Novel B.D.R. -Blade Duel Rondo- (temp.) (Semi-hold)

Part 3

Spoiler

With full alert, Yuu watched closely as Karel made his way.

“I see you have chosen to be defiant… Then…!”

The noble boy suddenly jumped at him, which got blocked by Yuu’s uchigatana at the last second.

“Hey! I haven’t agreed with it yet!”

“Silence! Your insolence won’t be tolerated any further!”

One of the knights asked their leader who seemed to be contently observing.

“Sir, will this be alright?”

“Heed no attention. My son will surely handle this.” He scoffed before focusing back to the Academy building. “Ah-hem. SO AS I HAVE—“

“Pardon me, Sir, but you are being a nuisance.”

“Who dares to interrupt!?” a furious subordinate shouted, followed by the gazes of his peers.

At the opposite end was the group of Eliot, Sigulf, and the others, finally catching up with them.

“Hrimgard…!” Karel promptly disengaged from Yuu. “So you finally showed up!”

“Oh, it’s the Mushroom Head again.” Sigulf noticed.

“W, why you…!”

He was about to attack, if not for his father raising his hand, telling him to stop for the time being.

“…and who might you be?” the leading knight asked Eliot.

“Eliot Fortier. This Academy’s teaching staff.”

“…Fortier?”

The older man turned to his fellow knights, only to be met with unknowing shook.

“A commoner who gets to taught the nobility in the ways of the blade? Preposterous. What have this Academy became?” he continued. “Tell your employer, that I, Pepijn van Rijn, demand an audience!”

“Pepijn?” Sigulf asked. “Is he that—”

“Yes, that Pepijn. He’s a pro duelist.” Eliot confirmed.

“I see that even you commoners know of my fame.” Pepijn bragged. “Then you should have realized the gravity of this situation. So why don’t you—“

“Unfortunately for you, Sir, I must refuse.”

“…excuse me?”

“You didn’t even went through the proper procedure, how can I allow you to see our Principal? Besides…”

Eliot took a step forward fearlessly.

“Some of my students are here, and I can’t allow anyone, anything to harm them as long as I stood by.”

“Wow, Elly is so cool…!” Vigdis whispered. If not for the circumstances, Eliot would have lost his composure and stammered.

“Hmph, even my son?”

“Oh, do not worry. While Karel isn’t even on my class, he is still a student of this Academy. Thus, more the reason for me to reeducate how wrong his mentality is.”

“How dare you talk about the young master like that!” one of the junior knights roared. “Sir, your permission!”

“Very well, you may teach those peasants a lesson, Roeland.”

‘…why does this situation feels so familiar?’ Sigulf mentally retorted.

“Will you cut it out already?” Melanie stepped forward, looking slightly irritated. “You are being nothing but the shame of Dutch!”

“Shame of— Watch your mouth, woman! No one speaks like that towards Sir Pepijn!”

“Well, why don’t you make me?”

Melanie summoned her Arms, a metal staff, out of thin air without any incantations.

“Safe mode…?”

“The Sea Goddess Nehalennia… But She doesn’t need full strength to fight a paladin-wannabe like you.”

“You accursed heathen…!!”

Roeland lost his temper and immediately rushed towards her.

“Melanie!” Chelsea warned.

“Don’t worry! This…!”

“Wha— Oof!“

With one skillful swipe, Melanie easily disarmed him, while the follow-up instantly knocked Roeland out cold.

“Is how you do it!” she proudly said, pinning his body down with her staff.

“I, impossible!” one of the knights said in disbelief. “She defeated Sir Roeland!?”

“As expected of our school nurse!” Vigdis cheered.

“T, the school nurse!? Are they mocking us!?”

“…Haastolf!” Pepijn commanded.

“Yes, Sir!”

Another younger knight came charging, prompting Melanie to get herself ready again… if not for the blitzing shadow which proceeds to thrash him in a single strike.

“Guah…!?”

“…hey now, Vigdis. That’s not very nice to interrupt a duel.” Melanie jokingly sighed.

“It’s alright, it’s not even acknowledged, is it?” she grinned, having summoned her twin axes.

“E, even Sir Haastolf!? Now what!?”

“Who are you? You don’t even look like a teacher here…”

“The name’s Vigdis Hrimgard!” she declared, pointing one of her axes towards Pepijn. “As soon as I’m cleared from rehab, I’ll take back the world by storm!”

“Another one of this kind… Olivier!”

By his command, yet another noble strikes. And just like before, he was easily dispatched, this time courtesy of Eliot.

“Guh…!”

“Now, Sir Rijn…” he calmly said, still brandishing his sword. “I suggest that we duel for real, instead of having you throwing your pawns away indefinitely.”

“You…! You are not worth my time! Circle of Twelve!”

Exactly 12 knights emerged from behind Pepijn. They immediately drew their Arms and advanced, with 3 of them locking blades with Eliot, Vigdis, and Melanie.

“Know your place, young one!” one of them taunted Eliot.

“Well then, do your worst…!”

“Sir!” Sigulf shouted. “Come on, girls! We must—“

“No, all of you stay back!”

“What!? Elly, are you saying they aren’t strong enough!?” Vigdis questioned.

“They might or might not be able to handle these knights, but that’s not the problem here…!”

He couldn’t elaborate further as the duel escalates, while the remaining 9 approached Sigulf’s group and formed a barricade.

“None of you shall interfere.”

“Huhuhu, be in despair when your masters fell before our might, whelps!”

“You certainly are taking them too lightly.” Celina stated. “Remember that our Academy values effort, talent, and imagination, not bloodlines or heritage.”

“You… Aren’t you the daughter of the Bartrams? What were they thinking, aligning themselves with the peasants… Trying to play hero?”

“Call it however you wish. I simply act on our House’s principle, on what I perceive as right. It is my own justice!”

“So are you saying what we do are mistaken? Foolish little girl, we won’t take your slander. We’ll send you back home crying!”

“Is that a challenge? Then—“

“Wait.”

“Sigulf…?”

The Icelandic boy stepped forward, accompanying Celina.

“If you’re fighting, then I’ll go too. Please, let me fight by your side.”

She was slightly surprised by his proposition, but accepted nonetheless.

“Very well.” She smiled. “Show me the results of our practice!”

“Yes!”

“Umm, I thought Sir Fortier advised against it?” Alba raised her hand.

“…let’s just say that I’m bad at backing down from a fight.”

“Sheesh, you guys…” Chelsea sighed. “I guess I have to make sure nothing goes wrong after all. Are you up to it, Alba?”

“Of course! Time to teach these old bones some lesson!”

“Hoo, so you are Hrimgard’s boy… You sure owe Young Master Karel a lot.”

“Blame him for acting all entitled like that. He should’ve practiced more instead of flaunting his nobility.”

“Silence!”

The older knight suddenly slammed his halberd, missing its mark.

“Hm!?”

“Not even a proper opening?” Sigulf commented while evading.

“They are just like that, the worst kind of aristocrats.” Celina added.

Both of them quickly summoned their weapons, again without any chanting whatsoever.

“Fools! Children shouldn’t underestimate their elders!”

“Worry not, I perfectly calculated your capabilities from that one strike. This state should be more than enough.”

“Such insolence…!!”

Two knights rushed at Sigulf and Celina. He could feel it well, them being faster and stronger than before. Yet still…

“Hey, Celina.”

“Hmm?”

“Do you have any ideas for our team name?”

“You are asking that now? Ufufu, right, I wonder what it should be…”

“Imbeciles! It’s ov—“

Faster, much faster than the nobles could imagine, Sigulf and Celina slashed their way out and knocking their enemies down in the process.

“Uargh…!”

“Raven Banner. What do you think?”

“Ah, do you mean…”

“Yes, that one. When your ancestors came to Britannia, they carried those flag, and it is said that if the banner flies, then victory is assured. Considering that ravens do hold some importance in our culture…”

“Yeah, it fits. I like the sound of it. And it’s the symbol of your House too.”

“I know, right?” she chuckled.

“C, curses!” the knights rose to their feet. “Don’t think this is already over yet!”

“Oh, looks like this would take longer than I thought. Are you ready, Sigulf?”

“Yes! Let’s make Raven Banner’s debut a fine one!”

They engaged the nobles once more, while Alba and Chelsea watched, having taken a short breather.

“Looks like they are doing good!”

“Then we mustn’t fall behind!”

“Alba, wait!” Chelsea called and stopped her. “Why don’t we think of a name too?”

“Eeh? Really now?”

“Why not? Don’t you find them cool?”

“…well, a bit, admittedly. Any suggestions?”

“That’s right… How about United Crown?”

“Make it Bannockburn.”

“…Albaaa, I’m serious.”

“Hey, so am I!”

“T, the nerve!” their opponent slowly stood up. “These children were too busy thinking of names while fighting us!”

“Oh, shit. Here they come again!”

“Hmm, March Law? Border Reiver? Guess I’ll have to think about it later…!”

In the meantime, Eliot is still fighting against Pepijn’s knights.

“You attacked the students? You do know what that meant, do you?” he growled.

“Nonsense.” Pepijn dismissed. “Peasants need to be reminded of their place. And often times, harshly.”

“Yeah, I agree, Father!” Karel cheered. “Now if only I can reach Hrimgard…!”

“As if I’d let you…!” Yuu retorted.

As their scuffle goes on, another group of students, some dressed in light armor, has arrived at the scene.

“Is that…”

“Halt! Knights of the Rhine, cease what you are doing!”

“It’s Penndreic and Amakawa!”

“Sorry, it took a while to gather everyone!” Minato said.

Among them were the usual three girls, the pair of Lindorm and Laine, and a mix of both noble and common students.

“Ah, Hiltunen-san, you’re back!” Yuu said happily.

“Like hell I would run away. And no, I’m not here for you.” Ilma snapped back.

“Eh? No one said anything of the kind, though?”

“You…” she glared coldly in return.

“Hmm? What’s between you two?” Carmen coyly asked.

“…you want me to carve you open?”

“You two, enough.” Eurypha reprimanded.

Meanwhile, Pepijn was surprised by the young knights before him.

“Penndreic? You are Uthyr’s son? Madness! This is madness! You too, what are you thinking!?”

“It’s pretty simple, Sir.”

Taking a step forward, Arthfael summoned his Caledfwlch and planted it in front of him.

“I believe this is how a knight should properly behave.”

 

Part 4

Spoiler

A group of student knights and rookies standing against actual ones aligned with a noble house. Such sight would certainly catch a normal passerby’s attention.

‘This will definitely make the news, won’t it?’ Sigulf thought.

“Insolent whelp! Where do you think you are looking!?”

“Whoa…!”

Yet another near miss from the senior knight’s halberd.

“Sigulf, be careful.” Celina advised.

“Sorry… It seems the old fart does get faster.”

Rallying behind Arthfael and Minato, students from different years stared boldly against the Rhine paladins, while the Penndreic heir spoke against them.

“Before things escalate further, Sir, I demand you lay down your Arms and leave at once!”

“With all due respect to your father,” Pepijn emphasized the last bit. “We refuse. What makes you think we would concede in the first place?”

“I was hoping you would still remember a knight’s honor…”

“And I was hoping you’d still remember the very foundation of this school…”

“It was always about duel of chivalry, not aristocratic and nobility domination you’ve been forcing!”

“Hmph, idealistic and painfully naïve. Our views won’t meet after all…”

Pepijn raised his hand, signaling his knights.

“Rest of the Twelve and the others, show these children a painful lesson. Roeland, Olivier, Haastolf, this is no time to sleep.”

“””Yes, Sir!”””

“Karolingische Paladijn… Judge them.”

With a shout, his underlings rushed out first, while the Atlantics stood their ground.

“I’m sorry to drag you into this, Amakawa.” Arthfael apologized.

“It’s alright, I too can’t stand by idly, letting this happen…!”

Minato brandished his Sky Fencer and got into fighting stance.

“Let’s go, everyone! Bartram-senpai, Hrimgard-kun and the others, please hang on a bit longer!”

“Wha…?”

Sigulf nearly stumbled upon his words.

“He’s just worried. Don’t take it personally.” Celina responded.

“Ah, right…”

“How dare you two…!!”

Another strike successfully defended by Sigulf before he regroups with Celina, though he doesn’t seem too thrilled by this.

“Playing defensive doesn’t feel right…” He quipped. “Can’t we just release our Arms now?”

“Are you sure?” Celina asked back while evading a powerful swing. “Not going to hold on for a bit?”

“…know something I don’t?”

“Not quite, but I got a hunch…” she trailed off, eyeing the uncharacteristically defensive Eliot and Vigdis.

“I see…! Well, at least it’s not about keeping secret moves, but…!”

“Hm!?”

An unexpected and powerful deflect by Sigulf pushed one of the knight away, giving them some space.

“Better be safe than sorry, right!?”

“Very well. Then I shall cover you!”

Twirling her spear once, Celina rushed towards the knights.

“Fool! Even if you are Bartram’s daughter, in the end you are still just a little girl!”

“Oh, I wonder about that…!”

Suddenly braking, she then spun around while swinging her weapon with full strength.

“De-yah!!”

“What!?”

Her blade struck their halberds loudly. While it didn’t break through their defenses, the force and razor wind was more than enough to knock them back.

“Sigulf!”

“Right!”

Sigulf immediately crossed his axes and began chanting.

“Hunt… Slay… Be victorious! Break free from your bindings and run wild, Fenrir!!”

A burst of invisible energy emerged from Sigulf, and his Fenrir glinted as if receiving new life. But he’s not done just yet.

“Limiter: Laedingr, release!”

Another explosion, and his Arms glows pale blue.

“What is he— Eei, get out of our way, child!”

“Fufu, I see that you are scared.” Celina taunted. “But worry not, it is nothing but his first stage.”

“What!?”

True to what she said, Sigulf didn’t go into the counter-offensive and opted to continue reciting instead.

‘A bit of a waste to use it here, so let’s crush them as fast as possible…!’

“Limiter: Dromi…! Release!!”

“Oh…!”

Three times in a row Sigulf unleashed raw energy. And this time, the aura surrounding his weapons begun to look sharper and jagged, while it took a darker tint of blue.

“Grr…!”

Instinctively growled, Sigulf then assumed his combat position before vanishing from sight, a cue well understood by Celina.

“Here he comes…”

She promptly disengaged from the paladins by backflipping away to safety.

“Hey! W—“

Celina only gave them a dangerous smile, as an unseen force struck the Dutch knights and almost landed a clean hit.

“Guh…!? What’s going—“

With axes in each hand, Sigulf stopped their enemies’ halberds and prevented them from going any further.

“You are not going anywhere…!”

“I, impossible! He stalled us both!?”

“Where did he hide this much strength!?”

Landing safely, Celina smiled at the sight of her duel partner.

“Ah, to see you fought ferociously like that… Makes me want to go all-out as well!”

She switched out from her fighting stance and it made the senior knights slightly more desperate.

“No! We must s— Ugh, why you…!!”

“Didn’t I tell you? So stay still!!”

“Thank you, Sigulf…” Celina said almost quietly.

Even before she unleashed her True Arms, everyone on the field could feel the sudden spike of power coming from her.

“This is…!?” Pepijn murmured.

‘Finally I got to see it…!’ Sigulf thought.

“The War Goddess… Has called for harvest!”

A dark blue, almost black aura manifested, spiraling around her before rising high to the skies.

“As the blood raven shrieks…” Celina began. “All shall fall above this garden of blades. Soar towards glory, Badb!!”

Like being blown off by a storm, her aura dispersed upon Badb’s reawakening.

‘No matter how many times we sparred, her pressure is overwhelming as always…!’ Sigulf thought.

Indeed, no matter how short it was, every fighter on the field had to freeze against her presence, save for the exceptional ones.

“The War Goddess… Is here.” Lindorm murmured.

“Whoa, it’s sure been a while…” Laine added.

“Is this President’s…” Eurypha asked, both amazed and surprised.

“So this is what Hrimgard-kun faced most of the time…” Minato said.

“B, by the Lord…!” Pepijn expressed his disbelief. “How is it possible for a mere child to wield this much power!?”

When the situation calmed down for a bit, Celina returned to her duel position and stared coldly at the Rhine paladins.

“Very well, gentlemen. Shall we resume? Who wants to fall first?”

“Y, you…!! A shock tactic like that won’t work against us!”

“A shock tactic, you say…? Then how about you come and try us for yourself?”

“Wha—“

Unexpectedly, Sigulf jumped away from his enemies and landed in front of Celina, assuming a bestial posture.

“What’s the matter? If you are not coming, then…”

“…!”

Not having the proper time to react, the senior knights can only saw the eerie blue eye trails from Sigulf before clashing steel once more.

“Kuh…! Impossible! They are just students! How—“

The older men now found themselves being forced to defend as opposed to before. Between Sigulf’s furious assault and Celina’s masterful strikes, it’s only a matter of time until their defense breaks.

‘This… Feels incredibly good!’ Sigulf thought in-between attacks. ‘My body feels so light… It just obeys what my brain tells. It’s as if we are beasts playing with our prey…!’

Not too far from them, the Chelsea-Alba pair gets to study their dangerous fighting.

“That looks kinda fun!” Alba commented. “Should we—“

“No, wait.” Chelsea quickly interrupted. “Let’s not get too hasty on that.”

“Wait, what? Why!? Is it about keeping your best moves secret again?”

“Partially that. The other is… Well, just observe.”

“…ah, I see. Can’t be helped, no showing off this time…!”

As Chelsea pointed out, even though technically most of the Atlantics have inferior skill, Sigulf and Celina’s limiter release, as well as Minato and Arthfael’s constant encouragements kept their morale high.

“Come on, everyone!” Minato rallied. “Let’s keep this up!”

“We shall show them! Our honorable way of duel!” Arthfael followed suit.

“Kh…! How could you be this persistent!?” Roeland cursed.

“What are you doing!?” Pepijn shouted. “They are mere peasants! How can you get pushed back like that!?”

“Looks like your delusions began to shatter, huh?” Eliot provoked. “How about we fight for real?”

“Hey, that’s not fair!” Vigdis protested. “Leave him to me!”

“Guys, be a bit more serious…” Melanie sighed.

“Silence! I still can turn this back around! I—“

“Guah…!”

A well-timed swing from Sigulf finally broke open a paladin’s defense. Not wanting to waste the opportunity, Celina swiftly got into position.

“Now!”

“The first honor… Shall be mine!”

“Hold it right there. I think that’s enough.”

“…!?”

With machine-like precision, Celina stopped her spear at the last moment, nearly hitting the knight’s armor.

“…she sure took her time.” Celina sighed while withdrawing her Arms.

“Is that…”

The source of the voice casually strode unto the field with her usual grace, taking a good look at everyone involved.

“My, what a rowdy way to start the day.” Victoria commented.

“Ma’am, you are the one who’s taking this too lightly…” Eliot retorted.

“Geh, it’s Stark…!” Vigdis realized.

“Oh, good morning, Miss Hrimgard. I see you are doing fine.”

They exchanged fake smiles, something Sigulf quickly noticed.

‘Even at this situation, they’d rather be hostile with each other…’ he mentally noted.

“You…! So you finally showed yourself, Stark!” Pepin yelled, pulling the attention back.

“…oh, it’s you, Sir Rijn.” Victoria responded, now putting a much more genuine contemptuous expression. “What business you might have with us?”

 

Part 5

Spoiler

Pepijn van Rijn, leader of the knights, stamped his way to Victoria while his subordinates backed off and opened the way.

“Business!?” he snapped. “Don’t you dare feign ignorance with me! It is because of you, a commoner like you! That this academy’s sacred foundation got tarnished!”

“Spare me from that nonsense again.” She quickly retorted. “Frankly, I cannot fathom how the likes of you could delude yourselves for so long, that your old way of thinking is this school’s principle in the first place.”

“It was all there in the contract!!”

“Oh, yes it was. None of them matched the interpretation you wanted to believe.”

Irritated, Victoria snapped her fingers and a hologram appeared on the thin air, presumably showing the aforementioned contract.

“T, this is forgery! This—”

“Nonsense. It was always the same from since the founders agreed and signed upon it. Now tell me, how did ‘teaching knightly honor and martial prowess to our students’ translates into whatever outdated system you are trying to force?”

“It is obviously for the children of nobility and knights! We could care less about the commoners!”

“Which is, again, something you just made up. None of the passages stated something of such.”

Students and knights alike watched silently as the two continued to argue.

“…resuming the duel wouldn’t be a good idea, would it?” Sigulf whispered to Celina.

“Indeed. The chaos would spiral out of control, so it’s better if we restrain ourselves for the time being.”

Evidently their debate hadn’t settled anything. Both Victoria and Pepijn vehemently refused to back down.

“Is there anything else? Any other fabrication you would like to speak? Or you know… If you are that dissatisfied, you can always withdraw your share.” Victoria suggested.

“This is not some godforsaken stock market!!” Pepijn lashed back. “I knew it…! You poor peasants have corrupted this academy to the core!”

“…how could he wholeheartedly believe all that!?” Alba commented in disbelief.

“Unfortunately, some people are like that…” Chelsea answered.

“Enough!” he continued. “There is only one way left to settle this! Victoria Stark, it’s a duel!”

Not giving any reactions at first, Victoria then lets out a sarcastic smile.

“Oh, and this is coming from a man who commanded his legion to attack some students without provocation?”

“Silence! Every commoner here are mere weeds that must be uprooted! You, and every peasant children, are the cause of this problem!”

“Hilarious. But very well. I accept your duel.”

Almost everyone was surprised at her answer.

‘I get to see how the Principal fights…!’ Sigulf thought.

“…ah, there goes my target.” Eliot said.

“There, there. You already did well.” Vigdis playfully pats his head.

“So, what do I get when I win?”

“…excuse me?”

“I asked, ‘What do I get when I win?’. I am not interested on your conditions. The moment you dare to challenge me, Victoria Stark, is the moment your loss has been decided.”

A provocation so blatant and straightforward. Yet, due to Pepijn’s anger, it all worked well.

“C, curse you…!!”

Without even proper rituals, he immediately summoned his True Arms. Like son like father, it was a blunt weapon, only a two-handed hammer instead of a simple mace.

“You godless heathen!! I shall crush you for good!!”

“Godless…” Victoria chuckled, and sounded strangely nostalgic. “Ah, school memories…”

She extends her right hand sideways, the same moment Pepijn already charged at her.

“What the— The duel’s not even authorized yet!” Sigulf pointed out.

“It’s alright, she will be fine.” Celina reassured. “Watch and learn.”

‘…eh!?’

Even if for a split second, Sigulf’s eyes managed to catch a glimpse of it, the moment when mechanical and futuristic fitting gloves materialized on her hands.

“Hmph!”

Slightly hunching, Victoria took a quick step forward and swung her right hand outwards… Effectively slicing through Pepijn’s hammer, much to the students and knights’ shock.

“Arghk…!”

Pepijn hit the ground and unable to get up, clutching his whole body.

“It’s over…” Melanie stated.

“F, Father!!” Karel cried. The other paladins were equally aghast, however none of them dared to approach their reeling Grand Master.

“I have always called this one Blade Breaker, but… Looks like I have to think about a new name.” Victoria chuckled at her own gloves before turning her attention at the nobles. “Anyone else want to try?”

“U, ugh…!”

None could muster their courage to challenge Atlantic’s top-person.

“…well, what do you think, ladies and gentlemen?”

Another set of holographic screens showed up, this time displaying some people who presumably are the board of executives.

“It’s just about time.” A blonde woman holding a cup of tea said. “It’s as if he orchestrated his own fall.”

‘…hmm? Why does she looks—‘

“Ah, it’s Mom.” Celina quipped.

‘Now everything makes sense…!’

Sigulf took a good look at her mother, and indeed she does look almost identical, with her proper bun hairstyle being one difference.

‘She looks less… Cool? And more cold and strict… Although this situation might be the cause…’

“It is unfortunate…” a wise looking older man from another screen added. “Our school does put emphasis on tradition, which is of noble virtues. But alas, it seems that Pepijn and his paladins here have distorted their interpretation wildly…”

“Not to mention, his actions can’t be good for PR and business.” Another man agreed. “Yes, this school started as one institution to teach knightly honor and prowess… To both the nobles and commoners. How did he think his way wouldn’t scare potential sponsors and entrants is beyond me.”

“W, wait…!” Pepijn said, still struggling to get up. “Y, you were watching all this time…!?”

“…why wouldn’t we?”

“You set us up…!!”

“No.” Victoria corrected. “You set and played yourselves.”

“Wha—“

“And that is what baffles me the most. Didn’t you ever consider that someone will record your wrongdoings? Or did you seriously think everyone will be too afraid and let you do as you please? Talk about wishful thinking…”

“Kh…!”

“Well, enough of that. Now, since I have won our duel… Ladies and gents, your judgment?”

“Oust him. No further consideration needed.” Celina’s mother decided.

“Likewise, he has failed on attending his responsibilities.”

“I vote for the same. No complaints here.”

The rest of the board followed suit, unanimously choosing for Pepijn’s ejection.

“Thus, it has been decided. Now, if you will…”

“Ugh… Uuugh… Even though… I just wanted to restore this Academy’s glory…”

A complete loss. Initially reluctant, the paladins finally braved themselves to approach and carry away Pepijn to safety, while Karel can only stood powerlessly.

“T, this can’t be…”

Victoria dematerialized her True Arms before looking to the screen again.

“Ladies and gentlemen… I thank for your time and cooperation.”

“No need to be.” The elder man responded. “Although, I am regretful to see a fellow knight stooped so low… Let this be a lesson for us all, so we don’t repeat the same mistake.”

“Hmph. As long as we stay true to our ideals, then it won’t be a problem. Show people what you can really do, and they will have no other choice but to concede.”

“You never change, Bartram…” another woman responded. “Although, I guess that’s a tried and true method.”

A glance of satisfied smile could be seen on Mrs. Bartram’s lips before she ends her transmission, followed by the rest of the executives.

“And so, young paladins…” Victoria addressed the opposing side. “What are you going to do from now on?”

“You do know what this means, right!?” Roeland snapped back.

“Oh, do not worry. If it’s about funding, then many other families and corporation are more than willing to be new sponsors. If anything, it is more tedious to screen them and decide which one is the best-suited to this Academy’s spirit.”

“Tch…!”

“…and about today’s incident, the evidence is there. From your misguided ideals to unneeded aggression, as well as what your kind did since decades ago, though I guess that’s already an open secret.”

“W, wait! You broadcasted that to the whole world!?”

“…it puzzled me endlessly that your circle underestimated technology so much in this age.” She sighed. “Are you technophobes or something?”

“I… We…”

The Rhine Paladins finally lost their strength and will to fight back, and with Pepijn and Karel in tow, slowly gaited back towards the station.

“Looking at them, it’s kinda sad in a pathetic way.” Vigdis commented.

“True.” Eliot agreed. “They are by no means weak, being more experienced than our students. Yet…”

“Their blind conviction ends up being their own undoing.” Melanie concluded.

All the students get to take a breath of relief after their unexpected defensive combat.

“Good work on holding out, everyone.” Victoria congratulated as she approached everyone. “And my apologies for not being earlier.”

“…did you plan all this?” Vigdis questioned.

“No, of course not. I’m not a seer. I merely adapt and revise according to circumstance.”

“…what?”

‘The fact that she’s not lying makes it scarier…!’ Sigulf thought.

“Well, I’m sure all of you have many questions right now. So, anything else?”

Sigulf and Minato raised their hand at the same time.

“Oh, it’s you two. What is it?”

Both boys are slightly surprised at each other, but continued nonetheless.

“Gakuen-chou, what did you do to him?”

“Ma’am, how could this happened despite— Wait, what? Seriously?”

An awkward silence as everyone gets focused on Minato.

“Eh? Did I say something strange?”

“Mina— Amakawa, you seriously don’t know!? How did you make it this far!?” Eurypha retorted.

“You didn’t teach him in class?” Victoria glanced at Eliot.

“I thought it was a given…” he scratched his head. “Well, anyways, everybody knows that True Arms came from our soul.”

“Right…”

“Normally it won’t break that easily. That’s why it usually disappears after a duel ends. Easily put, it also depends on your mental state.”

“Ah, I see!” Minato said. “And since… Rijn-san? Was rather unstable…”

‘…Rijn-san? This dude is too polite…’ Sigulf mentally pointed out.

“Yes, that’s correct. And there’s a high chance that his own Arms rejected him. …not to mention our Principal is monstrously strong in the first place.”

“H, hee… But wait, does that means it will be impossible to fight again?”

“It’s still possible, but wouldn’t be so easy. Like I said, it depends on your mental state, which means it would also affect your Arms’ recovery. And even then, it wouldn’t take a short while. Considering the last duel’s outcome, though…”

“I see… Thank you for the explanation, Sensei.”

“I can’t believe you…” Eurypha sighed.

“Ugh, s, sorry… I’ll study harder…”

“I guess that’s it about Arms-breaking. As for your question…” Victoria eyed Sigulf just before Laine and Lindorm raised their arms.

“I guess it’s better if we explained it…” she volunteered. “First things first, even as info-gatherers, some things can’t be trespassed. There’s no way we can eavesdrop on them 24/7, including at their own bedroom or bathroom, nuh-uh. That would be a breach of privacy.”

“…you got a point there.” Sigulf responded.

“…though to be fair, it’s still unexpected for us. Yes, we did prevent them from gathering other students. I mean, did you recognize anyone besides the Mushroom Head? It’s just… We never thought they would contact non-students for this…”

“They are getting desperate.” Lindorm added.

“Calling for outside forces, huh?” Alba responded. “So, do we still have to deal again with this?”

“Hopefully not.” Victoria answered. “On one hand, they are not the whole like-minded nobility; just a circle among many. On the other, their circle is among the respected upper echelons, if only for their lineage. With their failure, as well as having evidence and other nobles on our side, surely this will dissuade them.”

“They better be…” SIgulf sighed. “I’d rather focus on autumn’s tournament and the Pacifics.”

“Ah, forward looking, aren’t you? Ufufu…”

“Still, to think they claimed lineage from Charlemagne…” Arthfael murmured, sounding rather upset. “I wonder what would the Holy Emperor said if he saw them. He’s—“

“Verden.”

“Huh?”

Sigulf’s sudden, and serious, utterance caught the students off-guard.

“Pardon me?” Arthfael wanted to make sure.

“The Saxon blood will never forget.”

It took a moment before Arthfael realized what Sigulf meant.

“…oh, I see. Then let’s agree to disagree here.”

Sigulf grinned, albeit not in a sincere and friendly way.

“Too bad. Looks like we can’t really be friends.”

“You two!!” Chelsea suddenly reprimanded and chopped the top of their heads with her bare hands.

“Oww!! W, what was that for!?”

“You’re overacting! What were you thinking, fighting against each other at a time like this!?”

“Err…”

“Kensington-senpai, you don’t understand…” Yuu tried to calm her down.

“Hmm? What is it, then?”

“This is how we men bond. By passionately engaging in rivalry, on the matters of duels and whatnot. Yes, you could even call it… Man’s romance.”

“B, bond? Man’s romance…!?”

Chelsea suddenly went red at her own conclusion and fantasy, making Celina and the others worried as well as a bit scared.

“…what are you trying to say to her?” Sigulf asked.

“According to my observation, stuff like that is the best way to distract her.” Yuu sheepishly answered.

“You…”

 

Part 6

Spoiler

A day after the incident, everything returned to normal and peaceful state. That is, save for one minor detail which everyone noticed.

“The school feels a bit more spacious now, don’t you think?”

“Few students who are aligned with House of Rijn resigned, after all.”

“Huh, so they bailed after thinking they couldn’t do as they please anymore…”

Lunch break with Celina, Chelsea and Alba as always. Sigulf brought up the topic as they enjoyed their food.

“Soo, how many of them called it quit?” Alba asked.

“Unfortunately, not that I know of.” Celina answered. “I’m only aware that the Principal is considering sending special invitations.”

“…wait, seriously? Is it that much? Wait, are we going under quota for students? Are we going to close or—“

“N, no, no, no, it’s nothing that severe.” Alba dismissed. “If anything, I’m sure there will be more candidates than the invitation itself.”

“Wait, why are you worried about that?” Sigulf pointed out. “Finally decided to join the Council?”

“Wha— No, not that. Am I not allowed to care?”

“Then, isn’t it more the reason to join?” Chelsea added. “I mean, if you are concerned about practice schedule, Sigulf could keep his just fine.”

“Join us. It’ll be fun.” He raised a thumb up.

“U… I’ll think about it…”

“Well, putting that aside…” Sigulf continued. “What’s next for us? Making sure the autumn tournament goes smoothly?”

“That, and preparing for the second, and actual visit, from the Pacifics.” Celina nodded.

“Ah, right, the Pacifics… Can we pay them a not-so-friendly visit before that?”

“Not-so-friendly visit…” the blonde giggled. “As much as I wanted to, I don’t think the Principal will just give her permission.”

“That’s too bad… It’s not about the budget, isn’t it?”

“Not at all.” Chelsea shook her head. “It’s all principle, being currently the number 1 dueling school. You know, think of us as the reigning champion or something.”

“I get that, but is there really no other way?”

“Without her permission, there wouldn’t be special dispensation, would it?” she sighed. “And without official letters, how would we inform them beforehand? Sneaking in? Then that means we can’t even use their guesthouse—“

“A, alright, alright, I understand…”

“Cel, you should say something too… I mean, I do understand how it feels to fight more—“

“Sneaking in… …hm? Oh, my apologies, did you say something?”

“…I can’t believe you! Were you just considering it!?”

Alba, and even Sigulf, couldn’t help but to snicker.

“But seriously…” he said again. “Absolutely no way? Not even for information? We haven’t even heard from them since last time.”

“…alright, admittedly I’m curious too. I heard some rumors that they employed an ex-pro duelist as their new, special coach.”

“What, so there is something after all… Any details on that?”

“Sadly, no… But at least now we know their action after the inter-school match.”

“I still want to know more, but…” Sigulf scratched his head. “So we just study and train like usual?”

“Yes, like we always do. One of this school’s well-known anecdotal saying was ‘Do your best. By then, no matter what your opposition do, it would not matter in the end’.” Celina said.

“That’s… Ridiculously simple…” Alba responded. “But not exactly wrong…!”

“It kind of is.” Celina chuckled. “Don’t overthink, just practice and fight as hard as you can. By doing so, you won’t be underestimating your opponent at the same time.”

“Huh, right… If we do, we won’t be even practicing in the first place.”

“So, the usual menu at weekends, huh…” Sigulf noted. “I don’t really mind, but I still hope I get to fight them at their home ground.”

“…Sigulf, you just wanted to travel, don’t you?” Chelsea narrowed her eyes.

“Err, yeah. Something wrong with that?”

“…the least I can suggest is to wait until just before summer holiday.” She sighed.

“Ah, and it’s still months away…” Celina muttered. “Too long… Even though I too want to go on a journey…”

“Cel, please… You are the President. Have a bit of self control. We still have the upcoming tag tournament, remember?”

“But of course. There’s no way I’m forgetting that.”

“That’s good to hear. And don’t even think of sneaking out.”

“Ah, you know me too well.” she smiled.

“Ceeel…”

Their lighthearted back-and-forth earned Sigulf and Alba’s laughter.

———

After class, the Council duo went to give the Principal some report, accompanied by the shadow Council team.

“I see…” Victoria said after scanning the papers. “Thank you and keep up the hard work. Looks like we can look up for this autumn.”

“Certainly, Ma’am.” Celina responded.

Sigulf silently noted that Victoria was acting normal. As in, not in her usual teasing manner.

‘…man, I do have that kind of image on her. Even though she has valid reasons to be this serious…’

“…Sigulf? If it’s something I’m allowed to disclose, then I would be happy to answer.”

The rest of the students turned at him, slightly surprised.

‘…it’s written all over my face, huh?’

“Yeah, it’s about yesterday. And maybe its aftermath.”

“I see…”

Victoria paused, seemingly thinking to pick her choice of words.

“First thing I could tell was that ultimately, the students don’t have to worry. Beyond that, however… Obviously there are disagreements.”

“Eh? About the nobles?”

“Oh, no, less about them, actually. The ones who stay do agree that they have strayed too much and need to be ejected. Although few do think that we were being a bit too harsh. And there’s the one about the resigning students… But I presume you have already heard it from Celina and Chelsea.”

“Ah, yes. They did tell me.”

“That’s good. Back to your question, it boils down to our current stance against the Pacific.”

“Ah, we talked about it too during break.”

“Fufu, is that so? Well, to keep it simple, half of us agreed that being attacked was the very proof that we are currently on top. Defending is harder than winning, some said.”

“I see… So that means—“

“The other half, meanwhile, thought it’s because we are being defensive that Pepijn and his men saw it as a sign of weakness and attacked us.”

“So they took it as them disrespected us. Hmm…”

“In any case, I’m sure you are well-aware on my stance and I definitely will not budge. If we stay at the top of the game, then there is no need to play theirs. But out of curiosity, which course of action will all of you take?”

“Eh, us?” Eurypha asked in surprised. “Hmm, I wonder…”

The students began discussing at her pop question.

“I think the Principal is right.” Minato said. “We should focus on our own strengths and schedule, first and foremost.”

“Oh, you are surprisingly sensible, Mina— Amakawa.” The Greek girl agreed. “Yes, we shouldn’t get provoked and proceed as usual.”

“What do you mean ‘surprisingly’!?”

“…seriously?” Ilma retorted in disbelief. “That’s chickensh— cowardly. Eye for an eye. They mess with us, we pay them back.”

“You’re exaggerating… Did you forget how well it ended, all things considered? Not to mention we won.”

“I won’t say cowardly, but at the same time, I’m afraid I have to disagree with Minato this time.” Carmen joined.

“Eh?”

“It’s not just about winning, dear Eury. It’s about the action and pride. Surely we too must show them much more clearly on our capabilities?”

“Do not call me that! And listen—“

The four continued to argue which amused Victoria.

“They are so into it…” Chelsea commented. “Was it like that with the board, Ma’am?”

“Something like that.” She chuckled. “So, what’s your opinion on this?”

“I was against it, but it’s more from the legal side of things. If you have no intention of sending us, then so be it. I won’t risk showing up unannounced and got into trouble later.”

“Ah, very good. A consensus among you three, I believe?”

The lack of immediate response from Chelsea surprised Victoria.

“…these two beg to differ.”

“Really?”

Sigulf and Celina exchanged looks while giggling.

“Yes, we just wanted to fight more people.” Sigulf admitted.

“We know there are more to be learned by crossing blades with them.” Celina added.

“Goodness, since when you two become so similar to each other?” Victoria sighed with a tired smile. “Will you really be alright?”

“Worry not, Ma’am. Our duty comes first.”

“Yes, certainly.” Chelsea joined. “I’ll give her the utmost assistance, just in case.”

“Then I expect good things from you.” Victoria chuckled.

“…you know, I expected Hrimgard to have simple reasoning, but never thought the President would be too.” Eurypha commented.

“Battle-crazies, these two…” Chelsea replied.

“Why, thank you!”

“Cel, that’s not supposed to be a compliment…”

———

With their report done, the students got dismissed and decided to grab some crepes before going home.

“It’s been a while, hasn’t it?” Chelsea said, while enjoying her own crepe.

“It is.” Eurypha replied. “Both our groups were surprisingly busy with duties.”

“Oh, that’s right!” Minato remembered something. “Now that the nobles are out of the way, what are we going to do next? Are we back to normal patrolling?”

“Well, something like that…” Laine answered. “We’ll never know whether someone out there would need our help with something.”

“I see…”

“Oh, looking around for task? That’s just like some video games.”

“…”

“…what?”

“Why are you here?”

Sigulf directed it towards Alba, who joined them despite not being a Council member.

“Hey, hey, sugar is good for refilling your energy.”

“And like I said, the more the merrier.” Chelsea joined. “Though, it would be better if you become a member!”

“Err…”

“Miss VP is right.” Carmen added. “Why don’t you? I’m sure you will be a great addition.”

“Well… I did consider, but… I guess I just don’t feel like it.”

“Let it be, Rosales.” Eurypha said. “She has her own ways. Plus, she’s not a troublemaker, so we don’t have to worry about her.”

“Thanks for offering, but sorry.”

“That’s too bad, but it can’t be helped…” Carmen conceded.

“Aww, why must you be like that?” Chelsea complained, and not-so-gently shook Alba’s shoulders.

“…will you stop? I’m eating here.”

“You know, I gave it some thought, but…” Minato spoke again. “About helping others…”

“Hmm?”

“It’s the right thing to do, but why don’t we try to help each other as well?”

“Eh? What are you going at?” Eurypha asked.

“Uhh, are you going to ask our problems and try to solve it?” Sigulf guessed.

“Right, that’s exactly it!”

‘…this guy is so optimistic.’ He thought.

“Hmm… It’s normal if some people refuse to open up,” Celina said. “But since now we are fellow Council members, I think it’s fine, even if just a little bit.”

“You have a point, President…” Eurypha said, crossing her arms. “And it might help too with our growth as a Duelist.”

“Right? So why don’t we start?”

“Wait, already?”

“Yes. So, umm… Do you three mind sharing with me your troubles?”

There was an awkward pause, followed by the three girls gazing exasperatedly at Minato.

“””You know, there’s this insensitive boy—“””

“What’s that supposed to mean!? And what’s with that look!?”

Chelsea can only laugh at the sight, while Celina was mildly confused.

“Now that’s quite the problem.” Chelsea commented.

“Maybe we should try it too.” Celina concluded. “Sigulf, is there anything that bothered you recently?”

“Eh? Me? I wonder…” Sigulf scratched his head. “If it’s real problems, then I couldn’t think of any. Just the usual ‘I want to get stronger!’ and such.”

“Ufufu, is that so? That’s good to hear.”

“I guess…? But rather than that, how about you?”

“Oh, me?”

Sigulf nodded enthusiastically.

“Fortunately, nothing for the time being. But still, thank you for your concern.”

“I see… Well, I guess that’s kind of expected.”

“This is harder than I thought…” Laine muttered.

“I can only think about buying replacement guitar strings.” Lindorm added.

“…so that’s your problem. Oh well, wanna grab it later?”

“So, so, what about you, Alba?” Chelsea commented. “Something bugging you?”

“Yup.” She answered quickly. “It’s the three-way stalemate between me, Siggy, and Amakawa. How come we’re actually evenly matched for so long!?”

“…that’s a surprisingly real problem.” Ilma reacted.

“Train harder! …or so I wanted to say, but yeah, there’s had to be something more.” Chelsea responded.

“Oh, speaking about training…” Minato said. “Aren’t you four always practiced together on weekends?”

“…ah, right, yeah.” Sigulf realized that the fact has become an open-secret since a while ago. “What about it?”

“Why don’t we train together some time?”

“”Next Saturday?””

Sigulf and Celina asked at the same time, making them look at each other and became embarrassed from it.

“…ah, they even got the timing.” Eurypha commented.

“Ah, no. I was thinking something like a training camp.” He explained. “Though, they are usually held on summer, so…”

“I see, a Council training camp… Chelsea, what do you think?” Celina asked.

“That sounds like a g— Ah, wait, but Alba—“ she glanced at the ponytailed girl.

“Don’t worry, Senpai. Then we’ll make it not limited for Council members only. I was planning to invite Hunter-san, Penndreic-kun, Kanzaki-kun, Armst—“

“Wait a sec.” Ilma interrupted. “Why them too? I can stand Hunter and Penndreic, but—“

“…Hiltunen-san, they are friends. They even fought together against the Paladins.”

“Tch, fine, whatever…”

‘…isn’t it a bit too fast to concede?’ Sigulf mentally retorted.

“Huh, you sure I could come?” Alba asked.

“Sure! Like Kensington-senpai often said, the more the merrier!”

“Oh, you! Do I often say that?”

“Actually, you kind of.” Celina giggled. “Well, it might be too soon, but I think we can consider it for our additional schedule, right, Chelsea?”

“Of course! It’s one of the better options taken as a group, after all.”

“Insensitive as always, but… I must admit that I don’t hate your idea.” Eurypha said.

“A practice session with an even bigger group, huh…” Sigulf noted. “I wonder how that would feel…”

“You too? Fufu, actually it would be the first time for me as well.” Celina responded. “I think I got a bit excited for it now.”

“Haha, well, I guess that goes for me too.”

”Oh, oh! Then that means we’ll have barbecue too, right!?” Alba raised her hand.

“Why are you— Well, it’s a standard for camps…”

“Don’t be such a killjoy, Siggy! We’ll have fireworks too! And water gun fight!”

“…is it even related to dueling anymore?”

“Err, fireworks are a given, but I’m not so sure on water guns…” Minato added.

“Whaaaaaat?”

 

Part 7

Spoiler

Across the ocean and continent, where another group of young duelists trained…

“Haah!”

“Tch… How annoying…!”

Two boys, namely Jack and Ralf, were testing each other’s strengths. From the sidelines, the recently-hired freeloading middle-aged Japanese man calmly observed.

“Hmm… I see, I see…”

Armed with a cadet saber, Ralf pressed on the offence.

“An opening…! There!”

However, it’s evidently clear that Jack still is the stronger one.

“What a joke…!”

“Wha—!?”

“Time’s up! That’s enough!”

If not for their coach’s intervention, Jack would have followed up on his successful parry.

“…tch, again.”

“Phew, so it’s still not good enough…?”

Winning by another timeout, Jack seemed even more upset than Ralf was.

“Alright, good work, y’all.” The older man commended. “Ralf, that was close, but don’t be too hasty next time.”

“Yes! I’m sorry, Sir!”

“And you…”

“…what? Are you gonna say I have nothing to improve on?” Jack mocked.

“Almost. But well… It’s up to yourself whether you can still grow or not.”

“…the hell? Then what’s the point—“

“I coach the others too, not just you.” He quickly cut off.

“Oh, really? Then why’s—“

“You can’t lie to yourself. You do know how the others, especially Ralf, have grown.”

“…”

“And you do know the reason that—“

“’That I can’t get any stronger’? Hah, nice joke. One full of shit, at that. Like I’d listen to some fraud like you.”

“Oi, Jack! That’s not how you speak—“

Kouji, who was watching their practice together, scolded him. Unfortunately, the younger boy paid no attention and walked away.

“…man, he’s really a handful.” The Japanese man sighed.

“My apologies, Sir. He’s…”

“Eh, it’s not your fault. …so, you know something about him? Like, what’s his problem?”

“Well…” Kouji paused, looking for the right words. “I don’t think I have much, but as far as I can tell, he’s an orphan. But…”

“He either lived on the streets, or spent his days on some juvenile home?”

“It’s the latter. I heard he often got into fights before entering illegal duel rings.”

“Ah, figures. So I guess this Academy heard about his skills, now matter how unruly he is, and—“

“…yes, precisely. I am the one who was tasked to handle him.”

“Uwah, talk about saintly.” The man responded. “That must have taken a toll on your patience. Don’t you ever get pissed at him?”

“I’d rather not get too emotional about it.” Kouji answered. “I believe in his strength, his potential. And so, I too, want to believe that I can…”

“…I see. That’s admirable of you, but still, I do think of you being… Too nice? Yeah, I guess that’s it.”

“Too nice, huh…”

“Yep. …or so I said, but my son is kinda like that too! Can’t leave a troubled person on their own! What was I thinking again, lecturing others for being too nice? Hahahah!”

“Ahahah, but I must say, that’s a good mentality for him to have.”

“I’m positive, he must’ve gotten it from his mother and grandma.” The coach nodded somewhat proudly.

“—1000…! Alright!” Mei said. “Sir, I have finished my set!”

“Oh, you’re done? Good work, good work.”

“Then I can— …huh? Where’s Jack?”

“He left earlier.” Kouji sighed.

“Tch… That guy… I haven’t even sparred with him recently.”

“Wait, really? Hmm…” the man pondered. “In that case… Ralf, are you done resting? Can you spar with Mei?”

“Eh?” Ralf raised his face upon being addressed. “I don’t really mind, but…”

“But what?”

“No, I mean, will it be enough, training against me?”

“Naah, it’s OK. Don’t worry about that.”

Mei accepted the coach’s suggestion and raised her wolf teeth mace, pointing it at him.

“Truth be told, I’m curious about you too. Show me what you hide.”

“Alright then…! Let’s do our best!”

“Oh, in high spirits, aren’t you? Okay, get in position.”

With his order, Mei and Ralf immediately took some distance and readied their weapons.

“Ready…? Fight!!”

In a split second from his cue, both students are already engaged in a deadlock.

“So fast, yet strong…! But I won’t lose!”

“Likewise…!”

Leaving them to train, the man squatted and watched calmly once more.

“But, he’s really intriguing, isn’t he? That Ralf kid, I mean.”

“Ah, he certainly is.”

“Even though he’s classified as a B-class duelist, being able to stall Jack long enough, as well as his rapid growth lately… You sure the school didn’t make some mistake?”

“…I’m baffled about that too.”

“Seriously… And… The one in charge of him is…”

“It’s her.”

Kouji motioned towards the opposing side of the field, where a tall blonde girl observed Ralf’s sparring with a serious expression.

“Oh, yes, yes. Her… Samantha Baker, wasn’t it? You don’t seem to like her. You got some history?”

“Eh? Oh, no, it’s nothing like that. It’s just that she’s my fiercest rival, both in dueling and mentoring…”

“Aah, I see, I see… So I guess she doesn’t trust your faith in Jack, huh?”

“…unfortunately, yes.”

“I see… Well, I guess no matter where you are, problems are bound to show up. Just like the Atlantics.”

“Oh, speaking of which, is it about the nobles’ invasion few days ago?”

“Yeah, that one. Pretty ridiculous, huh? I know their school has that kind of tendency, but…”

“On the bright side, the students managed to repel them somehow. And considering the invader’s status, the like-minded nobility will think twice before pulling it again. …or so I heard.”

“You’re not wrong. The attackers claimed descent from the famed Charlemagne; at the very least, they have the skills to back it up. Of course, people will talk about it, especially when they got pushed back. …though, with some teaching staff’s help, to be honest.”

“Hee, I see…”

“…strange. That was exactly one point I hated about my alma mater, but now I become their opponent, I couldn’t help but to feel glad when I hear about it.”

“Ah, that’s right, you did mention about you attending Atlantic Academy before.” Kouji pointed out.

“How interesting.” The man finally grinned while still watching Mei and Ralf’s sparring. “When will we pay them another visit?”

“Hmm, normally it would be before summer.”

“Kaah, that long!? I can’t wait anymore!”

“It can’t be helped.” Kouji chuckled. “Oh, and still about the Atlantics, I heard they sent out some special invitations due to some of their students resigning.”

“Oh, right. That too. Invitations, huh… Hmm…”

———

“…!?”

“Huh, what’s the matter, Amakawa?” Walter asked

“I’m not sure, but suddenly I got a bad feeling…”

———

The next morning, a couple of familiar faces showed up early in the A-class.

“Looks like I’ll be in your care. Hope we can get along.”

“Oh, so you two got promoted.”

“Yeah. Better watch your back, Hrimgard, or we’ll steal the glory right in front of you.”

It seems like that the school has decided to grant Siegward and Masaki a promotion, partially due to the slight decrease in attendants.

“Hrimgard-kun sure is popular.” Minato laughed.

“…and what about the rest of us? Or Hunter?” Eurypha asked.

“Oh, don’t worry, Miss Hestianus. We too have no intentions to lose against you.” Siegward assured.

“Hmm… Is that so…?”

“So you are the ones who attacked Hunter and Hrimgard before… The whole Pacific debacle.” Carmen added.

“Um, yes. That was us.”

“And so the reason you didn’t came against us was something like… Hrimgard is more similar to you than Minato or the rest of us?”

“Eh, that’s just him, trying too hard to be dramatic. I simply thought there’s no way I can fight Amakawa head-on with you three around.”

“…Masaki, please.”

“…did she just count me among the three?” Ilma realized.

“Hmm, fair enough. Hearing your side of story, I kinda feel sorry for you now.”

“I know, right? I have to keep up with all that…”

The B-class newcomers sighed at the same time, though for different reasons.

‘Talk about complicated friendship…’ Sigulf thought.

“Now, now, no need to be so gloomy or edgy, since we became classmates.” Walter interjected. “If anything, this is calls for an afterschool party! Right Amakawa? Hrimgard?”

“…huh?”

“Eh? Oh, of course!”

“Wha— …well, I know he would be up for it.” Eurypha conceded.

“Isn’t it a bit too soon?” Yuu asked. “But, well, I see no harm in it. Are you going, Sig-kun?”

“Well, as long as I done my Council duties first.”

“Oh, sure. Or was it more like the chance to—“

“Oi, I do my job seriously too, you know?”

“Hm? Wait, what about me? Why don’t you ask about me?” Alba suddenly asked.

“Eh? If it’s you, Alba-san, as long as there is food, you will come, right?”

“You… …w, well, you’re right, though.”

“It won’t be the usual you without scarfing down a whole munchy box.” Sigulf nodded.

“Hey, hey, I needed the ener— Waah!? Wait, what are you doing?”

“Oh, sorry! Didn’t mean to surprise you.” Carmen apologized while holding Alba’s sides. “I’m envious, to be honest. How can you keep such slender figure? Is your training really that rigorous?”

“Eh? Umm, I guess?”

“…wow, scary. So she took it like normal practice routine. Hmm…”

“No, no, looking at her, even I found it mysterious too…” Sigulf pointed.

“What do you mean by that!?”

“Rosales-san, are you concerned with your… Umm, body?” Minato asked.

“Duh, of course. It’s normal to be a bit self-conscious, isn’t it?”

“Eh? But you are already charming enough to me.”

Almost immediately, Minato regretted his natural honesty.

“Mi, Minato…”

“Ah, n, no, I mean—“

“T, there’s no other way to interpret it, is it there!?” Eurypha retorted. “N, no flirting allowed!”

“Aah, that reminds me, I haven’t demanded a compensation for your indecency…” Ilma joined.

“Oh, come on! What’s with you two!?”

“…are they always like that?” Masaki asked in a whisper.

“Welcome to class A. You’ll get used to it.” Sigulf answered.

 

Part 8

Spoiler

With things seemingly finally settling down, school life at Atlantic goes on as normal. And so, a couple of days later, on a calm afternoon in the council room…

“…so Fukube joined us as another info seeker? I’m actually surprised she accepted.”

“Yes. Considering her skills as a shinobi, I believe it would suit her well. Not to mention Laine and Lindorm looks pretty happy too.”

“Lindorm’s alright, but as for Laine, isn’t it because so she can slack off a bit?”

“Ahahah, that’s just like her…”

Sigulf chatted with both Celina and Chelsea during their daily paperwork.

“How about Heidenreich? Did he…?”

“No, he predictably refused, preferring to use his time to train.”

“Reminds me of someone I know well…” Sigulf quipped.

“Sheesh, even his reasoning is so similar. He’s so into defeating you…” Chelsea sighed. “…wait a minute. He… I, into Sigulf? O, oh my…!”

“…Chel, focus.”

“O, oh, my bad! I got carried away there, ohohohohoho~”

“…what was going on your mind, anyway?”

Sighing, Sigulf put his attention back on one of the papers.

‘Looks like the autumn event will be alright, despite the previous paladin incident.’

“Hm? What’s the matter, Sigulf?”

“You know, I kinda thought we don’t really practice tag duels in class, do we?”

“Oh, well… It can’t really be helped. Our school’s main and basic curriculum is about the singles after all.”

“I guess so… But still…”

“Do you have something on your mind?”

“Eh, no, nothing much. But maybe like—“

“Does it have something to do with living together?”

“…eh?”

“Ah, now that you mentioned it—“

Celina’s reaction made Chelsea nearly faceplanted instead.

“Hold on, were you seriously considering that!?”

“E, eh? Is that any problem with it? I mean, if it’s to strengthen the bond between partners—“

“Cel. Boys and girls. Living together. Under one roof. On the same room”

“Boys—“

For a moment Celina’s cheeks went red.

“W, wait a minute! Nobody said about that! Or why should it be a boy-girl pair!?”

“…eh? Ah…”

Now is Chelsea’s turn to panic, making Celina and Sigulf suspicious.

‘…did she think I bring it up on purpose?’ Sigulf thought. ‘If anything, I became curiou— W, wait, no, that’s not good either!’

“W, well, okay, maybe you, or anyone else in this room, won’t. But what if some other pair does? I, I mean, when a boy and a girl got into a room, especially lovers, they w—“

“E, even so, that’s not our business, is it!?”

“M, maybe, but…!”

Even Sigulf, who stay mostly quiet, got embarrassed.

‘W, what are they talking about!?’

“E, enough!” Celina finally said. “Why are we talking about this!? Let’s go back to finish our papers!”

“R, right! That would be wise!” Sigulf agreed.

As hard as it may be, all three forced themselves to regain their composure and resumed their council duty.

‘…but, sharing a room, huh?’

Sigulf’s fingers didn’t stop typing on the keyboard.

‘The school would’ve done so from the first day if they allow it. Not to mention our dorm is so big, it could give every student their own room anyway…’

Having managed to calm down somehow, Sigulf huffed and continued working.

———

Later that night, Sigulf wasn’t feeling particularly sleepy, so he decided to kill some time by watching TV while drinking some milk tea.

‘Hmm, not bad, but as expected, I can’t replicate the one Celina made yet.’

The sudden ringing from his phone pulled his attention away from the animal documentary he’s watching.

‘Who could it— Wait, Celina?’

Sigulf immediately answered.

“H, hello?”

‘Shit, what am I being nervous for!?’

“Oh, hello. I hope I don’t disturb you?”

“Ah, no, no, it’s alright. I was just relaxing.”

“I see. That’s good to hear.”

“So, uhh, what is it?”

“Oh right! I almost forgot. So, umm, thank you for the hard work. And…”

“Eh? Ah, um, you’re welcome…”

‘She hesitates? What could it be?’

“I know this is a bit sudden and we have the usual practice, but… Are you free tomorrow afternoon?”

“…eh?”

‘W, w, w, wait! Isn’t this—!?’

“And yes, before you ask, you could say that this is a… D, date invitation.”

“…!!”

If it was somewhere else, Sigulf would have shouted his lungs out.

“Sure, let’s go!”

“Thank you…!” Sigulf could hear her sounding somewhat happier. “So, we’ll meet at the station at 10, and… Oh, try not to eat too much after practice, okay?”

“Eh? Oh, okay, I’ll keep that in mind.”

‘Station? Don’t eat too much? Are we eating somewhere?’

“Ufufu, I actually just wanted to celebrate our first fight as Raven Banner.”

“Aah, I see, I see. Now that you mentioned it…”

“Yes, I think it needs some sort of commemoration.” She chuckled.

“Well, then I would be happy to accompany you.”

“I’m glad that you accepted. So… Since I have to prepare a bit, see you tomorrow, then.”

“Yeah…! Good night!”

“Good night, and sleep well.”

Sigulf stared at his phone’s screen after she hung up.

‘Sleep well, huh…’

He lets himself falls face-first to the bed.

‘But I’m too excited now! How am I supposed to sleep tonight? Aaaaaaah…!’

———

And so, the next morning, during their tag duel training…

“Raaah!!”

“Kh…!!”

Alba has to braced herself more than usual, due to the unexpected spike in Sigulf’s strength.

“…what’s gotten into you? I thought you’re supposed to be drowsy?”

“Heheh…!”

“But since you’re focused to Alba, then—!”

“I won’t let you!”

“Whoa…!”

Chelsea was about to ambush the blade-locked Sigulf when Celina suddenly dived with her great spear and interrupted her.

“Aww, Cel, would let me pass and take on Sigulf this time, please?”

“Oh, if that’s what you wanted, then sure.”

“Eh, really? Yaa— Waaah!?”

To her surprise, Sigulf has already disengaged Alba and blitzed all the way back to strike Chelsea.

“As expected, a tough defense…!”

“Cel, why you…!”

“Ufufu, sorry, but I’m—”

Swinging her spear behind, Celina blocked Alba’s incoming attack without even looking.

“—a bit busy here.”

“Tch, are you kidding me…?”

Even so, at this point, the 1st-years have grown enough to get accustomed with fighting against their seniors.

‘Alright…! I can’t feel even better than this today!’ Sigulf thought.

“Let’s go, Fenrir! It’s time to hunt!”

———

As per Celina’s advice, Sigulf only ate a bit during post-practice breakfast, though it did made Chelsea worry.

“Wait, will you be fine like that? You are not on a diet, are you?”

“Umm, no. Why would I?”

“Eh? If you’re not eating, then I’ll have that—“

“Oi, nobody said I’m not! I just feel like snacking!”

“Sheesh, will that even be enou— Wait, Alba, why are you ignoring your salad?”

“Geh…! Oh come on, it’s fine once in a while, isn’t it?”

Celina merely giggled at their interaction.

———

Few hours later, obviously after taking a nice bath and getting dressed, Sigulf waits for Celina, sitting on a bench near the Ocean Liner’s station.

‘Aah, she’s the one who invited, but I’m still nervous all the same…! Does this mean that she likes me? Wait, wait, wait! It could be the other way around; she asked for a date in order to know me more! Uuugh, what should I— …oh, right, I haven’t even see my Master—‘

“Sigulf?”

‘…ah, here she is.’

He instantly stood up, still struggling to calm down.

“Ufufu, sorry. Did I make you wait?”

“Ah, no, not at all. It’s fine.”

“Glad to hear that.”

Sigulf took a better look at her outfit; an ensemble of long-sleeved white blouse and a high-waist blue skirt.

‘She’s so cute…!’ he thought, and instinctively covered his mouth.

“H, hey now, if you stare like that…”

“Ah, s, sorry! It’s just… Those look very good on you…”

“Th, thank you…”

‘The least I can do is being truthful to the maiden…!’

Looking down further, her belongings caught his attention next.

“Is that…”

“Oh, yes. I made lunch.” She smiled while raising the basket. “Well, it’s mostly beef Wellington, with mashed potatoes, smoked asparagus, and mixed vegetables as side-dishes…”

“Aah, I see. So that’s how it is…”

“Good thing we didn’t eat much before, right?”

“Well, kind of… But why didn’t you tell me?”

“Eh? What do you mean?”

“It doesn’t feel fair you cook all that for me, and I bring nothing in return. I mean, I can’t cook that much, but at least I can make some baked cod, pancakes… Or even a cocoa soup.”

“O, oh, sorry. I wanted to surprise you, that I— Wait a minute, cocoa soup?”

“Yup. Sounds good, huh? It’s one of my favorites. Soo, should we save it for next time?”

“I would love to!”

“Hahaha, well, next time it is.”

Sigulf can’t help but to smile at her enthusiasm.

‘…wait, did we just agreed on another date?’

Getting embarrassed again, Sigulf and Celina entered the station.

“Oh, let me carry those.”

“Ah, thank you, but I’m fine.”

“I, umm… I insist. I didn’t get to prepare anything today, so…”

“Well, if you say so.” Celina giggled. “I’ll take up on your words.”

She gave the basket and picnic blanket, continuing, “A gentleman, aren’t you?”

“E, eh!? N, no, I’m not!”

“Wait, why are you getting flustered at that?” she laughed.

“I’m a raider in wolf’s pelt, remember? There’s no way I—“

“Oh, you. Those two aren’t necessarily mutually exclusive, you know.”

Sigulf can only scratch his own cheek while her laughter calmed down.

‘Uuu…’

Not long after, their sea-crossing train came; it was smaller, definitely different from the one used to connect the Academy and the Europe.

“Alright, here it is. Let’s go, Sigulf.”

“Yeah.”

Just as he sat down, Sigulf finally realized something.

‘Where are we going, anyway? Ah, well…’

 

Part 9

Spoiler

Less than half an hour of the Liner’s smooth cruise, Sigulf and Celina finally stepped out into the station.

“This place is…”

“Looks nice, isn’t it? From what I know, this island is run and managed by the Academy committee. Think of it as an island-wide public park.”

“It’s certainly nice. Looks perfect for picnic. It’s just…”

“Hm?”

“It’s much less crowded than I thought.”

“Ahahah… Well, people prefer to spend their day off either on our entertainment square, or go all the way to Europe’s mainland.” Celina laughed wryly. “Not to mention you are not allowed to draw your Arms here.”

“Eh, really? I thought people might practice here.”

“They are worried the landscape might get damaged from the intense training.”

“Oh, that makes sense. But… Then again, we are here to relax in the first place.”

“You’re right.” She smiled. “Then, let’s look for a good place, shall we?”

“Sure!”

———

They decided a spot upon a hill where a large oak tree stood nearby and laid the blanket there.

“And here it is, Celina’s special beef Wellington! Don’t forget to try the asparagus and potato too!”

“Whoa, every one of them looks delicious.”

“Fufu, feel free to help yourself.”

“Well then, I’ll take your offer…”

Taking a piece, Sigulf then cut the food smaller before munching it.

‘Mmm! This is so good! Even the vegetables too! As expected from her!’

Celina’s chuckling made him stop and carefully swallow down the beef.

“What is it?”

“It’s amusing to see you eat happily like that.”

“Ah… That reminds me, I said something similar to you before.”

“Ufufu, you certainly did. I guess both of us gets to be more honest with the help of some good food.”

“Ahaha, can’t really deny that…”

Celina poured some milk tea before offering it.

“Would you care fore some?”

“Oh, sure.”

Sigulf took the cup and slowly drank it.

‘Ahh, this mild sweetness… So calming…’

For a while, Sigulf and Celina enjoyed their early lunch.

‘…hn?’

The combination of good food, warm tea, and gentle breeze, however, was so comforting that he inadvertently yawned.

“…ah, sorry.”

“Oh my, ufufu. Are you sleepy? Then…”

Celina looked for something inside the basket and took out a small cushion.

“You’re well prepared, huh?”

“I thought something like this might happen.” She giggled while handing it over.

“Eh? Is it really alright? I kinda feel bad…”

“No, I don’t mind. Isn’t it one of the points, after all? To relax and get some rest.”

“Well, if you say so… Then excuse me for a short nap…”

“Alright, ufufu. Sleep well.”

As soon as Sigulf lay down though…

“…hm?”

“Eh? Is something wrong? You looked so serious.”

“No, it’s just that I feel like I forgotten something important… Was it an important event?”

“Event? Hmm… I couldn’t think of any international holiday for this day…”

“Yeah, that’s the problem, but I couldn’t shake off the feeling…”

‘What is it anyway? …oh, well.’

His eyes felt heavy, and Sigulf soon drifts into sleep.

———

“…ngh?”

For some reason, Sigulf felt warmer all over, making him slowly stir up from his short slumber.

‘So comfy… How long did I— Eh?’

Something lightly holding him back from waking, so he has to raise his head a bit.

‘What is— Eh!?’

“…mmh.”

Celina, seemingly has fallen asleep as well, unknowingly circled her hand around his waist.

“…!?”

‘What is this situation!? C, calm down, it’s not on purpose…!’

Thankfully, she’s not actually hugging him. Sigulf gently moved her hand away as not to wake Celina up before sitting upright.

“Haah…! This is too much for my heart…!’

He took a glance upon her peaceful sleeping face.

‘…so cute.’

“Nnh… Sigulf…”

‘Ah, she said my name…! What kind—‘

“Focus…”

‘…of course she would dream about training. It’s just so her…’

Even so, Sigulf couldn’t help but to smile.

‘I know that upon entering this island, I smell no danger, but…’

He took off his jacket and laid it upon her as a makeshift blanket.

“You’re too defenseless sometimes, Celina…”

Seeing her snuggling comfortably somehow relieves him.

“…now, what should I do while waiting for her to wake up? Maybe I’ll have some more tea…”

———

“Nnh… Sigulf…?”

“Oh, hey. Good morning. Though it’s way past morning now, I guess…”

Celina slowly rose up, still rubbing her eye.

“My bad, I must have fallen asleep… Even though I’m the one inviting you here…”

“No, it’s alright. You must be tired too.”

“Fufu, I guess so. …hm? Ah, this is—”

“Oh yeah, it’s mine.”

She finally recognized Sigulf’s jacket before handing it back to him.

“…t, thank you.”

“Don’t mention it. So, uhh… Want some tea?”

“Ufufu, yes, please.”

———

Finally finishing all their food, Sigulf and Celina packed up, and rode the train back home to Academy. Along the way, they sat side by side and chatted happily.

“I’m surprised you could finish them all.”

“Ahahah, they were too good, I couldn’t help myself.”

“But I guess it’s a good thing to know. That means it was worth all the effort to make it.”

“Thank you. It definitely is.”

“My pleasure!”

Almost half an hour later, and they made it back safely.

“It’s almost 2,” Sigulf checked his clock. “And we still have the rest of the day, but…”

“I guess it’s the end of our picnic today.”

“Yeah, I suppose so.”

The two shared a chuckle.

“So, um, thank you for today, Celina. It was very nice of you.”

“Oh please, don’t mention it. It was a good motivation and reward for both of us, after all. Either individually or as the Raven Banner.”

“Motivation and reward, huh… I kinda get that.”

“Yes, and…”

Celina hesitated and went slightly red.

“About next time… For the cocoa soup…”

‘Ah, so she’s—‘

“I’m looking forward to it.”

“Sure, leave it to me! …but when?”

“Now that you mentioned it…” Celina said, slightly widening her eyes. “Hmm, I wonder if there’s any— …oh, right. I believe end of the month will be alright.”

“End of this month? What is— …ah. Aah, I see. ‘That’.”

“Ufufu, good that you remember. Exactly, ‘that’.”

Sigulf can only gave out a bitter laugh.

‘Mid-terms…’

“Now that we have set another goal, let us make sure so that we will perform well on the mid-terms. And then…”

“Yeah, it’s cod and cocoa time!”

“Oh, I see you’re having fun. Care if I join?”

“Whoa!?”

Sigulf nearly jumped at the sudden intrusion.

“Wait, Master?”

“Miss Hrimgard!”

“Don’t forget me!”

“…why must I come along?”

It turned out that Vigdis, Melanie, and a reluctant Eliot was waiting for them at the gate.

‘Ack, this is gonna be long…!’ Sigulf thought.

“Heya, Cel! Aaand… Sheesh, where were you, lad? I was looking for you, only to find out you weren’t even at your room!”

“Well, that’s… Yeah, I admit I forgot to contact you, but why didn’t you call?”

“…ah.”

Sigulf and Eliot sighed at the same time.

“W, well, that’s beside the point! Sooo, did you have fun?”

“Err…”

“No matter how you look at it, it’s clear that you two went on a date, right?” Melanie added.

Their teasing made the younger pair blush.

“Hee, so you finally asked her out, huh? Not bad! As long as you don’t forget to train, that is!”

“Um, actually, I was the one who asked him out.”

“”…eh?””

In front of the surprised Vigdis and Melanie, despite her rosy cheeks, Celina managed to keep her poise for some reason.

“I asked him out to celebrate our first outing as the Raven Banner; specifically during the fight against the Rhine Paladins. And… This is just my view, but I believe we did well, so there’s the aspect of reward too.”

“Hmm, I see, I see…” Eliot noted calmly. “Fair enough.”

Despite that, Vigdis was anything but calm; she grabbed Sigulf and shook him out of happiness.

“Sigulf aaaaaaaaaaaa—“

“M, Master!? Calm down!”

“Shush, Viggy. You are making a scene.” Melanie assisted.

“Oops, sorry! I was overcome with happiness, hehehe~”

“So you’re doing it as a way to strengthen your teamwork.” Eliot continued, seemingly ignoring Vigdis and Melanie. “Well, that might work.”

“Boo, boo! You’re not romantic at all!” Vigdis protested.

“…what do you expect me to say?”

Their comical back and forth earned chuckles from Sigulf and Celina.

“Putting that aside… Bartram, the Council’s program for this year is to hold a tag duel tournament as the main event, right?”

Celina was slightly surprised by his question, but she answered nonetheless.

“It is, Sir. Is there any problem?”

“Not at all... I just wanted to ask… Are you really serious about this?”

Another short pause. But this time…

There was no doubt. Her eyes were unwavering.

“Absolutely.”

Satisfied, Eliot lets out a smile.

“Looks like there’s nothing more to be asked.”

“Eh? Eh? What is it?”

“Hmm, I’m guessing he’ll modify class material to accommodate for that.” Melanie tried to explain to a confused Vigdis.

“Ah, I see… Curriculum and other boring stuffs….”

“…I am a teacher. That’s a part of my job.” He sighed in exasperation.

“Oh, so we’ll have more lessons about tag dueling?” Sigulf finally spoke.

“If I can finish it earlier, then maybe. And that’s more the reason for me to go back.”

“Eeeh, already? Elly, you’re not fun…”

“Would you pester your disciple all day long? Come on.”

“Fiiine…”

Vigdis finally conceded, and Sigulf exhaled out of relief.

“Not so fast, young man! Whenever I have the chance, I’m going to ask you every detail!”

“…what detail? I don’t think there’s more to be told…”

“Well then, catch you later, you two!” Melanie said. “Stay safe, and ‘be safe’!”

“…w, what? What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Ah, right, I almost forgot.” Eliot remembered. “Bartram, Hrimgard, one last thing.”

“Yes?”

“Are you sure you two aren’t seeing each other?”

“E, eh!?”

“I thought you aren’t interested in this!?”

“Now, now, don’t be so snappy towards your homeroom teacher.” He dismissed. “See you later in class.”

The old schoolmates finally left, leaving a tired Sigulf and Celina who can only laugh wryly.

“Lively as always…”

“Yeah, seriously…”

Even so, both of them can go home feeling fulfilled.

 

Part 10

Spoiler

Sunday morning. Today, the group decided to do some singles practice.

“Ooohh!!”

“Deeyah!!”

As it appears, Sigulf get to spar with Alba.

“Rrgh…!”

Being almost evenly matched, they engaged in a deadlock.

“Seriously, how can a guy who prioritizes a date came this far?”

“Wha—!? What’s that— Whoa!”

If not for his agility, her sudden attack would have struck him clean.

“…was that on purpose?”

“Ah, so you noticed?”

“You… You know what, that’s actually a good distraction tactic.”

“I know, right?”

“Yeah, hehehe…”

“Wahahahahah!”

“…what are they doing?” Chelsea commented.

As if to answer her question, Sigulf and Alba bashed their blades against each other in the blink of an eye.

“Not fast enough.” She smirked.

“And you’re not strong enough.”

Celina, meanwhile, was content with observing their practice.

“Hmm, would her tactic work in an actual fight?” she wondered aloud.

“Eeehh… Maybe if the opponent is hotheaded enough…?”

———

The day passed peacefully, and Monday comes rolling in.

“Good morning.”

“Good m— …hmph!”

“…what?”

Upon realizing it was Sigulf, though, Yuu turned away in apparent annoyance.

“Let me guess, is it about Celina and me…?”

Yuu glanced at him and finally dropped the act.

“Well, of course. The news would make the rounds eventually.”

Sigulf can only sigh.

“Hey, hey, shouldn’t you be happier? You get to be close with the school’s top girl, you know?”

“Stop poking my arm… And what about you? Did you really lose your fans because of Smirnov?”

“Eh, well… Partially, it is.”

“Oh? Then there’s another?”

“Hmm… I guess I’m not telling you.”

“…huh? What’s that supposed to mean? Even though you know about my problems…”

“Hehe, sorry, sorry. Want to take a guess?”

“Uhh… You actually began training with Amakawa’s group? So you don’t have time with your fans anymore?”

“What, so you knew after all…”

“Eh, half guess, half deduction. I mean, if you rejected Celina’s offer— Come to think of it, I’m surprised you actually did.”

“Oh, that? I was being considerate, actually.” Yuu grinned.

“Wait, really!?”

“Well, kind of.”

“Uh, thank you, I guess…?”

“You’re welcome. That, and… Our skill is closer to each other than to Council’s top two. Slower but safer.”

“Oh, right. That actually made some sense.”

“It is. If anything, the fact you keep up with her training… I thought you get thrashed every time?”

“Initially, yeah. But hey, I do grow from the experience.”

“…Sig-kun, are you a masochist?”

“I’m not…”

———

Eliot entered the class after the bell rang. Addressing them, he introduced a few more newcomers, presumably from the special invitations, before getting into the main topic.

“I’m sure you all already know, but as a friendly reminder, take note that we will have our midterms at the end of the month.”

Predictably, most students began talking among themselves.

‘The whole mess with the nobles made me almost forgot…’ Sigulf thought. ‘Good thing Celina brought that up.’

“Sir.”

“Yes, Amakawa? Is it about the exams?”

“Um, yes. Would you mind sharing it with us? Not the written one, I mean.”

“Hmm, well, it’s not a confidential issue, so I don’t mind. Nothing special; just the standard, singles match among any two of you.”

Now the students gave him full attention.

“So, winning would contribute additional points?”

“Oh, obviously. But remember that it’s not the absolute everything. You might obtain higher grades from losing a well-fought duel than winning a lousy one. Try to do both.”

“I see…”

“That said, considering the recent interest in tag duels, I’ve been considering changing things up a bit. For starters, we’ll have tag lessons for today’s afternoon class. And maybe more in the future, without forgetting normal duels.”

Save for Sigulf and few others, the rest of the class were rather surprised.

“Ah, so that’s why he asked Celina about the event…”

“But, changing things up, huh? Does that mean we’ll have a tag duel for our exams instead?” Walter asked. “Or a battle royale, even!?”

“That seems more suitable for our finals, but interesting idea you have there, Armstrong.” Eliot responded.

“Wait, for real?”

“If the Principal approves, that is. Maybe some of you consider a battle royale doesn’t make sense for duelists, but think about it. All those running and continuous fighting is a good way to test and build your stamina, don’t you agree?”

‘…he’s not exactly wrong, but it doesn’t sound exciting when he put it like that.’

———

And so, during the day’s second half after lunch…

“Alright, everyone. Time to get paired and warm up. I give you 10 minutes before the mock duel. Good enough?”

At Eliot’s cue, everyone began to look for sparring partners.

“Guess I’ll just— Wait, where’s Yuu?”

Turns out the smaller boy had already gone to Minato’s group.

“…”

“Pfft, got abandoned by your bestie?”

“…and how about you?” Sigulf asked the approaching Alba.

“I could pair with anyone if I wanted to, but seeing you being so lonely, I guess I don’t mind lending a hand~”

“Okay, but what’s your actual reason?”

“…damn you. You do know well all three of us usually stick together.”

‘She didn’t even mention Arthfael? I kinda feel bad…’

“Well… It’s fine, isn’t it? Gallowglass hasn’t seen some action in a while, after all.”

“Heheh, damn right! So, any ideas who will we be facing?”

“Let’s see…”

“Mind if we volunteer?”

“Hm? Oh…”

Sigulf glanced towards the Siegward-Masaki pair.

“Ah, it’s you two.” Alba recognized. “Fukube and, umm… Heidi?”

“Wha—“

“…excuse me?”

Sigulf and Masaki tried to contain their laughter, while Siegward widened his eyes in disbelief.

“Hey, I can’t call you ‘Sieggy’, alright? One Siggy is enough.”

“Even so—“

“No need to be so upset, it’s just a rather cute nickname. Right, Heidi?” Masaki grinned.

“…I’ll get back to you one way or another.”

‘These two are good friends, yup.’ Sigulf noted.

———

After the 10 minute mark, everyone was very eager to fight. Eliot then chose random two pairs to demonstrate. However…

“Aw man, after all that and we didn’t get to fight…”

“It can’t be helped. Let’s just observe for now.”

Standing at the sidelines, Sigulf and Alba watched while Siegward and Masaki made their way.

“It’s our A-class debut, huh? Then let’s make it a memorable one. Don’t fall behind.”

“You don’t have to tell me that.”

The two faced off against their would-be opponents, full of determination.

———

The match was closer than initially thought, but the combination of Masaki’s trickeries and Siegward’s brute strength carried them on.

“That’s enough! Winner, team Nightshade, Siegward Heidenreich and Masaki Fukube!” Eliot declared.

“Phew… We did it. And I’m surprised you actually thought of a name.”

“What, I thought that was more your thing? You know, your whole trying too hard to be cool.”

“…theatrics, Masaki. It’s important.”

“Yeah, yeah…”

The winners returned after their post-match handshake earned the others’ applause.

“They are not half bad.” Yuu commented.

“Oh, you’re back.”

“Hey, Sig-kun! …you aren’t mad, are you?”

“Eh, less mad, and more… Well, you seriously have some business with their bunch, huh?”

“Eheheh, something like that.”

“I see… Good luck with that.”

“Oh? Coming from you, that sounds surprisingly sincere.”

“…what did you expect me to say?”

Yuu merely laughed it off.

“Hrimgard.”

“Hm? Oh, yo.”

The Nightshade pair approached them.

“We’ll get stronger, so you better prepare yourself.”

Sigulf knew Siegward would say something along that line, but before he got any chance to respond…

“Interesting. But unfortunately, I am the one who will take him down.”

Arthfael interrupted and stepped in.

“You…”

“The latest Penndreic heir, a knight in training. And just like you—“

“Wields a sacred weapon instead of blessed by the spirit itself.”

“Ah, so you knew. Exactly; the Caledfwlch in my case.”

“Hmph…”

The two got into a staredown and attracted the class’ attention.

“Ooh, what is this, what is this?” Yuu wondered in slight amazement.

“That idiot is too belligerent for his own good…” Masaki sighed.

“Now hold on a sec!” Alba suddenly shouted. “How dare you taking me out of the equation!”

Arthfael blinked before wearing an apologetic expression.

“My bad, but that wasn’t my—“

“I’m not interested.”

Siegward’s curt answer was all she needed to shot him back a dangerous grin.

“You got guts.”

‘Ah, it’s been a while since she looks like that.’ Sigulf thought.

“My zweihander shall surpass your claymore.”

The tension rose even further, and another group’s dissatisfaction only added fuel.

“Um, hello? Excuse me?” Carmen called out. “Don’t you even try to forget that Minato and I are still here. Oh, and maybe these two too.”

“Don’t treat us like some extra!” Eurypha screeched.

Siegward glanced and gave them a dismissive look.

“Hmph, bourgeois.”

““Wha—“”

“…don’t put me on the same page as them.” Ilma growled.

All of them ended up busy arguing on who’s the stronger fighter.

“Don’t you have anything to say, Sig-kun?”

“Eh, I don’t feel like it. Besides, if they end up fighting, that’s another opportunity for me to study their styles.”

“Uwah, talk about sneaky. Bartram-senpai will be disappointed, you know?”

“…pretty sure she won’t.”

“And you!” Alba pointed back at Sigulf. “Don’t act like you aren’t involved!”

“Oops, I got found out.”

 

Part 11

Spoiler

During the week, everyone gave their best during practice, whether it’s for singles or tag duel. It looks like all the students are well prepared for the upcoming midterms.

…or so it seems.

———

Saturday afternoon, Sigulf’s room.

“Uuugh…”

“…so?”

After Chelsea came up with the idea during one of their post-council teatime, Celina agreed to do a group study session for the exams. As expected, Sigulf gladly tags along. However…

“Gaaah, I don’t get it! Why do we have written tests in the first place!? I thought we are duelists!?”

“Oi, oi, isn’t it too soon to give up?”

Turns out it was Alba who has problem with her studies, and Chelsea wanted to help her out.

“Mm, I feel you. It’s totally pointless and irrelevant.”

“…Master, don’t encourage her.”

And yet for some reason, Vigdis is with them.

‘More importantly, why my room of all places?’

Being the only male made him quite self-conscious.

“Do your best! You can do it!” Chelsea cheered.

“Augh… All this thinking made me hungry… Siggy, go cook something…”

“So that’s the reason!”

“Well, everyone knows you can cook.” Vigdis grinned. “Oh, by the way, I’d like some snack too.”

“Not now…” he sighed. “I’m working on a problem here.”

“Oh? You got a subject you’re bad at?”

“It’s math.” Celina clarified. “I’m tutoring him on it.”

“I suck at numerous numbers… I’d rather do history or language.”

“What, so Siggy’s not bright after all. Wahahahahah!”

“…I don’t want to hear that from you.”

“Fufu, now, now, let him finish first.”

“Seriously…”

Celina’s assist was well-appreciated by him. Sigulf immediately returned to concentrate.

“…hmm. This is… …alright, I think I’m done.”

“Let me see…”

She moved closer the check on his work.

‘Ah, she smells nice—‘

“Boy, don’t you dare play dumb so she can tutor you all the time.” Vigdis narrowed her eyes.

“Why would I!?”

“Suspicious…” Chelsea accused.

“Suspicious~” Alba echoed.

“…are you girls so hungry, you can’t think straight anymore?”

———

So they decided to take a short break, and Sigulf, with Celina’s help, made them some fish fingers and fried potatoes for snack.

“No more complains, alright?”

“Yeeesh~”

“Shush, Alba, don’t speak while you eat.”

Celina simply laughed at their interaction.

“You know, I’m actually surprised my boy managed to be fine outside of duels.” Vigdis said.

“Wha— So you didn’t believe me? I do pay attention in class; I don’t have the time to gaze wistfully at the cherry blossoms outside!”

“…who would even do that?”

“Um, Amakawa?” Alba guessed. “I mean, his seat is just right beside the window…”

Sigulf crossed his arms and began thinking.

“…somehow I can picture him doing that.”

“I know, right? For some reason, it fits.”

“What are you guys even talking about?” the older woman can’t help but to laugh.

———

Things calmed down minutes later, and the students put their focus back on studying. Even Alba who has begun to get the hang of it.

“Hmm, I see, I see…”

With Chelsea’s guidance, Alba made some progress.

“Hmm…”

Sigulf didn’t have as much difficulty and was content with Celina and Vigdis watching over him.

“Celina, about this part here…”

“Where, let me— Ah.”

She inadvertently knocked Sigulf’s eraser and it bounced under his bed.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to.”

“No, it’s fine. I can—“

Celina was too fast, however, and already searched under. That’s when Vigdis realized something.

“Err, son? You might don’t want her over there…”

“Eh? Why—“

She slides out not long after with his eraser… and something that looked like a wrapped magazine.

“Umm, is this yours?”

“Ah…”

‘Shit! That’s the magazine from Armstrong! I completely forgot about it…!’

“Ohoho, what’s this, what’s this?”

Chelsea was the first to react, followed by Alba.

“Uwaa, Siggy, you perv…”

“…do you even know what’s inside?”

“””It’s porn, right?”””

“…well, okay.”

“Caught red-handed, huh?” Vigdis said, looking a bit apologetic.

“If it’s even that…”

“Amateur.” Chelsea sighed. “Forget the wrapping, why didn’t you hide it somewhere less obvious?”

Sigulf blinked.

“I’ll give you that one about the hiding place, but I wouldn’t wrap something I bought for myself.”

“…what? Are you giving this to someone?”

“Uhh, no, it’s the other way around.”

Chelsea wasn’t convinced, so she turned to Vigdis.

“Yeah, it was a gift from his friend.” She defended.

“Hmm…”

“Seriously, you don’t even believe me?”

“But who would even do that? Nevermind that you didn’t throw this away…”

“Mm, is it Armstrong?” Celina suddenly guessed.

“Uh-huh.”

“Figures.“

“…him, huh. No surprises there.” Chelsea sighed. “And so! What should we do about this? Should we tear this open?”

“Shouldn’t we just return it to Sigulf?” Celina suggested. “It’s his anyway.”

“It’s— …well, yeah, it was given to me.”

“What, aren’t you curious?”

“Eh!? W, well…”

“…wait, why are you the one being flustered, Cel?”

“Forget about it;” Sigulf interrupted. “If it’s such a problem, why is it allowed in the first place?”

“Isn’t it obvious? It’s for some self-relief.”

“Self-rel—“

Sigulf, Celina, and Alba went red(der) due to understanding what Chelsea meant.

“W, what are you getting embarrassed for!? I’m getting embarrassed too!”

“Oh, you kids…!” Vigdis cackled at the sight. “You haven’t even opened the damn wrapping!”

“That doesn’t matter! If there’s no problem, then…!”

“Then what?”

“…on a second thought, you can keep it.”

“I don’t want to, though. I just want to mess with you.”

“But you are the one who’s actually curious with the contents, right?”

“This guy…”

Under the comical situation, Sigulf let out a triumphant grin.

“Both of you, enough. Shouldn’t we return to studying for the midterms?” Celina interrupted, sounding rather exasperated.

“You are not fun…” Chelsea complained… and tore the wrapping anyway.

“Waaaaaahh!”

“D, don’t suddenly scream! Sheesh, Alba, you haven’t even seen anything yet…”

Chelsea took a good look at the cover.

“Oh… Oooh…”

‘…dammit, Armstrong.’

Judging from the cover, it seems to be a magazine dedicated for those who have blonde fetish.

“…”

Chelsea glanced at the covergirl, then to Celina, and finally to Sigulf before narrowing her eyes.

“What?”

“I swear…”

She didn’t follow through, though.

“Huh, it’s less racy than I thought…” Alba muttered.

“Well, it’s just the cover. I mean, just look at this.”

“Waa…!”

“Whoa— Hey, what are you doing!?”

Sigulf was obviously more excited than Celina and Alba when Chelsea showed the contents, so Vigdis had to cover his eyes.

“It’s still too soon for you!”

“Huh? But what about them?”

“They are girls, looking at other girl’s body, so…”

“Ah, that makes sense.”

“You concede too fast…”

Meanwhile, the other three were busy looking at the pictures.

“I think this is the first time I read a lad magazine…” Celina mentioned.

“If it’s even th— Whoa, whoa, whoa.”

“W, why must she spread her legs like that!?” Alba screamed.

“S, spread what!?” Sigulf reacted.

“Oh shit, I can’t cover his ears!” Vigdis cursed.

“Oookay…” Chelsea finally closed the pages. “This is legit porn, not just a lad mag.”

“Uhh, so?”

Vigdis finally lets Sigulf go while Chelsea hands the magazine back.

“I’m not going to confiscate it, so here.”

“Oh, no need to be so reserved. You can have it.”

“Eeeh? I thought Armstrong gave it as a present for you?”

“Yeah, but feels like you enjoyed it more. You even opened it before me!”

“…Sigulf.”

“Allow me to be stubborn this time.”

“Ah-hem.” Celina cleared her throat. “Enough, you two. We will go back to study. And no buts, no if!”

Chelsea was about to protest. But she got immediately shut down.

“Aww, fine…”

“Oi, don’t just throw it back to my bed.”

———

All four managed to regain their composure somehow, and made it through the session.

“And I guess that’s all for today’s, and our first, group study.” Celina announced. “Good work, everyone.”

“Yaaay!” Chelsea cheered.

“Aah, my brain’s tired…” Alba rested her face on the table.

“Good job! I know you can do it!”

“O, oh, thanks…”

“Want another glass?” Sigulf offered some drinks.

“Gimme the cola.”

“Sure, help yourself.”

Alba took the half-full pet bottle for another serving, while the Council duo opted for apple juice.

“Hm? Where’s my—“

“Obviously, I have no beer, so here, have this barley tea instead.”

“Oh, come on!”

The girls laugh at Vigdis’ whining.

“So, what about tomorrow?” Sigulf asked. “Are we going to study again, or…?”

“Mm, I believe it’s better to give it a rest on the day before.” Celina answered. “So we’ll train like usual tomorrow morning.”

“Roger. Swinging my axes feels more natural to me.”

“Agreed…” Alba raised her hand. “I miss morning practice already…”

“You might still have to review a bit more, though.” Chelsea pointed out.

“I, I know…”

———

The three girls finally excused themselves, leaving Sigulf with his master.

“…”

Back in his room, Sigulf stared at the magazine left behind.

‘I swear, if anything bad happened, Armstrong got to—‘

“Oh, are you finally going to read that?” Vigdis teased.

“…no.”

 

Part 12

Spoiler

Sunday morning. One day just before the midterms, and Sigulf and co. had another go at mock dueling.

“…”

“Please don’t worry about me and carry on.”

“…why are you here?”

However, Victoria’s unexpected presence made Vigdis, who tagged along again, clearly irritated.

“I could ask you the same question, Master. I thought you have rehab?”

“Eeeh!? How mean! And here I am worrying about how my dear pupil's doing…”

“Err…”

“That would be my answer too. Just replace pupil with student.” Victoria clarified.

“Yeah, but must you be here too?”

“Considering that two of them are the Council’s top two,” she motioned towards the slightly cautious Celina and Chelsea. “One is an exceptional ghost member, and the other is among the most promising freshmen, I wouldn’t say I have no reason.”

“Huh? Is she talking about me?” Alba pointed at herself.

“Seems so. Good for you, huh?”

“Heheh… I see…!”

“Besides…”

Victoria then punched the empty air blindingly fast.

“It’s been a while since the last time I went to train this early.”

“Uuugh…”

“Now, now, let’s not try to start a fight with her.” Melanie pats Vigdis’ shoulder to calm her.

“But…!”

“Relax. Unless it’s really necessary, I won’t take a… hands-on approach.”

‘Oh, boy…’

“…Sigulf, focus.” Celina chastised.

“Ah, sorry…”

‘She sounded kind of upset…’

“Fufufu, what’s that? Do you need some personal coaching, after all?”

“Eh!? Err…”

“E, enough! I can’t just stand by—”

“If you really want to fight her, you’d better heal your legs first.” Eliot sighed.

“U…”

“Thank you for your concern, but…!”

Celina suddenly slammed her spear to the ground, surprising Sigulf.

“I have prepared our own harsh regiment for the upcoming mid-terms, so I believe we’ll be doing fine.”

“Ah, is that so? That’s good to hear.”

‘…yeah, she’s rather—‘

“And Sigulf!” she then pointed the Badb towards him. “This is no time to dawdle; we are going all out! Are you clear!?”

“Y, yes, Ma’am!”

Alba glanced at Sigulf and gave him a smug grin.

“Good luck. Don’t get yourself killed.”

“…I won’t.”

———

Midday. By some luck, Sigulf survived his morning practice and it didn’t devolve further into another squabble with Victoria. Looking for a change of pace, he decided to have lunch outside.

“…”

“No need to be so reserved. It’s on me.”

“Uhh, no, that’s not—“

However, he met Victoria again by chance and ends up getting invited.

‘…why can’t I say no to her? Master will be pissed if she finds out…’

“Great showing, by the way. You sure have grown enough to hold out against her.”

“Ah, thank you. But I still have to work more on it.”

“That’s good to hear. So, I assume you are ready for tomorrow?”

“Hopefully. Celina did tutor me for the written part.”

“Hmm, I see…”

Victoria’s expression became unreadable, making Sigulf a bit worried.

‘Did I say something wrong?’

“If you do well on the tests, you wouldn’t mind if I give some kind of reward, would you?”

“Oh, no, not at— Wait, what?”

“Ah, now that I think about it, it won’t be much of a motivation, I guess. I should have offered much earlier…”

“No, no, no! I mean, well, umm… Thanks for being considerate, but I’m good…“

“Oh? If you say so. But…”

She smiled suggestively at the boy.

“If you ever changed your mind, you know where to find me. I would be very pleased.”

“A… Ahahahahah…”

‘…is it alright for her to be that flirty!? And why am I rather happy about this!? I shouldn’t be!’

By the end of it, Sigulf was full from both food and embarrassment.

———

Late afternoon. Sigulf was about to rest when Walter, Minato, and Yuu unexpectedly showed up and invited him for a gathering.

“Video games? Well, I don’t have anything better to do, so count me in.”

Arthfael and Siegward joined them along the way and they all went into Walter’s room.

“Taking a break before the big day might be beneficial, but gaming… Will this be really fine?” Arthfael asked.

“It’s alright, it’s alright!” Walter assured. “It’s better to be stress-free before the test, right?”

“You got a point there…”

“Hmm? Where are the others?” Yuu looked around.

“What do you mean? It’s just us here.”

“Eeeh? So you didn’t invite any girls?”

“…dude, like they would just join a sausage party like this.”

“Well, then it’s more the reason to invite them in the first place, isn’t it?”

“Ugh… Then how about you do it now?”

“But aren’t you the party’s master?”

“Guys, enough.” Minato intervened. “Seriously, both of you…”

“Don’t you feel a bit lonely?”

“Eh? But there’s so many of us here.”

“…yeah, I forgot you’re that kind of guy.” Walter sighed. “So what are we going to play now?”

“How about this?”

Sigulf picked up a case and showed it to them. Apparently it was the same title he played at the game center.

“Whoa, so fast… Wait, I think I know this one.” Yuu said.

“Oh, you too? Yeah, it looks and plays well.” Walter added. “Never thought I would be serious on a Japanese fighting game—“

“Did you say fighting game!?” Siegward’s eyes suddenly lit up.

“Holy— Don’t suddenly shout like that!”

“Hrimgard! You and I, best of 3, now!” he continued and ignored Walter.

“Uhh, what?”

“Unfortunately, I cannot allow that.” Arthfael interrupted. “You’re not the only one who have some business with Hrimgard.”

“…huh? What would a knight like you have against a warrior?”

“I don’t think it’s out of the ordinary if I too hold something personal.”

‘…what’s with these two?’ Sigulf mentally groaned.

“Oi, oi, don’t act like we aren’t here!” Walter protested.

“Even I too can’t let that slide.” Yuu followed suit.

“…guys, can’t we just decide normally? This is just a game…” Minato sighed.

———

Before the night went too far, Sigulf excused himself earlier, though not without some objection.

“Damn you, Hrimgard! Are you running away!? One more match!” Siegward growled.

“…you said it earlier. And before that.”

“Eeh? This early?” Yuu sounded a bit disappointed.

“Uh-huh. Sleepy. Sorry about that.”

Giving them a wave, Sigulf exited the room and stretched his back a bit.

‘Well, it wasn’t bad at all… Now, let’s see…’

On the way back, a certain someone’s flowing blonde hair caught his eye.

“Ah…”

“…hm? Oh, hey.”

Returning her wave, Sigulf approached Celina.

“Out playing?” she asked.

“Eh, yeah. Played a game with the boys. Quite fun.”

“Ah, I see. Sounds like you had a good time.”

“Ahahah, kinda. How about you?”

“Hmm, nothing much. I decided just to have some rest.”

“Oh, yeah. Tomorrow is midterms, after all.” Sigulf responded before inadvertently yawning. “…my bad, that wasn’t—“

“Ah, no. It’s alright. Sorry for stopping you…”

Sigulf noticed that Celina slightly hesitates, which is rather unusual for her.

“What is it?”

“I…”

She shifted her position, looking for the right words.

“I was looking for you.”

“O, oh? I was at Lordshire for lunch—“

“Lordshire?”

“…ah.”

“Fu… Fufufu… I see…”

‘Shit! Why did I bring that up!?’

Though, to Sigulf’s relief, Celina instead tried to calm herself by taking a deep breath.

“Knowing her, I think I have an idea why and how…”

“A, ahahah…”

She sighed, still looking uncertain.

“…there something I need to talk about with you. Could you, please?”

“Eh? I don’t mind, though…?”

———

Sigulf skipped a beat when Celina invited him into her room.

‘U, uwaa… I think this is the first time I’m in a girls’ room…’ Sigulf nervously thought.

He observed the whole room from his seat.

‘It’s so tidy, and smells kinda nice… Well, I guess that’s expected from her.’

“Here you are.”

“Ah, thank you.”

Celina offered him a warm cup of milk tea, which he immediately sipped.

‘Ahh, good old milk tea. So comforting…’

“So, umm…”

“Oh, right, you wanted to talk.”

“Yes…”

Again, Celina fidgets in her seat.

‘I wonder what is it about— Wait, could it be…!?’

“Sigulf, I…”

“Y, yes?”

“I’m really sorry…!”

“…eh?”

“I know we should have practiced properly, but I let my emotions got the better of me and end up overdoing things, and—“

‘…ah, so that’s how it is. Still…’

“Wait, no. I don’t see why you should apologize. If anything it was I that… Well, getting distracted…”

“…you totally did.” Celina slightly sulked.

“Err…”

“Even so, that’s no reason to get je—“

“Je…?”

“…to let it get to myself.”

“I, I see…”

‘Celina… Could she be…’

“That’s why I—“

There’s no way Sigulf wouldn’t feel happy, but for the moment, he assured himself not to get too hopeful.

“Celina, wait. Let’s just forget it.”

“Eh!? But that doesn’t sit well with me!”

“Me neither. I wanted to apologize too, for not focusing properly. But if we keep on going on about this…”

“…it will never end.”

“Yeah, that. And to be honest, I’m sure it was a good workout for us too, so…”

“Alright, I understand what you are trying to say. No more of this topic.”

“No more.”

There was a short silence before the two finally broke into chuckles.

“Sheesh, what are we doing?” Celina asked.

“I wonder about that too.”

———

As much as he wanted to stay longer, Sigulf decided it’s time to leave in order to avoid unnecessary rumors.

“Good luck with your test.” Celina said. “And don’t forget to sleep properly.”

“Yeah, you too. Wait, do you even need it?”

“Hey, it doesn’t hurt to hear some encouraging words!”

“Hahah, I suppose so. Well, good night.”

“Good night. See you tomorrow.”

When the door closed before him, Sigulf lets out a sigh.

‘At least some things got cleared up. Next time, I have to be more resolute against the Principal. …hopefully.’

———

Not long after Sigulf left, Celina went back to her own bed.

“…”

She grabbed a pillow and hugged it close to her chest.

‘I know I did apologize, but I can’t help but to keep thinking about it…’

Celina recalled their morning practice.

‘Getting upset as he flustered around the Principal… How childish of myself… But…’

She clutched her pillow tighter.

‘I… Towards him…’

 

Part 13

Spoiler

The first day of midterms has finally arrived. Some students, Sigulf included, got into the class earlier.

“Morning… …wait, what’s with you guys?”

“Uugh…”

Yuu, Walter, and Siegward don’t look particularly energetic.

“I’m guessing they played until up late.” Arthfael sighed.

“Man, why must you bail earlier?” Walter protested.

“To avoid exactly this.”

‘Looks like I made the right call…’ Sigulf thought.

“Seeing Siggy being calm somehow pisses me off.” Alba joined.

“…what’s that supposed to mean? We did study together, so shouldn’t you be the same?”

“Oh, worry not. I’m sure I can handle the test just fine! …well, maybe. Ahahahahahah…”

“…that actually sounds kinda worrying.”

———

A couple of hours later, the class gave their collective sigh of relief when their written exam ends.

‘Well, that went smoother than expected. I have to thank Celina…’ Sigulf thought.

“Phew, it’s finally over…” Alba muttered. “I think I managed it, somehow.”

“Good work, Alba-san, Sig-kun.” Yuu added.

“Oh, hey.” Sigulf responded. “You look confident.”

“Hey, hey, being sleepy won’t really stop me, you know. I am smart, after all.”

“…is that really something you say yourself?”

“Alright, alright, no more talking about the test!” Walter announced. “Let’s go play somewhere!”

“Eh? But I thought we still have duel exams tomorrow?” Minato asked.

“It’ll be fine! A little break won’t hurt!”

“Hmm, but…”

“Fortunately for us,” Eurypha interrupted. “We still have Council duty after this, so no thanks.”

“Wait, seriously? Even during mid-terms?”

“We don’t goof around, duh.”

“Tch, oh well, guess we have to make do. Who’s still with me?”

Sigulf felt there’s no further need to pay attention, so he packed his belongings.

“Alba, Yuu. Catch you later.”

“Huh? Oh, sure. See ya tomorrow!” Alba waved.

“…he’s so eager to see Bartram-senpai.” Yuu snickered.

“Yeah, ridiculously easy to read.”

———

On his way to the Council room, Sigulf caught up with Celina.

“Ah, President. Good… Umm, morning?”

“Oh? Ufufu, good morning. What’s with the formality?”

“Ahahah… Well, I wanted to thank you for the study session.”

“I see it went well for you. Fufu, don’t mention it. But don’t you think it’s a bit too soon? We still have the duel exams tomorrow.”

“Eh, yeah, I guess so. But you did coach us too all this time, so…”

“Confident, aren’t you? Then let the results speak tomorrow.” She smiled.

“Right…!”

———

Due to the midterms, the Council had their work began, and end, earlier. Then again, their to-do list this week was less than normal.

“Sigulf, can you work on this part too?”

“Oh, sure. Leave it to me.”

Sigulf was typing leisurely when someone’s phone suddenly rang.

“Pardon me.” Celina apologized before checking the screen. “…the Principal? Yes, it’s me. …hmm? My mother? …understood.”

“Did something happen?” Chelsea asked with a slight hint of worry.

“Ah, no, it’s alright. Ms. Stark wanted to talk about future plans, with my mother for some reason.”

“Oh, Auntie is there? Should I come along?”

“Thank you, but I think I will be fine.”

“Well, if you say so…”

Celina excused herself, leaving only Sigulf and Chelsea on the room.

“…”

‘Ah, this is rather awkward…’ Sigulf thought.

“Let’s continue while we wait for her return.” Chelsea said.

“Roger that.”

“Oh, but, umm… You don’t mind if we work while we converse, right? There’s… Something I need to talk to you about.”

“…I see. I think that goes for me too.”

“Really? Then, in that case…”

Chelsea took a breath, looking for the right words.

“I don’t like you. Or at least, I don’t like you as much as the others do.”

“Oh…”

“…you don’t seem to be surprised. I guess you have figured it out.”

“Well yeah. It’s… About Celina, right?”

“It is.”

As much as he wanted to focus, Sigulf couldn’t help but feel a bit uncomfortable.

“So, umm, what about it?”

“…what if I told you to give it up?”

“I… Might ask her first. But most likely I’ll refuse.”

“Yeah, I thought so…”

“Let’s just say I could be stubborn too… What’s with the question anyway?”

“Good news for you. She doesn’t hate you, so I lost the heart to stop her.”

Sigulf blinked.

“Oh. Oh, okay, then—“

“So don’t you dare hurt my best friend. That’s the least I could ask.”

If Chelsea’s that serious, then it’s obligatory for him to return the sentiment.

“…I promise, I won’t.”

“Good.” Chelsea finally smiled. “Now with that out of the way, let’s get our focus back.”

“I… Kind of get it, and kind of not…”

“Don’t think too hard about it. You don’t have to like me; you may even hate me if you want. But don’t let it get on her way. Let us both do our best to support her. What do you say?”

“Aah, I see, I see. Well, why not? I’ll help Celina in the best way I can, and I won’t hate you either.”

“Yes, that’s mor— Eeeeh, what!?” she was surprised and had to pause working. “Why? Even though—“

“Err, because it’s a waste? I mean we are Council mates. You are her best friend. And you are a part of our morning practice all this time.”

“That’s… Well, yeah, but it’s not like I’m doing it for you. You do know that, right?”

“I know. I can see where you are coming from. It’s for her sake.”

“Then—“

“It’s more the reason. How am I supposed to hate that?”

“…oh. I get it now. You don’t hate me, but still dislike me all the same! Right?”

“Eh? Not even that. To be honest, I… I’d rather we stay amiable with each other.”

“…”

Chelsea was stunned… and slight redness began to creep on her cheeks.

‘W, what is this guy saying!?’

“T, that came out strange, huh?” Sigulf sounded rather embarrassed. “I dunno how to convey it properly, but I hope you understand.”

“…alright.”

“Hm?”

“It’s fine if I take it as something for Council’s sake, right?”

“Sure, I don’t mind.”

She sighed out of relief and began to pick up the pace once more, but not without stealing some glances towards the white haired boy.

‘I think… I understand a bit now… What Celina saw…’

Chelsea found out it’s hard to dismiss the thought when her cheeks got warmer.

———

Celina returned not long after, and all three finished the day’s work in no time.

“It’s slightly past midday now.” Celina noted. “Should we get some lunch?”

“Oh, are we eating outside? Sure!” Chelsea answered happily. “Ah, but what are we doing after that?”

“Hmm, you’re right… We ended up finishing earlier than usual…”

“Umm, how about we train for a bit?” Sigulf suggested. “As long as we don’t overdo it, we should be fine tomorrow, right?”

“I see someone’s eager.” Celina giggled. “Sure, it should be fine. What about you, Chel?”

“I’m all for it! Should I get Alba?”

“The more the merrier, or so you said.” The blonde teased. “Though, she might be already out there practicing.”

“Hey, hey, what’s that supposed to mean? Oh well, let’s have a lunch first before we train. And Sigulf, you’re sparring with me later!”

“Sur— Wait, what, why?”

“What, are you scared?”

“No, I’m just surprised you offered.”

“…that’s not really an offer, but hey, I’m a good, caring older sister! It’s only natural I look after my cute junior, especially one with a sub-par defending.”

“O, oh, than— Wait, sub-par? That bad?”

“Admittedly, not really. But it could use some work.”

“…well, alright. I’ll be in your care.”

“Then it’s decided! I won’t hold anything back, so prepare yourself!”

“Ahahahah…”

Seeing them talking cordially brought a smile to Celina’s face.

‘Thank goodness… And I’m glad Chelsea looks happier compared to before…’

“Hey, we can’t stand here all day!” Chelsea remembered. “Let’s go, you two! Better grab a seat while we can!”

“”Right…!””

———

The next morning, second part of the mid-terms. All students have gathered inside the duel room behind each respective class.

“En garde…! Begin!”

Sigulf and the others eagerly waiting for their turn to fight.

“Ooh, now I’m getting fired up!” Alba said. “Don’t hold it against me when I beat you, yeah?”

“Oi, that’s my line.”

Just before the 5-minutes mark, the duel ended with a definite victor.

“Ah, it’s over.” Yuu commented. “It’s about time.”

“A round of applause for our combatants!” Eliot gave the cue.

The students complied while the two made their way back.

“Alright, without further ado… Next!”

Eliot started his Randomizer, and his students silently wait with baited breath.

“Come on… Who is it? Who’s next?” Alba muttered.

Beep.

“Eurypha Remi Garnetia Hestianus.” Eliot announced.

Minato and his circle immediately looked at her.

“Versus… Sigulf Hrimgard.”

“Ooh…!” the rest of the class gasped.

‘Against her, huh…’ Sigulf thought.

“Oh, it’s your turn. Do your best, Sig-kun.”

“Yeah.”

“Augh! But I wanted to…!” Alba lamented.

“Fufu, I’m sorry Hunter, but I might overtake you here.” Eurypha said.

“Don’t screw up. Just don’t let your guard down.” Carmen warned, and possibly encouraging her.

“Hmph, you don’t have to tell me that!”

“Don’t worry, you can do it!” Walter cheered.

“Hmph…!”

Before Eliot even prompted them to, Sigulf and Eurypha have already reached the center of the room.

“Truth be told, I would have preferred to face Mina— Amakawa instead. We still have unfinished business, after all.”

“Ah, that one, huh.”

“Yes, that one. However…!”

She slowly raised her hand and pointed at him.

“Whether it’s Amakawa, Hunter, or you… I refuse to stay in the shadows and keep playing second fiddle to any of you!”

The audience instantly cheered at her words.

“…I see. However, I refuse to back down here. You have to fight for it…!”

“Very well! As fellow Council members…!”

“May the best fighter win!”

 

Part 14

Spoiler

Waiting for the signal, Sigulf flicked his right wrist.

‘Barring her fight against Amakawa and one mock duel, I haven’t really grasped the exact way she fights.’

“Duelists! Your oath!” Eliot commanded.

“”We, the Duelists from Atlantic swore to abide by the rules, respect the judge’s decision, and fight with all of our might, in honor of our opponent, and for the glory of one own self!””

‘What I do know is that she’s speed-oriented, and… Well, being called the Fire Princess…’

“Very good! Now, summon your True Arms!”

Both of Sigulf and Eurypha took their own poses, ready to call forth the weapons of their soul.

‘…however, when it comes to speed, I too…!’

“O Flames of the Goddess, overwhelm my foes and blaze my path to victory! Dance, Eos!”

“Hunt… Slay… Be victorious! Break free from your bindings and run wild, Fenrir!”

Her rapier of fire against his axes of cold. One forged by Hephaestus meets one tempered by the frost of Niflheim.

“This is…” Walter whispered.

“Yes, their elemental affinities are opposites of each other. Thus, damage dealt to both sides will be bigger.” Minato explained. “Which means, this fight might end sooner than we expect.”

Sigulf slightly hunched, getting into his primal fighting stance.

“En garde!”

Eurypha swung her weapon and cut the empty air. Her intense gaze fixed at the boy across.

“Begin!!”

Faster than normal eyes can follow, both fighters dashed towards each other at Eliot’s cue.

‘Hrimgard, your legs might be agile, but I’ll show you the speed of my blade!’

Getting close, Eurypha sidestepped at the last moment to Sigulf left side and unleashed a thrust. However, Sigulf anticipated and blocked it with his left axe.

‘Tch, so he didn’t got baited…!’

Sigulf retaliated with his other axe, leaving her no other choice but to guard.

‘Wha—!?’

The strike still blew her back, even though there was no damage.

‘So strong…!’

‘Rapiers normally wouldn’t defend against that.’ Sigulf thought. ‘But I guess that’s to be expected from Olympia’s heiress.’

He shifted back into his ready stance, waiting for Eurypha to move.

‘I see he’s taking this easy. However…!’

She broke into a run and rapidly sidestepped to either side to disorient Sigulf.

‘Can you take this…!?’

A sharp turn into his right side. Sigulf still seemingly unmoving.

“Haaah!!”

A piercing torrent sprang forth from the Eos. However…

‘I can see it…!’

Sigulf immediately reacted and countered every thrust with his own swings.

‘He even matched every one of it…!’

The exchange of blows finally ended when Sigulf brought his axes down in an x-shape; Eurypha had to backflip for safety.

‘This guy…!’

She slowly rose up.

‘Was he always defensive like this? Never mind that, since when he’s good at defending?’

‘Good thing I had that crash course with Chelsea.’ Sigulf thought. ‘And now…’

He lowered his posture, ready to run.

‘Let’s get offensive…!!’

In no time, Sigulf had already rushed and leapt in front of Eurypha with his Fenrir raised high.

“Wha—“

‘First blood—‘

However, instead of attempting to block or evade, she opted to charge ahead and raised her sword.

‘…!?’

A clean hit to both sides before they passed each other.

‘Guess I’m too excited there…’ Sigulf thought.

“Battle points, down by 20%.”

“Battle points, down by 15%.” The system notified.

“The impact is clearly bigger.” Minato commented.

“Yeah, but Hrimgard’s having the advantage here.” Walter added.

“If this keeps up, even by trading blows…”

‘Don’t lose, Hestianus…!’

Sigulf darted forward and resumed their duel.

“Grrh…!”

“Why you…!”

Swing by swing, clashing against her alternating slashes and stabs.

‘Even his arms are fast…! I have to break this situation somehow…!’

Eurypha suddenly swerved back, hoping to bait Sigulf into striking empty air. Unfortunately, he wasn’t fooled; Sigulf decided to delay his attack for a second or a half.

‘He read my— Kh…!’

She barely defended herself. The resulting small opening was more than enough for Sigulf.

“Gotcha!”

“Gh…! Not yet!”

Sigulf unleashed and upward diagonal swing at the same time as Eurypha thrusting her right arm forward.

‘Gh…!’

Another mutual hit. The force pushed both of them back and made some distance.

“Battle points, down by 20%.”

“Battle points, down by 15%.”

‘Her desperation became determination.’ Sigulf mentally noted. ‘Gotta applaud that.’

He changed his stance, something which Eurypha aware of.

‘Is it…!?’

“Limiter: Laedingr, re—“

“I won’t let you!!”

Eurypha hurriedly blitzed through and released a powerful piercing attack. But Sigulf easily sidestepped against it.

“…!?”

‘It was a feint!?’

“Hestianus!” Walter shouted.

“Raaah!”

“Kh…!”

Amazingly, she still managed to turn around and guarded at the last moment, blowback notwithstanding.

‘…! Just a bit more…!’

Sigulf didn’t waste any time and pursued Eurypha.

‘This guy’s so persistent…!’

Coming back to bashing each other’s steel, it’s clear that as much as she can keep up with his speed, Sigulf has the upper hand in strength.

“Kuh…!”

A well-timed strike by Sigulf staggered Eurypha. He moved in for the follow-up.

‘Here he comes…!’

She braced herself for the attack. But it didn’t come as Sigulf ran further and circled to her back instead.

‘Oh no…!’

“There!!”

This time, Eurypha’s speed didn’t make it. Sigulf’s right swing scored a clean hit.

“Kyah!”

She was sent flying and it took a while before she could roll safely.

“D, damn…!”

“Battle points, down by 20%.”

“He’s definitely in the lead…!” Walter noted in worry.

“Sig-kun finally managed to avoid trading blows.” Yuu commented.

Sigulf said nothing and waited for Eurypha to stand up.

‘This isn’t good…!’ she thought. Our speed is about the same, it’s like he can read my movements, and I can’t overpower him…!’

Eurypha braced herself as Sigulf slowly made his way.

‘…if I keep getting pushed back when attacks, then…!’

She suddenly shifted her posture, pulling her right arm back. Crimson-colored energy builds up and gathered around her.

‘This is…!?’

‘I’ll strike before he can…!!’

Sigulf hastily rushed to her, but it was a bit too late.

“Take… This!!”

“…!?”

It was much faster compared to her thrusts before. And even though Sigulf could raise his axes in the nick of time, the increase in power was enough to stagger him.

‘What the…!?’

‘It wasn’t enough…! But…!’

A chance she refused to miss. Eurypha assaulted Sigulf with a rain of blades, forcing him to go defensive.

‘Shit…!’

She didn’t relent at all and kept on pressing the offensive.

‘His defense didn’t crumble… But…!’

Eurypha suddenly stopped attacking. Even for a moment, it managed to mess up Sigulf’s timing.

“Wha…!?”

‘Now…!’

She delivered a kick right to his stomach and knocked Sigulf out of balance.

“Gah…!”

“You’re wide open!!”

Similar to before, Eurypha released a high speed lunge with her Eos.

“Guh…!”

It connected cleanly with Sigulf’s chest and violently thrashed him away.

“Battle points, down by 30%.”

“Uoooooohh!” Walter suddenly shouted, followed by some other who cheered along.

“Hestianus-san!” Minato joined.

‘That wasn’t as strong as I hoped.’ Eurypha thought. ‘But it’s enough to even things out…! I’ll get him with the next one!’

On the other side, Sigulf finally got up, still feeling the pain.

‘By Loki, that was fast…’ he mentally noted. ‘But…!’

He took another stance, and his Fenrir began to glow blue.

‘We are further apart than before. And…’

‘Is he going to release his limiter!? I can’t let him!’

Charging complete. Once again, kicking the ground with full force, Eurypha launched herself for the finishing blow.

‘Make it in time…!!’

However, Sigulf brought up his weapons and slammed them hard to the ground.

‘You’re still going on a straight line!’

“…!?”

Claw-shaped pillars of ice emerged from below and stopped Eurypha dead in her tracks.

‘Solid ice!? No, this is energy projection…!’

“How did he do that!?” Walter asked in disbelief.

“Could it be… He learned it from the Pacifics?” Minato wondered.

‘Something like this…!’

Not wanting to get stalled, Eurypha mustered her strength and pressed onward.

‘…! It’s getting weaker!’

Sigulf’s energy claws began to recede.

‘Now! This is th— …!?’

She felt unexpected movements, and it wasn’t for him to maintain the barrier.

‘Don’t tell me…!’

No matter how short the delay, it was all Sigulf needed.

“Limiter: Laedingr, release!”

A blue explosion of energy occurred at the same time with the ice being shattered. Eurypha streaked like a red flash and stabbed nothing; Sigulf has already moved out of harm’s way.

“You…”

Sigulf slowly rose up. His Fenrir glows pale blue, and his eyes gave a feral glint.

“Time to hunt…!”

 

Part 15

Spoiler

One firm step. A low growl. Water vapor born of cold. Sigulf sudden spike of power definitely didn’t go unnoticed.

‘To think he released Laedingr here…! I have to stop him at all costs…!’

Eurypha immediately took her charging stance, but Sigulf reacted as well by charging straight at her.

‘…!?’

She was forced to lunge earlier, and being imperfect, it got easily knocked back.

“Kh…!”

“Raaahh!”

Sigulf followed with a vertical swing; Eurypha frantically blocked it, and she still got pushed.

‘Y, you’re kidding…! How strong is this guy, really!?’

She had to focus her senses and strength just to defend against his relentless attack.

‘I can’t see an opening…! He’s really pressuring from every direction…!’

Eurypha’s guard started to waver, and one precise horizontal swing opened Sigulf’s way.

“Wha—!?”

“Ryaah!”

He brought down his axe. It was too late for her to sidestep or jump away. However…

‘…I’m not backing down!!’

“Oi, what did she—!?” Walter yelled.

Eurypha forced herself and thrusts her rapier forward, again hitting Sigulf’s midsection.

‘…!?’

Yet while it did manage to stagger him, his Fenrir landed first and blew Eurypha away, reducing Eos’ impact.

“Guah…!”

“Battle points, down by 25%. 15% remaining.”

“Battle points, down by 10%.”

“Aah, it ended up weaker despite all that…!” the American boy panicked.

“Hestianus-san…!” Minato muttered.

“Haah…! Kh…!”

Eurypha breathes heavily as she struggled to stand up, while Sigulf seemingly took his time approaching her.

“…no. Not yet.”

Despite being exhausted and has the lead taken, she pulled her right arm and mustered all she had.

“I still can take you out even without the perfect form!” Eurypha loudly announced.

“I see…”

“Wha—“

Almost everyone, Eurypha included, was surprised hearing Sigulf responded.

“Oh, right. It’s not like he lost his mind everytime he broke the Laedingr.” Alba noted.

“Limiter: Dromi…” he continued. “Release…!!”

“You…!”

Another burst of energy emanated from Sigulf. Fenrir’s aura grew darker and sharper, increasingly resembling a wolf’s mane.

“…I see.” Eurypha narrowed her eyes. “If that’s what you wanted…!”

She has finished charging. All that’s left is to lunge all the way.

“Then don’t blame me when I scored an upset!!”

“Come… Hestianus!!”

Both of them took their steps at the same time.

And in a blink, Sigulf crossed through with his Fenrir spread open, while Eurypha was thrown into the air.

“Battle points, 0. Cannot continue duel.”

“Euryyy!!” Walter shouted in worry as her body hit the ground.

“That’s enough! Winner, Sigulf Hrimgard!” Eliot announced.

Some students were in a mix of cheering and surprise. Few, namely Minato’s group, hurriedly went to Eurypha’s side. Few other were content with discussing about it.

“Uhh, so why did Sig-kun do that again?” Yuu questioned.

“Ah, you know him.” Alba smirked. “He probably wanted to defeat her signature technique. That showoff…”

“Hee…”

“Hestianus-san!” Minato called.

“Eurypha!” Walter followed.

“Ugh…”

Said girl was grunting as she tried to move her body.

“Oi! Are y—“

“Shut up… You’re too loud…”

“But—“

“You idiot…!” she screeched. “It’s not like I’m heavily injured…!”

“Eh…?”

“Magitek. Magical nanomachine barrier. It protected us.”

Walter blinked.

“…ah, now that you mentioned it…”

“You idiot! Pay better attention in class next time!”

Minato, Carmen, and Ilma collectively sighed, partially out of relief.

“Thank goodness you’re alright.” Minato said. “Although…”

“…yeah.”

Sigulf’s approaching footsteps made the group turn their attention.

“Hestianus.” Sigulf called, offering a hand. Eurypha accepted it and helped herself to get up.

“Nice duel.” He continued.

“It was. And congratulations. It’s my loss today.”

A firm handshake between the two. Eurypha noted it was rather surreal, considering his bestial fury from their duel before.

“A round of applause, if you please.”

The students complied before Sigulf, Eurypha, and her group made their way back.

“Good match, Sig-kun.” Yuu greeted.

“Yo. Thanks.”

“That’s more like it.” Alba smugly smirked. “It’s not interesting if you lose here.”

“…you don’t have to tell me that.”

Nonetheless, Sigulf gave them both high fives.

“Good luck, you two.”

“”Yeah!””

“Hrimgard.”

“Hm?”

Sigulf turned to see Masaki and Siegward coming at him.

“You’re strong indeed.” She said. “I can see why you are one of the faculty’s favorites.”

“Eh?”

“…or so he said.”

“…wait, why are you tel— I mean, don’t make up stories like that.” Siegward protested.

“Yeah, yeah, even though you wanted to bring him over to our side.”

“Oh… Thanks, Heidenreich.”

“…do. Not. Thank. Me. I said nothing of the sorts.”

‘Funny guy…’ Sigulf mentally noted.

———

When the bell finally rings, it’s as if the weight on the students’ shoulders were finally released.

“Aaalright! Who’s with me to the karaoke!?” Walter asked the class enthusiastically.

“You sure are so carefree…” Arthfael sighed.

“Why not? We got to leave earlier, so if you want to train again, you still have the time later!” he replied. “Yo, Council team! How— …oh, right? You guys are probably still busy, right?”

“Hm? Yeah, I still have duties—“

“Eh? No, we are free today—“

Sigulf and Minato answered at the same time, making them look at each other.

‘…what was that?’ Sigulf thought.

“Again? Oh well… But, hey, nice to see Amakawa finally joining us!”

Seeing that they have made up their mind, Sigulf went for the door.

“See ya later.” He said to Yuu.

“Oh, sure. See y— Wait, Alba-san?”

Both boys turned around to see the aforementioned girl was packing as well.

“Hm? Oh, yeah, I wanted to rest so I can train later.”

“Eeh? Even though you are the class’ heroine? So diligent…”

“Ahahah, sorry about that…”

She waved at Yuu and Walter’s group before heading out.

“Hey, you!” Alba called Sigulf.

“Huh?”

“Do your Council job properly! …and don’t just flirt with the President all day!”

“I, I won’t…!”

Alba merely cackled as she made the leave.

———

Just like yesterday, the Council doesn’t have too much work on their hand because of the mid-terms.

“Ah, so your class went to karaoke?” Chelsea asked.

“Yeah. Amakawa and the others joined too. I heard they’re off duty today.”

Celina looked remorseful, but Chelsea was quicker to respond.

“You are not going to apologize, are you?”

“…actually I did, but Sigulf himself probably wanted to help in the first place.”

“Ahahah… Well, I don’t mind.”

“You don’t mind, huh…” Chelsea gave them a knowing look, making the boy flustered.

“But, speaking about karaoke, then how about we go there too after this?” she continued.

“Eh? After I declined my classmates?”

“Hey, it’s not like you don’t have a good reason. Besides, as long as we sneak and didn’t get caught, it will be fine!”

“…is that how it works?”

“Sneaking all the way to karaoke is a bit…” Celina laughed bitterly.

“It’s alright! You never went into one, right, Cel?”

“Well, yeah, I’m not too confident with singing…”

“Even though you have such a good voice? Come on, it will be a fun experience!”

“If you say so…”

‘Ah, now I want to see her sing…’ Sigulf wondered.

——–

As soon as they finished today’s papers, the three headed to the door. But just as Sigulf stepped out, his vision suddenly got obstructed. His face bumped into something soft.

“Mgh!?”

“Kyaaah! Congrats, boy! I know you could do it!”

‘This voice…!’

“Mbh, mgh!”

“Miss Vigdis?”

“Oh, hi girls! How are you doing?”

“We are doing fine, thank you.” Celina answered. “It’s just, umm… Could you let him go?”

“Oops, my bad!” she laughed while finally releasing Sigulf.

“Ack… I think I saw Helheim for a moment…” Sigulf retorted.

“Hey, at least it wasn’t Nastrond, right?”

“Uh, yeah… So, why are y— Oh, did Sir Fortier tell you?”

“Yup! Though, he’s supposedly still rather busy.”

“Hee…”

‘Even with all these technology, teachers are still busy I guess…’

“So, are you playing somewhere? I know you just finished mid-terms.”

“Oh, that’s right! We are going to karaoke.” Chelsea mentioned. “Would you mind to join us?”

“I don’t mind, but are you sure it’s okay for an old lady like me to join you youngsters?”

“What are you saying, you are still pretty young!”

“Is that so? I really appreciate it! Ohohohohohoh~”

‘…these two really clicks so well.’ He mentally noted.

“Hmm, maybe I should invite Alba too.”

“Ah, she said she wanted to rest, so…”

“Eh, really?” Chelsea looked a bit disappointed but took out her phone nonetheless. “Maybe I can convince her…”

“Uhh, how?”

“I don’t know… Oh, right. I’m sorry, but can you please go on ahead?”

“It’s to reserve a room, right? Understood.” Celina replied.

“Right, and… Oh, and don’t forget to sneak!”

“Oh, is it some stealth mission? Sounds fun… And scandalous!” Vigdis responded excitedly.

“…do we really have to?”

———

Thankfully, Sigulf, Celina, and Vigdis didn’t run into any of his classmates, though then again, Walter’s group had started earlier.

“I guess this room is big enough for six people.” Vigdis said.

“So, this is the inside of a karaoke room…” Celina looks rather amazed.

‘S, so cute…!’ Sigulf, meanwhile, opted to admire her reaction.

“Okay, who wants to sing? You kids can go first.”

“Eh? But I’m not too familiar with popular songs nowadays…”

“Me neither. I’m not much of a singing guy, anyway.”

“Alright, then Sigulf it is.”

"…how— Fine, just let me pick a song first.”

Vigdis laughed as Sigulf began looking on the interface.

‘They claimed to have a huge database of songs, so let’s see… …oh, shit, they even have this one?’

He made his selection and quickly grabbed a mic.

“Talk about a quick change of mind!” Vigdis cackled.

“Oh, is Sigulf going to sing? Then I can’t miss this.” Celina responded eagerly.

‘Uwaa, now I’m getting nervous…’

His song finally began with some acoustics… Until it suddenly transitioned into heavy, distorted guitars, to which Sigulf shrieked, “AAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!”

“You picked a viking black metal song!?” Vigdis nearly faceplanted. “…well, not that strange, coming from you.”

“Oh my… So he likes this kind of music, ufufu.” Celina was somehow amused.

———

After few songs, the door opened, revealing Alba’s figure.

“Alright, where’s the hot dogs!?”

“Hm? Oh, hey, Alba!” Vigdis greeted. “It’s been a while!”

“Miss Vigdis.” She returned it. “It truly is.”

Chelsea then popped up from behind her.

“Heya!”

Sigulf looked at the pair and put things together.

“…so you baited her with food?”

“Hey, eating lots of meat is a good way to rest too!” Alba protested.

“…isn’t it just you?”

“Is it? Anyways, I’m surprised Siggy actually went singing. Is it awful?”

“…how can you automatically assume that?”

“Don’t worry.” Celina assured with sparkly eyes. “It’s powerful!”

“…what?”

“Umm, I’m not sure, but since she likes it, it can’t be that bad, right?” Chelsea tried to conclude.

“Alright, alright, how about you two sit down first?” Vigdis implored. “The room service should be coming anytime soon.”

“Hot dooooogs!” Alba cheered.

“Oi, you’re supposed to sing too.”

Even so, Sigulf couldn’t help but to feel happy. He sat down, watching as the ladies pick another set of songs.

‘This is nice…’

———

In another place and time, the duelists of Pacific have just finished their midterms too.

“Alright! A victory on top of a good fight!” Mei said.

“Mm, I too feel like that I have accomplished well.” Reika nodded. “I can’t wait to test my skills again with Mi, Minato-dono.”

“M, me too! I wonder when we will be able to have a rematch against Minato…” Misha joined.

“…you two sure are smitten with him.”

“S, smitten!? S, surely you jest, Mei-dono!”

The ever silent Anil, meanwhile, was looking around in a slight confusion.

“Hm? What’s the matter?” Mei asked.

“Ashfield?”

“Ah, I think he left much earlier…” Misha answered.

“Tch, seriously that guy… I don’t know what’s going on inside his mind.”

———

Outside, Jack was on his slow walk back to the dorms.

‘Watching number 2 and co. fighting was almost entertaining. Almost. Otherwise, what a pointless and boring test…’

It was then where he overheard two boys from a different class talking to each other.

“Caldwell is really something, yeah?”

“I can’t believe he’s in the B-class with us! Shouldn’t he be an A-ranker at this point?”

‘…’

“Maybe, just maybe, he can actually win against Ashfie— …ah.”

They immediately froze in fear upon seeing Jack.

“Hee… That’s funny. Say it again.”

“W, what…?”

“Say it again.”

“Ugh…!”

They took a step back while Jack approached with his fists clenched.

“…huh? Is that you, Ashfield? What happened?”

“…”

Still furious, Jack turned around and glared at the source of the voice.

‘This guy…’

Even so, Ralf seemed unperturbed by him.

“Hmm, Ralf Caldwell, wasn’t it? Please don’t worry.”

“Ah, Sir Houjou.”

Kouji came into the scene and approached Jack, while keeping his eyes at Ralf.

“I assure you that nothing happened. Right, Jack?”

“…Kouji.”

“Eh? Well, if you say so…”

“I sure hope that is actually the case, Kouji.”

“Ah, well if it isn’t Baker. I hope you are having a good day.”

“Sammy!”

Samantha showed up and backed up Ralf’s side, staring daggers at Kouji.

“And good day to you too. As friends and rivals, surely I can have those words of yours?”

“Of course, nothing to be worried here.”

Seemingly a pleasant exchange, there’s undeniably some tension beneath, which even the mostly oblivious Ralf noticed.

“Those kids…”

Watching from a safe distance, the Pacifics’ new coach can only sigh.

“Talk about dramatic… Can’t they get along? They are supposed to be a team…”

———

Chapter 6 “Blod Eld Daud: Fire Meets Ice, Part 2”, end.

Continued on Chapter 7.

 

Chapter 7: Wolf Days
Part 1

Spoiler

Two days later, their exam results were finally announced. Sigulf included, everyone was willing to postpone lunch to see it.

“Think you did well?” Alba asked.

“Mm. Pretty positive.”

“Hee… Confident, aren’t ya?” she gave a smug smirk for some reason. “Ah, but don’t get upset if I came up above you, okay?”

Sigulf raised one of his eyebrows at her.

“If.”

“Heheh, don’t worry! You’re in for a surprise.”

They gathered in front of the bulletin board, where the results were displayed through hologram. Of course, Minato and the others were present.

“Hmm, so that’s where I am…”

“Aw man, it’s lower than I hoped…”

Some students reacted accordingly. Sigulf immediately began to look for his name.

‘Alright, let’s see…’

“Ooh!?” another boy exclaimed. “Isn’t he the number one!?”

‘Huh?’

Everyone’s attention instantly shifted to Minato; Sigulf opted to check the board.

‘Ah, they’re right…’

‘Amakawa, Minato’ was shown on top of the list, though no score details were shown.

“As expected from Amakawa!” Walter enthusiastically patted his back, making Minato laugh sheepishly.

“Mm, that’s more like it.” Eurypha nodded, trying not to look too happy. “I know you can do it, Min— Amakawa!”

“Oh, so skilled both in and out of the arena!” Carmen hugged Minato. “What exactly can’t you do, Minato dear?”

“C, Car— Rosales-san!”

“W, what are you two doing in public!?” Eurypha shrieked and tried to pry them away.

“Shut the f— Shut up, you two.” Ilma complained… but not so subtly trying to get her own piece of Minato.

“You’re not one to talk!”

Unsurprisingly, the other boys can only grumble.

“Dammit, no wonder the girls are into him…!” they lamented collectively.

Sigulf sighed at them and put his attention back at the board.

‘If he’s number 1, then…’

His name was displayed right below Minato’s.

“Hmm…”

‘It’s far from a bad result, but I still feel conflicted…’

“Wait, what? You are 2nd?” Alba was a bit surprised. “Then that means—“

‘Hunter, Alba’ came up after ‘Hrimgard, Sigulf.’

“Gah…! How can this be…!? To think I would lose to Siggy…!”

“…I was more surprised on how confident you were.”

“Hey, building some confidence is never a bad thing.”

“Is that how it works?”

“Um, maybe? But still… “

Both of them returned to read the list.

“I don’t think I fought bad…” Alba continued.

“Me neither. But then again, there’s the written exam…”

“Eh? I thought those aren’t that important?”

“Well yeah, but when our fighting skills are about the same, the difference on paper test’s results would matter, however small.”

“…ah, I see.” She realized. “…hm? Wait, but then that means I didn’t really lose to you, right?”

“Eh? Well… If you want to see it like that…”

“Heheh… I see, I see!”

‘She looks so happy…’

“Ah, so there you are. Good afternoon.”

“Hm? Oh, Celina and Chelsea. Good afternoon.”

Sigulf slightly bowed as the usual Council pair approached them.

“Uooh, it’s the President and the VP!” a boy pointed out. “What are they doing here?”

“You idiot, of course they want to see their exam results too.” A girl retorted.

‘Attention grabbing as always. Not that I don’t understand…’

“So, I guess you did well?” Chelsea asked.

“Um, right. It’s all thanks to you two.” Sigulf answered.

“That’s good to hear. Glad to be of help.” Celina chuckled and then gave him a knowing look.

‘Ah…’

Sigulf could notice the faint blush on her cheeks; he knows it’s about their promise. Still, he had to quickly recover from his own reverie.

“Hm? What is it, Siggy?”

“It’s nothing. So, how abou— Oh, right, I probably don’t even need to ask, do I?”

“Hey, what’s that supposed to mean?” she let out a jovial giggle. “Well, you’re not wrong, though.”

“So, top two?”

“Top two.”

“I guess that’s to be expected.”

“Why, thank you.” Celina smiled.

‘S, so bright…’

“That said, it’s still not over yet.” Chelsea added. “We secured a good base, figuratively. Now we have to defend it right into the finals.”

“Right, finals…” Sigulf muttered. “And it’s coming in less than two months.”

“Finals, huh…” Alba crossed her hands. “Can I just ignore my studies to focus on dueling?”

“You can’t.” Chelsea lightly chopped Alba’s forehead. “A bit of theory and general knowledge won’t hurt.”

“Ugh, fine, fine…”

“You too, Sigulf.” Celina said. “If you need additional tutoring, please don’t hesitate to ask me.”

“Eh? Oh, um, thank you. I will.”

‘Did she notice…?’

Sigulf took one more glance at the board.

‘Number 2… It went better than I expected, but… Next finals, I must overtake him.’

“Alright, enough about exams, how about we move to the rooftop first?” Chelsea clapped. “We don’t want to let our food gone cold.”

“Oh, you’re right. I almost forgot that I was starving!” Alba agreed.

“Then, shall we?”

“Yeah, let’s go.”

“Meeeeeat!”

“Oi, oi…”

Sigulf continued to chat with the three, trying to ignore the other boys’ stares.

“…maybe we were jealous against the wrong guy?”

“Why not both?”

Another collective groaning from them made Minato confused.

“Eh? What’s with them?”

“…I envy your obliviousness.” Walter sighed.

———

After school, just as Sigulf was done with Council duties, his phone beeps.

‘Message? Who could it be—‘

His eyes widened.

“Sigulf? What’s wrong?”

“Uhh… The Principal asked me to see her.”

Celina narrowed her eyes.

“…she said nothing of such to us.”

‘Nevermind that, the fact that she somehow has my number…!’

“Uh oh, what do you do now, Cel?” Chelsea asked, and for some reason sounded slightly bit excited despite the situation.

“I’m going with him. If he doesn’t mind, that is.”

“Oh, not at all. I think it’s more reassuring that way.”

“Well then…”

———

A knock at the door followed by a muffled “Come in.” signaled Sigulf, Celina, and Chelsea to enter the Principal’s room.

“Excuse us…”

“Ah, it’s you. Please, come in.”

Sigulf observed that Victoria doesn’t seem to mind the Council duo’s presence.

‘I kinda thought she would be slightly surprised or something…’

“Would you like to have some tea?” she continued.

“Oh, thank you, but we just had some earlier.”

“I see… Then—“

Victoria took a step closer.

“Miss Bartram, Miss Kensington, and Mr. Hrimgard. First, allow me to congratulate you in regards of your midterms.”

“Eh? O, oh thank you…”

“Now, since I think it would be better to get straight to the point, I would like to personally reward you for your achievements.”

“By ‘you’, I presume it means Sigulf?” Celina pointed out.

“Precisely.”

‘She doesn’t even deny it!?’ Sigulf mentally retorted.

“Although, I don’t mind indulging both of you, if you want to.” Victoria continued.

“E, eh!? Ah, thank you, but we are good, ahahahahah…” Chelsea laughed uneasily.

“Is that so? Then—“

“I have another question.” Celina raised her hand, still keeping her composure.

“Oh, sure. Go on.”

“May I ask why are you doing this?”

“Why, isn’t it obvious? Because he is special. Just like you two.”

“…”

‘…wait, I shouldn’t be too happy hearing that.’ Sigulf thought to himself. ‘And what kind of excuse is that?’

Celina wasn’t even sure on how to react at this point.

“I can’t believe you…” she sighed. “You are not being subtle at all.”

“Ohoho, I sincerely apologize about that.” Victoria said, still with confidence somehow. “But if I have to be serious, then rest assured. If he said no, then I won’t pursue matters any further.”

“…you don’t have to say that much, Ma’am.”

“Oh my, I thought having a bit more clarity is preferable? Ufufu…”

‘Oh boy, how should I even feel at this situation…?’ Sigulf thought.

“So, how about it?” Victoria asked again. “Do you have something in mind?”

“Umm, well…”

“…Cel, aren’t you going to stop him?” Chelsea said.

“I can only give advice, not dictate him. It’s not really different from how I motivate him.”

“Well yeah, but…”

At this moment, Sigulf wasn’t thinking clear. But he has to. And so, amidst his inner turmoil, he came up with something.

“Do you set limits?”

“Oh, absolutely. Some things are still… Inappropriate at this level, after all.”

‘…I don’t have to imagine that, yeah.’

Sigulf took a deep breath, Celina silently watched him, and Chelsea had become more worried than excited.

‘He couldn’t be asking for a date, right!?’ Chelsea thought, remembering a similar scenario with Celina.

“…alright.” Sigulf finally said. “I’ll take on your offer.”

Chelsea gasped, and maybe a bit over-dramatically.

“And what would it be?”

“Would you mind coaching us during weekends? Or at least whenever you have spare time.”

Silence. A slight surprise on Celina and Chelsea. And then a soft chuckle from Victoria’s lips.

“Ufufufufu… I see. So that’s what you wanted… If these two ladies don’t mind, then sure.”

“Eh? Seriously? Umm, what do you think?” Chelsea turned to Celina.

“I have no objections here.” She responded, and this time, with much less tension for some reason.

“Well, if Cel doesn’t mind, then I’m okay too, I guess.”

“Then it’s decided.” Victoria smiled. “But are you sure you want me to teach you? I’m a busy woman; I might not be able to show up on occasion.”

“It’s alright.” Sigulf nodded. “Every knowledge counts.”

“Ah, that’s good to hear. Then you don’t mind if I go all out, do you? I might be scarier than Lady Bartram—“

“Thank you for your concern, Ma’am,” Celina interrupted. “But I assure you both of us are well-adapted to my dear mother’s regiment. And Sigulf here is a special fast-learner, so I’m sure he will be fine.”

Sigulf looked at Chelsea in a slight confusion.

“Let’s just say that Auntie is scary…” she laughed wryly.

‘Hee…’

“My, I guess that’s expected from this Academy’s finest. Ufufufufu…”

“Oh no, Ma’am. You flatter me. Ahahahahah…”

Laughing they may be, Celina and Victoria couldn’t quite hide their brewing rivalry.

‘Heavy… Women’s loves are heavy…’ Sigulf thought.

Chelsea gently elbowed him.

“Don’t get too happy by yourself there.”

“Ngh…”

———

Excusing themselves, the three finally heads back to the dorm.

“Well, it went alright. But I’m still surprised that you accepted.” Chelsea mentioned.

“Her vices notwithstanding, she is still an outstanding fighter in her own right. It will be a good experience for us too.” Celina answered.

“That might be, but is it really necessary? Especially for Sigulf.”

“Hm? Me? Well, I don’t really know either…”

“…what? Then why did you—“

“It’s just that my target doesn’t stop at Amakawa. Or Alba. Or that Ashfield guy.”

“Eh?”

Sigulf turned around to face them.

“I want to surpass you two, too.”

“…I see.” Celina closed her eyes and smiled.

“You don’t look surprised at all.” Chelsea commented.

“I figured that might be the reason. Not that he’s hiding it.”

“…you sure trust him so much.”

“Trust him…”

Celina gazed at Sigulf’s face, making him blush a bit.

”For the most part, yes.”

“Most part?”

She said nothing and approached the boy, before pinching and pulling his cheeks, though not too forceful.

“Fweh!?”

“Seriously, you…”

“W, what are you two doing?” Chelsea questioned.

“I wonder too…”

She finally lets go and rubs his cheek as some sort of consolation.

“I’m sorry about that.”

“Eh? O, oh, sure. It didn’t hurt, anyway…”

“I see… Then let’s go back…”

“Yeah…”

Celina quickly walked away with Sigulf following not long after.

“E, eh? Wait, what’s going on? Hey, wait, you two!”

Sigulf wished he could pinpoint exactly and tell the catching up Chelsea. One thing that he’s certain, though, is that Celina was blushing madly and she’s futilely fighting it back.

 

Part 2

Spoiler

Saturday morning. Practicing alongside Vigdis’ rehabilitation was something they got accustomed to. A bit unusual was the presence of Lindorm and Laine joining their session.

“…”

Still, the borderline comical tension between Vigdis and Victoria will always be a curious sight for the students.

“Now, now, please don’t glare at me like that. I haven’t done anything yet.”

Still looking dissatisfied, Vigdis turned to Sigulf.

“Now, it’s not like I don’t understand your motivations, but—“

“I know… It’s just that my instinct told me so.”

“As a pervert?”

“…do I look much like a pervert to you?”

Vigdis glanced at Sigulf’s usual circle.

“Well…”

“…Master, please.”

“Don’t worry, Miss Vigdis,” Celina spoke up. “We have always trained seriously. You can trust us on that.”

There was a slight emphasis on her tone, and Sigulf could felt her energy spiked a little.

“Oh my, how cautious of you. Ufufufu…”

“So, does this special event include me?” Alba pointed at herself.

“Of course, Miss Hunter. More than welcome. You’re among the best-achieving rookies, and I’ve heard about your efforts to solidify yourself as the number 1 freshmen—“

“So you can make me stronger than Siggy!?”

“If you put considerable effort, that is.” Victoria laughed.

Alba’s eyes sparkled and she pointed dramatically at Sigulf.

“You hear that!? I’ll definitely surpass you!”

“Like I’m gonna sit back and let that happen…!” Sigulf retorted.

“Yes, that’s the youthful spirit I want to see.” Victoria smiled.

“Uu… My boy is having fun without me…” Vigdis lamented.

“Err…”

“And that’s why you should properly do your program.” Melanie patted her shoulder. “So you can practice again with Sigulf. Or to pick a fight with the Principal, I don’t know.”

“I knooow!”

“Waah!”

Vigdis hopped and hugged Sigulf tightly to her chest.

“Wait for me! I’ll recover soon so we can spar properly!”

“H, huh!? O, oh, sure. I’m looking forward to it…”

She then released the still flustered boy to address the other woman.

“And you! One day we’ll settle this for real!”

“Of course. May you have a speedy recovery.”

Victoria watched with a smile as Vigdis turned away and went to Eliot’s place.

“Oh, are you done?” he asked. “Then we can begin your rehab now.”

“…uwaa, how cold. You could’ve at least supported me.” Vigdis protested.

“Seriously. This why you weren’t popular with the ladies.” Melanie agreed.

“…oi.”

The three then proceeds with their own schedule.

“Alright, should we begin as well?” Victoria asked. “Scouting Team, would you mind to join us too?”

“Eh? Ah, um, thanks for the offer, Ma’am, but we’re cool.” Laine responded.

“Oh, is that so?”

“Uh, yeah. We’d prefer doing it at our own pace.”

“If you say so…”

“Still, I’m a bit surprised you two showed up.” Sigulf commented. “What happened?”

“Well, I have nothing better to do, so I just tagged along with Lindy here.” She motioned. “He said he wanted to fight with you.”

“Eh?”

“F, fight with Sigulf…!?” Chelsea exclaimed with a blush, earning a sigh from Celina.

“Err, like a duel?” Sigulf tried to steer the conversation back.

Lindorm shook his head.

“A simple sparring for now. Let’s save the einvigi for later, brother.” He explained.

“Ah, I see.”

“Uh-huh. He brought it up since the midterm’s announcement.” Laine added.

“Oh, midterms. Speaking of which, how did you two do?”

“We did well.” She replied while giving him the peace sign. “Yaaay.”

‘…how could she look so expressionless despite being happy?’

“Well, they are the Scouting Team for a reason.” Chelsea clarified. “…though, I wish Laine would be a bit more motivated in everything else.”

“Ugh… You don’t have to say that, Vice-Prez…”

“So are you saying that you are feeling lethargic?” Victoria slightly tilted her head. “In that case—“

“A, ah, like we said, we’re fine.” Laine quickly refused. “Let’s go, Lindy.”

“Mm. Excuse us.” Lindorm slightly bowed.

The pair immediately began their warm-up session.

“Ah, even though they have no need to be so reserved…” she chuckled before putting her attention back at Sigulf’s group. “So, shall we? I won’t be so lenient, though.”

“Yes, Ma’am. We’ll be in your care.”

“Good answer. Well then…”

The air around Victoria suddenly changed, and for some reason, Sigulf felt like his life was in danger if he screwed up.

“Enough dawdling around!” she shouted. “Burn away your energy and give me 500 swings!”

“R, right!”

“Hrimgard! Hunter! This is no time to daydream! Your forms were awful! Start over!”

“I, I’m sorry…!”

‘Eh!? What is this!?’ Sigulf thought. ‘She’s like a different person, even though she barely did anything!?’

Victoria nodded in satisfaction.

“That’s more like it. And now, I too…”

She began throwing punches and kicks, joining the students in their warm-up.

‘Ooh, such a nice form!’

Her strikes were so blindingly fast; it’s as if they could easily cut through the air. Yet instead of flurries of them, Victoria seemed to prefer single, powerful and precise attacks.

‘Her position as the Headmistress is well-warranted…!’

“Hrimgard! Focus and start over!”

“!? Y, yes, I’m sorry…!”

“…ufufu.”

———

A short break after warm-up. Sigulf was talking with the others when Victoria approached him.

“Sigulf, do you have a moment?”

He could feel that Celina and Vigdis tensed up, and it almost made him chuckle.

“Oh, um, sure. What is it?”

“Would you mind showing me a powerful swing?”

“Eh?”

Sigulf was slightly confused but did so nonetheless.

“Hmm… Just as I thought.”

“Is something wrong?”

“Mm, a tiny bit, on your posture. Here, let me help you.”

“E, eh?”

Victoria went to Sigulf’s back and gently guided his hand. Of course, Celina and Vigdis didn’t miss the sight.

‘Whoa whoa whoa whoa…!’

“It should be a bit more like this, here…” she said almost whispering. “Good, now try to keep this position and give it a swing.”

Victoria then lets Sigulf go and stepped back.

“L, like this?”

“Yes. It looks and flows better.”

“I, I see…”

‘I can’t be too happy here…!’

“…”

Not willing to stand by idly, Celina braced herself and approached them.

“Excuse me.” She said, raising her hand.

“Oh, Miss President. What is it?”

“It’s about his attacking posture…”

“Hmm?”

Celina did the same and held Sigulf’s arms slightly tighter, directing them.

‘Uwhoa…! And she smells so nice…!’

“I think it should be a bit more like this…” she said in a lower voice. “Now, give it a try.”

“R, right…!”

Sigulf did as instructed and Celina smiled.

“Mm, looking good.”

“Yeah, it felt precise.”

“Oh my…” Victoria gasped.

“Uugh…”

Vigdis refused to be outdone, so she made her way to Sigulf.

“No, no, that won’t do!” she said.

“Master!?”

“Hmm? Why’s that?”

“Sigulf’s fast enough, and he’s still growing to be even faster, so what he needs is obviously raw power!”

“Err…”

Vihdis didn’t give them a chance to argue as she immediately took Sigulf’s arms, yet it was still gentle enough to comfort him.

‘Ah…’

“Here, you do it like this…”

“R, right…”

“And…” Vigdis slowly backed off. “Now!”

“Grh…!”

Sigulf did a vertical cut as per Vigdis’ pointers.

“There! That’s my boy!”

“Yeah, I can feel the force.”

“Heheh!”

Vigdis grinned triumphantly, but Victoria didn’t waver and kept her confident smile. Celina, on the other hand, chose to sigh.

“You two…”

“Hey, that looks fun!” Chelsea suddenly said. “Mind if we join?”

“We?” Alba asked. “Ah well.”

“What? What is it now?” Sigulf looked unsure.

“No need to be shy! Big Sis will help you with practice! So about your posture… Maybe it should be more like… This?”

“Oh, okay…?”

“Hm…? Wait a minute, shouldn’t it be more like—“

“…oi, I know you’re just messing with me.”

“Tch, so you found out.”

“Hey, Alba, that’s not nice!” Chelsea reprimanded, albeit while laughing.

The rest of them watched from a distance.

“He’ll end up hated by his male classmates, won’t he?” Eliot scratched his head.

“I wonder…” Melanie touched her cheek. “Maybe you can try to learn something from him, instead? By being cuter, I mean.”

“…how? And what for?”

“Oh you, being so dishonest~”

“Uhh, I know I’ve heard things, but…” Laine commented. “His situation reminds me so much of Amakawa… Amakawa 2.0? What’s the difference?”

Lindorm tilted his head.

“Brother Sigulf seemed to be enjoying himself.”

“Ah, right, I kinda can see and understand that…”

It was a while before the students could prepare for their sparring.

 

Part 3

Spoiler

After he got released from the ladies’ antics, Sigulf stepped forward to face Lindorm.

“Sorry for the wait.”

“Worry not. I understand.” Lindorm raised his thumb.

“Ahahahahah…”

“Ooi, are you guys ready?” Laine waved her hands. “You have 300 seconds.”

“Anytime…!”

“Ookay. Then—“

Sigulf got into his fighting stance, and that’s when he finally realized something off with Lindorm.

‘His right pupil…’

It was slit, like a cat’s. Or rather…

‘A serpent’s…’

Sigulf saw Lindorm’s weapon exactly once, but it made such an impression that it was hard to forget.

‘That huge gauntlets… The multitude of swords which acts as its claws… Come to think of it. He looks less like a serpent and more like—‘

It suddenly hit him.

‘Lindorm. Linnormr. Ensnaring snake. Serpentine dragon. It’s in his name, duh…! Which means…’

Sigulf remembered two particularly powerful serpents from the old myths. The first one was Jormungandr; the Huge Monster, the World Serpent, the Sea-Thread, the Wolf’s Brother, and he who could even match the Mighty Thunderer.

Yet he’s mostly perceived as closer to conventional but gigantic sea snake instead of a dragon. Thus leaving Sigulf with the only conclusion.

‘Nidhoggr. The Malice Striker. The linnorm who tears through Yggdrasil’s roots. He who could unmake creation, and survives the fiery death of the Nine Worlds.’

It made some sense, on how the usually docile Lindorm was so severe that one time. But one thing still nags Sigulf.

‘Why him? His normal self wasn’t something you would associate with Nidhoggr, so why—‘

“—lo? Hello? Hey!”

“Wha—“

Laine’s voice pulled him back to reality.

“…are you really alright?” she sighed. “You looked very serious, I’m sure your mind was somewhere else.”

“Err, sorry about that…”

Alba had to sigh, Celina opted to chuckle, and Chelsea lets her imagination run wild, while Lindorm merely stared at Sigulf, though it was out of mild amusement rather than annoyance.

“Seriously… We’ll begin for real, okay?”

“Yes, Ma’am!”

Sigulf forced himself to regain composure.

‘I can think about it later…! Focus for now; my God Eater against his World Gnawer…!’

“Ready— Go!!”

He jumped at Laine’s cue with axes raised. Lindorm pulled his right arm back in preparation to retaliate.

‘I must snatch the early lead…!’

Sigulf got close in no time thanks to his own speed and brought down Fenrir. Lindorm was well-aware of this fact too, so he focused on striking back instead of attempting any kind of maneuver.

‘…!’

Moments before impact, Sigulf could feel an intense pressure emanating from Lindorm.

‘What the—!?’

Letting out an inhuman roar, Lindorm swiped his right claw upwards. The violent collision between Fenrir and Nidhoggr produces a loud metallic noise, and stopped Sigulf’s momentum mid-air.

‘By Loki…!’

He had to reconsider and used the blow to propel himself away.

‘That strength is insane…!’ Sigulf thought. ‘Matching his single strikes would be dangerous…!’

Even so, Sigulf charged against the approaching Lindorm.

‘That’s why I’m not going to play with his pace…! If one swing can’t break through, then I’ll make it two!’

Sigulf sidestepped to his left in time, evading Lindorm’s attack. He then spun his whole body and unleashed a horizontal slash.

‘There…!!’

“…!”

Lindorm reacted with a backfist. His sturdy gauntlets made it possible to parry Sigulf’s blow.

‘Tch…! Not yet…!’

Sigulf recovered quickly and launched a follow-up attack; his advantage in speed contained Lindorm’s offense and gave him not much option.

‘Just as I thought…!’

Sigulf’s agility and multiple swings could balance out Lindorm’s powerful single strikes. He still has to be very careful in doing so, however.

‘I might be mistaken, but his fighting style is similar to Armstrong; slow but strong. Stronger, actually. And much more feral…!’

———

5 minutes passed, and their sparring ended inconclusively.

“Good work, you two~”

“Phew…”

Slightly tired, Sigulf dematerialized his Arms.

‘We can’t go all out due to our weapons being in Safe Mode. Who knows what might happen in an actual duel…?’

He glanced at Lindorm and noticed that his right pupil has returned.

‘So it has to do with his Nidhoggr…’

Lindorm, though also a bit weary, looks rather satisfied. He approached Sigulf and extended his fist.

“Oh…?”

“Well fought, kinsman.”

Sigulf returned the gesture, bumping his knuckle with Lindorm’s.

“You too.”

“Einvigi. At autumn’s free for all.”

“Yeah. May the Norns will it…!”

“Hmm, as expected from the viking brothers…” Laine commented. “Okay, who wanna go next?”

“Me, me!” Alba raised her hand eagerly.

“Oh, okay. Then, who will be the opponent?”

“Since we are all here, why don’t you give it a go?” Celina suggested.

“Eh? Me? I don’t mind, but…”

“But?”

Laine turned to face Alba.

“We barely talked to each other, if ever, are we?”

Alba blinked.

“O, oh, certainly…!”

There was a short, awkward silence.

“W, whoa, no need to be so rigid. We heard good things about you, and you’re not on our blacklist, so let’s just take it easy and have a good spar, yeah?”

“You’re the one being awkward, though.” Chelsea pointed out while giggling.

“Ugh… Ah, well. Let’s just get started.”

The two stepped into the field and readied their weapons.

‘Alright, let’s watch and study her style.’ Sigulf thought. ‘Her Arms made me curious.’

A long harpoon with a steel chain attached to it. It doesn’t seem to be the powerful-type, but he guessed that it must have some kind of utility.

“Ready… Go!”

Just as Alba was about to advance at Chelsea’s signal, however, she sensed danger and raised her claymore instinctively.

“Wha…!?”

Alba, and Sigulf, realized what just happened few moments later; Laine threw her harpoon straight at her and yanked it back using the chain when it got blocked.

“Consider it a friendly greeting.” Laine taunted.

“Interesting…!” Alba grinned in response.

‘It is.’ Sigulf mentally agreed.

Alba broke into a dash and raised her great sword.

“Let’s go!!”

She slammed it down; Laine sidestepped just in time and countered by thrusting her spear.

“You’re open!”

“I won’t let you!”

Alba quickly pulled back and swung her blade sideways. The difference in strength made it possible for her Braveheart to knock back the older girl.

“Kuh…! Just as I thought…!”

Laine had to jump away, avoiding another swing and took some distance.

“Oh no, you don’t!”

Alba tried to give pursuit, but Laine hurled her harpoon again.

“Off you go!”

She swung upwards, trying to deflect it away, however…

“Wha…!?”

‘It returned straight to her!?’

‘It’s not normal.’ Sigulf concurred. ‘Then again, none of our weapons are…’

Laine kept flinging her harpoon over and over, forcing Alba to advance slowly, all the while defending herself.

‘So annoying! Looks like I have to force my way thr—!?‘

Alba was too used to her pattern, she almost didn’t notice that Laine’s harpoon was stuck in mid-air.

‘How…!?’

Laine smirked and she yanked the chain. But instead of recalling her weapon, it was her who launched with a flying kick towards Alba, while her chained spear remained stationary.

“Uryah!!”

“Tch…!”

Alba raised her sword in the nick of time and blocked it, but the resulting impact still staggered her a bit.

“Guh…!”

Laine used Alba’s claymore as a platform and backflipped. Landing safely, she then lunged forward.

“First blo—“

“Deyah!!”

“What the…!?”

Much to Laine’s surprise, Alba recovered quicker than she thought; she twirled to the left and unleashed a downward slash. Luckily, Laine was fast enough to jump away unharmed.

“Tch… I missed…!”

“Whoa… That was close…!”

“You know, that’s an impressive way to use a harpoon!” Alba grinned.

“Well, thank you. This mermaid doesn’t play around, you know?” Laine replied.

‘Mermaid? So she bonded with a water deity, I guess.’ Sigulf noted.

———

Few bouts later, the whole group ended their morning practice.

“Good work, everyone.” Victoria congratulated. “So, did you work a good sweat?”

“Thank you, it was a good experience.” Sigulf responded.

“Ah, that’s good to hear. So, as long as I have the time, this will be our regular schedule.”

Vigdis tensed for a moment.

“…well, as long as you teach properly AND seriously.”

“Ufufu, worry not, Miss Hrimgard. I am a woman of my words.” She chuckled. “Now, with that out of the way, would all of you mind to join me for breakfast?”

“Eh?”

“It’s on me.”

“Mea—“

Alba stopped yelling midway when she realized something.

“Wait, are we going to eat in some fancy restaurant? They don’t have munchy box, do they?”

“Oh dear, I almost forgot that you liked those. Well, I believe they don’t, but I’m sure you will find another menu you will like.”

“Hrrm… I wonder…” Alba gave a hard thought, looking quite comical in the process.

Sigulf and Celina looked a bit worried for their own reason.

‘We are supposed to go out after this…’

He glanced at her; she nodded understandingly.

“Um, Ma’am, about that…” Sigulf raised his hand.

“Oh…?”

Victoria looked at him, and then glanced at Celina, before letting out a sly smile.

“Oh, my apologies. How inconsiderate of me… So, who confessed first?”

“”Eh!?””

“Wait, what!?” Vigdis couldn’t contain her surprise. “Why didn’t you tell me—“

“N, no! You got it wrong!”

“Really?” Melanie sounded unconvinced.

“Hmm, considering last time, aren’t they the type who went on a date to know each other better before going steady?” Eliot tried to explain.

“Eh? W, well, yeah…”

“Ah, so you are going on another date.” Chelsea pointed. “Well, have fun, I guess. But don’t get overboard!”

“What, again? Don’t blame me if I end up much stronger than you!” Alba smirked.

Their collective teasing was more than enough to make Sigulf and Celina blush.

‘I know it’s impossible to hide the fact, but it’s still embarrassing…!’

Sigulf glanced at Victoria who smiled and feigned innocence.

‘She totally did that on purpose…’

 

Part 4

Spoiler

After their morning routine, a couple of hours and some preparations later, Sigulf and Celina finally arrived at the public park island.

“Mmm! This is so good! The cheese blends well with the cod! Lovely!”

“Glad you liked it.”

‘I’m still not too used making baked cod on my own, but good thing it paid off…’ Sigulf thought.

“Oh, are those pancakes?”

“Yes, the traditional Icelandic style. Kinda similar to crepes.”

“Oh my, with all these sweetness, I wonder if I could manage for the cocoa soup.”

“Ahahah… Don’t worry, there’s always room for dessert. Or so people say.”

“Ufufu, I see you live by those words too.”

———

With their stomachs filled, Sigulf and Celina decided to take a short break and enjoy the gentle breeze.

“Ah, so comfy…” Sigulf muttered.

“So true.” Celina chuckled. “And it made me a bit sleepy too, to be honest.”

“Well, after all that training, it’s only natural, I guess.”

“But I don’t think I can fall asleep here…”

“Hm? Why’s that?”

“Because… I… Have to talk…”

“…eh?”

‘What’s with this development!?’ Sigulf thought. ‘No, calm down. It can’t be that… Right!?’

Silence. He nervously waits for her to continue.

“…go on. I’m listening.”

Still no response. Sigulf began to think that something’s not right… Until Celina rested her head on his left shoulder.

“Wha—“

…and then he could hear her soft breathing.

‘What, so she fell as— Wait a minute!’

Sigulf reconfirmed the situation. Indeed, Celina was using his shoulder as a headrest.

‘A, am I allowed to be happy!?’ he thought embarrassedly. ‘I was getting sleepy too, but it’s impossible now…!’

“Sigulf…”

‘Ah, she dreamed about me ag—‘

“Don’t…”

‘What kind of dream did she—!?’

“Don’t let your guard down…”

‘…that’s actually better. Thank goodness…’

She continues to sleep undisturbed. Sigulf took a glance at her face.

‘…she’s really tired, huh?’

Between maintaining her grades, her duel achievements, and taking care of Council matters, it was unsurprising in the first place.

“…”

Maybe she needed some help, like Chelsea and Victoria said. Or maybe she was always the superwoman who can handle herself just fine, like commonly thought. Sigulf has no ways of knowing. Even so…

‘…it’s not wrong if I wanted to be her strength, right?’

He was always serious about fighting, and not much about anything else. But this time, he found another. And this time, he’s willing to give his efforts.

‘It’s worth a try.’

“…hmm?”

“Oh, good morning.”

“Good mor— …ah.”

Celina realized her position she was in. Flustered, she quickly straightens up her body.

“M, my bad…”

“A, ah, it’s alright…”

Sigulf noticed that she’s still slightly dazed.

“Are you okay? I can get you the pillow if needed.”

“Thank you, but I’m—“

It was cut off by her own yawning, to which Sigulf laughed.

“…sorry.”

“You should’ve said so. I know you’re tired.”

Sigulf handed Celina the small cushion and she lay down on the blanket.

“Thank you…”

“You’re welcome. Oh, do you need some blanket?” he offered his jacket.

“Eh? Is it really fine with you?”

“I, I don’t mind…” Sigulf answered, slightly blushing.

“Well then, I’m borrowing this…”

Celina took the jacket and covered herself with it.

‘It’s warm… And it smells like him too…’ she thought. ‘Oh Gods, what am I thinking!?’

“Umm, Celina?”

“…I think I lost all my drowsiness.”

“Eh? What?”

“I, I’m alright now. Sorry, and thank you…”

“Oh, um, sure. Anytime.”

Celina rose up, still looking a bit flushed.

“Say, Sigulf, do we still have some cocoa soup?”

“Oh, sure. You want another?”

“Yes. It’s actually kind of…”

“Addictive?” Sigulf chuckled. “Yeah, I feel you.”

He passed Celina her portion before enjoying his own.

‘Ah, good chocolate… So warm and relaxing…’ Sigulf thought. ‘And I get to drink it with someone else…’

He stole another glance at the blonde beauty.

‘Still, I wonder what that was about…’

———

Having done putting away their belongings, Sigulf and Celina was ready to leave the park.

“Good times sure pass by quickly.”

“It sure is.”

He gazed at her as the wind caressed her face.

‘Ah, will I have another chance like this?’

“Hmm? What is it?”

“…oh, right, that reminds me.” Sigulf responded. “While we are still here…”

He was obviously nervous, but still forced himself to go on.

“You said that you have something to talk about.”

“Oh…”

Celina’s cheeks went red.

“I did say that…” she continued with a hint of hesitation in her tone.

“If you don’t want to—“

“No, it’s alright.” Celina quickly shook her head. “I’m not taking back my words.”

“Okay, I’m listening…”

She took a deep breath. Rather unusual coming from her, and it just made Sigulf even more anxious.

“So, I heard from Chelsea…”

“Yes…”

“That you joined our Council to court me.”

It’s not like it wasn’t painfully obvious already, but having the fact thrown right back at his face is still embarrassing all the same.

“…yes.”

“Seriously, what are you thinking…” Celina sighed. “Taking such approach, and even declaring that you will surpass us…”

“Ugh… That’s…”

“…so bold and daring. Rather admirable, actually…”

“Eh!? Ah, um, thank you…?”

She cleared her throat.

“And to be honest, in regards to the Council, you didn’t disrupt nor hinder our activities. Having managed to maintain your academic and fighting grades is a more than welcome bonus, too.”

“Thank you. I have to do my best, after all.”

“Think you can keep it?”

“I will.”

Even Sigulf himself was surprised at how confident he sounded.

“I see…”

Celina closed her eyes and adjusted her hair. He waits with a bated breath.

“I’m happy that you are serious.” She continued. “However…”

His heart sank a little. Don’t jump the gun, was all he could tell himself.

“How do you feel about the Principal?”

“…eh? Ah…”

It was faint, but Sigulf could hear it. The slight shaking on her voice. He realized what she’s going at.

‘Celina, she… Yet, I…!’

Admiring another’s beauty is natural. Likewise, feeling jealousy caused by one a person longed. Her jealousy confirmed that she indeed feels the same way. Still, there are better ways, and Sigulf loathed himself for it.

‘Fuck me, I should know better than this…!’

He inhaled deeply. No more dancing around this issue.

“…like you said, my feelings for you are serious,”

Sigulf finally said it.

“Yet, you are right. I do like Mrs. Stark too.”

“I can see that…” Celina said. “Despite her… Quirks, she is a very capable headmistress and an unparalleled duelist on top of that.”

“She is…”

“That’s why…”

She looked at him straight in his eyes.

“Wouldn’t it be better if your feelings reached her instead?”

Sigulf paused at her words. Indeed, the older woman was open with her intentions, yet still tactful enough to let the boy decide for himself. And knowing her, Victoria wouldn’t worry about the differences in age, power, and status.

‘…’

But Sigulf wasn’t as uncertain as he was before.

“Celina, are you…”

He didn’t finish; he knew Celina was opening up.

“Yes… As you can see, I have my own insecurities…”

She stared back at him.

“Sigulf, I’m not perfect like people think. I too feel jealous. And from the times we spend together, I’m sure you noticed it too. That I am not all that confident. That I have difficulties relating with others.”

“I know. You being actually perfect… I guess that’s too good to be true.”

“Then—“

“But so is Mrs. Stark. Or my Master. Or Chelsea. Or Alba. So I guess, we can get being ‘perfect’ out of the way.”

“Don’t you think you’re putting me on a pedestal?”

Even more worry from her. And it pained him.

“That… I might have. Then again, I have my reason, and it’s as real as it can be.”

“Eh…?”

“It’s not her fists that shook my heart.” Sigulf confessed. “It’s your spear.”

It was a strange feeling. He knows that his cheeks are warm. Yet not even once the urge to back down crossed his mind.

“Never once I forget what I saw that day. Your prowess burned something within. I want to get stronger. I want to reach higher. I want to stand on the same level as you…! Day by day during our training, the feeling only got even more intense. And when we fought together against the paladins… I know it was something way beyond your strength.”

“Sigulf…”

“I know that I am still green. That I still need to catch up to you. Not to mention that I am your junior, and you are already very strong. Yet my feelings of wanting to be your strength isn’t a lie…! So I’ll say this again, with clarity…”

Towards Celina, Sigulf extended his hand.

“I love you, Celina. Please be my duel partner.”

‘…I said it.’ He thought. ‘I finally said it, loud and clear.’

She shuddered slightly, as tears began to form in her blue eyes.

“You… To think a pervert like you could say something like that…”

Sigulf was about to protest his perceived pervert status… Only to forget it entirely when he felt something warm on his lips.

“Mmh…”

Short, yet tender. It was a memory which both Sigulf and Celina will always remember.

 

Part 5

Spoiler

Sigulf remembers well what Celina said when they finally left the island.

‘I will see you again tomorrow…’

Tomorrow. They still have Sunday for another morning practice. Still, her words gave him joy and hope. Anticipation kept him up for the rest of the day.

‘…ah, I’m so lucky. I can’t wait to see her again…’ Sigulf thought. ‘Wait, I gotta sleep early, else I’ll miss training.’

And so, for the better or worse, when morning came, Sigulf doesn’t have much time to daydream.

“Haah!”

“Tch…!”

Narrowly avoided a thrust from her spear, Sigulf quickly closed the gap and took a swing.

“Interesting… However…!”

Celina spun the other way around and slammed her Badb against his Fenrir.

‘Kh… So strong…!’

Sigulf was knocked back, but not by much. It encouraged him to charge in once again.

“Yes, that’s it!” Celina praised, guarding against another powerful strike. “Give me all you have!”

Yet despite the fact that Celina is still the stronger fighter, Sigulf showed less hesitation in his attacks. If anything, it enticed him to be even more aggressive.

‘Her power and speed… I think I’m getting closer… I can do this…!’

With a roar, Sigulf brought down his axe; Celina retaliated in response and bashed her weapon against his.

“Feels like they are fighting better than before.” Alba commented from the sidelines. “And Siggy is smiling too, despite not having the advantage.”

“I guess something good happened to them. Both gave out bright pink aura.” Chelsea giggled.

“Pink…?”

“Something good, I see…” Victoria mused. “Fufu, youth…”

“Hmm? Did I miss something?” Vigdis asked. “…wait, is my boy hiding something from me!?”

“Well, he’s already on that age.” Melanie responded. “Oh, and focus. Eliot’s waiting.”

“Eeeeeehh?”

‘It’s not like we want to hide the fact…’ Sigulf noted in-between exchanging blows. ‘But if she hasn’t talked about it… Well…’

“You’re wide open!”

“I won’t let you!”

He was still aware enough to defend against her sudden lunge, leading to another deadlock.

“Good move.” Celina gave a satisfied smile.

“It’s all thanks to you.” Sigulf returned the sentiment.

———

The next day, Sigulf was just done with his breakfast and about to leave his room when he heard someone is knocking.

‘Hmm? Who could it be?’

He also sensed that it was a bit more crowded than usual outside, but he dismissed the thought. Of course, Sigulf immediately found the reason why as he opened the door.

“…a, ah. Good morning.”

“Good morning.”

Greeting him with faint blush and a radiant smile, Celina was standing before his room.

‘Eh? Eeh!? Why is she— Wait, don’t tell me—‘

“I was wondering if we could walk to school together.” She continued. “I hope I don’t disturb you?”

“No, not at all! I was just finished eating.” He reassured.

“That’s good to hear.”

Sigulf peeked behind her and saw that both Laine and Lindorm were there, trying to control the traffic.

“Hey, hey, what are you guys doing here? There’s nothing to see, shoo shoo.”

“You’re crowding the corridor. Please move.”

“Yeah, get a move on already, or he’ll go all Nidhoggr on you.”

‘…they are so dedicated.’

Sigulf looked back at Celina, and she only let out a tired laughter.

“Oh well…” he sighed. “Wait, you’re not with Chelsea today?”

“Umm, she went ahead. She said hi, by the way.”

“I see…”

‘She’s being considerate to us… I’m sure Celina knows too…’

“I know that we still have some time, but shall we depart to our classes?” she asked.

“Oh, sure, let’s— Eh?”

Sigulf was surprised when Celina offered her hand.

“Then I shall escort you.” She chuckled.

“Um, isn’t it the other way around?”

“Oh, so you’d prefer doing the escorting?”

“If you don’t mind, that is. Though to be honest, I don’t mind either way.”

“Fufufu, well then…”

She held his hand firmly. Sigulf could feel his heart beating faster, and judging by Celina’s rosy cheeks, she must have felt the same.

“Together.”

“Yeah, together…!”

As soon as they began walking hand in hand, Sigulf swore he could hear the laments of despair coming from most other boys, and surprisingly, few girls.

‘I know I’m allowed to be proud of this…’

Bashful as they may be, the pair can’t hide their happiness, keeping their fingers intertwined along the way.

———

Sigulf knew that they are still going to see each other. Still, parting ways with Celina made him a bit lonely.

“Good luck, and do your best on your studies.”

“Yeah, you too.”

“Fufu, see you later.”

Sigulf nodded and waved her goodbye.

‘See you later…’

Those words did comfort him, and it was enough for now.

“…alright, time to switch gears.”

He entered his own classroom… and the other students’ focus instantly switched to him.

‘…here we go.’

The first thing he noticed was Alba and Yuu smirked knowingly at him.

“Oh, there he is.” Yuu said.

“…yo. Good morning.” Sigulf greeted them.

There was no immediate answer… Until Alba and Yuu suddenly, and cheerfully, responded with ““Go explode!”” in unison.

“Uhh, thanks… I guess?”

“Ahahahah, you’re welcome!”

Yuu began to pat Sigulf’s back, while Alba candidly elbowed his gut.

“So you actually made your move, huh? You perverted reeajoo…!”

“Oi, stop it. And what have you been teaching her?”

“Hmm? That riajuu deserves to explode?”

“…I don’t understand Japanese slang.”

“Ahahah, I think you don’t have to worry about that.”

“Amakawa…”

Minato approached them. And when there is Minato, his groupies and Walter are bound to follow.

“Congratulations, Hrimgard-kun!”

“Congrats, man! You got guts!”

“Oh, um, thanks, you two.”

Sigulf then noticed that Eurypha has been staring at him.

“What is it?”

“I’m kind of surprised and kind of not… So, congrats, I guess?” she responded. “Just try not to hold her back.”

“What?”

“Well, little Eury here idolizes Miss Bartram very much, so…“ Carmen explained.

“Who do you call ‘little’!? And w— …well, you’re not wrong about the idolizing part.”

“Don’t worry, I won’t. I’ll do my best to support her. Way more than that, even.”

“…tch, I was hoping you’d goof around and slack off instead, so—“

“”Hiltunen-san.”” Minato, and Yuu for some reason, reprimanded Ilma’s tone.

“U, ugh… Fine, sorry.”

“You should try to read the mood.” Yuu sighed. “Or even better, being more honest and—“

“No need for that.” Siegward cut him off.

“Huh?”

The silver-haired German approached, with Masaki following behind.

“Class-traitor.” He growled at Sigulf.

“…wait, what?”

“Are you seriously still hung up on that?” Masaki retorted. “Don’t tell me this is one of your theatrics again…”

Silence was the only thing coming from him.

“…figures.”

Everyone barring Siegward collectively sighed.

“…what? Is there any problem?” he tried to defend himself.

“Dude, don’t be such a killjoy!” Walter pointed out.

“Grh… What am I supposed to do then?”

“Now, now, we are all classmates; don’t you think we should be thoughtful for the occasion?” Arthfael intervened before turning to Sigulf. “Hrimgard, congratulations.”

“Eh? Oh, thank you.”

‘His tone…’

“So, how are we going to celebrate?” Yuu asked. “Sig-kun and the others have Council jobs, after all.”

“How about during lunch break? It’s not like we have any other options.” Alba suggested.

“You’re right. And then… Oh, the place. For a change a pace, how about we eat at the school court?”

“That sounds like a good idea.” Minato agreed.

“Count me in!” Walter added.

“…you guys just decided this on your own.” Sigulf pointed out.

“What are you getting sulky for? You should be more cheerful about this!” Alba grinned.

“Ah, I’m sorry, but I don’t think I can join you.” Arthfael suddenly spoke up again.

“Eh? Why not?”

“I already have my own regularly scheduled lunch with the others, so…”

‘…’

“Same here.” Siegward raised his hand. “Though obviously, not with his group of knights.”

“Sorry about that.” Masaki gestured.

“Eeh, seriously? I guess it can’t be helped…” Walter conceded. “So, the usual Council party?”

“You’re not even—“ Eurypha was about to snap back, but gave up midway. “…ah, whatever. Then I’ll contact the President and the others.”

“Guess there’s no stopping you guys…” Sigulf sighed. “Oh well, I don’t have any appointments, anyway.”

Minato’s group then proceeded to ask Sigulf for more details, while Alba and Yuu were content with poking and teasing him.

‘…’

Still, Sigulf carefully and discreetly observed Arthfael from the corner of his eyes.

———

The whole school was abuzz with the news out. Even Eliot took some digs at Sigulf during homeroom.

“Congratulations to our lucky lad here. Hopefully you can stay lucky throughout the year and maintain your grades. You’ve painted yourself as a big target, after all.”

‘…I know, but must he brought it up like this?’

On the other hand, he found it a bit funny that his female classmates came to thank him for the news.

“Why did they…?” Sigulf asked Yuu.

“I’m guessing it’s because they have less rivals now?” he tried to explain. “I mean, the school’s top maiden is out of equation.”

“Ah, I see…”

“But, well, it came as quite the relief for some of us too. If you can win the President’s heart, then…”

“…oi, what do you mean by that?”

And when lunch break finally came, the 1st-years met the Council duo on their way out.

“Hey there, boys and girls! Thanks for inviting!” Chelsea greeted.

“Seriously, you are too ecstatic for this…” Celina sighed.

“And you should be too! It’s about you two, you know!”

“Where’s Lindorm and Laine?” Sigulf asked.

“For some reason, they insisted on doing their regular intel duty, so they can’t join us.”

‘…they are being dutiful at the strangest time.’

“Ah-hem!” Chelsea purposefully cleared her throat to grab everyone’s attention. “Without any further delay, let’s celebrate Celina and Sigulf officially going steady! You brought your own lunches, right?”

“””Yeah!”””

“Well then, let’s go~!”

‘Why is she the one leading? I guess that’s just so her…’

Sigulf and Celina looked at each other before sharing a wry laughter. But then again, there’s no denying that both of them do appreciate their friends’ sentiment.

‘This is very nice, actually… Not bad at all.’

 

Part 6

Spoiler

Their lunch was quite lively, partially due to Alba, Chelsea, and Yuu’s teasing, and partially because of Eurypha, Carmen, and Ilma were asking relentlessly for details. Of course, it quickly devolved into the three girls fighting over Minato, while the poor boy was too powerless to stop them.

‘…I began to feel bad for those three.’ Sigulf thought. ‘Is he that shy? Simply uninterested? Something else?’

———

Things got heated up a little during mock duel session. In one way or another, Sigulf has made himself a big target, and his opponent was one of the unfortunate, heartbroken boys.

“Hrimgaaard!!”

“Tch…!”

Sigulf repeatedly evaded the boy’s thrusts, looking for an opportunity.

‘Guess rage could make for a good fuel. But…!’

“Wha—!?”

After a well-timed side-step, Sigulf spun his body and delivered a downward swing. It struck his opponent cleanly and thrashed him away.

“That’s enough! Winner, Sigulf Hrimgard!”

Among the cheering, Sigulf withdrew his True Arms.

‘I can’t lose here…!’

He sent a glance towards Alba and Minato. Both quickly caught his intention.

“Hrimgard-kun…!” Minato sounded quite determined.

“Heheh… That’s more like it.” Alba returned with a grin.

———

Thankfully for Sigulf, it was much calmer in the Council. Just like always, Sigulf assisted Celina and Chelsea, and the meeting went without a hitch.

“Thank you for th— Wait, Chelsea, are you leaving already?”

The girl in question stopped near the door just as Celina called her.

“Um, well, I’d love to have teatime with you two, but I just remembered that I have another appointment, sooo…”

‘…she’s obviously lying.’ Sigulf and Celina thought the same thing.

“Oh! I think I’m running late, so— …hm?”

Something, or rather someone, made Chelsea stop. She then turned around to Sigulf.

“You have a visitor.”

“Eh? Who mi— Master?”

“You…!”

Vigdis suddenly jumped and hugged Sigulf tight close to her chest.

“Waaaaaahhh! Why didn’t you say anything about this!?”

“M, Master, calm down! We’re in the Council room!”

“…eh? Ah…”

Vigdis noticed that Celina was standing nearby, and she hurriedly lets Sigulf go.

“Waaahh!? S, sorry, I didn’t mean to—“

“I, it’s alright, I understand.” Celina reassured with a wry giggle.

Vigdis looked a bit apologetic towards Celina, but she still eyed her own disciple.

“…still, you could’ve at least not leaving me in the dark.”

“Err, sorry, Master. I lost the right moment…”

“Maybe you should have paid better attention?” Victoria suddenly said, popping from behind the wall. “That said, I am curious too.”

“Geh…! It’s the Atlantic Witch!” Vigdis screeched. “Why are you here!?”

“Why thank you for the flattering nickname.” She nonchalantly responded. “As for why, my radar detected such a festive mood coming from the Council, so I’m thinking that maybe we can hold a small celebration.”

‘…what radar? Wait, celebrate?’

Sigulf glanced at Celina, who was slightly surprised as well.

“Would you mind if I join your teatime?” Victoria continued.

“Hey, what a minute! What are you planning with that!?” Vigdis questioned.

“Hmm? Nothing much, merely interested in the juicy details, just like you are.”

“Ugh… That’s…”

Sigulf sighed while Celina let out a bitter laughter.

———

In the end, the two prevented Chelsea’s escape and they had teatime together.

“Fufu… Now, mind if you share us your experience?” Victoria moved closer to Sigulf.

“The details, boy! Don’t left out any single moments!” Vigdis added.

“Celinaaa, save mee…!” Sigulf half-jokingly pleaded.

“A, ahahah… I want to, but I’m a bit preoccupied with all these milk tea…” Celina replied.

“…you don’t mind him acting cutesy like that?” Chelsea pointed out. “That doesn’t suit him at all!”

“…yes, yes, I hear you. Sorry about that…”

Celina merely chuckled at their banter.

———

As if that wasn’t enough, when they met up with Lindorm and Laine along the way, the Estonian demanded the same.

“…again? It’s already the third time today…” Sigulf groaned.

“Hey, hey, we helped you back at the dorm’s corridor, ya know?” Laine retorted. “Or what? Did you eat that much already?”

“Besides, allow us to properly congratulate you two, kinsman.” Lindorm added.

Sigulf and Celina looked at each other.

“Third round?” she asked.

“…third round, I guess.” He relented.

Celina gave a remorseful smile.

“Sorry. Maybe one of these days…”

“I know. It’s not your fault in the first place.” Sigulf assured.

‘…ah well, if today is celebration day, then so be it.’

———

Thankfully for him, the next few days have been better to Sigulf. School life, dueling, and Council responsibilities became more vivid, thanks to Celina’s presence. He even got his wish to have some time together granted, as much as it still made them embarrassed.

“S, so, how does it feel?”

“It’s actually quite calming and comfortable… I, I just have to be less self-conscious…”

The two have the same idea on what they want to try, and so, in the empty Council room, Celina gave Sigulf a lap pillow, all the while gently caressing his silver locks.

‘By the Gods, how can he made such a cute, blissful expression like this…!?’

‘Praise the Rokkr, my heart beats like crazy right now, but I can say that I’m a happy man…!’

It took a while before Celina realized that she can’t have him oversleep on her thighs.

———

All in all, it was all nice and smooth-sailing for Sigulf. Or at least, that’s for the most part.

“…has she left?”

“…seems so.”

School’s rooftop; the to-go place for Sigulf’s group to enjoy lunch. Only this time, it lacked the laid-back mood because of something.

“Still, why would she go out of her way to stalk Sigulf?”

“Aha, worried, aren’t you?”

“I would be lying if I say otherwise.”

“Bad Siggy, made someone heartbroken so hard, she snapped.”

“…I’m pretty sure that’s not even the case.”

Few days after the news of his relationship with Celina got out, Sigulf noticed that a certain girl has been following him around, and only stopped everytime he met the Council duo.

‘According to Lindorm and Laine, she’s from B-class, and a member of Penndreic’s Knight Circle.’ Sigulf thought. ‘Is he related to this?’

“Then what’s her reason?” Alba asked in dissatisfaction.

“Beats me… But if she’s indeed heartbroken, my nose would’ve known since the beginning.” He pointed out.

“Ah, right. Yours can do that…” Celina said, tenderly brushing Sigulf’s nose and made the boy blush.

“Yeah, are you even human?” Chelsea joined and poked it multiple times.

“W, wait! Stop it…!”

“Hee… Good for you, huh? Being surrounded by older beauties.” Alba grinned.

“…that’s my cheek you’re poking.”

“But seriously, then why?”

“…well, there’s only one way to find out.”

———

After school, instead of going back straight to the dorms with Celina and Chelsea, Sigulf took a detour towards the amusement avenue.

‘…’

Just as he predicted, the stalker immediately tailed him without any doubts, seemingly oblivious that he did this on purpose.

‘She avoided Celina and Chelsea everytime… I guess she wanted a fair and just duel, too?’

Sigulf carefully made his move, luring her into the open space near the central park, where Celina, Chelsea, and Alba waits.

‘…alright, this should be good enough.’

He suddenly stopped; so did his stalker.

“…show yourself. I know you’re there.”

There was a short pause before the girl stepped out of the shadow.

‘…’

A girl around the same age as him; her long blonde hair was tied in a low braid, nearly reaching her own hips.

“…impressive. I guess nothing escaped your instinct.” She said. “Since when did you notice?”

“From the beginning, to be honest.”

“Wha—“

Her genuine look of shock actually caught Sigulf off-guard.

“I, impossible! Even though I made sure that—“

‘…wait, seriously? Did she actually think no one would notice?’

“—anyways, enough of this!” the girl continued. “My reason here is not to engage in a pointless conversation!”

“Oh…?”

She went all dramatic and pointed her finger towards Sigulf.

“Sigulf Hrimgard! I, 1st-year B-class’ Carole Delacroix, challenge you to a duel!”

‘Delacroix… So she’s French, just like Sir Fortier. But rather than that…’

“Your reason?”

“Of course, it’s for Pen— !?”

Carole quickly stopped herself and covered her own mouth.

“…what?”

“N, no, forget it! There’s no way I will speak to the enemy!”

‘Suspicious, but…’ he sighed. ‘What’s with this girl?’

“Forget it, indeed. I refuse, then.”

“What!? Why you—“

“I don’t a mind a friendly duel without any reasons. But you aren’t my friend.”

“Ugh…! Well, you’re not wrong, but…!”

“Then state your reasons.”

“W, what difference does it make!?”

“Hmm, maybe no. But I thought you are a knight? Where’s your courtesy?”

“Grrh…! Are you saying you don’t challenge anyone around without valid reasons!?”

Sigulf shrugged.

“Unlike you, I am a free warrior. Wanting to ‘be stronger’ or ‘test my limits’ is probably good enough. That said… Come to think of it, I’ve always been the one on the receiving end since I came to this academy.”

“T, that’s it! Why can’t I challenge you like everyone else!?”

“Because at least I can read their motives. But you…”

Sigulf slightly raised his head and glared at Carole. His icy gaze somewhat unnerved her.

“I can smell that it’s not quite about Celina or me.” He continued. “So… What is it?”

“Kh…!”

Even so, she didn’t falter. Carole clenched her fists and took a step forward.

“You won’t hear me talk unless you best me!”

Silence for a few seconds. He then took a deep breath.

“…deal. That’s good enough.”

“I will not lose…!”

Sigulf hunched and switched into his personal stance, ready to clash against Carole.

‘Can’t be helped… I guess I’ll force out the answer myself…!”

Meanwhile, in their hiding spot, Celina, Chelsea, and Alba watched with a slight amusement.

“Ah, so they are going to fight after all.” Celina pointed out.

“Fufufu, he can’t really deny the temptation of good duels.” Chelsea agreed.

“That Siggy… He just wanted to rile his opponent before actually fighting…” Alba concluded.

 

Part 7

Spoiler

Cold wind blew as Sigulf began to chant. He gripped the twin frost axes as soon as they formed and made an x-shaped slash. Carole shivered; it’s definitely not from the chilly air which came with Fenrir.

“Come… Summon your True Arms.” Sigulf growled.

“Kuh…!”

‘I can’t back down here…! Else, I can’t face the Captain again…!’

Carole had no other choice but to brace herself. She held her arms forward and began reciting. Light golden energy slowly materialized on her hands.

“May the Holy eternally illuminate my path… May the Spirit embolden me against the flames of peril…! Endure with fortitude, La Pucelle!”

What looked like a steel spear appeared, only that its head were a bit too small. Near the base of its tip, almost translucent golden light emanates radiantly, making it looks less like a proper polearm, and more like—

‘…oh, of course. What else if not a flag pole?’ Sigulf thought. ‘Maid of Orleans, Joan of Arc. Kind of ironic she would be affiliated with an English knight. …or was he Welsh?’

He set the thought aside; both fighters are waiting for the signal.

“En garde.”

Sigulf couldn’t feel any slight hint of movement coming from Carole.

‘If she’s not going to strike, then—’

“Begin!”

‘I’ll bring the fight to her!’

Sigulf immediately broke into a run; Carole stood ground and reinforced her stance.

“Deyah!!”

His axe slammed into her staff. Sigulf looked a bit surprised as he expected a bigger knockback.

“Kuh…!”

‘Oh? Her guard is tougher than I thought. But this…!’

As he had anticipated, Carole pulled away and retaliated with a swing. Sigulf spun sideways and countered with his left axe.

“Wha— Tch…!”

She raised her weapon in the nick of time and blocked Sigulf’s attack.

‘A close one! I won’t let you get away!’

He pressed with the offense, not giving Carole room for breather.

‘W, why is this guy so fast!?’

Sigulf has already circling around her; for every multitude of his slashes, she could only return with a single strike. Given enough time, it’s clear that Sigulf would break through her defenses. Yet…

‘There’s no way I’d wait until a time-out victory! That’s why…!!’

“…!?”

One empty step, and it managed to throw off Carole’s timing. Having gathered enough strength, Sigulf twirled and swung upwards.

“I’m ending this now!!”

“Gyah…!”

The Fenrir struck La Pucelle hard, sending it high into the air. Now defenseless, nothing Carole could do as Sigulf whirled once again and landed a clean, thrashing hit.

“Battle points, down by 35%.”

‘…!? It’s weaker than I thought… Is it the innate effect of her Arms?’

Sigulf pursued nonetheless, trying to finish Carole off, who has already begun recovering.

‘Kh…! I know that he’s on class above, but even so…!’

“I, I won’t let you!”

“Tch…!”

Unexpectedly, Carole threw some dirt towards Sigulf. He managed to avoid it, but it still bought her some time to grab her weapon back.

“Haah…! Haah…!”

‘She’s rather tenacious…’

“Uhh, is that even allowed?” Alba asked.

“Um, technically yes, since it didn’t touch Sigulf.” Celina explained.

“…wait, what? Seriously?”

“Have you ever watched a pro wrestling match? You can bring a steel chair and swing it around, but as long as the referee doesn’t see you actually hitting the opponent with it, you won’t get disqualified.” Chelsea added.

“Err… Is that how it goes?”

“Wait a second, I’m more surprised at the fact you know those.” Celina pointed out.

Sudden shouting coming from Carole pulled the three’s attention back. Uncharacteristically, she charged towards Sigulf, though the boy doesn’t seem to be too fazed.

‘Well then—’

“Eat this!”

“What!? Kh…!”

Sigulf slammed his axes to ground, making an icy cold energy spike erupt from the ground. Carole had to abruptly halt her advance…

“!?”

…only to face Sigulf head-on who rushed straight at her.

‘He ignored his own projectile!?’

She had no choice but to guard against his spinning horizontal slash. And even then, the knockback was big enough, it made her arm muscles ache.

‘Ugh…! B, but, this pattern…! I can’t falter—’

A glimpse of shadow flew over Carole’s head. It was too late by the time she realized it; Sigulf has moonsaulted instead of continuing his previous assault, and unleashed a cross strike upon her open back.

“Aagh!”

“Battle points, down by 20%.”

‘Just as I thought… It’s either her Arms, or she did train her endurance enough. Probably both… But, in any case…!’

With Carole’s back still against him, Sigulf switched his stance.

“Limiter: Laedingr, release!”

“…!? N, no…!”

With some struggle, she rose to her feet and immediately dashed to him.

“Limiter: Dromi—”

“Gh…! Uoooooohh!!”

“…just kidding.”

“Eh!?”

Sigulf took a step back and extended one leg out, tripping Carole in the process.

“Kyah…!”

She fell flat on her face. Sigulf didn’t give her another chance to move and raised his weapon.

“Hunt’s over.”

“””Ah.””” was Celina, Chelsea, and Alba’s collective reaction when Sigulf brought down the Fenrir.

“Battle points 0, cannot continue duel. Winner, Sigulf Hrimgard.”

He lets out a sigh of relief as his Arms vanished into thin air.

“Good fighting out there.” Celina congratulated.

“Ah, thank you.”

“W, what!?” Carole quickly turned around and looked at the other girls in disbelief. “Y, you were there the whole time!?”

“Umm, we’re sorry…?”

‘Uwa, talk about a quick recovery…!’ Sigulf noted.

“Ugh… How am I supposed to face the Captain now…?”

“Excuse me, but… Miss Delacroix?” Chelsea addressed her, making the French girl look up. “We are not quite sure about your Captain or why did you stalk Sigulf—”

“I, I didn’t stalk him!”

“No, that was stalking.” he sighed.

“Why you…!”

“Alright, alright, no fighting.” Chelsea clapped her hands before putting her focus back to Carole. “Now… Would you mind telling us your reason? A good knight will always keep their words, right?”

“U, ugh… That’s…”

Sigulf, Celina and Alba looked at Chelsea.

“Wait a sec, why are you the one who’s getting curious?” Sigulf asked.

“Eh? Because it’s interesting…? Maybe she does have a crush on you?”

“Pardon me!? Why would I like him!?” Carole protested.

“Why not? I do end up falling for him.” Celina replied bluntly and making Sigulf red in the meantime.

“You’re too serious, Cel… I know you wanted to brag about your boyfriend, but—”

“E, eh? That wasn’t—”

‘…w, what are they doing?’ Sigulf thought.

“…wait. Could it be that… She has a crush on Celina instead!?”

“Ah… N, no, at least not for me. Though, I do know few girls do, and they got heartbroken as well…”

“I see… Well, a beautiful and dependable president would be irresistible to both, after all. Hohoho~”

“What’s with that laughter?” Celina sighed.

“Nothing! And since we haven’t heard about her actual reasons… Miss Delacroix, if you will?”

“F, fine… I gave you my word…”

Carole shuddered a little. The other 4 waits for her answer with varying expectations.

“It’s… It’s all your fault, Hrimgard!”

“…huh?”

“When the Captain heard the news that you and Miss Bartram are seeing each other, he got crestfallen!”

“…ah, I see.”

“Hmm? This Captain she’s keep talking about…” Alba noticed something. “Since she’s from the Knight Circle, does that mean…”

“Yes, the Captain would be Arthfael Penndreic.” Celina answered.

Alba blinked once before she suddenly got furious.

“That Penndreic…! I judged him wrong! To think he would send a girl—”

“No, no, no, calm down.” Sigulf quickly interrupted. “He’s not that kind of guy.”

“Eh? But then—”

They looked back at Carole, making her nervous.

‘I think I have an idea why, though…’ Sigulf noted.

“Ugh…!”

“Well…?”

“It’s…”

“Hmm?”

“I, it’s because I want to avenge him! I, is there any problem with that!?”

“Umm, it’s not like I don’t understand, but…”

“She likes him.” Sigulf blurted out, making Carole shocked.

“H, how did you—!? W, wait, you aren’t supposed to say that!”

“O, oh!” Celina realized. “I, I see… So it’s avenging the honour of your beloved…”

“Well, it is knightly…” Chelsea laughed wryly. “And kind of romantic, I guess.”

“Ahahah, I always forgot that he’s a knight. Of course he would have admirers…” Alba added.

“Y, you guys are making fun of it…!”

“What? Nobody did.” Sigulf retorted.

“He’s right!” Chelsea suddenly stepped forward and grabbed Carole’s hands to her surprise. “If anything, I want to support you now! You can ask me for advice, fashion tips, or whatever else you wanted to know!”

“…Chelsea, you sure like this kind of stuff.” Alba pointed out.

“Eh? Eeh!?”

Carole got increasingly panicked, and tears began to gather on her eyes.

“Y, you…”

“Yes?”

“I can’t believe you guys! Waaaaaahhh!”

“Ah, Miss Delacroix! Wait!”

Chelsea reached out, but Carole has already ran off to the distance.

“Did I say something wrong?” she pouted and looked rather disappointed.

“I think she’s just confused from having too many to process.” Celina tried to explain.

“Man, I was hoping she got a legit grudge towards Siggy…” Alba sighed.

“…you just want to see me in trouble, don’t you?”

She simply returned it with a cheeky grin.

“Alright, looks like the case has been closed, so how about we grab some drinks on our way home?” Chelsea offered.

“Oh, sure. I’m a bit thirsty anyway.” Alba agreed.

Celina was about to follow the pair, but she stopped when she noticed that Sigulf still hasn’t moved.

“Is something wrong?”

“Ah, no, just thinking that my… Suspicions? About Penndreic was right.”

“Oh, I see.”

“Did you notice?”

“Kind of.” she replied. “Like everyone else, he admires me from afar. He’s just being more subtle, now that I think about it.”

“Hee…”

“Sigulf?”

Celina glanced at Sigulf, and found him smiling slightly.

“So that means I’m not like everyone else, right?”

There was a short silence before she finally chuckled.

“Fufufu, of course!”

“Ah, hey…!”

Celina reached out and gently caressed Sigulf’s head.

“I never thought that I would meet someone so bold yet so convincing on challenging me…”

“I have to, and I’ll get even stronger… Eheheh…”

“Then, I’ll be looking forward to it. Ufufu…”

“…you two, we are still here.” Chelsea reprimanded.

“”A, ah, we’re sorry.””