Emma Sinclair, a character destined to awaken holy, divine-like powers, crucial to the protagonist's eventual victory over me. Her existence is a direct threat. Although my family's power and influence could make her disappear, using her would be far more beneficial than eliminating her. At the very least, her not being on the protagonist's side would mean one less thing to worry about.
Emma stammered, "What made you want to recruit me?"
Richard's smile grew. "I have an eye for talent, and I've never been mistaken about such things. I'm confident you will become a very powerful Esper one day, and with that certainty, I extend this offer to you—to join the Blackthorn guild after graduation."
Emma smiled, still processing the whirlwind of events. "This is all happening so fast. I haven't even arrived at the academy, and I'm already being scouted."
Richard chuckled. "Life can be unpredictable."
Summoning her courage, Emma nodded. "I accept your offer."
For a moment, Richard's smile turned sinister, then shifted back to a pleasant one as he handed her a guild card. "I'm glad you accepted. I look forward to working with you after graduation."
***
The academy building stood like a beacon of knowledge, its sleek design was a proof of modern architecture. Its glass exterior reflected the sunlight, creating a dazzling play of light and color. The entrance was designed with grand metallic doors, etched with complex symbols that spoke of ancient wisdom and futuristic aspirations.
The structure was a harmonious blend of traditional academia and cutting-edge technology. Vast green gardens and marble pathways surrounded the building, fostering an atmosphere of serenity and intellectual growth. Yet, it was the fusion of nature and innovation that truly made the academy stand out.
As Richard took in the sight before him, he was struck with a mix of disbelief and awe. "Damm," he whispered to himself, hardly able to believe what he was seeing. "I only wrote about this place in the novel, but never really expected it to look this good."
Richard discreetly glanced at the smartwatch hidden beneath the sleeve of his academy uniform. "Hmm, even though I entered the bus, I seem to have arrived at almost the same time as the original Richard did," he murmured to himself, acknowledging the meticulous details he had penned in the novel. "So, meeting the protagonist should still happen just as I wrote it."
He couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement as he recalled the scene he had crafted in the novel. Emma, was now by his side, unlike in the original story where she was a few steps ahead, ready to encounter the protagonist as he intervened in a bullying incident. "Having Emma by my side this time might change things a bit, but I guess that's part of the adventure."
As they walked through the bustling gates of the academy, Richard's anticipation grew. He knew that meeting the protagonist would be a pivotal moment—one that would set the course for the rest of their intertwined destinies.
As Richard strolled down the academy's bustling corridor, he couldn't help but notice a gathering of students huddled at a corner, their attention fixed on something intriguing. He knew exactly what was happening, but he decided to play along, pretending not to have a clue.
"Hey, Emma, let's go check out what's happening over there," Richard said to his companion, a mischievous glint in his eyes. He motioned for his bodyguards to follow as they made their way through the crowd of curious students.
And there he was—the protagonist, standing tall before the unconscious form of a weakened bully sprawled on the floor. Signs of punches could be found on the bully's face, marking a clear message of justice served.
The protagonist, Alex Leonheart, turned his attention to a smallish-looking teenage boy, a nerd with brown hair, green eyes, and glasses. Richard knew this was one of the future male leads in his story.
With a genuine concern in his voice, he extended his hand and asked, "Are you okay?"
Richard couldn't help but smile, feeling the perfect moment to make his entrance. He approached Alex with a charismatic demeanor, a cold tone, and a piercing gaze.
"Are you the one responsible for my friend being like that?" he asked, referring to the unconscious boy on the floor. His gaze locked with Alex's cold stare as he awaited the response.
"I am, what about it?" Alex replied, not backing down in his response.