Chapter 221: The Purpose of the Council of Sages…
“Lord Gascoigne… you’ve met the ‘Emperor Gascoigne’? That must have been quite a rare experience.”
“Do you really believe me?”
“What would be the point of lying? Besides… I know well that he is a man who doesn’t listen to others.”
The Headmaster—Verloid Harn—began to explain.
“First of all, I don’t have a close relationship with Lord Gascoigne. While I am a member of the Council of Sages… I am merely a ‘Satellite.’”
“Satellite…?”
“Yes, indeed. The Council of Sages consists of two types of members: the core ‘Planets’ and the ‘Satellites.’ I belong to the latter, and my connections with the core members are quite limited.”
“I see… so that’s how it is.”
Even within the same organization, there are hierarchies. It seems that even the Headmaster, hailed as the greatest magician in the land, cannot stand close to the center of the world’s most prestigious magical society, the Council of Sages. I felt a renewed awareness of the depth of this world’s layers.
“The Council of Sages has several tasks and purposes. One that you are likely familiar with is the certification of new magic and the creation of the Magic Encyclopedia.”
The Council of Sages compiles the magic that exists in this world into the ‘Magic Encyclopedia,’ recording any new spells that are developed. Creating a new spell is the highest honor for a magician. If one’s name is listed in the Magic Encyclopedia, they would be welcomed with great favor from the nation.
(However, to be registered as a new spell, its universality and reproducibility are also scrutinized. Spells like my [Star Eater] or [God of Flame], which require Infinite Magic Power to use, would never be recorded…)
“However… in truth, the Council of Sages has a primary purpose beyond those tasks. That is to bring harmony to the world.”
As I pondered, the Headmaster continued his explanation.
“The Council of Sages mediates wars and acts to stop conflicts between humans. While we do not intervene in small skirmishes like the recent civil war, when it comes to wars between nations, we call for ceasefires and take action. In fact, our brethren are still active in conflict zones across the continent.”
“Mediation of wars…”
Now that I think about it… Gascoigne had said he wouldn’t allow the [God of Flame] to be unleashed upon humans. It seems everything is connected. Indeed, Gascoigne feared that such a devastating spell would be used in warfare.
“Lord Gascoigne typically does not leave the headquarters of the Council of Sages. If that man were to move, it would surely be for a significant reason.”
“…”
“I thought this during the entrance exam interview as well… Rest, you are truly an intriguing young man. To have even caught the attention of Lord Gascoigne is quite impressive.”
“No… I don’t think it’s that remarkable…”
It’s more like I’m being watched than admired. It’s not a situation I find particularly pleasant. Even if it’s conditional… I’ve been told by the world’s greatest magician that I would be “disposed of.”
“Lord Gascoigne is a strict man, but he would never act unjustly. He is an ally of humanity. As long as you don’t bring chaos to the world, Rest, he should never become your enemy.”
“Chaos in the world? I wouldn’t do such a thing.”
It’s true that I’ve struck the foolish prince Rodel and defeated the Magical Beast Sabnock… but I never intended to cause chaos in the nation. Rather, I see myself as a victim caught up in various problems.
“Anyway… as long as you don’t cause any trouble, that’s what matters, right? If that’s the case, it should be simple.”
I felt a sense of relief for the moment. As long as Rest doesn’t fall into darkness, there should be no reason for conflict. I shouldn’t have to meet him again… or so I hoped.
(But… why do I feel this way?)
While I relaxed at the Headmaster’s explanation, I felt a chill creeping down my back.
(Leonardo Gascoigne… I have a feeling I will meet that man again. It’s purely intuition, but it feels like trouble is on the horizon…)
“…Thank you very much. Excuse me.”
“Hmm. Next, let’s discuss magic. I’ll have some tea and snacks prepared for you.”
Rest bowed to the Headmaster and exited the room.