victoria said with an unsatisfied look.

"But what you've achieved is truly remarkable," Principal Victoria exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with intrigue. "You've concocted a potion with the incredible ability to temporarily propel a mana circle to reach its next stage, even if it's only effective for the first three circles."

"It may only affect the first three circles, but it's still a substantial boost, especially for ordinary magicians. Just imagine the reactions of those currently stuck in their bottlenecks. They'd be able to catch a fleeting glimpse of the formidable wall they've been so eagerly trying to overcome."

The principal's interest grew even more palpable, and her hunger for knowledge was evident as she spoke with a hint of anticipation.

"The secret of how it's made... I find myself greatly desiring it," she said, her tongue subtly grazing her lips in a gesture that was both enticing and unsettling.

The implication of her words hung in the air, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. Her desire for the potion's recipe seemed insatiable, and I was becoming increasingly wary of her intentions.

'Hello miss Principal your true intentions are slipping!'

Anyways, I'm really glad the 3 alchemic rules existed, at least no one can question me about the potion I created, it wasn't even mine in the first place.

In this world there are 3 alchemic rules that alchemist must follow when creating their potions.

The Essence of Origin

- Every alchemical potion was said to be infused with a unique, magical essence of origin. This essence was inextricably tied to the creator of the potion, rendering it impossible for others to replicate the exact formula.

The Exclusivity of Knowledge

- Every alchemist held the right to remain silent when it came to sharing the intricate processes of their potions and reagents. It was a rule that emphasized the sanctity of an alchemist's secrets.

The Alchemist's Right

- Only the alchemist who had created a potion possessed the right to sell their product, even if it was a creation they had freely shared with others. This rule essentially granted a monopoly to the creators, ensuring that their mastery over their creations remained unchallenged.

Yup so in other words "MONOPOLY" that safeguarded the art of alchemy, a system designed to protect the unique talents and creations of each alchemist.

Although these rules won't protect you from people with real power, consider Euphemia's circumstances as an example. She not only relies on her family's protection but also seeks the safeguard of their kingdom's monarch.

"So how about this Adrian if you teach this older sister your secrets, I'll give you some extra benefits inside the academy"

"Like special access to the school training grounds at any given time, a private lab at Estelle Hall or even a chance to pick any high-grade grimoire in the school treasury"

Is she trying to strike a deal with me? I'm sorry but the last negotiation I had with someone resulted in me having my authorities got sealed 'so no thank you'.

Wait "Older sister?" I absentmindedly said aloud.

"Yes, older sister, why do I look like anything other than an older sis?" The principal looked at me with a wide smile and eyes devoid of any light, and a tinge of murderous intent could be felt even though she's currently a hologram right now.

"Ye-yes that's right what else could you be other than an older sis" I replied swiftly, my tone a mixture of compliance and exasperation, dealing with this shameless woman was becoming increasingly challenging.

Despite her appearance, which retained the timeless beauty of a woman in her twenties, there was no denying that she was well over 200 years old. It didn't matter if you were a half-elf or possessed the looks of a youthful enchantress; the passage of time remained an undeniable truth.

"Hmm is that so?" She doesn't seem to fully believe me, but shrugged it off anyways as it was a pointless discussion.

"How about it, Adrian Do you accept?"

"No" I said firmly

"Why?!" Principal Victoria's voice rang out in desperation, echoing in the chamber. Her plea was desperate, and even though she begged me with all her might at this very moment, I knew in my heart that I couldn't, no, I wouldn't yield to her request.

What if the world's demands for my potions soared to a level I couldn't even fathom? I was already walking the thin line of stealing someone else's success. If I were to take more, what would become of Euphemia's future? The thought weighed heavily on my conscience.

'I'm sorry, Miss Principal, but I do have my conscience'

"I can't exactly tell you, but a no is a no"

"Then how about some small clues you only used 4 of the reagents right? So how about telling me two, no at least one of the regents you used"

"Alchemic rule"

"Just the first letter of the regent would be enough"

"Alchemic rule"

… "Then is the first ingredient used solid or liquid?"

"Alchemic rule" I said without a change in my smiling expression.

"Tsk you're a tough nut to crack huh" with a click of her tongue, the principal turned away from me, while sprouting some profanities that I can clearly hear.

"Then how about a night with me?"

????? what is this insane woman thinking making such an inappropriate suggestion like that, to a dignified student like me, of course I will say no.

"...Alchemic rule"

"Ohh? What's with the slight pause?"

"Shut up, you know what I mean"

"Hmm? Whatever could you mean, no?" the principal said lusciously.

"And you're talking informally to me now, you know, I'm not so sure if that's what a dignified student sound like"

"I mean you're the one making such inappropriate suggestions"

"Did I, though? A night with me could imply a multitude of different things, you know?" She acted shocked, covering her mouth with her hand, her eyes sparkling with mischief. It was clear she was thoroughly enjoying the discomfort she was causing me.

Dealing with this woman was becoming increasingly unbearable, and my frustration was steadily mounting with each passing moment as I listened to her.

"Young master your dinner is ready"

'Oh, thank the Goddess's, Analise you truly are a gift from the heavens above, now I have an excuse for ending the call'

"Now, if you'll excuse me, dear Principal Victoria," I began, a polite but firm tone in my voice.

"It appears that my dinner is finished cooking." With a courteous nod, I made my intention to end the conversation clear, eager for an escape from the perplexing and audacious exchange.

"What? We're not done talking yet," Principal Victoria protested, her words interrupted abruptly as I sealed the magical envelope with a decisive gesture.

The magical display ceased, and the hologram gradually faded away, leaving the principal shouting for me to wait. However, I paid no heed to her pleas.

I knew that despite our abrupt end to the conversation, there would be ample opportunities for her to contact me directly at school, either through a face-to-face meeting or by summoning me to her office. Yet, in the back of my mind, I was aware of her demanding schedule, especially now with the influx of new students joining the school.

Turning away from the fading hologram, I directed my attention to Analise, my lovely maid and lover?

I embraced her warmly from behind as she was walking out of the room, a gesture of gratitude for her support.

"Thank you, Ana," I whispered softly into her ear and placed a gentle kiss on her cheek.

"Young master?" Analise appeared slightly perplexed by my unexpected display of affection but didn't voice any objections.

'You may not be aware of it, but you've essentially spared me from a string of headaches that I would have undoubtedly endured had I continued that conversation with the principal'

Slowly my hands made it's way up into Analise's breast.

"Hey Ana, maybe we could continue—" I began, but my sentence was abruptly cut short by a resounding "smack." I blinked in surprise, a cascade of question marks popping up all over my mental landscape.

"Young master, it's dinner time right now," Analise interjected firmly, her tone leaving no room for argument.

"Lady Aria is waiting for you downstairs."

She continued, her voice tinged with concern, "You also have a big day tomorrow. You'll need to prepare for the entrance ceremony and draft a speech, given your status as the top freshman in the alchemy department."

Her words served as a sobering reminder of the responsibilities and expectations that lay ahead. Despite my desire to continue our lovely time together.

I couldn't ignore the pressing matters that required my attention, both at the dinner table and in preparation for the upcoming events.

"Hey, what took you so long?" Aria asked, her tone laced with impatience and frustration.

I replied, somewhat flippantly, "Oh, the Principal was bombarding me with a bunch of stupid questions, you know how she can be."

Aria raised an eyebrow, her confidence unwavering as she pointed out, "Huh? Why are you lying? You know that only the top 5 students receive a personal call or message from the principal."

In response, I retrieved my acceptance letter from Estelle Academy, displaying it proudly. The elegant seal adorning the parchment was a testament to my status among the top 5 students. Aria's eyes widened in disbelief, her initial anger giving way to shock.

After the uneventful dinner, I made my way back upstairs to my room.

However, the memory of Aria's surprise and disbelief still lingered in my mind, and I couldn't help but chuckle to myself. It had been rather amusing to witness her shocked expression as she realized the truth about my top-ranking status at Estelle Academy.

After some contemplation, I had made a resolute decision. I was no longer content with my role as a third-rate villain in this story. Instead, I chose to align myself with the protagonist as one of their allies, playing a supporting role in their quest to save the world.

Whether it was in plain sight or from the shadows, I was determined to assist the protagonist in their journey.

However, I couldn't ignore the uncertainty that came with the mysterious system bestowed upon me. The consequences of failure, both for Tristan and myself, remained shrouded in uncertainty.

As I laid down on my bed.

"Don't worry, Tristan, I'll guide you every step of the way." I muttered.

With newfound determination, I muttered to myself, "Let's save the world!" while raising my clenched fist in the air.

"Tomorrow will mark the day when I finally come face to face with the protagonist of this world," I mused, a mix of anticipation and curiosity bubbling within me.

The thought of encountering the central character of the grand narrative that unfolded around us filled me with a sense of wonder and a touch of trepidation.

As I prepared for the meeting, my mind raced with questions. What kind of person would they be? Now that this is a real world will he be the same as it was stated in the novel? Will he face the same challenges he had encountered in the novels?

And, most importantly, how would our paths intersect, altering the course of our intertwined destinies? The prospect of this fateful encounter filled me with a sense of purpose, as I eagerly awaited the unfolding of our shared story.

I need to find a way to make contact with my family members soon, I'm worried about them, despite my authorities being sealed the black swords are still embedded in my heart that means they're at least alive somewhere out there.

"I miss them" it's only been a few days but I miss them so much.

I closed my eyes, knowing that this was the beginning of a new chapter in my role within the story, one where I would strive to make a difference in the world's fate.