NOVEL NEXT Chapter 33.1
Stage 2-2. Karen Revetzenka’s Transformation
“Ehehe… Whehehe…”
Mashiro’s face softens as she gazes at the ring I gave her as a gift the other day.
In the end, she couldn’t wear it on her finger, so we decided to put it on a chain and use it as a necklace for everyday wear.
“Oh, by the way, Ouga-kun. My mom and dad want to meet you next time. Is that okay?”
“I don’t mind… In that case, let’s invite them to the Vellet estate during the summer break.”
I can completely understand the concern parents feel about the environment where their child will work in the future.
Since I plan to have Mashiro come to the Vellet estate right after she graduates from the Magic Academy, it’s only natural for them to worry.
This is actually quite a convenient situation.
“Ku-ku-ku… Let’s give them a grand welcome.”
“Really!? I’m sure both of them will be so happy!”
Once I deceive them on the first day, the rest is mine. Once a contract is signed, Mashiro will be completely mine.
For that, the investment is worth it.
“Feel free to wear your usual clothes. If you’re uncomfortable, we can lend you something. If there are any other concerns, don’t hesitate to let them know.”
The worst-case scenario would be if they found some excuse to run away.
By addressing these issues in advance, Mashiro’s parents won’t be able to refuse.
“Yeah, yeah! I’m sure they’ll both be thrilled!”
“Of course. Since I’m the one inviting them, I’ll make sure they’re not treated poorly.”
“Hehe, they’ll be so surprised. I never imagined this kind of future before entering the academy.”
Mashiro beams with a soft and happy expression.
…It seems her mood has completely improved.
As expected, the magical item worked wonders. But thinking about it, it’s only natural.
No aspiring great mage would fail to be pleased.
I glance at Alice, and she forms a small circle with her fingers.
It looks like today’s conversation has passed her standards.
Ku-ku-ku, I’m amazed at my own progress…
While I bask in this pleasant mood, the first period’s chime is interrupted by an announcement, forcing me to hear words I didn’t want to.
“Ouga Vellet-kun. Mashiro Riche-san. The headmaster, Frone Milfonty, wishes to speak with you. Please head to the headmaster’s office immediately.”
“…That’s a mood killer.”
Being summoned before the start of classes.
No doubt it will drag into the lessons. For them to interrupt a student’s duties, it must be urgent.
That means there’s only one thing I can think of.
“What’s this about? Could it be related to the duel the other day?”
“Considering Mashiro’s being called too, that’s probably it.”
Mashiro was an important figure, being the prize in that duel.
However, the real intention seems to be ensuring my attendance.
If it had been just me, I would’ve ignored the call. But with Mashiro involved, it’s a different story.
I couldn’t leave her, a commoner, alone in the classroom. They’ve taken away my excuse.
Just like how I blocked the retreat of Mashiro’s parents.
Summoning us through an announcement, not a letter like last time, clearly shows they’re determined for us to come.
“A direct summons, huh? Let’s go.”
“Yeah. I hope it’s nothing too serious…”
“Don’t worry, Mashiro. It’s probably about my engagement… that thing.”
“Ohhh… that.”
To tell the truth, I still haven’t accepted my engagement with Karen.
Of course not. How could I easily acknowledge the threat to my harem formation?
Why do you think I entered the academy in the first place?
“…? Is there something on my face?”
Yes… to claim busty, cute girls as my own!
If this were a picture story, it would end with a happy kiss between me and Karen.
But my life and Karen’s life will continue on.
And above all, I’m a man who can say “No.”
If I break off the engagement with Karen now, rumors will spread further. But whether 1 turns into 10 or 100, it won’t change much.
Since I’m already branded as evil, adding more sins won’t affect my daily life.
“…Mashiro. No matter what happens, I’m not letting you go.”
“…!? W-What brought that on so suddenly…!?”
“Nothing, just confirming my resolve. I trust you feel the same way, Mashiro.”
Though it’s unlikely… in the rare case.
If Mashiro ever tried to leave me, I’d be devastated enough to die.
A capable man advances carefully, but boldly when necessary.
To gauge her feelings, I cast the words out.
“…Yeah. I’ll never leave you, Ouga-kun. That time, you told me to follow you forever, so you better take responsibility… okay?”