When I was in the Demon World.
Regarding how to strip the Goddess of faith, one potential method was for a being like [Phoenix] to bring hope to many, becoming a new object of worship.
“If we just leave Esdinas Academy alone, faith in the Goddess will only continue to grow. That’s why we need to change the nature of Esdinas Academy.”
Changyeom and I once evaluated the ‘stage’ itself that is Esdinas Academy on this continent.
“Esdinas Academy. This place is where men and women meet, but purely for calculated reasons. Of course, there is at least some minimal emotion involved, but most of it is driven by materialistic calculations, isn’t it?”
“In the marriage market, people seek the most well-rounded partners, right?”
“Yes, that’s the reality of human society.”
Esdinas Academy lacks something crucial.
“There’s no romance.”
“…But it’s supposed to be a dating sim game?”
“I mean there’s no pure and fresh love or romantic feelings between men and women. People choose their partners only after filtering those emotions through future calculations.”
“I think I get what you mean.”
At Esdinas Academy, people tend to stick to ‘like-minded’ people.
“No Cinderella?”
“The opposite is true as well. Actually, Cinderella cases do exist. Women are evaluated based on their looks and bodies, while men just need to have money.”
“I never thought I’d hear such a modern matchmaking discussion from the Archduke of Hell in the Demon World.”
“This is a world shaped by people steeped in that kind of reality. Of course, it’s bound to turn out this way.”
It was a bit of a bitter realization, but Changyeom was not wrong.
“Until recently, I had accepted this truth of the world. But through my meeting with you, I realized that all the ‘twists’ in this world exist solely to highlight the protagonist’s journey.”
Angels, and even the odd setting of Esdinas Academy, are part of this.
“Since the main plot revolves around the protagonist ‘cleaning up corruption,’ humanity has lived with these flaws as a given, without feeling the need for change or critique.”
“So, you’re saying we need love?”
“Not the systematized affection boosts found in games, but real, genuine love.”
Changyeom declared confidently.
“When you give a character a gift they like, their affection for you rises. That’s true, and who doesn’t like receiving gifts? But…”
“You’re saying it’s not about just following a guide that says ‘this character likes strawberry cake’, but more about understanding what food or items that person truly loves?”
“Exactly. This is not a game; this is real life. Would a random janitor giving a female student a strawberry cake increase her affection? No, it wouldn’t.”
“Isn’t that because he’s not the protagonist?”
“Then does that mean the protagonist could boost affection by giving a couple a strawberry cake and even steal them away with NTR mechanics?”
“That… would be a problem.”
While we can’t directly apply game logic to real life, Changyeom’s point was absolutely valid.
“That’s why we’re going to spread love. Whether it’s pure love or a harem, we’re going to show people ‘this is what true love between a man and a woman looks like’.”
“Platonic love?”
“And once they become adults, we’ll mix in Eros.”
“…”
“Don’t get any dangerous ideas.”
There are those who might think that if handsome men and beautiful women are going to get ahead of themselves before becoming adults…
Then Esdinas Academy would be a place for socializing, not some debauched, obscene location.
School rules.
If you get pregnant before graduation, you’re expelled.
Naturally, other things might come to mind, but at the very least, it’s essential to understand and strictly adhere to this one rule.
“You’re going to lead the way. Become the so-called ‘Alpha Male’.”
“I’m not that type.”
“You can start now. You’ve already got the extreme alpha looks, body, and even mana stat. What’s holding you back? With that body I’ve shaped for you, acting all timid would be truly unmanly.”
“The phrasing feels odd, but I think I understand.”
In the end.
“You’re asking me to spread ‘love’ among the students at Esdinas Academy, right?”
“When people are bound together by love, regardless of status, wealth, background, or magical talent, that’s when the true fruits of their relationship will blossom.”
“…”
“Of course, there’s nothing we can do about physical appearances. That’s just something you’re born with.”
The Archduke of Hell points out the cold reality.
“But people can change by grooming and improving themselves. And you have the power and the means to help them with that.”
Changyeom gestures downward.
“Those who align themselves with your ‘theory of love’ will become more conscious of their appearance and put effort into their grooming. In time, they’ll see a completely different version of themselves. You’re going to be like a [Charm Totem].”
“Just by being around me, I can raise people’s charm stats?”
“The stat increases will ultimately depend on each individual’s mindset and efforts. That’s why you have to present yourself as someone who, despite having the looks, body, and confidence, doesn’t seem overly reliant on any overwhelming talent.”
Changyeom winks at me, pointing with her finger.
“Hey. If you just worked on your face and body a little, you’d be able to attract beautiful women like me.”
“Hah…”
If you ask me whether that’s easy.
“Just by emitting your mana as ’embers’ while attending Esdinas Academy, it’s possible. People’s admiration for you will transform their looks and bodies. Men will grow in confidence, and women will enhance their maternal instincts.”
It’s possible. As long as I exist in Esdinas Academy, those around me will — to put it bluntly —
“Anyone can achieve idol-level beauty or model-like bodies, even AV star-level physiques. That’s the kind of buff you’ll be.”
“Up until the first two, it sounded reasonable, but it feels really strange when you go further.”
“That’s the power of ‘Kyun-Kyun’.”
So they say.
“For men, it’s testosterone; for women, it’s estrogen. And between them, serotonin and oxytocin will be popping off, filling them with happiness hormones!”
The most intense explosion of dopamine between human men and women.
That’s the power of Kyun-Kyun.
“Love. Is there any other emotion that can strike the Goddess straight in the heart more effectively?”
Changyeom clearly mocked the Goddess.
“A being who has never once received love from the opposite s*x, knowing only lust that manifests in assault and forced gratification.”
* * *
“…That concludes the freshman welcome ceremony.”
While I was momentarily lost in thought, the freshman welcome ceremony had come to an end.
“I hope all new students find their way to their classes, which start tomorrow morning, and for returning students, don’t forget to attend your afternoon lectures if you have any.”
One of the academy instructors came out to relay the message.
Normally, when events like this end, some people start to discreetly get up and leave, but today, all the students remained seated, quietly observing.
Though the ceremony was over, lunchtime was quickly approaching.
Since meals at the academy are also considered a form of social activity, many students were likely pondering whom to eat with.
But…
‘Most of them are focused on me.’
It’s partly because I’m the only one from the special class, but also because I’m the only ‘freshman male’ student here.
‘The returning students have already scanned each other while eating and chatting, so now they’re eager to check me out.’
Even if I were just an ordinary new male student, I would’ve drawn some attention.
But I’m someone suspected of possessing immense magic and vitality.
‘They don’t care about money since they have plenty, but magic that can be siphoned through energy-sharing is rare.’
They’re trying to strip me of my skin.
Luckily, it seemed like the students were beginning to leave, one by one.
“Ahem. We have one more announcement from the Student Council.”
Julius, the Student Council President, stepped up to the podium and grabbed the microphone.
“[Clubs], please remember that, as in previous years, you are expected to promote your activities in the tents approved by the Student Council in the central plaza. I’d appreciate it if you put extra effort into it this year.”
It was something he had to say, but it seemed like no one was really paying attention.
“I have a question.”
So, I confidently raised my hand.
“When can we start joining clubs?”
“…Phoenix, what exactly is your intention in joining a club?”
Julius lowered his voice, a hint of caution in his tone.
If this were WWE, in real life, he’d be the kind of villain who donates and volunteers, but in the ring, specializes in playing the heel.
“Well, naturally, I intend to build new connections. Isn’t that the whole point of clubs and gatherings?”
I stood up.
At the same time, I glanced briefly at the male upperclassmen, who were sitting hesitantly, then I walked up the central aisle.
Slowly, others began to stand as well.
The men would probably either get up last or slip out while everyone’s attention was elsewhere.
And now, I would—
“Excuse me.”
Just as I was about to head to my destination, someone blocked my path.
“Special admission freshman? Could we have a chat?”
Blonde hair tied in a bun.
After a quick scan from top to bottom, I assessed her magic level to be around C-rank.
Not a familiar face.
“I’m—”
“Move.”
“…What did you just say?”
“Where do you get off blocking a man’s path?”
Drawing the aggro.
“The only person who can stand in my way is a woman I’m interested in.”
“…Are you crazy?”
“You, hmm.”
I scanned the flustered female student—probably an upperclassman—from head to toe as I stepped aside and continued up the aisle.
“Not my type. Also.”
She’s not a heroine.
“I’m not particularly keen on getting close to someone who spends more time staring at certain body parts than at my face.”
I have no interest in dealing with a woman with a shattered magic lens and approaching me.
