CHAPTER 12 – MAGIC SCHOOL FESTIVAL

HIRAYA MISTELTEIN

Over the next two days, I meticulously prepared for any possible scenario. I cast an entry-level magical sensor spell, enabling me to discreetly monitor the comings and goings of individuals within the school campus. I also informed my most trusted friends-cum-school security on this matter, and to prepare for an incoming battle. Additionally, I discreetly placed an observer ward atop the central building, affording me comprehensive surveillance of the entire area.

To bolster my readiness, I delved into the intricacies of the school's architectural layout, painstakingly studying every aspect. I scrutinized the layout, from the hidden nooks and crannies to the various gates, slender passageways, and even the concealed air vents and subterranean sewer system. My goal was to formulate multiple escape routes for my fellow students in case of an emergency.

Though I dedicated every available moment to preparation, I couldn't shake the feeling of being underprepared. It was evident that Lysander's information lacked credibility when viewed objectively. Throughout my four years at this institution, Magic High School had maintained a reputation of being a tranquil and secure haven. Given the rural, insignificant status of Tasty Town as a seaside place with little military significance, I harbored doubts that the Neo Arcadia terrorist group would target our school.

Indeed, Lysander had no apparent reason to deceive. It was sensible to take precautionary measures in response to his unsettling information.

The two days of preparation raced by, and soon, it was the day of the Magical School Festival. The morning began with a burst of fireworks that lit up the sky, filling every student with joy.

Throughout the campus, colorful stalls brimmed with an array of delectable snacks and street foods, some even originating from distant Oriental empires. Magic shows, vibrant and captivating, unfolded at every corner. The Movie Club had commandeered the stage, bringing to life the tale of the legendary dragon knight who ended the War of the Four Empires, Xenon Wingate, and his dragonoid companion, Serena Maizono.

As for my role, I served as both a member and officer of the Diva Club. Our task for the afternoon was an enchanting acapella performance. Later in the evening, I had the honor of being designated for a solo concert, intended as the grand finale of this festive event. My responsibilities were multiplied as Vice President and as an undercover security officer tasked with preparing for the possible terrorist threat. I was acutely aware that this day would become one of the most demanding in my life.

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My school day commenced with assisting the Swimming Club, overseeing the peculiar deliveries they had arranged. Armed with my trusty notebook, clipboard, and pencil, I meticulously reviewed their order.

"Fifty mermaid tails, thirty pineapple foam grenades, two hundred rubber duckies, and... an inflatable life-sized rubber hot Latina?" I furrowed my brows in bewilderment as I examined the list. "Who on earth requested these items?"

"It was me who ordered the mermaid tails and pineapple foam grenades!" declared George, the President of the Swimming Club. “Sera here wanted the rubber ducks!”

"Indeed, rubber ducks are simply adorable!" chimed in Sera.

And then there was Harold, whose exclamation took the situation to an entirely different level. "Hey, that hot Latina is cute too!"

I clenched my fists, a menacing grin forming on my face as I directed my attention towards Harold. "Are you attempting to create a scandal within this school?"

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"N-No, Madam Vice President!" Harold stammered, his voice quivering. "I... I'll have the order redirected to my own address!"

My glare intensified, and I continued to press him, "Huh?"

"A-Ah, I will return the order! Right away!" The wayward Swimming Club member surrendered, evidently realizing the gravity of the situation.

With a sigh, I massaged my throbbing temples. While terrorist threats irked me to no end, dealing with shameless and perverted students was undeniably high on the list of things that grated on my patience.

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Following the incident with the Swimming Club, I proceeded to the Speedmage Club to oversee their inventory. To my surprise, their deliveries consisted mainly of snacks, devoid of any equipment related to their sport.

"Poritos, N&Ns, Pockie, Kringles, and even Cokesi..." I found myself perplexed once more as I ran my pencil over my scalp. "These deliveries are all junk food. Shouldn't these be intended for the Food Research Club?"

The rotund, panda-like member of the Speedmage Club vehemently shook his head. "No, no! These are the snacks for our players. They burn thousands of calories when they're casting speed spells and dashing around, so this is just standard fare."

"Alright," I responded with a strained smile, accepting the explanation even though it seemed contrary to my expectations.

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Subsequently, I visited the Food Research Club to manage the delivery requests they had submitted to the Student Council. Much like my earlier experience with the Speedmage Club, their requests were rather peculiar.

I scratched my cheek, as my scalp had already borne the brunt of numerous pencil scratches, reflecting my perplexed expression. "Fifty pairs of Speedmage Shoes... Did you make this order? Or have I inadvertently ventured into the Speedmage Club's room?"

The round, panda-like member of the Food Research Club, who bore a striking resemblance to the one from the Speedmage Club, shook his head vigorously. "No, no! Those are running shoes for the Food Research Club! With all the eating they do, they need to burn a thousand calories!"

"O-Okay," I mumbled, struggling to comprehend the logic behind these requests.

The enigmatic nature of the school's clubs left me utterly bewildered.

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Following my assistance to various clubs, I found myself with a rare thirty-minute respite. I seized the opportunity to visit the Student Council's archives, where I intended to change into my Diva Club costume. The attire consisted of a feathery white and green dress, complemented by a white pleated short skirt and thigh-high white boots. To preserve my secret identity until the conclusion of our performance, I had been provided with a valkyrie helmet, adding an air of intrigue for the audience.

With great care, I removed my school blazer and skirt. The valkyrie vest, tight and revealing, necessitated the removal of my bra. I was left in nothing but my underwear, as I prepared to change into the valkyrie costume.

In the midst of this transformation, a deafening sonic boom reverberated through the archive room, causing documents on the table to be sent flying due to the powerful shockwave.

"Ah!" I instinctively shielded my eyes from the swirling dust, stirred up by the sudden sonic boom.

"I saw them!" A familiar male voice pierced through the haze. He had silver hair and enchanting azure eyes. It was evident that he had exerted a considerable amount of mana, as he panted heavily. The use of a speed spell must have propelled him here with remarkable swiftness.

"Lysander?" I uttered his name, my voice tinged with surprise.

Lysander initially met my gaze, but his eyes inadvertently strayed slightly lower. A flush crept up his face, although he maintained a composed poker face. In response, I discreetly shielded my well-rounded chest with my arms.

Lysander quickly averted his eyes and turned away, stammering, "I-I'm sorry. Please finish changing."

"…Oh, okay," I mumbled, a mix of emotions washing over me.

I turned around swiftly, hastening to zip up my dress and don the skirt and thigh-high boots, my face still resembling a ripe apple in its redness. The unwelcome intrusion had quickened my heartbeats, and I took three deep breaths to regain my composure.

With my dressing complete, I tapped Lysander's shoulder, my gaze filled with a hint of helplessness, as I contemplated what punishment would befit his unannounced entry.

His voice quivered as he explained, "I'm sorry, that was not intentional. I was in a hurry because I needed to see you."

"Is that so?" I replied, my tone retaining a degree of skepticism.

Lysander, now displaying earnestness, continued, "I understand it was my mistake. I'll exercise caution in the future, and I'll accept any divine punishment you have in store for me. Just not now." He bowed apologetically.

His words carried a certain gravity, making me suspect that the situation was far from ordinary. For now, I decided to let his transgression slide, replying, "I understand. So, what's the issue?"

"They're here. I just witnessed a terrorist Dragon Knight and his dragonoid entering the school grounds. I recognize their faces."