GameDev Reincarnated into His Own Creation

Vol 2 - Chapter 28.3: Recursive Expansion

Hileya approached with measured steps, setting her tea tray on the bench with practiced grace. She began preparing the service as she spoke, her movements deliberate and smooth.

"Forgive the interruption. I came because I have some information that concerns you both," Hileya said as she arranged the cups.

She handed Celia a cup, steam rising from the amber liquid. "Lysithea... Lady Fairwind," she corrected herself with a slight bow, "has been meeting privately with several students from your class."

"Initially, I thought little of it," Hileya continued, offering Vel his tea. "I couldn't determine the purpose of these meetings."

"However, it became clear she was applying pressure. That's when the gossip began among the servants," she explained, settling into a respectful position nearby.

"Pressure? You mean threats?" Vel asked, his voice sharpening.

Hileya nodded. "Indeed. Marcus was told she would claim he assaulted her. Jana was warned her academic recommendations would disappear. As for Merin... Lady Fairwind made it clear that one word to the right ears could close her family's apothecary permanently."

Celia's hands tightened around her teacup.

"The exact phrase I overheard was, 'People will believe my word over yours, won't they?'" Hileya's voice was quiet but laced with disgust. "I did not realize it was all designed to isolate you specifically, Miss Celia. This went far beyond her typical cruelty."

The systematic rejections, the coordinated excuses—it all clicked into place. "I suspected she was manipulating things, but not to this degree," Vel said grimly.

"House Fairwind's influence is considerable. Using it against other students would be... effortless for her," Hileya observed.

"Vel," Celia said suddenly, her voice hard as steel. The hesitation was gone, replaced by cold resolve. "How quickly can you arrange the registration paperwork?"

"A day. Maybe two."

"I need to leave this class immediately. I'm done caring what any of them think." she declared.

Vel studied her face, seeing the duelist she was meant to be. "The unstable class isn't what people believe. I'll speak with Lyvenna tomorrow."

"I should warn you, though, our training is... intense. We meet before dawn."

"Early mornings?" A genuine smile finally touched her lips. "After today, I'd welcome the solitude. Besides," she added, her voice regaining its confidence, "I've always preferred the quiet hours. Less chance of unwanted interference."

---

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A report lay open across Kein's mahogany desk. He closed it with quiet finality, Clara Freznoria's name visible on the cover along with the title: Unstable Rift Reports.

As if on cue, a knock came at the door.

"Lord Atherwind, a message has arrived. The messenger indicated it was a matter of some discretion."

The letter bore quality paper but no family seal. Inside, elegant script read:

Lord Atherwind - A proposition of mutual benefit awaits discussion. The reflecting pond in the eastern gardens, this afternoon when the sun reaches its zenith. Your discretion would be valued.