I, the Villainous Prince, Buy the Ruined Villainess with Money - Chapter 40-41

Chapter 40: The Beginning

The forest school trip ended without any further issues, and the next day became a day off.

After that, we all ate together and headed back early because it was deemed dangerous.

While Yorba kept Yulia company, I heard the report from Sebas.

First, whether yesterday’s incident had been caused deliberately by someone.

I had the knights investigating it too, but I wasn’t sure if that information would reach me.

“So, did you find out anything?”

“For the time being, it seems it was not aimed at young master Alvis. If anything, it was due to negligence on the part of adventurers or knights. Magical creatures are born from magical essence, and they increase in number or grow by devouring humans or magical beasts.”

“I see. They neglected exterminating magical creatures or purifying the magical essence. That led to the birth of a Goblin General that shouldn’t have been there… It all adds up.”

“Yes, that is one possibility.”

I thought it might have been some kind of event, but apparently not.

More than that, negligence is troublesome.

Not just exterminating magical creatures, but purifying magical essence is something only the church can do.

…With my current abilities, I might be able to do it too.

“Let’s set that aside for now. More importantly, has the aptitude test for Yulia been done yet?”

“I apologize. Since the church manages that as well, it has been quite difficult. It is likely harassment from Lord Guftaf.”

“Hmph, what a petty man… but quietly cunning.”

The crystal that determines magic aptitude is an artifact managed by the church since ancient times.

Therefore, in places connected to the church… one receives it as a baptism at the church.

Moreover, they demand a considerable donation.

“If we pile up money…”

“That would just be used in a bad way, and I might end up opposing the church from now on. I thought they would at least perform a baptism… Well, fine. It will cost some money, but I’ll hire a mage.”

“Hiring for all attributes would require funds. Frankly, with young master Alvis’s current finances, it would be difficult.”

“…What a pathetic story.”

It’s true I spent money buying Yulia, and I sold ice to the dwarf as payment, but I can’t do that recklessly.

My magical power has limits too, and if there’s a battle like yesterday, I’ll be in trouble without it.

…There is one last resort, but I’d prefer not to use it if possible.

“The family head…”

“That’s the last resort. Either way, I’ll have to go greet him soon.”

“Heh heh, that’s a good sign.”

“Tch, stop grinning. If anything, maybe I should register as an adventurer. If it’s solo without bothering anyone, even royalty should be allowed.”

“Yes, it would be a bit forceful, though.”

There are piles of things to think about: money, the crown prince race, Leila, the church.

But the most important is my favorite, Yulia.

I put her first, and for her sake, I’ll throw away my pride if needed.

—

Chapter 41: The Heroine Who Is Changing

The next day was a holiday too, so I spent it all on training.

I would never again show an unsightly figure in front of my favorite.

…If I didn’t, Yulia would keep pushing herself harder and harder.

“Come on! Your feet are wide open!”

“Ow!?”

“Come on, come on, what’s wrong?”

“I-I’m far from ready! Next time, I won’t hold Master back!”

Yulia and Yorba clashed with daggers, and Yorba swept her leg at an opening.

Because of that, Yulia tumbled forward hard, face first.

I was worried, but I couldn’t go easy on my side either.

“Heh heh! Looking away leaves you wide open!”

“Yes! This is nothing!”

“Then let’s raise the speed even more!”

“…!”

Over here, the training was gradually getting tougher too.

Even though I had asked for it, it was pretty intense.

In the end, we all kept practicing until we were completely worn out.

After that, we took a break and drank tea on the veranda.

“Young master Alvis, not only your magic but your close combat skills have improved as well.”

“Hmph, of course. Who do you think I am?”

“Yulia, you still have plenty of openings, but your reactions have gotten quite good.”

“Thank you. I am Master’s maid, so I need to be able to do at least this much. And I will protect Master.”

There, our eyes met—Yulia’s and mine.

I wanted to respect Yulia’s wishes, but being protected felt complicated.

I knew it was cheap male pride, but still, I wanted to protect the girl I liked.

“Hah, talking big. If you’re a maid, act like one and stay in the back. (Don’t push yourself any harder!)”

“No, I want to stand beside Master.”

“I never asked for that. (If you’re next to me, I’ll get all nervous!)”

“Is that so…”

Then her face looked a little sad.

…Idiot Alvis, you moron!!!

Even I found this guy annoying!

“Hmph, get a bit stronger first. Or I won’t allow it… I’d be in trouble if you died.”

“—Yes! Hehe, I’ll follow you anywhere.”

“…Do whatever you want. (Kyaaa!?)”

“Yes, I will do whatever I want.”

What is this!? A proposal!?

No, no! It’s strictly as a maid!

Phew, that’s why guys who misunderstand things are troublesome.

“Ahem… By the way, have you decided on your club? The deadline is tomorrow.”

“Um… I think I’ll join the tennis club. And also the tea ceremony club, since it’s just once a week.”

“Oh? What’s the reason for choosing those?”

“The tennis club is good exercise, and it’s simply fun. For the tea ceremony club, I heard Agnes is in it. She invited me, but I also thought I’d like to get along with her.”

“I see… Good reasons. Then I have nothing to say.”

At those words, I couldn’t help looking up.

If I didn’t, tears might have come out.

My favorite, who had been in despair, had found things she wanted to do and someone she could call a friend—those things were precious and made me happy.

Then there was only one thing for me to do.

Eliminate anyone who would interfere so she could enjoy her school life.