I Became the Academy's Worst Villain

"Several reasons. First, you're innocent. Second, you're talented in void magic theory that advanced is rare. Third, the people who framed you are the same people causing me problems. And fourth..." I met her eyes. "Because someone needs to stand up to the bastards who think they can destroy lives for political convenience."

Ah....I've really gotten good at this.

She was quiet for a long moment, studying my face like she was trying to read my soul.

"What do you want in return?" she finally asked. "And don't sprout some bullshit, I should have known since the time you came for the spell. Now, what do you want?"

I did not hesitate.

"I want your expertise and your knowledge of dark magic, void theory, forbidden techniques. I want your help developing countermeasures to holy magic. And eventually, I want your loyalty."

"That's it? My knowledge and loyalty?"

"That's not it. That's everything i need, knowledge and loyalty are the most valuable things a person can offer."

"And if I refuse?"

"Then you go back to researching desperately, hoping to find a solution before your next hearing. Which, incidentally, is scheduled for three months from now. They're just waiting for the paperwork to clear."

Her face went white. "How do you know that?"

"I told you. I know things." I pulled out a folder I'd prepared. "This contains copies of everything I've gathered. Witness statements proving fabrication. Evidence that the forbidden magic materials found in your home were planted. It's not enough to clear you completely but it's enough to delay the execution. Buy us time to find more."

She took the folder with trembling hands. Flipped through it. Her breathing became shaky.

"This is... you really did investigate thoroughly."

"I don't do anything halfway."

"Why give this to me? You could use this as leverage and force me to work for you anyway."

"I could, but then you'd resent me and work for me out of obligation, not loyalty. And the moment you found a better option, you'd leave." I leaned back. "I'd rather offer you a choice. Take the evidence, use it however you want. Or work with me, and I'll help you clear your name completely. Your call."

That was one thing I could not understand in books, especially on the villain part. Why force someone to work for you? It would only create more trouble as things goes on.

Ravenna stared at the folder, then at me, then back at the folder.

"This is insane," she whispered. "You're insane."

"So I've been told multiple times and just this morning, in fact."

Despite everything, she smiled, it was just a flicker, but it was there. "What happens if I say yes? What exactly are you offering?"

"Protection. Lucille Nightshade's assassination network can keep you safe from hired killers. Resources. I'll provide money for research and access to rare materials. Legal support. My family's will fight your case. And allies. People who will believe you because I vouch for you.

"And....I will support you in your quest to search for knowledge in the grey areas."

She went silent for a while. Then. "In exchange for my knowledge and eventual loyalty."

"Exactly."

"What's stopping you from betraying me later? Using me and then throwing me away?"

"Nothing." I held her gaze steadily. "You'll have to trust that I won't. Or don't, and die when in chap.....frame job culminates in your public execution."

She froze. "What were you about to say there? Whatcdoes that even mean? How did you know that much."

Shit. I'd almost let the system terminology slip out.

"Figure of speech," I waved my hand. "I am only talking about when the execution is scheduled."

She didn't look convinced, but she let it pass. "You talk like you know the future."

I spoke carefully. "I know patterns...I have something that let me get glimpses, and without me stepping in, things are not looking good for you at all."

"And with your intervention?"

"I will make you legendary. And you'll become great in the field that most won't study because of fear."

"That's..." She shook her head. "That's a lot of confidence in someone you just met."

"I'm good at reading potential. And you have more of it than almost anyone I've met."

Ravenna closed the folder carefully. Set it on the table between us. Her decision hung in the air.

"I need time to think," she said finally.

"Take all the time you need. Well, not all the time. You've got about seventy-eight days before..."

"I get it." She almost smiled again. "You'll have my answer soon."

"Good enough." I stood. "One more thing. Don't go back to your dorm tonight. Adrian's people know you met with me. They might try something."

"Where should I go?"

"Underground Arena. Bottom level. Ask for Marcus Voidstep and tell him I sent you. He'll set you up with a secure room."

"The Underground Arena? That's....."

"Technically illegal, completely ignored by administration, and the safest place in the academy for people who need to disappear temporarily. Trust me."

She looked at me for a long moment. Then nodded. "Alright. I'll go."

"Good. And Ravenna?"

"Yes?"

"Thank you. For considering this. I know trust doesn't come easy when the world's tried to destroy you."

Something flickered in her expression. "You sound like you understand that personally."

I smiled slightly as I thought back to events that should never be smiled about. Then I shook my head and buried what should stay buried.

"Let's just say I'm familiar with being underestimated and discarded." I turned to leave. "I'll be in touch."