My Family in the Novel?

Morning arrived, ushering in the promise of a new day. I found myself gravitating toward a concealed garden nestled deep within Lucian Hall. As I stood before the grandiose door, my curiosity piqued, I wondered whether this was indeed the right place.

With a hint of hesitation, I rapped my knuckles upon the door's surface, producing an expectant rhythm. A moment later, the very same maid I had encountered the day before greeted me with a courteous salutation.

"Good day, young master Adrian," her voice was as genteel as her manner, and she promptly beckoned me to follow her. I complied, and, to my astonishment, the more we ventured into the garden, the more I was enchanted. This secret haven within Lucian Hall was a verdant sanctuary that had gone unmentioned in the novels. Curiously, it contradicted the described location where Schwi had contacted Tristan—which was at the commercial district.

In the heart of this lush enclave, I found a white wooden table, immaculately set with chairs on either side. Seated regally at the right-hand side was the captivating figure of Schwi Heiron herself.

As I approached, she extended a graceful hand, inviting me to take a seat. I settled into the chair opposite her, my curiosity growing with each passing moment.

With a serenity that matched the garden's ambience, Schwi instructed her maid to withdraw, leaving us in solitude. She then began to pour tea for both of us, displaying a finesse that mirrored her picturesque surroundings.

As Schwi Heiron maintained her poised demeanor, she initiated our conversation with an elegant introduction that echoed through the tranquil garden.

"I believe this is the first time we've met," she stated with a tone of polite formality, her words as smooth as the petals of the garden's blossoms.

"Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Schwi Heiron of the Heiron Ducal family." A warm smile graced her lips as she continued, "Nice to meet you, Adrian Vulter Tellus."

The manner in which she asserted herself made it clear that she was the one to set the tone of our conversation.

Our discussion unfolded, and, amidst the tranquil garden setting, we shared glimpses of our personal backgrounds and experiences.

Although the conversation was enlightening, a lingering sense that Schwi Heiron had more beneath the surface nagged at me.

As we conversed within the tranquility of the garden, I couldn't shake the feeling that she played a significant role in the narrative of Estelle Academy that was yet to unfold.

'Anyway, acting mode on!'

...

"So, what do you think of the academy during your time here?" The question came from an enchanting, melodious voice, belonging to a woman who embodied the very essence of elegance and beauty.

I turned my gaze towards the person in front of me, and there she sat – Schwi Heiron. She was perched gracefully on a cushioned chair, her legs crossed with an air of poise and sophistication.

As a 3rd-year student at Estelle Academy, she was not only the top of her class when it comes to academics, she was also the reigning top student in the magic department for her class.

Schwi's long, blonde hair flowed in gentle waves, with the ends curling gracefully as if they were touched by the caress of a gentle breeze. The soft curls framed her face, accentuating the natural allure of her radiant beauty.

Her jewel blue eyes, held an entrancing brilliance, hinting at a depth of wisdom and a vast ocean of emotions beneath their serene surface. The depths of those eyes seemed to contain the very secrets of the universe.

Draped in a meticulously tailored and beautifully adorned black school uniform, Schwi Heiron was the epitome of refinement.

The uniform followed the contours of her body with precision, accentuating her slender, statuesque figure. A black cloak adorned her shoulders with intricate details, adding an aura of enigma and mystique to her already captivating presence.

As she sipped her tea, Schwi's poise was unrivaled. She exuded a timeless charm and self-assured demeanor, embodying grace and sophistication in a way that transcended the boundaries of time and place.

Such an illustrious presence was only to be expected from a member of one of the ducal families of the empire. Schwi Heiron, the only daughter of Duke Heiron, was renowned for his snake-like business acumen.

She had grown up surrounded by the privilege and support that only a father of his standing could provide. But what truly made her impressive was not just her lineage, but her intellectual brilliance and her reputation as one of the most cunning and manipulative individuals throughout the entire novel. And now, I found myself face to face with this formidable personality.

She exuded an aura of effortless authority, a testament to her intelligence and the power she wielded, not just from her family's prestige but from her own capabilities.

Schwi was a formidable force, both politically and academically, and being in her presence was a striking reminder of the intricate web of power and influence that permeated the academy.

Her piercing blue eyes seemed to miss nothing, and the sense of shrewdness that radiated from her was undeniable.

As she sipped her tea, her mind was undoubtedly at work, calculating moves and strategies, just as she had done countless times in the story.

'Now then how should I answer her question?'

"Although I have not been here for long, I think it's beautiful senior Schwi"

"How exactly is it beautiful?"

"Its beauty" I began "is not just in the grandeur of its architecture or the lushness of its surroundings, though those elements certainly add to its charm. What truly makes Estelle Academy beautiful is the convergence of knowledge, ambition, and dreams that flourish within its walls. It's in the way that every student, regardless of their background or status, is given the opportunity to seek excellence and grow in their own unique way"

"The countless untold stories, the friendships forged, and the knowledge exchanged. It's the canvas upon which countless futures are painted, each stroke a testament to the limitless potential of the human spirit."

"So, you're saying it's beauty comes from the fact that it is equal towards all students?"

"Exactly"

"In a world where hierarchy and privilege often dictate one's path, Estelle Academy stands as a sanctuary of equal opportunity. It's where students can rise or fall based on their merit, their diligence, and their choices. To me, that inclusivity and fairness, despite its imperfections, is what makes this academy truly beautiful"

"Pfft hahaha," Schwi burst into laughter, her melodious voice filling the elegant tea room. She waved her hands as if to dispel any hint of offense.

"I'm sorry, junior. Haha, I don't mean to offend you, but your reasoning was just so cute. Hahaha" she continued; her laughter infectious.

I couldn't help but chuckle along with her. Her laughter was like a delightful melody that lightened the atmosphere in the room.

"It's alright, senior" I replied with a smile. "I suppose beauty is a subjective matter, and we all find it in our own unique ways."

Schwi nodded, her grin still radiating warmth. "Indeed, and it's refreshing to hear a perspective like yours. Most students in this academy are preoccupied with their own ambitions and rivalries, but you seem to appreciate the bigger picture."

"I believe it's important to do so" I said "especially in an environment like this"

"Then Adrian do you think the school needs to change?"

Schwi's piercing blue eyes locked onto mine, awaiting my response.

I contemplated her question for a moment. The academy had its merits, but it also had its flaws. It was a place of excellence and opportunity, but it could be brutal and unforgiving, particularly for those who couldn't keep up.

"I believe, that while the academy has provided countless students with the means to excel and unlock their potential, there's always room for improvement. Change can be a positive force if it's guided by a vision of a better future."

Schwi nodded, seemingly satisfied with my answer. "I agree. Our academy, despite its prestige, can sometimes stifle innovation and creativity. It's bound by traditions and conventions that may no longer serve the best interests of its students."

'Gosh, how fake,' I thought as I stared at her. It was evident that she was willing to put on a facade to reach her goals. While she appeared to be a kind-hearted senior with noble ambitions to bring about change at the academy, in reality, she seemed more interested in swallowing the academy whole.

'Seriously why was she not labeled as an antagonist of the story?'

Estelle Academy, though sponsored by the empire and receiving donations from various countries, was still struggling to maintain its vast operations. The institution had grown to the size of a large city, and its budget couldn't keep up with the demands.

That's when Duke Heiron and his merchants came to the rescue, providing the much-needed financial support to keep the academy afloat.

But it came at a price: control.

The Heiron family now held significant sway within the academy, controlling most if not all of the shops and facilities in the commercial district, as well as a huge political sway in the academy's governance.

Schwi's presence alone can already be considered as a strategic move from the duke no the family itself.

Schwi's blue eyes bore into mine. "I have a proposal for you, Adrian. Would you be interested in working with me on a project?" she said with an innocent looking smile.