Not-So an Extra



In a spacious and elegantly designed drawing room, four individuals are seated comfortably, engaged in a discussion. 

The walls were adorned with exquisite artwork, adding a touch of color and intrigue to the ambiance. 

Large windows allow natural light to filter in, casting a gentle glow on the scene and offering glimpses of the lush greenery outside.

Seated gracefully in one corner of the room was a woman with wavy long blonde hair and piercing blue eyes. 

She placed a paper on the table before her and glanced at the young boy with white hair who sat beside her.

Meeting her eyes, Adrian nodded his head approvingly, a silent acknowledgment of their shared understanding.

She switched her attention to the man with lilac hair seated across from her.

With a gentle smile, she addressed him.

"Duke Florance, I have reviewed the documents thoroughly, and we are satisfied with the terms and conditions outlined."

Two weeks after Duke Florance visited his dormitory, Andarc contacted him, informing that the document for signing was ready.

Recognizing the importance of the matter and ensuring the legitimacy of the transaction, Adrian decided to hold the signing process within the Sun Palace, with his mother acting as a witness.

Little did he know that Andarc had actually given him not one, but two mines: the Colliery and the Magic Stone mine! 

Previously, Adrian mistakenly believed that Andarc changed the gift, leading to an embarrassing misunderstanding.

'Well, it wasn't my fault. The Duke didn't mention anything about it when we parted ways that day.'

Nevertheless, he was relieved that he didn't lose ownership of the colliery mine.

"Very well, then. Let us proceed with the signing."

Andarc suggested.

Adrian and Aerilyn both nodded in agreement. 

The man signaled to his advisor, who swiftly prepared the document for signing. 

They each affixed their respective sealed wax onto the document to signify its authenticity.

Soon, Andarc broke the silence.

"Your Highness, I will return the certificate once the new ownership is registered. Additionally, I will inform my faction, ensuring they are aware of the changes."

"I understand. Thank you, Duke Florance."

"It is my pleasure."

As the signing concluded, the Duke and his advisor stood, exchanging polite farewells. 

When the heavy mahogany door closed behind them, Aerilyn turned to her son.

Upon meeting his gaze with a warm and tender smile.

"Let's have a seat."

She suggested, gesturing for them to take a seat and Adrian nodded his head in agreement.

They sat down, and a maid promptly poured fresh tea to replace the now-cold beverage that had been sitting untouched during the signing.

Before delving into the matters, they decided to take a moment to enjoy their afternoon tea together. 

It had been quite some time since they shared this simple pleasure.

Lowering her teacup, Aerilyn began.

"Congratulations on acquiring two mines, my child."

Adrian followed suit and smiled.

"Thank you, mom."

"However, managing mines is a complex task that requires experience and expertise. At your young age, it would be best to have someone knowledgeable oversee them on your behalf."

Well, Adrian had foreseen this situation; he was just a mere ten-year-old brat, after all.

This was also a reason why he couldn't start inventing things, as it seemed unlikely for someone of his age to create something that would shake the entire continent. 

But he had found a way to solve this matter regardless of his age; it just took some time and Adrian aimed to publish his invention to the public next year.

Redirecting his attention to the task at hand, the boy fixed his gaze upon his mother with eyes brimming with hope.

"Umm, can I also be involved in managing the mines?"

Of course, it was all just a facade; he was merely attempting to evoke sympathy from his mother.

"Hmm."

Aerilyn mused, donning a pensive expression while humming.

Although it was only a matter of time for her son to reach adulthood, she vehemently opposed the idea of allowing him to go directly to the mine.

While it was true that the Delacroix faction had reduced their attempts to send an assassin in the past few months, Aerilyn couldn't afford to let her guard down. 

The safety and well-being of her only child were of utmost importance to her, and she couldn't bear the thought of anything happening to him.

However, if it was solely about learning theory, Aerilyn believed she could grant it. 

Soon, she offered him a warm smile and gently stroked Adrian's hair.

"I understand your enthusiasm, my dear. Learning about the mines is indeed important, but we must also consider your safety and well-being. We can find a way for you to be involved while ensuring that the mines are managed efficiently." 

"So, who will manage them then? Can we find someone trustworthy?"

"Absolutely. I will consult with my advisors and seek recommendations for experienced mine managers."

"I see."

Adrian nodded his head in understanding and inquired another question.

"Can I meet the person who will manage the mines? I want to make sure they understand my vision for the mines."

And in the span of a year, he decided to assert dominance over the source related to the thing he wanted to invent, leveraging the profits from his mines.

Yes, this strategic move was intended to eliminate competitors at an early stage and maximize his future financial gains.

"Of course, my dear. Once we have identified a suitable candidate, we will arrange a meeting for you to express your thoughts and expectations. It's important that the manager understands your vision and works towards achieving your goals."

Ah, as expected of his mother.

She knew what he needed; she was the best!

Putting down his teacup on the saucer, Adrian wrapped his hand around his mother.

"Thank you so much, Mom!"

Aerilyn returned the embrace, holding her child close and planting a tender kiss on his head.

"You're welcome, my dear."

.

.

.

After the completion of the mine transfer, Adrian promptly returned to the Academy the following day, as he was still in the midst of his graduation exam.

With the written, oral, and practical exams over, the final test was the 'arena fight'.

Currently, Adrian found himself inside a training facility, patiently awaiting his turn.

The training facility was similar to any other training ground, but what set it apart was its massive size, being ten times larger than a typical training ground, and boasting twenty arena stages.

—Whirr! —Whirr! —Whirr! 

The sound of spinning reels reverberated throughout the space, intensifying the students' heartbeats and amplifying their anxiety.

They were well aware that this was a crucial test, one that required them to give their utmost effort.

As the spinning reels gradually slowed down, the tension in the room reached its peak. 

Adrian arched an eyebrow as he caught sight of the name on the display. 

'Ho? That's an unexpected matchup.'

The murmurs of the other students filled the air, their intrigue piqued by the pairing that was about to unfold.

The Master of Ceremonies stepped forward and announced.

"Nathaniel Leillucis and Simone Reinhart, please proceed to arena number 12."

Nathaniel Leillucis versus Simone Reinhart. 

The protagonist of the novel was about to face off against his very own partner.

'Interesting.'