"I... yes, you're right... it has been difficult." She conceded, sighing as she held her head in her hand and making her way out. But not before giving you and Herta one last glare.

"Do not worry, John Doe." Todred says a few minutes after she was gone. "I shall make sure there aren't any lasting consequences against you. Think of this as an act of goodwill."

You thanked him, and he said it was the least he could do after what he considered to be an embarrassing episode of the school showing its worst side to you. It seemed like that main 'leader' guy, a Richie Stonemann, was a known troublemaker in the school. The reason he wasn't expelled was because his dad was rich, regularly giving donations and paying for things here.

Todred then turned to you and gave you one final warning. "Lord Doe, I would make certain to watch what I would say, were I in your shoes. I wouldn't speak about any affinity for creating, specifically in an Academy like this."

Was he referring to how you were a Savant?

"Unfortunately," He continued with what was almost a whisper, "There are some influential magicians that hold resentment towards such gifted peoples as yourself." Yeah, that basically confirmed it. "And for the weakness that magic holds in comparison."

You shared a few more words, and Todred said that he would need some to make sure everything was alright, not leaving any loose ends about. You understood this as his way of politely saying he was busy and wouldn't be able to help you anymore today.

With nothing else to find here, you decided to return to Cinnamon Inn, bringing your wives (and Yumi) with you.

It was getting close to lunch, and Ruby Rose made her appearance before you.

"My gallant Master," Ruby said as she bowed at you, "While at the Academy, I've been able to obtain some information that might be of interest to you."

"Very well. Let's hear it, madame." You motioned her to sit by you, and she happily did so.

"I've come to find out that the Academy of Centria and the Mage's Guild have brokered a deal— detailing that any member of the Mage's Guild would be given a discount, turning the 5000g weekly payments merely to 500g."

"Excellent work." You smiled. "But, from the look on your face, I doubt that is everything."

"You have a discerning eye, Master. Unfortunately, the Mage's Guild, as we can both currently surmise from the evidence presented, forbids Savants from becoming members. They are also particular to only allowing those with magical classes in; sorcerers, wizards, mages, witches, and so on. Artificers were recently considered to join them, or so I've heard from the rumor mill, but their status in the Mage's Guild is tenuous at best. I find it rather ridiculous, with all due respect. Savants should be respected."

"I see." You thought about it. That witch woman spoke against both Savants, and even a few stray insults against Artificers. So if this was a common mindset with mages then you could imagine some issues happening.