“This is incredible…”
The young woman with white hair, Freya von Winter, murmured as she watched Hermes Walk away from the first training field.
She is the current miss of the illustrious family of the count who serves as the commander of the knights’ guild, Freya von Winter.
Despite undergoing rigorous training by her father, Greil von Winter, she was deeply surprised to see Hermes, who surpassed even herself, a rival she could not defeat despite her strict training.
What kind of strength is that? How can one become so strong?
Absorbing the various emotions and thoughts running through her mind, Freya began to run, chasing after the imposing figure of Hermes, just as she had seen her father do in the past.
***
Meanwhile, Celia Chrysanthemum, the Baron’s daughter, who had been freed from mistreatment thanks to Hermes’ help, also watched Hermes Walk away from the scene for reasons different from Freya’s.
The overwhelming emotions she felt in her heart were indescribable, but she undoubtedly felt strong admiration and gratitude towards Hermes.
He had rescued her from her miserable harassment situation. Without arrogance, using his power for good. Impressed by his talent to defeat even an active-duty knight, Celia was enchanted by Hermes.
“That is… the clan blessed with talent. Hermes, from the lineage of Lunaceria.”
The whispered words gently descended into her heart. Perhaps he could provide the hope she could not find herself.
She wished for his guidance, for direction, for support, for his presence by her side.
Gathering those complex feelings, Celia suddenly realized she was running. Chasing after such a magnificent figure.
***
Meanwhile, the first common event, the “Grade Exam,” had come to an end.
With the self-confidence of having mastered both the written and practical parts of magic and fencing, now all that’s left is to wait for the results to be announced next week.
“Now then… setting that aside, what will I do next?”
As I walked down the hallway towards the classroom, I scratched my head.
Indeed, after the exam, we would have free time. With no classes or pending assignments, it would be acceptable to return to the residence and immerse oneself in reading at the library.
In my case, I have many things to do, so I should probably focus on improving my magic ability.
Although I have raised all my magic skills to an intermediate level in preparation for the “Grade Exam,” I still feel insecure facing the challenges that will arise in the second half of the summer vacation.
Specifically, I would have liked to have improved my holy magic to an advanced level.
The problem is that, although I may have plenty of time, it is difficult to increase magic ability from intermediate to advanced.
While leveling up from intermediate simply involved using magic until reaching a certain limit, leveling up from intermediate to advanced involves facing additional skill challenges.
Furthermore, if for now I cannot face these challenges, no matter how much effort I put into improving my magic ability, it would be impossible to master advanced magic.
While thinking about that, a voice suddenly called out from behind. Almost simultaneously, they said:
“Wait.”
“Please wait!”
I immediately stopped my steps. I recognized one of the voices. Curious, I turned around and there stood the person I was expecting and the young woman I had just met.
“Miss Freya… Miss Celia? What are you doing here? Are you back to the classrooms?”
“No, I have a request for you.”
“I also have a… um… request.”
“Both of you want to ask me something. I will do my best within my capabilities, but what do you wish for?”
Although I said it like that, something inside me had an uncomfortable feeling.
And that feeling turned out to be right.
Once again, almost simultaneously, they said:
“I want you to teach me swordsmanship!”
“Please teach me how to use the sword!”
