Crushing flags and claiming the Villainess

Chapter 64: Chapter 63- Partner

Chapter 64: Chapter 63- Partner

Austin expected Morkel to try and convince Rudolph that Austin was the actual culprit behind the incident. However, thanks to Austin's recent deeds and the praises Rudolph heard from Rhea, Rudolph simply swatted those accusation away.

Well, even if Rudolph suspects something, Austin doesn't think he would take any action. Parkinson was a creep and someone who went ahead of himself while pursuing Rhea.

The evidence of being obsessed with her has made Rudolph disgusted with that person; as such, it was highly unlikely he would interfere in this matter any further.

Leaving the infirmary, he was heading toward the Headmaster's office. The reason for his visit was to request him to let Austin and Valerie give their trials early; on the first day if possible.

'System, is there any way to divide the parameters into different divisions? Like, can I get specific stats for my strength and speed?'

It was becoming a little difficult to track which field he should be focusing on. Like, during the battle against Lester, he was able to track the man, however, his body wasn't able to react.

And in comparison to heat, he can withstand cold temperatures fairly well. So what was his resistance against poison and sound waves? How far can he withhold against curses and mental interference magic?

That's why if he gets separate stats-

[Not yet, host. Once you reach a certain threshold, you may receive a separate status window for every attribute.]

"..." Well, fine. He has to earn every single thing with this one.

*Knock*

Reaching the headmaster's office, he knocked once and heard, "Come in."

"Excuse me for intr-uding..." the pause came because Austin was dazed to see a face he was too damn familiar with, yet every single time, that face leaves him awestruck.

"Val...what are you doing here?" Inside the office, other than the Headmaster there was Valerie as well.

The girl smilingly replied, "I was notified by someone that the Headmaster wants to meet me. Did I surprise you?"

"Yeah...but in the best way possible." That response added faint redness to her fluffy cheeks.

"Haah~youth." The man behind the desk sighed, making Austin realize that this might not be the best place to flirt. But what can he do? He was actually very surprised to find her here.

"I had something to discuss with student Valerie and received your request, so I asked her to come as well." Interlacing his fingers on the table, the man added, "After all, this involves both of you."

Austin frowned slightly, as he said, "I think, before stating my request, I would like to hear what you have to say."

Philius nodded, "If you insist. First, sit down."

Austin pulled a chair for the lady, earning a melodious 'Thank you' in response, before taking the seat beside her.

Philius began, "Do you know the importance of this tournament?"

Why? Well, unless your Shard doesn't evolve, an awakened remains on the same stage throughout their life. As such, in the Headmaster's eyes, Austin was still a D-rank who defeated a demon...possibly by luck.

'Well, unless I reach a rank where I don't get forced to serve the military or Council, I shouldn't reveal it.'

"Okay headmaster, I am ready to face the challenge."

—-----**------

After leaving the office, Valerie and Austin decided to have tea together.

While holding hands, they walked down the gallery in silence for a few moments, before Valerie asked, "When are we leaving?"

Austin thought for a moment before responding, "Since we got the assurance that our matches will be held on the first day, we can-" Austin suddenly took a sharp turn to look behind him.

Valerie frowned, "Is anyone there?" Her detection abilities were not as good as her Lord so she failed to notice anything.

Austin didn't reply to her; rather, he used his 'Prying Eyes' to see through the walls.

'Heeh~talk about an elite stalker...' Austin saw Morkel standing behind the wall, undoubtedly spying on them.

"Well, it was nothing. Anyway, we will leave for the capital just the day after the trials. We can't let your father get the wrong idea about our relationship."

Valerie wasn't dumb to not understand that, indeed, there was someone listening to their conversation, so she played along, "Although I have told him my decision regarding the engagement, it would be better if you meet him in person and assure him."

Austin grinned, "That...I surely will." Although not immediately, Austin was planning to actually visit his in-laws as soon as he could.

He has never paid them a visit after the engagement. They have only met through the gathering during his birthday. And that is very inappropriate.

'The great forest where we can find the elixir is just a single day from the Duchy...'

They made their way out of the main building and once Austin made sure that they weren't heard, he whispered to Valerie, "About the trip and everything related to Drenovar, we will only talk in my office."

Valerie lowered her eyes and apologized, "I am sorry about earlier. I should have been careful."

Austin gave her hand a light squeeze before relating, "It's okay. Now let's go and enjoy some fresh tea."

Meanwhile, Parkinson frowned upon realizing that they were leaving just after the trials.

'They surely aren't going to meet Lord Corwon...' Looking at the place from where the duo disappeared, Morkel muttered,

"What are you brewing, Austin...*

—--**----

A/N:- I hope you all enjoyed reading the chapter. Drop a comment.