After returning to the Royal Capital, Rest paid his first visit to the Royal Academy in quite some time.
Though it had been a while since he last walked these grounds, the atmosphere was unexpectedly bleak. The student population had thinned out significantly, leaving the campus feeling deserted.
"It’s gotten awfully quiet... Did something happen?"
"You say that as if you aren't the primary cause," came the reply.
The voice belonged to Maurice Louis, one of Rest's schoolmates, who spoke with an exasperated look. Meeting again in their usual classroom for the first time in ages, the friend offered a cheerful greeting.
"Almost everyone is out participating in the development of the Subnock Plain. It’s the chance of a lifetime for career advancement and success—naturally, they’re prioritizing it over their coursework."
"Ah, I see... I suppose I really am the reason, then."
Rest gave a wry, self-deprecating smile.
Under the auspices of Second Prince Andrew, Rest had previously recruited participants for the frontier development right here at the academy. He hadn't kept close track of exactly how many students had signed up, but it seemed the numbers were far greater than he had imagined.
"Expansion in this kingdom stalled decades ago, hitting a ceiling for both available land and noble titles. Now, suddenly, a massive expanse of unclaimed territory has opened up. For second and third sons with no hope of inheriting their family’s estate, this is an unprecedented opportunity. It’s no wonder they’ve pushed their studies to the back burner."
The Royal Academy was an institution dedicated to cultivating the talent of the next generation. Students attended to secure future government posts or learn to manage their lands. If a shortcut to obtaining land or a title appeared elsewhere, it was only natural for their attention to shift.
"The people still attending classes these days are either those who know they aren't cut out for the frontier, or those whose futures are already secured."
"I see... By the way, Maurice, why are you at the academy? Weren't you participating in the development too?"
"Yeah, I'm involved. But I’m set to inherit our family business, so for me, the project is strictly a part-time job. I only head out there on my days off."
"Ah, that makes sense."
"What about you, Rest? You must be far busier than me, right?"
"I have a bit of business to attend to. I came to see the Academy Director."
Rest’s true purpose for visiting was to consult the Academy Director about his recent encounter with Leonardo Gascoigne. The Director, Verloid Hahn, was a Sage of the Council of Sages and would certainly be acquainted with Gascoigne.
He had already arranged an appointment through the servants of the House of Marquis Rosemary; he’d only stopped by the classroom to kill time before the meeting.
"Ah, it's about time. Well then, I'll see you later."
"Yeah, see you."
After parting with Maurice, Rest headed toward the Academy Director's office. He walked through the corridors, which felt emptier than ever, until he reached his destination. A woman who appeared to be a secretary was waiting at the reception desk outside the room.
"Excuse me, I am Rest Clover. I have an appointment to see the Academy Director."
"Ah, Count Clover. Yes, we’ve been expecting you. One moment, please."
The secretary disappeared into the room and returned almost immediately.
"You have permission to enter. Please, go inside."
"Thank you."
As Rest stepped through the door, he was met by the sight of an elderly mage with a long, flowing beard. The Academy Director, Verloid Hahn, sat behind an impressive desk, a gentle expression on his face.
"Ah, young Rest. Or... should I address you as Count Clover now?"
"Whichever you prefer, Director. Your standing is much higher than mine, after all."
While the Academy Director held no ancestral lands, he possessed influence rivaling that of a Duke. His words carried immense weight, and even royalty could not afford to treat him dismissively.
"Ho-ho-ho, I suppose that’s true. Well now... this is our first real talk since your entrance exam interview. What brings you to see me?"
"The truth is..."
Rest began to recount the details of his encounter with Leonardo Gascoigne. The Academy Director listened in silence at first, but before long, his eyes widened in genuine surprise.