"Charlie, what exactly did you do?" Anthony couldn't help but ask him on their way to the inspection department.
"I killed a dozen Gold Badge apprentices..."
An elderly man dressed in a luxurious robe emerged from the arcane vortex. With long hair and a long beard, his white eyebrows and beard were impeccably groomed. He raised one hand slightly in the air, with each finger adorned with rings filled with subtle energy, encrusted with colorful gems and intricate patterns that shimmered brightly. In his other hand, he held a small staff delicately carved from exquisite jade, radiant and elegant.
Even Charlie, an outsider, could tell that these were incredibly powerful magical artifacts, likely all legendary-grade, and he had adorned all ten fingers with them.
The precise teleportation magic announced his identity: a member of the Arcane Circle's Council of Nine, His Excellency, Lord of Magic, Grand Archmage of the Light System, Gérald Félinande, Peter's teacher.
The two elderly men at the law table immediately stood up and bowed in silence. Under their lead, all the teachers and students in the room rose and respectfully bowed.
Félinande nodded slightly, signaling everyone to take their seats, then turned his gaze to the middle-aged teacher in charge of the interrogation, who immediately broke out in a cold sweat, his hands trembling slightly on the table, clearly showing his immense tension.
"Is there a conclusion?" Félinande casually asked.
The middle-aged man replied honestly, "The investigation is mostly clear. The 17 apprentices died due to conflicts among apprentices. Although there were some excessive behaviors, both sides had issues. Based on the principle of fairness, it can be determined that this was a reasonable grievance."
As soon as he finished speaking, the entire room fell into an inexplicable silence, everyone holding their breath, waiting for the Grand Archmage's feedback.
Félinande's expression remained unchanged as he asked, "Seventeen Gold Badge apprentices died under unusual circumstances, and now your conclusion is 'reasonable'? Then I want to ask you, how did you come up with this fairness? Can you handle the aftermath for the families of the 17? Go talk to each of them about compensation."
Cold sweat broke out on the middle-aged man's forehead as he turned his gaze for help to Victor.
Victor cleared his throat and replied, "Your Excellency, Gérald, Kinney based his judgment on rationality. Prior to this, both parties had already acknowledged the existence of excessive behavior during the event. In other words, if there is to be punishment, both sides would be implicated. Therefore, our handling opinion is to treat this as an ordinary apprentice dispute and not let it happen again."
Félinande sneered, "I think you all have made a mistake. The target is just a Black Iron Badge apprentice, and now you are equating him with 17 Gold Badge apprentices? What are you thinking? Victor, are you practicing necromancy, causing your brains to rot and fester? Can you no longer think?"
Victor's expression darkened, and he bowed his head, not daring to respond.
The entire conference room fell into a deep silence.
Charlie suddenly spoke up, "Teacher, I just want to ask, aren't we Iron Badge apprentices students of the Arcane Circle too? Are Gold Badge apprentices the only ones allowed to kill while we are not allowed to fight back? Are we just meant to be slaughtered? If this continues, will all the advanced apprentices of the Arcane Circle become a bunch of self-righteous useless fools?!"
What tremendous courage!!
With the three consecutive questions, the teachers and students in the conference room widened their eyes, seeing an apprentice who was so fearless of power and death for the first time.
"No wonder Peter was no match for you; you are indeed extraordinary!" Félinande regarded Charlie for the first time, then sneered, "I have never liked sharp-tongued apprentices, and you are a typical example! I can tell you clearly that this world is that cruel, whether you accept it or not, the rules are this way! You are an Iron Badge apprentice, destined to be a practice partner and cannon fodder. Since the inspection department is unwilling to punish you, then I will take it upon myself!"
Anthony's worst fears had finally come to pass.
Peter wore a triumphant expression, proudly looking down on Charlie from the podium.
Félinande didn't even need to make a move; the air pressure in the room seemed to rise significantly. Charlie's face suddenly turned red, the veins on his neck bulging as if a heavy mountain had fallen upon him, making it difficult to breathe. His bones creaked under the strain; he was desperately holding on, his lips bitten until they bled, the blood flowing down his chin.
Bang!
After barely holding on for ten seconds, Charlie's knee buckled sharply, crashing heavily to the ground, cracking the marble slab beneath him. His kneecap shattered, bone fragments piercing through the skin, leaving two pools of blood on the floor.
Charlie let out a muffled grunt, his limbs collapsing to the ground. Struggling under the immense pressure, he defiantly raised his head inch by inch, his bloodshot eyes fixating on Félinande. He grinned, revealing blood-stained teeth, and let out a wild laugh.
"You can insult my body, but you cannot conquer my will! Ha! Lord of Magic, is that all you've got?!"
Qingtong, Qianxue, and the Ghesta brothers rushed down, standing beside Charlie, panicking as they pleaded, "Teacher, please let Charlie go!"
Anthony shouted loudly, "Your Excellency Félinande, you are a Grand Mage; why trouble yourself with a junior apprentice?"
Félinande coldly replied, "Oh? Should I make it difficult for you instead?"
Anthony was left speechless.
Charlie's mind was in a chaotic state, his perception of the outside world distorted by the overwhelming force. His thoughts were in disarray, unable to come up with any valuable suggestions.
Charlie opened his eyes, various lights swirling before him, unable to distinguish any images. The pressure saturated every particle of dust in the air, making it hard to breathe. His heart fought back fiercely, but it struggled to push the stagnant blood, pain seeping from his bones, piercing his heart.
Am I going to die? Why hasn't Qingtong's help arrived yet?
At that moment, a tiny ice crystal appeared above Charlie's head, blossoming into a translucent ice flower.
Everyone felt the air drop several degrees, a chilling sensation enveloping them.
On the other side of the room, another arcane fluctuation arose as Master Nahl gradually emerged from the arcane vortex. His teleportation was equally precise, but he lacked the calm demeanor of Félinande.
Simultaneously, the ice crystal exploded into a white ice storm, and when the storm subsided, a woman in a plain palace dress appeared before everyone. Her equipment was no less impressive than that of Félinande, and the most striking feature was her beautifully coiled black hair topped with a radiant crown.
Master Nahl and Lady Angelina, the Grand Matron of Frost, had both arrived, an incredibly rare occurrence that left Victor and the first-year management team in shock.
Typically, the Grand Mages of the Arcane Circle do not interfere with the Circle's daily management, especially not over such a trivial matter.
Master Nahl spoke first, "Your Excellency, Félinande, Charlie is not just an ordinary Steel Badge apprentice. This is a flaw in the talent assessment institute, and I have already submitted an analysis of the talent assessment loopholes to the Research Committee.
As a special case, Charlie mastered the basics of the Star Meditation course in just over ten minutes, far faster than the Crystal Badge apprentices studying alongside him. He has proven that the current talent assessment mechanism at the academy has significant flaws.
Therefore, I believe Charlie is a victim of this talent assessment loophole, and his talent should be classified as at least Gold level.
Since he is a Gold level apprentice, he should be treated according to the norms, and the inspection department's judgment on this incident is valid, wouldn't you agree?"
Félinande countered, "I don't care about loopholes; I only see the current judgment. He is merely a Steel Badge apprentice."
Master Nahl smiled, "In fact, I have already planned to take Charlie as my apprentice. I only kept him by Anthony's side due to the academy's rules. I believe I still have the right to elevate an apprentice's status to Gold level."
Upon hearing this, Anthony turned to look at Charlie, astonished, and then his expression became complex. No wonder he spent a whole day and night in that class.
The others were likewise stunned by the series of unexpected developments.
Although they did not have to worry about Nahl's face, this old man was using the rules to speak, which irritated Félinande. Moreover, standing next to him was someone of comparable status; he did not believe Angelina had come to speak up for him.
Félinande shifted his attention to Angelina, asking, "Angelina, why are you interested in the affairs of a child?"
Angelina smiled elegantly, "For the same reason as you!"
Félinande turned his gaze to the girl in the crowd, who was as serene as a lotus flower, a wave of powerlessness washing over him.
He could certainly kill Charlie on the spot without care, and Angelina would not likely turn against him for a mere junior apprentice. However, he would undoubtedly be labeled as someone who disrupted the fundamental rules of the Arcane Circle and would receive warnings from the High Council, affecting his reputation and prestige. The potential losses were immeasurable; it simply wasn't worth it!
Angelina advised, "Gérald, it's best not to interfere with the child's matters. I believe it would be fairer to let the two parties handle their grievances themselves and resolve it during the end-of-year points competition
to determine the outcome. It will be fair and just, don't you think?"
Félinande pondered for a moment before uttering a single word: "Agreed."
As he spoke, he prepared to leave.
Angelina stopped him, smiling, "Gérald, this child has sustained serious injuries; why not heal him to show your fairness? When it comes to healing abilities, you are unrivaled in the entire academy; none can match your prowess."
Félinande impatiently waved his hand, and a brilliant beam of pure divine light fell upon Charlie. Even those nearby could feel the warmth and gentleness of this divine light.
Bones realigned, flesh regrew, and wounds healed at a visible pace; blood slowly seeped back into his skin, and in the blink of an eye, it was as if time were reversing, showcasing a miraculous scene.
Charlie's knee returned to its original state; the traces of his injuries were only visible on his bloodstained clothing. Not only had the wound on his knee healed, but countless damaged capillaries inside his body also mended, and even some old injuries and ailments from the past were restored one by one, bringing his body back to its peak condition.
Angelina smiled slightly and praised, "Level 7 'Divine Light Infusion,' effortlessly wielded. Gérald, you truly live up to your reputation!"
Félinande snorted lightly, and his figure vanished into the arcane vortex.
"What?!" Anthony was taken aback, staring at Charlie for a long time before finally managing a bitter smile. "No wonder you've scored so many points; were they all trophies from your murders?"
"That's not true!" Charlie shook his head, expressing sincerity. "I actually wanted to tell you directly, but I was interrupted by Jerry. The truth is, it's related to him. On the first night at Sogo Marsh, Daniel and Peter led a group of apprentices to ambush me, and they ended up being caught in my counter-ambush. Those apprentices died during that ambush, and that night, my location was exposed by Jerry. He placed a magical tracking mark on the bottom of a potion bottle from my backpack."
"Why did Daniel and Peter want to ambush you?"
Clearly, Anthony had hit upon the key point, which was also where Charlie struggled to explain. He had no evidence to prove that Prince Weining was behind it, nor could he say Daniel harbored resentment towards him because of Qianxue; it lacked persuasion.
Charlie sighed bitterly. "On the magic ship to the Arcane Circle, I had a conflict with Daniel. We dueled, and he lost. Perhaps that resentment started at that time! As for Peter, it was because on the first afternoon, there was a massive battle between apprentices and the fishmen, and the fishman lord was killed. I obtained several pieces of equipment from the fishman lord."
Logically speaking, Charlie also had some responsibility; he couldn't completely absolve himself.
Then the question arose: the earlier incident between Charlie and Jerry might replay itself, but this time Charlie was at a disadvantage.
Anthony sighed, "You! You don't understand some of the academy's unspoken rules. It's also my fault for not reminding you. Gold Badge apprentices and higher are considered valuable potential by the academy, and apprentices at this level are not easily expendable.
The return scroll in a Gold Badge apprentice's backpack has a hidden communication function that allows them to contact the academy's rescue team. If they face a life-and-death crisis, a teacher can remotely unlock the scroll's inscription, allowing the apprentice to teleport back directly.
You must have taken them by surprise and struck them down in one blow, right?"
"Yes."
Anthony sighed again. "Make a strong case for yourself! As long as certain big figures don't step in, I might be able to save you; otherwise, there's little I can do."
"Understood."
Soon, the two arrived at the investigation room they had been summoned to. In a small conference room sat over fifty people, many unfamiliar faces, and from their demeanor, it was clear they were all high-ranking members of the academy.
As soon as they stepped into the room, Charlie distinctly felt Anthony's aura shift, becoming more amiable and honest, indicating that there were individuals present he could not afford to offend.
Then, Charlie noticed Peter, who had a sly smile on his face, saw Daniel wrapped in bandages, and spotted Qingtong, Qianxue, and the Ghesta brothers sitting together.
The atmosphere made it clear that the academy was serious this time, taking a deep dive into the matter.
In a moment when no one was paying attention, Qingtong discreetly signaled to Charlie, who subtly nodded in return.
Anthony sincerely said, "Mr. Victor, Minister Marcus, hello. I've brought Charlie here."
Two elderly men behind a deep brown oak table nodded slightly.
A middle-aged man spoke up, "Charlie, we are investigating the reasons behind the abnormal deaths of apprentices during the new student activity season. There are allegations that you maliciously murdered 27 apprentices. I ask you if this is true."
Charlie smiled calmly, raising his gaze with a glimmer in his eyes. "Teacher, I do not agree with your term 'malicious murder'; therefore, I deny it."
This young man was quite challenging! Just one statement from him left an impression on the teacher's mind.
The middle-aged man paused before continuing, "Alright, let me rephrase my question. Do you admit to personally killing 27 apprentices?"
Charlie replied seriously, "I did not!"
A smile crept onto Anthony's lips; his student was quite perceptive, always managing to bring surprises.
Peter couldn't help but interject. "Charlie, everyone here is part of the academy's management, of high moral standing. Your absurd arguments will only increase your punishment and serve no purpose."
Charlie turned to him with surprise. "Are you also a member of the investigation team? If not, what gives you the right to lecture me?"
Peter's forehead twitched, his voice rising a few degrees. "I'm the accuser! Why don't I have the right to lecture you?"
Charlie scoffed, "It's the teacher who is asking me questions. Can you substitute for the teacher's authority? If not, please be quiet!"
Peter was immediately at a loss for words, his retort stuck in his throat, feeling frustrated!
"Silence!" The middle-aged man tapped the table and said sternly, "Charlie, since we called you here, we must have some evidence. Using verbal tricks won't earn you any points; it will only worsen your punishment. Understand this."
"Understood."
The middle-aged man continued, "So, you do not admit to killing 27 apprentices, correct?"
Charlie solemnly stated, "That night, I did cast a series of spells, killing 17 apprentices in one go, not 27. The numbers are inaccurate!"
"Great! You finally admitted to it!" Peter slammed the table, looking particularly excited.
"Silence!" The middle-aged man turned to warn Peter. "If you interrupt the investigation again, I will silence you magically!"
Peter raised his hands defensively, feigning innocence, then gestured for him to continue.
"Charlie, are you aware that murdering students will lead to punishments from the academy's inspection department, potentially resulting not only in your death but also costing your family enormous compensation? Do you understand?"
Charlie shook his head firmly, stating, "Teacher, I do not believe I am at fault. First, you haven't asked me why I killed those 17 apprentices. Now let me describe the entire process.
It happened on the first night of the task. Colin, David, Qingtong, Qianxue, Erin, and I formed a small team and rested in the reeds.
At midnight, we were ambushed by Daniel and a group of apprentices. I was on watch and sensed their intentions, turning their ambush into my counter-attack. The apprentices were all injured.
After that, Daniel and I had a one-on-one duel under the rules of an honorable combat, with no restrictions on weapons and life or death. He lost, and I spared his life, taking his cloak as loot.
At that point, no apprentices had died—only injuries. Everyone acted according to the implicit rules.
Then Peter and his team showed up, attacking me without mercy: over a dozen magical apprentices, four archers, bombarding me with spells and arrows, leaving no room for rebuttal.
Daniel's companions began to suffer casualties here, being mistakenly killed by them. Qingtong retaliated and froze the archers, allowing me to escape into the reeds!
An hour and a half later, I recovered and returned to retaliate against them. It was then that I killed 17 apprentices, the only time I killed anyone during the entire new student task season."
Having said that, Charlie looked up at the many teachers at the table, his gaze calm and collected. "Based on the principles of fairness and justice, my response to my opponents with the same method shouldn't be considered a wrongdoing, right?"
His clear logic, composed demeanor, and perfect statement drew admiration from his teammates, who all gave him a thumbs up.
The middle-aged man turned to Daniel, "Is what Charlie said the truth? Speak honestly."
Qianxue immediately fixed her gaze on him, her eyes sharp as a knife.
Daniel, with a complex expression, hesitated and then nodded.
Charlie wasn't worried about him slandering him, as there were too many witnesses present.
Next, everyone's attention shifted to Peter.
"Peter, you can speak now. Do you have anything to say in your defense?"
Peter replied, "I went after him because he stole my things. The Sea Pearl and the Coral Crown from the fishman lord were taken by him. I admit my actions may have been somewhat extreme, but he stole from me first."
The middle-aged man turned to Charlie.
Charlie smiled calmly and replied, "What a joke! During the battle between apprentices and the fishmen, over two hundred apprentices participated, and everyone contributed. Why should you claim that those were your belongings?! When the fishman lord died, a battle for the spoils broke out on the battlefield, and I was lucky enough to obtain two items because of my good fortune; I didn't break any rules. Did you not also obtain the fishman lord's staff?
Moreover, to investigate the abnormal deaths of apprentices, one should start with this battle, as that fight directly or indirectly caused the deaths of over 120 apprentices, and the final battle was instigated by Peter, who incited classmates on the beach to wage war against the fishmen.
For this, the teacher can investigate the accounts of surviving students who will tell you the truth. As for what Peter's motives were in provoking the war, I can't say; that's for him to explain."
At this point, the situation was basically clear, and the teacher had already formed his conclusions in mind. Anthony sighed in relief, appreciating Charlie's composure.
Peter wore a look of defeat; this guy was just too difficult to deal with, completely unaware of what it meant to be intimidated. From the moment he walked in, Charlie had taken control of the narrative, leaving no opportunity for him to retaliate.
A few teachers in front of the oak table began to discuss among themselves, whispering to one another.
Suddenly, a surge of powerful arcane energy swept through the room, the light growing brighter and brighter, followed by a wave of overwhelming mental energy that seemed to solidify the very air around them.
Charlie felt as if he had been burdened with a heavy load, struggling to breathe under the pressure. He looked up at the teachers on the platform, who also appeared to be under immense stress, rendered motionless.
Daniel tilted his head and fainted outright, while Peter showed a look of delight on his face.
A deep, authoritative voice resounded, "So, what's the verdict on the investigation regarding the murder of 17 Gold Badge apprentices? Have we reached a conclusion?"