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

Part 3

Spoiler

Saturday early morning. Like everyone on the island, Sigulf eagerly anticipated this day, though with a bit of anxiety for his case.

“…huff.”

He took one good look at the mirror.

‘I shouldn’t overthink, but still…’

“…I can do this!”

Leaving his room behind, Sigulf makes his way through the still quiet hallway.

———

The chilly air of early April didn’t slow Sigulf at all as he jogs towards the hill.

‘I see no one’s here yet.’ He thought, noticing the surrounding training grounds.

Arriving at the destination, Sigulf stopped when he saw Celina and Chelsea talking under a big tree.

“Ah, there he is.” Chelsea said upon seeing him.

“Good morning.” Celina greeted. “I see you are early. A bit cold, isn’t it?”

“…good morning.” Sigulf replied. “Y, yeah, it is…”

‘…shit, I’m totally nervous now.’

“Now, that we’ve gathered,” Chelsea said, pulling Sigulf’s focus back. “Why don’t we get started?”

“Sure.” Celina replied. “Strike while the iron’s hot, they say.”

“Alright, then! Sigulf, don’t fall behind, OK?”

“…I’ll do my best.”

———

Done with 5-minute warm-ups, the three then proceeds to stretch their muscles.

“…”

While trying to do a forward bend, Sigulf silently take a peek at Celina and Chelsea.

‘Don’t fall behind? No, I’m sure she meant the main exercise after this.’

Unfortunately, Sigulf took too long and Celina noticed that his form isn’t perfect yet.

“Hm? Do you have any troubles?”

“Eh? …no, not at all.”

“No, that won’t do.” Celina quickly sprung up, seeing Sigulf haphazardly tries to fix his posture. “Here, let me help you.”

“?”

Approaching him from behind, Celina put her hands in his back and began pushing gently.

‘Don’t tell me…?’

“Relax.” Celina said, almost whispering. That was certainly music to his ears.

She leans forward, pushing Sigulf even more… Oblivious that her ample bosom is touching him.

‘…ah, this is without doubt.’

Finally touched the ground, Sigulf managed to mutter, “Thank you very much.”

“Huh? Um, you’re welcome…?”

———

In the end, their stretching session passed without any problems. The three then prepare themselves for the sparring session.

‘That was dangerous…’ Sigulf thought, his mind is still fixated with the lucky incident. ‘Damn, I must focus. I could be fighting anytime soon.’

“Sooo, who wants to volunteer?” Chelsea asked.

“Hmm… Since Sigulf is our guest, why don’t we have a demonstration here?” Celina suggested.

“Eeh? But then Sigulf will be able to formulate a battle plan against us…” Chelsea objected. “Wait a minute. Is it your objective from the beginning!?”

Sigulf blinked at her accusation. “Now, that you mention it…”

“…so you didn’t even think about that.”

“What are you even saying?” Celina sighed. “We are not going to end practice this soon, are we?”

“Mm… Then how about this?” Chelsea responded. “How about you spar with Sigulf while I watch?”

Sigulf froze at the suggestion.

‘Already?’

“Eh? Well, I don’t mind, but—“

“I’ll fight.” Sigulf said before Celina finished her line.

“You…”

“It’s decided then.” Chelsea said. “This will be a good learning material. Fufufu…”

“So that’s your goal after all…” Celina sighed again.

———

Standing face to face at the middle of the hill, Sigulf and Celina silently listened to Chelsea’s explanation.

“300 seconds. The usual victory conditions. Umm, any objections?”

“Not at all.”

“Mm.”

“Alright, get yourselves ready!”

Celina then extended her right arm aside, and summoned her great spear without any invocations. Familiar it may be, Sigulf noticed the spear itself looks dim.

‘Safety mode.’ He mentally noted. ‘It’s not like we can carry dummy weapons around, so it’s understandable. But…’

Summoning his Fenrir wordlessly, he gets into fighting stance.

‘This means I can’t even release Fenrir’s limiter as well.’

His body tensed. A lot of things began crossing his thought.

‘I have no choice…!’

“Begin!”

On Chelsea’s cue, Sigulf instinctively kicked the ground with all his strength… And found himself facing Celina head-on.

“!?”

“Hoo…”

Sigulf reacted barely on time and swung as hard as possible, clashing his axe with Celina’s spear.

‘Evenly matched…!? No…!’

The two quickly broke away from each other, taking some distance.

‘It’s not that we’re actually evenly matched.’ Sigulf thought. ‘I gave my everything just to defend against that, but she—‘

“Shall we continue?” Celina asked with a confident smile.

‘This is dangerous…!’

Watching from the sidelines, Chelsea can only sigh, “Oh, that Cel. This is supposed to be a friendly sparring…”

Meanwhile, having found no other options, Sigulf decides to charge in once more.

‘Can only gamble on this feint…!’

Accelerating as fast as he can, Sigulf got closer and closer to Celina.

‘She’s not moving? But…!’

Inches away from Celina, he finally noticed a movement.

‘Now…!’

Braking for a split second, Sigulf circled from Celina’s left side, only for her to spin clockwise.

“Haah!!”

‘Just as I thought! Then…!’

Anticipating her counter-attack, Sigulf gained speed and jumps over her spear, encircling her once more.

“!?”

“Now!!”

Sigulf rushed towards Celina’s undefended side, however…

“Then I’ll have to do… THIS!”

“Wha—!?”

In a display of inhuman strength, Celina gripped her spear with her other free hand, and increased both the force and speed of her rotation.

“Kh!!”

Caught off guard, Sigulf shifted his focus at the very last moment. He managed to guard against her strike, but still thrown away from the force.

‘So strong…!’

Although he managed to land away safely, Sigulf certainly can’t calm himself down now.

‘No tactics… No trickery… Just pure brute strength…! And this is still in safety mode…!’ Sigulf thought. ‘Is this the S-Ranker? The War Goddess!?’

Cold sweat trickles down his temple as Celina began to approach him.

‘So this is how it feels like to be hunted… Talk about ironic.’

“It’s my turn now.” Celina announced. “En garde!!”

“!!”

Lunging forward, one powerful pierce managed to broke Sigulf’s guard. Skidding past right him, she turns around and charged again.

“It’s not over yet!”

“Gh…!!”

Sigulf only had the time to defend, and one spinning slash from Celina knocked him away yet again.

“Hoo… You managed to block that one, I see. However, you can’t keep defending forever!”

With one single bound, Celina leapt high to the air, with her spear pointing straight towards Sigulf.

“Eeh!? Wait, you’re going to use that!?” Chelsea expressed her disbelief. “You might want to reconsider!”

“Prepare yourself!” Celina shouted, seemingly didn’t hear what her best friend said.

‘Whatever it is, here she comes!’

Suddenly accelerating with unbelievable speed, Celina darts like a meteor.

“Haaah!!”

“!!”

A loud crash could be heard at the same time with their impact, while the resulting dust obstructs Chelsea’s view.

“Aah… People are going to hear that…” she lamented. “Wait, is Sigulf okay? Are you alive!?”

“Don’t…”

“Eh?”

“Don’t think I would be killed that easy…!”

Chelsea sighed in relief when the dust clears, seeing Sigulf somehow managed to guard against Celina’s strike.

“Oh. I see.” Celina said, mildly surprised.

However, with Sigulf down on his knee, the difference is already obvious.

“Gh…!”

An attempt by Sigulf made Celina jump away. Standing up with some difficulty, Sigulf readjusts his stance.

‘Her breathing barely changed…’ Sigulf mentally noted. ‘I think I still have some juice left, but for how long?’

In the end, having found no other solution, Sigulf decides to attack until his body gives in.

———

“Alright, that’s enough!” Chelsea announced.

“Gah…” Sigulf grunts as he fell, lying in the grass.

Even though Chelsea didn’t specifically tell the results, even though he managed to survive until time ran out, deep down he knows who the real winner was.

‘She’s strong… I can’t land a hit in…’

Still trying to catch a breath, Sigulf stares at the blue sky above.

‘Master… I still have a lot to learn…’

“Are you alright?”

Celina’s concerned voice made him look up.

“Here.” Celina said as she extends her hand.

A mix of emotions began to well within Sigulf. Was it anger? Regret?

‘No. Stop. Don’t be foolish.’

With a little reluctance, Sigulf grabbed her hand and gets up. Chelsea clapped at the view.

“Good work, you two! Here.” Chelsea continued and handing out drinks to both of them.

“Ah, thank you.”

“Thanks…”

“We’ll have a 5-minute break, and then I’ll spar with you. You okay with it, Cel?”

“Sure, why not?”

“…uwah, you didn’t even hesitate there.”

Celina chuckled, with Chelsea followed suit moments later. Sigulf simply watched the two in silence, leaning his back against the tree.

“Oh, that’s right. Sigulf, would you mind watch over our sparring?” Chelsea asked.

“Eh… Aah… Um, sure.”

“Thank you!”

The two girls return to talk with each other, but as for Sigulf, his mind still can’t focus properly.

 

Part 4

Spoiler

After they finally finished with practice, the three then proceeds to have breakfast on a certain café.

“…”

Sigulf silently eats his full English breakfast, looking at nothing in particular. Chelsea looks a bit concerned, but before she has the chance to speak up…

“Are you alright?” Celina asked the boy.

“Eh…?”

“Is something’s wrong with the food?”

“No, not at all. It’s good…”

“You must be tired, right?” Chelsea quickly interrupted. “I mean, it’s your first time against Celina and all…”

“Eh… Aah, yeah, that.”

“I see… Well, we have the rest of the day to recover.”

“Right…”

They didn’t continue their conversation, and as soon as Chelsea engages Celina in a small talk, Sigulf returns to eating his food wordlessly.

———

Having finished their breakfast, the three left the café.

“I guess that’s all for today.” Celina announced. “Good job, everyone.”

“Yaaay!” Chelsea cheered.

“Thanks for having me.” Sigulf said, despite still being a little unenergetic.

“My pleasure.” Celina replied. “Will you join us tomorrow as well?”

“Wait, ‘us’? We’re not going to rest tomorrow?” Chelsea asked in surprise.

“What are you talking about? With those eager 1st-years around, we can’t afford to fall behind. Especially with Alba.”

‘Alba, huh.’ Sigulf thought. ‘Since then, I wonder how she has been training. But…’

“Well, even if you say so…” Chelsea replied to Celina.

“I…” Sigulf suddenly said, pulling the girls’ attention back. “I’ll think about it.”

Both looked mildly surprised, but Celina quickly regained her composure and said, “I see… Well, in any case you feel like it, I’ll be waiting at the usual place.”

“Understood.”

“Very well, then. Have a pleasant day.”

Giving a slight bow, Celina parted with Sigulf and heads back to the dorm. Chelsea did the same without saying a word before catching up to Celina.

“…”

Seeing them off in the distance, he remembers his first meeting with them.

‘It’s kind of like that time. It’s just…’

Sighing, Sigulf turns around and decides to go the opposite way.

———

Sitting alone on a park bench, Sigulf stares at the sky above.

‘Aah… Dammit. I can’t keep feeling down like this all day.’

“Hey, handsome. What’s with the long face?”

Sigulf froze upon hearing the voice that suddenly calls him.

‘I know this voice…’

Standing from his seat, Sigulf turns to face the source.

“…what are you doing here?”

“Aw, come on. That’s not the way to greet your Master after such a long time.”

An auburn haired woman in her late 20s, wearing a navy blue sports jacket and ridiculously short pants. It’s Sigulf’s master and legal guardian, Vigdis Hrimgard.

“Hiya, boy! Doing well?”

“…it’s not even a week yet.”

“It’s fine, isn’t it? I’m worried sick about how my boy will fit in his new school life.”

“You don’t have to worry that far… Wait, where did you get the money?”

“The neighbors gave me extra. ‘Tell Sigulf good luck’, they say.”

“They are too nice… Not that I’m not thankful.”

Sigulf remembers well how she does part-time jobs around their small fishing village, helping everyone in need to provide additional income for both of them.

‘Good thing she didn’t do much physical labor.’ He thought. ‘Or at least the ones taxing on the legs.’

Vigdis suddenly opening her arms wide caught his attention.

“Master…?”

“Now, give your mom a hug!”

“…you’re not even my mother.” He sighed.

But Sigulf stepped forward and hugs her anyway, if not a bit reluctant.

“You should be more honest!” Vigdis laughed before finally releasing him. “Something’s bothering you?”

“Well…”

———

“Ahahahahah! So you were sulking because a girl bested you in a sparring!?”

“Ugh… Why are you laughing?”

“Eh, I wonder why. Why did I find that funny?”

“…are you drunk?”

“Strange…” Vigdis mumbled. “I swear I haven’t drank any today.”

Sigulf merely sighed.

“But you know,” she continued. “It’s not like you are not familiar with losing. I barely moved during our spars after all.”

“It’s a little different…” Sigulf responded, glancing at her legs.

“Ah, you perv. You like my thighs that much?”

“Wha— I was worried about your legs…!” he screeched. “…it’s a charm point, though.”

“Thanks.”

“…you could’ve pretended to not hear that one.”

Vigdis laughed again before continuing, “But it’s alright. My legs are fine.”

“I see… Good to hear then.”

“So, about that girl… Is she hot?”

“…of all things?”

“I’m the one asking questions here, young man.”

The boy sighed again. “Well… She is.”

“Like smoking hot?”

“I… guess…?”

“Hmm… Nice milk jugs?”

“Yeah, v— Wait, what are you trying to make me say!?”

Vigdis cackled at his reaction. “Oh, boy, I get it now. Yes, yes…”

“Gununununu…”

“Got any pictures? Or names?”

“Well obviously I haven’t taken one, so… Celina Bartram.”

“Aah, Bartram.” Vigdis said as she took out her smartphone. “That kinda explains stuff.”

“How much do you know them?”

“Not much unfortunately. I knew someone from that family was few years my senior. Probably her mom. Heard she’s crazy strong, but never got to fight her.”

“…”

“Don’t suddenly get gloomy now! We’re talking about you here!” Vigdis said as she pulled Sigulf closer. “Wait, is this her?”

“Let me see…”

Vigdis showed him the Academy’s homepage, displaying an archived web article about Celina. Perfect grades, dominated the free-for-all tournament, and finally got elected as the Council President. All during her first year.

“It’s her, all right…”

“Hee… I can see why you are smitten.” Vigdis grinned. “Lots of rivals, then.”

“I’m well aware of that…” Sigulf said, remembering the boys’ grumbling upon entering the café with the council duo.

“But I see… Bartram’s daughter, huh. Hmm…”

Seemingly thoughtful, Vigdis looks upwards, thinking.

“What’s the matter?”

“Naah, I’m just thinking, maybe you should try to stick with her a little more.”

“I kinda guessed you would say that.”

“What, are you giving up already?”

“No! It’s just… I’m looking for alternatives.”

“Well, that’s not exactly wrong…”

“What do you mean?”

“You are fast, Sigulf. I know that much. Years of running, trying to circle me around will do that. But unless there’s some crazy coincidence, from your story, she’s faster than you even in safety mode, right?”

“Y, yeah…”

“That’s why stick with her. It’s alright if your body can’t keep up at first, but get your eyes used to her movements. Step into her world. Enter a whole new world of speed. …you get what I’m trying to say?”

“I guess…?”

“Sooner or later, you’ll be familiar with her tricks. But so does she. And that’s where you should learn and practice with your fellow 1st-years. You know, to mix-up things. Surely you have strong competitors as well?”

“Aah…”

‘She’s right. I know very well who’s to be cautious against.’ Sigulf thought, remembering some of his classmates. ‘Especially her…’

“Well, I don’t think I summed it up nicely,” Vigdis laughed. “But you know what I mean. I’m a little worried since you could be so one-track minded.”

‘To have a better awareness of your surrounding.’

“…yeah, a friend said something like that before.”

“I see. Good friend you got.”

The two fell silent for a moment, feeling content at gazing towards the faraway horizon.

“Feeling better?” Vigdis asked.

“Sort of.” Sigulf answered. “It’s simpler than I thought…”

“Everything’s simple enough.” She laughed. “It’s alright if you need some time to recover after a fall. What’s important is, as long as you don’t give up, as long as you don’t throw away the will to move forward, then you’ll be fine.”

“I guess so… Thank you, Master.”

“Oh, don’t mention it. I just don’t want to see my boy feeling blue.” Vigdis said as she stood up.

“Eh? You’re going home already?”

“No, no, I’m planning to go back tomorrow, so…”

“Wait, where are you planning to stay then?”

“Huh? Can’t I just borrow your room?”

Sigulf paused for a moment.

“…you do know that would cause problems, don’t you?”

“Eeh? Even when we used to share a bed back then?”

“That was years ago…!”

“And to think we used to take baths together…” she sighed. “Aah, my boy has grown into a cold teenager…”

Sigulf’s face got red as he remembered his childhood with Vigdis. From her signature hot pants she wore around the house to… pretty much anything else.

‘Was she was always like this? …oh, wait. She is.’

“A, anyways, please don’t. Why don’t you ask Sir Fortier, instead? I thought you two were friends?”

Vigdis blinked.

“Ah, right! Why didn’t I think of that sooner? Silly me.”

“…will you be okay, Master?”

———

A phone call and few minutes later, Eliot arrived on the scene, looking surprised and a bit annoyed.

“Hiya!”

“…what are you doing here?”

“That was exactly my question, Sir.” Sigulf added.

 

Part 5

Spoiler

Eliot wasn’t sure on how to react at this ‘reunion’.

“Umm, Sir?” Sigulf called out to him.

“Ah, at ease. We’re not on class.” Eliot responded.

“If you say so, Sir…”

Turning his attention back, Eliot faced a wide-grinning Vigdis, with her arms wide open.

“Huuug~”

“W, why would I do that!?”

“Chee, so cold… Even though it’s our mini-reunion after years… And you never even visited once.”

“You never gave your address in the first place…!”

“Eh, I didn’t? Ahahah, sorry, sorry…”

Eliot sighed at his old classmate, while Sigulf silently observes.

‘Hee, so he can lose his composure like that…’

“Well, anyways,” Eliot said. “What business do you have here?”

“Oh, that’s right! Think you can lend me a room for a day or two?”

“…huh?”

“Umm, she’s planning to leave tomorrow, Sir.” Sigulf added.

Eliot looked at Sigulf for a moment before turning his attention back to Vigdis.

“…don’t you think it’s still a bit too soon for a guardian visit?”

“Nothing’s too soon for my boy. My instinct said he needs a bit of emotional support, anyway!”

“Instinct, huh…”

“So, so, can I have a room?”

“You…” Eliot sighed. “Well, I suppose we can lend you one guest room. I’ll just have to fill the papers first.”

“Eh, you’ll do it!?” Vigdis asked in delight.

“Only for this time! Sheesh, call me in advance next time…” Eliot grumbled before looking at Sigulf. “Sorry Hrimgard, but can you accompany her in the meantime?”

“No problem, Sir.”

“Alright. I’ll call you again later.” Eliot said as he heads toward the office, leaving the master-pupil pair.

“…so, now what?” Sigulf asked.

“I want to see your room!”

“…”

“Oh, are there any mini marts around? I want to stop by first.”

“No alcohol allowed in my room.”

“Boo, boo!”

———

There are not many people around as they arrived at the dorms. Most of the inhabitants are either having fun somewhere else or still asleep. Still, few students who are actually around gave Sigulf and Vigdis curious looks.

“Hee, this takes me back!” Vigdis said as she takes a good look on her surrounding.

“Ah, that’s right… How was it back then?”

“Mostly the same. It’s just the dorm looks and feels fresher now, obviously.” She answered. “Ah, I think that was my room!”

“Hmm…”

The two continued until they reached Sigulf’s room. Using the card key, he unlocks the door and turns on the light. Vigdis quickly jumped at the chance to examine his room.

“Ooh, it’s cleaner than I expected! Ah, so you still cook your own food. Good boy, good boy! Could it be…!? Porn magazines under the bed!?”

“None. And please don’t shout that kind of stuff.”

“Hm!?” Vigdis suddenly stood up and sniffs the air.

“What? Something smells?”

“I can’t… I can’t smell a girl’s perfume!”

Sigulf went silent for few moments before finally retorted, “Well of course not!”

“What have you been doing, sonny?”

“…I thought I’m here to ‘see the world and get stronger’?”

“Yes, and then you got smitten with the noble’s hot daughter.” Vigdis smirked.

“Kh… I have no words to return…”

“Ahahahah! It’s OK, I understand.” She said as she plopped down to the bed. “It’s a good thing that you take dueling seriously, but don’t forget to enjoy your youth too! I mean, why don’t do both?”

“Well… Wait, that’s my bed.”

“Oh, you’re right.” Vigdis responded before she suddenly dives to sniff it. “Aah, Sigulf’s scent… Haa, haa, haa…”

“What the fuck!?”

“It’s a joke~ Why are you getting flustered?”

“…you don’t even need alcohol to get drunk, do you?”

———

Meanwhile, Alba was passing by Sigulf’s room when she heard the voices and laughter from inside.

“Huh, never thought his room would be noisy.” She commented.

Alba was going to leave, but then she changed her mind.

“…damn, now why am I getting curious?” she muttered before knocking the door.

Sigulf opened the door not long after, and seems surprised by her visit.

“Yo.” Alba greeted.

“Oh, hey. What’s up?”

“Not much. Just found it curious that you got a visitor.”

“…is it that strange for me?”

“Well…”

“Oh, Sigulf.” Vigdis joined the conversation as she appears from behind. “Is it your… friend?”

“Umm, hello…”

There was a moment of silence, much to Sigulf’s confusion.

“What’s wrong?”

“…don’t you think you’re being too greedy? Wanting another girl even though you already have a girlfriend?”

“What!? What are you even saying, Master!?”

“What!? Siggy has a girlfriend!?”

Their sudden outburst made nearby onlookers stop to see what’s going on, followed by an awkward silence and realization among the three.

“””…eh?”””

———

“Ahahahahah! Sorry about that, Alba!”

“No, it’s alright…”

With Sigulf managed to clear the misunderstanding, the three then withdrew inside, agreeing to have a drink first.

“Why are you always jumping to conclusions when it comes to stuff like this?” Sigulf sighed before sipping his cup of cola.

“But I am genuinely worried about you, Siggy.”

“Not you too…”

Alba can’t help but laugh seeing the interaction between master and disciple.

“But you know,” the Scottish girl said. “I’m surprised Siggy’s master is a beautiful woman. And a graduate of this Academy as well.”

“Oh my, thanks for the kind words~”

“Eeh, that was my honest impression, though. At first I imagined a macho old man missing an eye or something like that…”

Vigdis laughed at her words, while Sigulf simply nodded, saying “Mm, I can see where are you coming from.”

“Quite the lucky dog, aren’t you, boy? To have a cute tag partner like her…”

“Eh!? Me, cute!? …umm, thanks, I guess?”

“I wonder where are you going with that remark…” Sigulf sighed.

“I can’t help it! Surely she’s more than just your special very first friend?”

“Even though you just apologized to her?”

“Err, sorry to break it, but the honor of being Siggy’s first friend goes to Yuu.” Alba corrected.

“Yuu?”

“Our classmate. A Japanese dude.” The boy clarified.

“Ah, that’s too bad…”

“Oi…”

“Huh, at first I thought it was him crashing your place.”

“Well, I don’t see the reason why. It’s not like I got any interesting stuff here.”

“You don’t have a hobby or something?”

“Exploring the wilderness around my village, reading books about animals—“

“Peeking on older women’s bath…”

“…Master.”

“…uwah, pervert. Maybe I regarded you too highly all this time.”

“And you believed her!?”

None of the girls have the chance to react however, as there was another knock on the door. Standing up, Sigulf goes to see the visitor, which was none other than his homeroom teacher.

“Master.” The boy called to Vigdis.

“Eh, Eliot? How did you know I’m here? I’m touched!”

“Simple deduction, you know.” Eliot sighed. “Where else would you be? Here, your card key.”

“Thank you!”

“Don’t lose it. And return it before you go home tomorrow.” Eliot said as he about to turn around.

“Eeh? Going back already? Have a drink first, at least.”

“Don’t be silly. I still have a few paperworks to do.”

“Chee, no fun.”

“Why you… …I’ll think about it when I’m done.” He sighed. “Well, catch you later.”

“See ya.”

Vigdis watched over Eliot for a while before she returns inside and closes the door.

“Paperworks on day off. A bit rough.” Sigulf commented.

“Well, it’s not like I don’t understand…” Vigdis added.

“…is it just me, or did Sir Fortier acts less cool than usual?” Alba noted.

“What, you kids thought he’s cool? He’s always like that.” Vigdis laughed.

“Ah, right, you two go all the way back then, after all.”

“Yeah. Sort of prickly, competitive, and above all… He’s a real hard-worker.”

Sigulf and Alba watched silently, noticing that his master said the last part with such nostalgia.

“…eh? W, why are you two suddenly fell silent!?”

“Nah, it’s nothing.” Sigulf dismissed. “Never mind that, what are we going to do now? You bought a freaking 3-liter cola.”

“I don’t mind though? It’s my favorite brand, I still can drink more.” Alba responded.

“Oi, don’t kill yourself…”

“Ah, can I have some food as well? I’m hungry.”

“…it’s not even lunch hour yet.”

“Ah, me too!” Vigdis added. “You still remember how to cook?”

“You do know I can only make basic beef dishes, right?”

“That’s more than enough for me.”

Sigulf sighed. “It can’t be helped… Just give me some time.”

“Yaaay!” both girls cheered and high-fived.

“Help me with the plates. They are around there, along with the spoons.”

“Aye aye, Sir!” Alba saluted before moving to assist him.

“Siggy, can I use your Personal Terminal?” Vigdis asked.

“…for Loki’s sake.”

 

Part 6

Spoiler

In the end, Alba excused herself earlier after they have finished eating, saying she wants to give Sigulf “some quality time” with his master.

“Well, if you say so…”

Seeing her off, Sigulf then returns inside, looking at Vigdis who lies comfortably in the bed.

“…”

“Oh, wanna join for some nap?”

“…Master, at least help me with the plates.”

“Yes, yes…” Vigdis responded as she lazily got up.

“And what’s the point of borrowing a room if you’re going to sleep here?”

“Don’t worry! It’s just a short nap! Ah, can you wake me up later if I oversleep?”

Sigulf merely replies with a sigh.

———

Done with washing the plates, Sigulf shifted his attention towards his closet, shuffling around before taking out his towel.

“Planning to go out, boy?”

“Uh-huh.”

“I see. Should I join you on the bath?”

“…please stop with that kind of joke.”

“But what if I’m not joking?”

“That’s even more dangerous!”

“Hee… I wonder why it was okay back then, but dangerous now?”

“You know the reason…” Sigulf retorted while trying to fight back his blush. “Anyways, just let me take a bath in peace.”

Vigdis cackled. “You sure you don’t need someone to wash your back?”

“Positive.”

“Really?”

“…yes, really.”

“Oookay then. Enjoy yourself!”

Sigulf can only sigh again as he entered the bathroom.

———

Drying his hair on the way out, Sigulf noticed that Vigdis is using the Terminal once more.

“Ah, you’re done.” The older woman realized and faced him. “Wait, you got changed already?”

“Huh? Yeah, why?”

“Tch, I wanted to see how much you’ve grown…”

“…not again.” Sigulf groaned. “And there’s no way I go around half-naked with a visitor now.”

“I’m not a mere visitor, though? I’m your mother.”

“You—“ Sigulf wanted to say something but gave up and sighed instead. “…well, whatever. What are you doing anyway?”

“Looking at pro duels.”

“I see…”

Sigulf stopped for a while and watch the fight together.

‘Master is a duelist, after all… In the end, it’s not easy just to forget dueling like that.’

Saying nothing, Sigulf returned to the bedside and grabbed his blanket before putting it beside Vigdis.

“Hm? What’s this for?”

“I think it’s better if I lock the door, so if you want to turn on the AC, wear that.” He explained. “Ah, I think I still I have some cocoa left. Feel free to make a hot chocolate or something.”

“Hee, what’s with the sudden kindness?“

“I’m… not sure. I just feel like to.”

Vigdis chuckled. “Well, thanks. And have fun out there.”

“Mm. Later.”

Sigulf then heads to the door, but before he reached it, Vigdis called him first.

“Ah, Sigulf. Maybe we should buy some clothes for you some other time.”

“Huh? What for?”

“Don’t you get bored with the usual black T and jeans combo?”

“…I’ll think about it.”

———

Once again, Sigulf found himself standing outside with the island’s familiar landscape around. At this time, the sun is already a bit higher.

“Good thing I don’t wear my jacket.” He said to no one in particular. “Maybe I’ll just wander around.”

———

As Sigulf made his way without any clear destination, he came across a slightly interesting sight on the park.

‘Isn’t that…’

The boy approached a white haired girl who was surrounded by a cat and her kittens. Said girl noticed his presence and looked up.

“You…” Ilma muttered as she recognized his face.

Sigulf doesn’t really know what to say, especially when it comes to Minato’s groupies(?), despite being fellow council trainees.

“Cats from that day?” he tried to open a conversation.

Ilma winced before responding, “That day, huh…”

‘Oops.’

“Hiss!!” the mother cat suddenly screeched towards Sigulf, while her kittens hide for cover.

“Oh, they seem to dislike you for some reason. Good, good.”

“…huh. Well, I am the wolf, after all.”

“And wolves are nothing but wild dogs for hunters, before they got their sorry hides skinned.”

“You clearly mistook Fenrir and me as common wolves, then.”

“Heh, we’ll see about that, Fjord Dweller.”

‘Yup, quite the personality.’ he thought. ‘And Finns do hate wolves.’

“Huh? Sig-kun, what are you doing here?”

Recognizing the voice, Sigulf looked at the source and saw Yuu with Minato beside him.

“Yo. Could ask the same thing.”

“Ah, about that. Hiltunen-san wanted some help for feeding them, so we think it would be nice if we brought some dried fish.” Minato explained.

As if forgetting Sigulf’s existence, the cat and her kittens dashed towards Minato, gathering around his feet.

“Whoa, easy now. We have fish for everyone.” Minato said.

“They like you already, huh.” Yuu commented.

“Well, he saved one of them after all.” Sigulf added.

“Tch… Come back here. You don’t want to catch his perversion.” Ilma said towards the cats.

“Is that even possible in the first place!?” Minato retorted.

“Amakawa, I brought some roe!”

“Minato, how about a whole octopus?”

“Don’t you girls think you are overdoing it!?”

Eurypha and Carmen, who just joined them, brought their own luxurious contributions, earning Minato’s shock.

“…what are they doing here?” Ilma questioned.

“Eh? I met them on the way, so I might as well ask for their help.”

“…tch.”

“What? You’ve got a problem?” Eurypha responded.

As usual, the tension rises among the three girls.

“Here they go again…” Yuu commented.

“Tactical retreat.” Sigulf mumbled.

“Is it okay to do that? I thought they are fellow council members?”

“Better to be safe than caught in the crossfire.”

“I… suppose so.” Yuu laughed wryly.

———

Silently making their getaway, Sigulf and Yuu arrived at the entertainment square.

“So, where are you going next?” the Japanese boy asked.

“No idea. I’m just looking for fresh air after my morning practice. You?”

“Hmm… I was thinking either the book store, or the clothes shop. Wanna tag along?”

“I guess. I have nothing better to do anyway.”

“Alright. We’ll look at some books first. Let’s go!”

———

Just outside the book store, the boys saw another familiar figure from their class; his spiky orange hair is distinct enough to be recognized easily.

“Hm? Oh, if it isn’t Kanzaki!” Walter said as he noticed them. “And, err… Hrimgard was it?”

“Yeah. And you are…”

“Walter Armstrong. Nice to meetcha! …though I’m guessing you knew already from the name register.”

“Well, something like that.”

“Yeah, I thought so.” Walter laughed. “Amakawa’s not with you guys?”

“He’s on the park, being the center of attention as usual.” Yuu answered.

“Tch, lucky bastard… Why it’s always him?”

“Suggestion, Armstrong-kun. Maybe you should be more… Tactful in your actions.”

“What’s wrong with being honest to your own instinct!?”

“…what are you guys on?” Sigulf asked.

“Come on, man. You could guess easily.” Walter continued. “Speaking of which, where were you yesterday? You didn’t show up.”

“Huh? Something’s on yesterday?”

“The boys out partying at the game center and karaoke.” Yuu explained. “Then again, you are busy with council duties.”

“Aah, I see, I see. Then this is a good chance…” Walter said as he opened his Organizer and showed it to Sigulf.

“…popularity contest?”

“Exactly! Vote for your best girl! I will announce the results on Monday.”

“Hee…”

As far as Sigulf can gather, his Organizer showed the photos of their female classmates, Alba and Minato’s girls included.

“Can I pass?”

“Ehh? Why’s that?”

“He’s crushing on our council president.” Yuu snickered. “And maybe our principal too.”

“O, oi…!”

“Holy shit, are you serious!?” Walter cackled. “You got balls!”

Sigulf can only scratch his cheek in embarrassment.

“Nah, it’s okay. Even though I prefer girls my age myself, I understand why you hunt for the older ones.”

“Thanks… I guess?”

“Alright! I’ll turn a blind eye on this one vote for abstain! And as a further sign of goodwill, allow me to buy you something! Kanzaki, you coming with us?”

“Eh, I’m going to check for new comic releases anyway, so…” Yuu shrugged.

“It’s decided, then! Follow me!”

“…why is he getting fired up? I got a bad feeling…” Sigulf muttered.

———

“Thank you for the purchase!” the shopkeeper said as the three boys left the shop.

“…” Sigulf said nothing as he stared at the wrapped package in his hands.

“Don’t worry! I picked it based on your tastes!” Walter reassured.

“Good for you, Sig-kun!”

“…this is an adult magazine, isn’t it?”

“What else?”

Sigulf can only groan, “…why is this allowed?”

“Because we need stress relief as well?” Yuu tried to answer.

“Don’t tell me you are the same type as Amakawa…” Walter sighed. “Speaking of which, I almost forgot. He hasn’t cast his vote yet.”

“Considering him, he probably ran off somewhere else while the girls are too busy fighting.” Yuu added.

“Goddamn, I would kill just to be chased by girls…” Walter lamented. “Anyways, he was at the park, right? He’s probably not that far off. Well then, see ya later!”

“Don’t forget the poll results!”

“Of course!”

And thus, Walter made his way, hoping to catch up with Minato and leaving the two boys.

“…what’s with him?” Sigulf asked, exasperated.

“Not sure. At the very least, I can say that he’s an overly friendly and pushy guy.”

“So you’re actually not that close with him…”

“Well…”

“By the way, Yuu…”

“Yes?”

“Can you hold this for me?”

“Nope. I’m 99% sure the contents are not to my liking.”

“Why you…”

 

Part 7

Spoiler

On their way to the clothes shop…

“So, are you really going to check some clothes?” Sigulf asked.

“But of course! We should look fresh as well. You better tag along.” Yuu replied.

‘Well, he is kinda fashionable…’ the taller boy noted.

“But it’s not like we’re wearing them on duels. At least not until we turn pro.”

“True, but the satisfaction of having such stylish getups… The happiness that comes from it factors into our battle performance too.”

“I, is it…?”

“Well, I don’t really know. But it won’t hurt just to check. You got nothing to do, right?”

“I guess so…”

Sigulf looked down at his outfit and asked, “Is this not good?”

“Hmm… Not actually bad. Just a bit too plain. A band t-shirt or something?”

“Nah, just a stylized wolf.”

“Hee…”

“Well, my master did say something about getting some new clothes.”

“Master?”

“My legal guardian.”

“Aah. Well if he did say so…”

“She.”

“…oh? Is she beautiful?”

“Eeh? Well… If you could look past her sexual harassments, then yeah…”

“…so you lived under the same roof with a beautiful master who sexually harass you? Lucky bastard, I’m jealous.”

“I’m… not sure if it’s something to be proud of.”

“It is!”

“…how?”

———

When they reached the shop’s front entrance, Sigulf realized that it’s bigger than he imagined.

“Spacious. Just what do they have?”

“Pretty much everything, I heard. From designer brands, the usual streetwear, to discount section.”

“…to raise your battle spirit, huh?”

“Yup.”

“Oh well, I guess I’ll just see the discount section.”

“…oi, seriously?”

———

Entering the building, the boys part way with Yuu goes to check some shirt, while Sigulf decided to take a seat around the streetwear corner.

‘I did say I got nothing to do, but I still feel out of place…’ he thought as he began to look around. ‘Oh, they have band t-shirts and some accessories… Hm? Isn’t that—‘

A long haired boy with his headphones on, checking both the t-shirts and leather bracers.

‘No guesses on who he is.’

Looking around, Lindorm then noticed Sigulf, before taking off his headphones and approached the younger boy.

“Well met, kinsman.” Lindorm greeted.

“Yo.” Sigulf answered.

“Strange to see you here.”

“Likewise.”

“Nothing to do. Just accompanying her.” He explained while motioned towards across the room.

Following his direction, Sigulf recognized Laine, happily picking her clothes.

“We’re on the same boat then.”

“You with someone?”

“Him.” Sigulf pointed sideways towards Yuu’s direction.

“Oh. So you’re that free.”

“Sort of… Got a bit tired from morning practice and not sure what to do next. So, I might as well tag along and… Window shopping?”

“Hmm…”

Laine returned a while later, and upon noticing Sigulf, she greets him.

“Yo. Looking for some clothes?” The girl asked.

“No, just looking around. Though, maybe I’ll grab some cheap inners.” He replied. “You bought quite a lot.”

“This? They looked nice, so I couldn’t help myself. Probably will help my portfolio too.”

“Part-time model.” Lindorm added. Laine flashed a v-sign while keeping her neutral expression.

“I see…”

“Just ask me if you need advice on coordinating your style. Or the vice-prez, when she’s available.”

“I, I’ll think about it… Wait, why the vice president?”

“Oh right, she’s actually likes shopping. Like, really much. Usually I go with her whenever she’s free. Vice-prez got quite the eye when it comes to clothes, too. She’s doesn’t model part-time, though.”

“Hee…”

‘Come to think of it, she’s quite pretty to pass as one… But I guess she’d rather dedicate herself to dueling and council duties.’ Sigulf thought.

“Laine…” Lindorm suddenly spoke up.

“Hm?”

“Almost lunch.”

“Ah, you’re right.” Laine said as she checked her watch. “Well, I think I already bought all I need. Shall we grab some food, then?”

Lindorm simply nodded.

“So how about ya? Wanna join us?”

“Thanks, but sorry. I had an early lunch today.”

“Oh, OK then. See ya later.”

“Good luck with your training, brother.” Lindorm added.

“Mm.”

Patting Sigulf’s back, Lindorm then joined Laine on their way out.

“Need help?”

“Naah, I can handle this. Thanks for offering, though.”

Sigulf silently watches as they exited the shop.

“…Yuu’s not finished yet, huh? I’ll buy some inners first, then.”

———

Yuu finally returned minutes later, mumbling, “Mm… Nothing to buy for now. Maybe I’ll check again later…”

“Oh, welcome back.”

“Yo. …wait, did you—“

The stuff Sigulf bought caught Yuu’s attention. A discount, 5-in-1 pack of white, long-sleeved inners.

“It’s dirt cheap.” Sigulf said, somehow looking happy.

“Sig-kun…” Yuu said as he grabbed Sigulf’s shoulders.

“Yes?”

“When’s your birthday? I’ll buy you a shirt or two.”

“…you don’t have to go that far. It’s January the 21st by the way.”

———

Just like Lindorm and Laine before, Sigulf turned down Yuu’s lunch invitation. Now alone outside the shop once more, he pondered what should he do next.

‘I’m still not hungry… Should I grab some light snacks instead?’

The boy then looks towards his own shopping bag.

‘…ah, right, I forgot Armstrong gave me a strange magazine.’ Sigulf mentally lamented. ‘I guess I better go back to my room. I wanted to check the records store or the game center, but I don’t want to meet Celina with this around…’

Being preoccupied with his own thoughts made Sigulf unaware with a certain someone who sneaks up behind him.

“Boo.” Whispered the person right in Sigulf’s ear.

“Hng!?”

Taken by surprise, Sigulf quickly jumped away and turns around.

‘The principal!?’

“That’s too strong of a reaction. I’m a bit hurt.” Victoria said.

‘What is she doing here? …forget that, was that an acceptable behavior from a principal just now?’ he thought.

“Err… Can I help you, Ma’am?”

“Oh, no, no. Not at all. I’m just taking a short break while looking for good place to eat.”

‘Break? Busy even on weekends, huh…’

“You however, looked a little bit lost.”

‘…that much? Then again, I don’t have anything on my mind either. Well, except for tomorrow…’

“So, how about this? Join me for lunch, Hrimgard.”

Her out-of-the-blue proposition was met by Sigulf’s short silence.

“…yes?”

———

“Hmhmhm~”

“…”

Sigulf ends up accompanying Victoria’s lunch.

‘Turning down my friends for her… I’m the worst…’ he mentally lamented. ‘That said, I didn’t know there’s a café like this. Looks so damn expensive… And not much visitor. I wonder if Celina eats here too…’

“Surprised?” she suddenly asked while still focused on her own tablet.

“…kind of.”

‘And she’s still busy in the middle of lunch… Well, I guess that’s to be expected.’

“So, I suppose everything is going well on the council?” Victoria asked again.

“I… guess. Nothing bad has happened so far.”

“Hmm… Well, either the nobles are still recovering, or gave up already. Of course, it would be better if they call it quits. Not that you guys can’t just curb them again.”

“Well, yeah…”

Sigulf remembered how the Gallowglass triumphed even against three teams. Now they have Amakawa and his groupies. Probably with Penndreic and the rest of reasonable noble students as well. And that’s before counting the 2nd-years. At this point, it would be better for them to forget it.

“…”

Sigulf’s tone made Victoria pause her work. She then took a good look at his face.

“What is it?”

“Ah, I see…” she said. “It seems to me that you need more… stimulation.”

“…pardon me?”

“Yes, yes, it would be a waste of your fighting talent.” Victoria continued. “You showed a satisfying display of might, after all.”

‘Well, of course she’s talking about that. Her choice of words, though…’

“May I know what do you mean by that?”

“How should I put this…” Victoria said, putting her tablet down. “To be honest, I’m a bit worried that this lull will degrade your performance.”

“…”

“I believe I have mentioned about your background check, haven’t I?”

“Yes, during the recruitment. What about it?”

“Well, you, just like Vigdis, weren’t related to either knight or well-established duelist families.” She explained.

‘She casually drops Master’s name. Just as I thought…’

“Yet, here you are,” Victoria continues. “Showing exceptional performance during the exams and your first week here. And I guess that makes it triple for her, who graduated without a single loss.”

‘So, she’s worried in her own way? That’s… a bit reassuring. I guess…’

“But who’s to guarantee that you will achieve the same heights as her? What if you meet a snag along your path? One mustn’t lose their drive to improve and get stronger.”

‘Ah… I think I get what she’s trying to say, but…’

“Don’t worry, Ma’am.” Sigulf responded quickly “Truth be told, I hit a ‘wall’ this morning.”

“Oh?”

“At first I felt like that I’ve lost my way,” he continues. “But then I came to realize that as long as I keep getting up and try again, there’s no wall that can’t be climbed. Or broken in any case.”

Victoria said nothing for a moment and stares at his face, making him slightly uncomfortable in the process.

“…Ma’am?”

“I see.” She finally responded, slightly smiling. “That’s good to hear.”

‘Whoa, I never thought she could smile this beautiful… Wait, what am I thinking!?’

“Looks like Vigdis beat me to the punch on giving you a pep talk.”

‘And she even guessed that…’

“But still,” Victoria continued, sighing. “Having a friendly competition to improve yourself is good and all, but don’t you think a bigger problem would give a better result? Maybe I should just spur some trouble myself, so you guys have something to work…”

“…I believe it would be better if you don’t, Ma’am.”

“Ah, now you’re retorting.”

“I’m… sorry?”

“Oh, no, no. It’s alright. It simply means you’re having an easier time now. You don’t have to be that tense with me, after all.”

“I… suppose so…”

‘Well, she’s not a bad person. She’s just… Flirty? Against her own student, to boot.’

“Worry not. Giving the best for this academy and its student is my responsibility in the first place. Miss Bartram, Miss Kensington, the rest of the Council and I will ensure that. So I would like you to never forget giving it all and doing your best, whether as a student here or as a pro duelist in the future.”

“I’ll keep it in mind, Ma’am.”

‘I think my opinion of her have improved—‘

“Of course, if you can keep your momentum and do well along the year, I wouldn’t mind giving you some… special rewards.”

‘…or not.’

“Ufufufufu…”

 

Part 8

Spoiler

Slightly past midday. After enduring the lunch with Victoria, Sigulf excused himself and returns to his room.

“Aah… This is life…”

Seeing Vigdis sitting comfily in front of his Terminal, drinking hot chocolate and draped in blanket with the AC on almost made him chuckle.

‘She looks funny…’

“Ah, welcome back, boy. How’s your day?”

“It was OK…”

“Really~?”

Unconvinced, Vigdis stepped out from her seat and approached Sigulf, sniffing him.

“…what?”

“I smell woman’s perfume…”

“Ah, that… I… got dragged by the Principal for lunch.”

Vigdis blinked.

“That Victoria?”

“Uh huh.”

She paused for a moment before praying, “Oh Angrboda, please protect my wolf pup from the cougar’s fangs.”

“H, hey now… I heard she wasn’t like that or something?”

“Well, I don’t know her personally, but yeah she was called the Steel Lady back then.” Vigdis recalled. “Sheesh, what did you do, anyway? Your face is dangerous. Maybe you should wear a mask.”

“I don’t think wearing a mask is against the rules… But still, no way.”

“Ah, so you liked the attention after all.”

“That’s not what I meant…!”

“Yeah, yeah…” she laughed. “So, what did you buy?”

“Huh? A pack of white inners—“

“No, I mean this one.” Vigdis interrupted and took out the wrapped book before Sigulf could react.

“Ah…”

“Is this a porno magazine?”

“Most likely…” he sighed. “It’s not like I have the chance to open it.”

“Obviously.” She responded, holding back a laughter. “Wrapped like some Yule present… Some friend you got there, huh?” Vigdis continued before handing it back to Sigulf. “You gonna read it?”

“No. …well, not now. Maybe sometime.” He responded while heading back to his bed, sliding the magazine underneath it.

“That’s a ridiculously predictable spot.”

“You found out anyway. What’s the point?”

“What if your future girlfriend comes to visit?”

“…as long as I don’t tear the wrapping by that time, I think it’ll be alright. If not, she’ll understand. Hopefully…”

Vigdis merely cackled.

———

The sky began to turn orange as dusk approaches. While Vigdis’ presence prevented Sigulf from getting a nap, at least he managed to relax enough. Still…

“Hey, Master.”

“Hmm?”

“Don’t you think it’s time to see the guest room already?”

“Ah, kicking me out, aren’t you? You want some privacy that badly?”

“Yes.” Sigulf answered bluntly. “What’s the point of borrowing a guest room in the first place, then?”

“Fiiine…” Vigdis relented. “So you did become cold and distant after all… Sob sob…”

“Alcohols are allowed on the guest room, you know.”

It only took few seconds for Vigdis to perk up.

“Alright, time to grab some beer! Come with me, boy!”

“Just until we reach the guesthouse, okay?”

“Huh, you’re surprisingly obedient.”

“It would be faster than to argue.”

Vigdis laughed. “Now you’re talking. That, and a lady needs to be escorted, after all.”

“What escort? You’re stronger than this island’s inhabitants already.”

“Now, now… Oh, do you want something?” Vigdis asked as she wears her shoes. “I’ll buy you anything.”

“Chocolate ice cream. The big bucket one.”

“…you sure you don’t want something muuuuch smaller?”

“…yeah, that’s not ‘buy you anything’ at all.”

———

In the end, Sigulf settled for a chocolate ice bar. Done buying Vigdis’ beers, they reached the guesthouse minutes later, with Eliot apparently have waited just outside.

“There you are.” He said upon seeing Vigdis and Sigulf.

“Sorry! Did I make you wait?”

“You did.” Eliot sighed. “I thought you got lost or something.”

“Hey, now! Even I could use the GPS, you know?” she retorted before noticing the plastic bag in Eliot’s hand. “Is that—“

“Huh? Well, something to celebrate with.” He replied while taking out a can.

“That’s my fave brand! How did you know?”

“Really? I just picked one at random. Good for you, then.”

Even though he tried to sound cool. Sigulf could pick some hint of happiness in Eliot’s tone.

‘Adult’s beer time already. Nothing more I could do. Guess it’s time to withdraw.’ He thought.

“You should be fine now, right, Master?” Sigulf said.

“Eeh? Can’t you stay a bit longer? At least until we have dinner.”

“I have to get up early tomorrow. And considering how drunk you can be…”

The last bit made Eliot seems worried.

“So,” the boy continued. “I’ll excuse myself here. And Sir…”

“Yes?”

“Please take good care of my Master.”

“Huh!? Oh, um, yeah, sure.”

Eliot wasn’t sure why did Sigulf said that with such a serious tone.

“What are you saying, boy? We’re nothing like that!”

‘Nothing like that… Nothing like that… Nothing like that…’

The word echoed in Eliot’s head, making him slump his shoulders. (Un)fortunately, nobody noticed.

“Well, if you say so.” Sigulf responded while shrugging. “See ya, Master. Don’t get too drunk.”

“Who do you think I am?” Vigdis answered back while laughing. “Don’t forget to brush your teeth before you sleep!”

Sigulf merely waved his hand is response as he makes his way back to the dorm. Vigdis stood there for a while, watching her beloved disciple until he disappears from sight. She then turned her attention to her old friend.

“What happened?”

“…nothing. Let’s check the room first.” Eliot responded.

“Not just checking the room, right?” she said, raising the plastic bag in her hand. “We got lots of beer, a long night, and stories to be told!”

Eliot can only give a wry smile.

“Go easy on me…”

———

Dinner, light exercise, bath. All done, and it’s time for Sigulf to hit the sack earlier.

‘Tomorrow, I’ll be facing Celina again…’ he thought.

Vigdis’ words did encourage him, but whether it ends up making a difference or not, is yet to be seen. Speaking of which…

‘I wonder what Master is doing now… Drunk off her ass, and probably harassing Sir Fortier…’

Sigulf feels a bit upset for some reason.

‘…maybe I should’ve stayed for dinner.’

His phone vibrated. Sigulf picks it up and saw that Vigdis sent her a photo. She managed to take a selfie despite being drunk beyond belief, while in the background, Eliot passed out on a table.

‘Can’t handle the liquor, huh…’

Resisting the urge to smile, he sent her ‘Don’t break him. He’s our homeroom teacher, after all.’

It took few more minutes before her reply came, presumably from how difficult it is to type right now.

‘Its ok its ok. Hey shouldn’t you be sleeping now boy?’

‘I know, I know. Good to see you’re having fun. Well, night, Master.’

‘Good night!’

Setting his phone aside, Sigulf closed his eyes.

‘Calm down and focus. Tomorrow, another attempt at challenging the wall.’

 

Part 9

Spoiler

Sunday early morning. With the grass still wet with the morning dew and almost everyone still fast asleep, Sigulf woke up earlier and heads to the hill by himself once more. This time however, the air surrounding him feels different from yesterday.

“…”

Arrived at last, he saw Celina is already there, her back turned against him. Sensing his presence, she smiled.

“I see you’ve decided to show up.” Celina said before turning to face him. “Good morning, and welcome back.”

“Good morning.” Sigulf answered. “I don’t think I was gone for that long, though.”

She chuckled at his response. “In any case, I’m glad you seem to be better now. I was kind of worried since you looked unenergetic yesterday.”

‘Ouch, too obvious. How embarrassing…’

“I’m sorry for that…”

“There’s no need to apologize.” She reassured. “Well, before everyone wakes up, should we begin with the warm-ups, then?”

“Sure. I’m in your care.”

———

With the warm-ups out of the way, Sigulf and Celina prepare themselves to face each other. Since Chelsea hasn’t show up yet, they have to use the system for the meantime.

“Acknowledged. Safety mode sparring, initiated.”

Having summoned their weapons, both of them get into fighting stance. Looking at her, Sigulf concludes that his chance of winning is still zero.

‘But it doesn’t matter.’ He thought. ‘Rather, I should focus on what I can do now: enter her domain, get my eyes and maybe my body used to her speed, and if possible, close the gap, even if I have to do it slowly.’

“En garde.” The system’s voice pulled Sigulf’s attention back to real life. Both fighters tensed as they wait for the cue.

“Begin.”

Dashing as fast as he can, Sigulf swung his axe and anticipated her counterattack. And just like yesterday, Celina successfully blocked his strike. However…

“…”

Noticing the glint in his eyes, Celina smiled before breaking the deadlock away.

“You…”

Having steeled themselves, both of them rushed and locked blades once again.

———

“Time’s up.” The system voice announced.

“Haah…” Sigulf exhaled as he knelt.

Just as he thought, one day won’t be enough to break her defenses. Yet…

‘My body somehow feels lighter. Strange…’ He mentally noted. ‘I think I was able to follow her movements a bit better. …or is it just my imagination? Anyways, I just have to keep trying.’

“Sigulf.” Celina suddenly called him and getting his attention. “Here.” She said, offering her hand with a smile.

Sigulf took her hand, and this time, without any reluctance.

“Just as I thought, that suits you better.” Celina continued.

“Huh?”

“There was no hesitation in your movements, your attacks rain down without falter. Just like that day.”

“Ah… By that day, do you mean—”

“Yes, the day Gallowglass earned their first victory. I wouldn’t forget what I got to see back then.”

Sigulf wasn’t sure on how to react, as he never thought she would think highly on that duel. He was just fighting his best, after all.

“That’s why,” she said, forming a fist and gently pushed it into his chest. “If you want to grow as duelist, then I want you to never forget that feeling as well. Surpass it.”

“Yes…!”

Celina smiled, and Sigulf was captivated by her for a moment before the sound of clapping took their attention.

“Good work, both of you.” Chelsea said, surprising the two.

“Chelsea!” Sigulf responded.

“Where have you been?” Celina asked. “I thought you wouldn’t show up.”

“Well, I haven’t said anything about coming to practice, have I? And you two were earlier than usual.”

“Wait, were we?” Sigulf asked. “I didn’t notice…”

“Seriously, Chelsea,” Celina pouted. “We can’t just sit back with these good 1st-years around.”

“Yes, yes. I know you’re too absorbed in practice that you forgot to bring some water.” Chelsea sighed while showing a plastic bag.

“…ah, my bad.”

“Don’t push yourself too hard, alright?” Chelsea said as she hands a bottle to Celina.

“…I’ll think about it.”

“And Sigulf, here’s yours.”

“Ah, thank you.”

The two paused to drink before Celina continues, “We’ll take a short break. And then… Chelsea, spar with me.”

“…did you even hear what I said?”

“I did. You have 5-minutes to prepare.”

“Oh, for Queen’s sake…”

“Fufu…” Sigulf chuckled at their antics.

“Ah, you’re laughing.” Celina pointed out.

Sigulf blinked before finally realizing it himself. “I’m sorry…?”

“Why are you apologizing?” Chelsea laughed. “You’re surprisingly cute when you do laugh.”

“C, cute…?”

“You sure you don’t need to warm up first?” Celina suddenly asked.

“Come on, Cel. You begin to sound like auntie!” Chelsea protested, though she relents in the end.

That leaves Sigulf preoccupied with his thoughts alone.

‘Why did I laugh? Am I… Having fun?’

Sitting under the tree, he decides to watch the council duo spars, while a thin smile formed in his face.

‘I see. I guess I am having fun.’

———

About half an hour later, the three finally finished their morning practice. They decided to have a breakfast soon after, though Sigulf noticed that the girls ate less compared to himself.

‘I wonder if they actually already ate before practice?’

Leaving the café behind, the three gathered to close this morning’s session.

“Good job for today, everyone! Yaay!” Chelsea cheered.

“Thanks for having me.” Sigulf said.

“You sure are energetic, despite not being up to it initially.” Celina pointed out.

“Hey, what’s that supposed to mean? And Sunday is supposed to be rest day!”

“I thought we still have the whole day for that? Oh, speaking of which, Sigulf…” Celina said, now shifting her attention towards the boy.

“Yes?”

“Are you free after this?”

Sigulf nearly skipped a beat.

‘Could this be…!? No, no, calm down…’

“Umm, is this related to council duties?”

“Ah, as expected. …or so I wanted to say. Actually, I wanted to finish some papers today and thought I’m going to need additional hands, but…” Celina trailed off as she eyed Chelsea.

“Hey, we’re not finished yet, Cel!” Chelsea retorted. “And yes, you should relax once in a while.”

“…so she said. Thus, I was thinking, would you join us for lunch?”

Sigulf needed some moment to process her words before finally reacting, “Wait, me? Well, I don’t mind, but are you sure?”

“That’s why I asked you in the first place.”

‘Who would’ve thought she invites me for lunch? Well, together with Chelsea, actually, but still… There’s no reason to refuse.’

“Alright then. Count me in.”

“Good.” She smiled. “See you later at 11 then.”

“And we get to shop before or after, right?” Chelsea suddenly added as she glomps Celina.

“Ah, wait, Chel…! Oh, fine, it can’t be helped…”

“You’re coming together! Maybe some cute clothes will make you less stuffy and rigid!”

“Eeh? I don’t think they have anything to do with it…”

“It is!” Chelsea retorted, earning another chuckle from Sigulf.

“Ah, there you go, laughing again.”

“I’m s— I can’t help it.”

“Yeah, sure you are.” Chelsea laughed before she poked Celina’s cheek softly. “Now if only she can learn a thing or two from you.”

“…what do you expect from me? It’s not like I never smiled or laughed at all.” Celina protested.

“Then you should do it moooore.” Chelsea retorted as she tries to force a smile on Celina’s face using her fingers. “It’s good for PR, you know.”

“I, I understand, so stop it already…”

Again, Sigulf simply smiled while watching the council duo.

———

Parting with the council duo in the meantime, Sigulf is alone once more.

“Alright, let’s see what should I do next…”

Alternating between looking at the time and his surrounding, Sigulf suddenly remembers something.

“Oh, right. I should check on Master. I wonder if she’s awake already.”

———

Arrived at the guesthouse, it took Sigulf a while before he found Vigdis’ room. However, someone was already there first, knocking at the door.

“…oh?” the person said, having noticed Sigulf nearby.

It was a lady, which Sigulf predicted is around his Master’s age. Judging from her clothes, the purple haired lady is a medical staff of sorts. The school nurse, perhaps.

“May I help you?” the lady asked.

“Ah… I want to check how’s my Master…”

“Master? Oh, then you must be—“

Before she finished, however, the door opened, and Eliot appeared from inside.

“Ugh, remind me why I should never touch alcohol anymore…” he mumbled to himself while clutching his head. “Sorry to disturb you, Mel. …oh, you’re here too, Hrimgard.”

“Good morning, Sir.” Sigulf greeted.

“Ah, so he is Vigdis’ disciple.” The lady said.

The mention of her name made Sigulf a bit curious, but he decided to ask Eliot instead, “Is Master alright?”

“She’s inside, still sleeping.” Eliot answered. “Sorry, I just woke up myself…”

Sigulf entered the room without saying anything, and true to his words, Vigdis is soundly asleep.

“I know you’re having such a good time after a while, but please take better care of yourself, Master.” Sigulf sighed, both from relief and exasperation.

Sigulf then picked a nearby blanket and covered Vigdis with it.

“Mm… Sigulf…” she mumbled in her sleep.

“Master…”

“Let’s take a bath together… Zzz…”

“…”

Sigulf nearly facepalmed himself if not for the nurse lady’s chuckling.

“She’s always like that, huh?” the lady asked while still lending her shoulders to Eliot.

“Yeah, to embarrassing levels…”

“Well, she’s always been wild since back then. Though, I’m a bit surprised with her newfound liking in beer.”

Sigulf said nothing to that as he understands the reason. Meanwhile, the lady helped Eliot to sit down in a sofa.

“Thanks, Mel…” Eliot said.

“No problem. I’ll get you some water.”

“Please.”

As the lady called Mel went to the kitchen, Sigulf took a seat nearby and asked Eliot, “Umm, Sir, is she—“

“Hm? Ah, right… You never met her before.” Eliot said while rubbing his temple. “Melanie Alderliesten. She’s our classmate from back then and this Academy’s nurse. Unless you screw up badly, I don’t think you will be seeing her anytime soon, though…”

“I see…”

Sigulf said nothing more as he shifts focus from Vigdis to Melanie.

‘Master’s another old classmate, huh…’

 

Part 10

Spoiler

With Vigdis still asleep and Eliot barely paying attention, Sigulf wordlessly watched Melanie, just as she returned from the kitchen.

“Here you are.” Melanie said as she passed the glass to Eliot before looking at Sigulf. “Something’s on my face?”

“No.” Sigulf shook is head. “It’s just… Well, you and Sir Eliot look young for being teachers.”

“Fufufu, thanks.” She replied. “Well, at least for me, I never aimed for pro league, so there’s that.”

‘For her?’

“So, do you want to be a pro duelist?” she continued. “Training hard?”

“Ah, yeah…”

“I see. Even on Sunday, huh? That’s great. Reminds me of a certain council president.”

“Actually, I was training with her…”

“Aah, that makes sense… Wait, make you sure you don’t get carried away and end up overworking yourself! And tell her not to push herself too hard!” Melanie laughed.

“I’ll keep that in mind…”

Even thought it wasn’t particularly hot, Sigulf zipped open his jacket, catching Melanie’s attention.

“Oh, bathroom’s over there. You just finished training after all, right?”

“Eh? But I don’t have any spare clothes now.”

“What are you worried for? There are just 2 beautiful ladies here.” Melanie winked. “…well, and a hungover dude, actually.”

“…you’re scaring him.” Eliot retorted.

“Ah, so you’re feeling better now.”

“…”

‘I can see why she’s friends with Master…’ Sigulf mentally noted.

Sigulf looks at the still sleeping Vigdis, seemingly still slightly worried.

“Don’t worry, we’ll take care of her.” Melanie suddenly said, having noticed his concerns.

“Eh? But—“

“It’s alright, it’s alright. You want to get changed first, right? Plus, we want to talk about… Some adult stuff. Good boys under 18 shouldn’t listen.” She laughed.

‘…what does she mean by that?’

“Well then… I’ll return to my room. Thanks, and sorry for the trouble.”

“No problem. We’ll call you when she wakes up.”

“Take care on your way.” Eliot added.

“I will, Sir.”

Taking a quick glance at Vigdis, Sigulf then left the room.

———-

It’s not long after Sigulf exited the bathroom that his phone rings. Looking at the caller’s name, he picks it up.

“Oh, good mor—“

“Waaaaaaahh! Where are you now!?”

“…”

Vigdis’ sudden screaming made him reel a bit before responding, “…Master, please don’t do that. My ear hurts.”

“Ah, sorry, sorry!” she apologized from over the phone. “Where are you now? Have you eaten breakfast already?”

“Uhh, my room. Just got out from the shower. And yeah, I had breakfast already.”

“Eeh, even though Melanie cooked for us!? …ah, you already know her, right?”

“Yeah. It can’t be helped; morning exercise made me hungry.”

“Ahaa~ I see how it is~”

“…well, that, and I’d rather eat breakfast made by you.”

Sigulf could hear her coughing before she resumed, “H, hey now, boy! You should say it to someone else!”

“Eh?”

It took a while before Sigulf went beet red at the realization.

‘Did I just blurt that out!?’

“What, you don’t even realize it?” she laughed.

“…please forget it.” He pleads.

“Not gonna~”

“Ugh… Anyways, I’ll see you again later, okay? I think I still have time before lunch.”

“Hmm… Is it a date?”

“…I wish.”

Vigdis cackled before she continues, “Don’t take too long. I left some food for you.”

“Yes, yes. Well then, Master.”

Sigulf ended the call before sighing, “…well, it won’t hurt to walk there again, right?”

———

When Sigulf reached the guesthouse for the second time today, he was greeted by Vigdis glomping him.

“…Master, I can’t breathe.”

“Oh, come on! What are you complaining for?” she said while slowly backing off.

“…you’re not drunk, are you, Master?”

“Don’t worry, I make sure she’s not drinking any.” Melanie added, stepped from inside the room.

“Ah, thank you.”

“Boo, what the hell? You’re nicer towards her than me…”

“That wasn’t my intention…”

Melanie chuckled before saying, “Well, come on in. I made wedges for quick snack.”

“Just for a bit, then. I can’t over-eat.”

As the three entered the room, Sigulf noticed that Eliot is missing.

“Where’s Sir Fortier?”

“Elly left earlier.” Vigdis answered.

‘Elly!?’

“I guess he’s too nervous with Vigdis around.”

“Oh you~”

“…isn’t it because he’s the only guy around?”

“That’s why,” Vigdis said as she circled her arm around Sigulf. “You gotta stay with us! You won’t let two damsels feeling lonely by themselves, will you?”

“Alright, alright, just until before 11, okay?” Sigulf relented. “Pretty sure you would’ve handled yourselves just fine, though…”

“Aaaalright! Let’s go wild!”

“It’s not even midday yet…”

“Vigdis, mind if I seduce your disciple here?”

“Nooo!” the Icelandic woman said as she hugged Sigulf tightly. “Even if you’re my best friend…! Ah, but teasing is okay.”

“…”

‘I wonder if I’ll be alright…’

———

After enduring relentless teasing from both sides, it’s finally time for Sigulf to leave. Though, it’s clear that Vigdis is more than reluctant.

“Waaahh!” Vigdis cried as she clings to Sigulf’s leg. “What did I do wrong!? Was it not fun!? I’m sorryyyy!”

“Ma, Master…! You’re making a scene!” Sigulf embarrassedly trying to convince her to let go. “I’ll be late at this rate…!”

“Oh dear… And she’s not even drinking…” Melanie laughed wryly. “Here, let me help you. Good luck with your date, okay?”

“It’s not a date, I think… But thank you.”

“No problem! There, there, Vigdis. You can snuggle on me if you need to.”

“Uuu… You’re not Sigulf. You don’t smell like him and a bit bigger on the chest…”

“Oh, really? My breasts got in the way? Strange, I don’t think I am that buxom…”

‘What are these two talking about!?’

“Well, excuse me then…!” Sigulf said as he hurriedly left the guesthouse.

“Oh? Take care.” Melanie responded.

———

On the park nearby, Sigulf decides to wait for Celina and Chelsea. Looking at his phone, it’s half past 10.

“…”

Even though he was calm during the practice, Sigulf can’t feel the same about the upcoming lunch with the council duo.

‘Shit, after all that, and now I’m getting nervous. Calm down, myself!’

“Oh, there he is.”

Hearing a familiar voice, Sigulf turns to see Chelsea and Celina.

‘Ah… Seeing them in casual clothes feels refreshing.’

“You’re early.” Celina pointed out.

“I got nothing to do. And, well, it’s better to wait than be late.”

“Oh, you sound just like her.” Chelsea laughs wryly. “Even though I said we can show up a bit later…”

“…is that supposed to be a bad thing?” Celina sighed without pressing the issue further. “Well, now we’re all here, so let’s go—“

“Eat.”

“Shopping!”

There was a moment of silence before Chelsea comically glared at Sigulf.

“It’s not even lunch time, you know.”

“…well, true. And I ate some snacks already, so I guess we can go shopping first.”

“Sheesh, you should’ve just agreed in the first place… Well, never mind, let’s go!” Chelsea exclaimed enthusiastically as she leads the way.

“Is it really okay with you?” Celina asked Sigulf.

“Yeah. I can just sit and wait. And carry your bags if needed.”

“I’m sorry about this.” She gave a wry smile.

“Ah, it’s fine…”

Both of them then followed Chelsea before she goes too far away.

———

“So it’s here, huh.” Sigulf said upon arriving at the shop.

“Oh, you’ve been here before?” Celina asked.

“Yesterday, actually. I was here with Yuu.”

“Yuu…?” Chelsea suddenly stopped and somehow looking a bit flustered. “He’s the cute-looking Japanese boy, isn’t he?”

“Huh? Yeah, what about it?”

“Sigulf… And Yuu… Shopping together…!?”

“Umm, Chelsea?”

“Eh!? No, no, no, it’s nothing! Don’t worry about it, ahahahah!”

“Well, if you say so…”

“Forget that, let’s try on some clothes, Cel!” Chelsea quickly said as she pulled Celina away.

“Huh!? Wait, don’t pull—“

“Ah…”

Sigulf was left bewildered, wondering what just got into Chelsea.

“…I guess I’ll just sit somewhere nearby and take it easy.” He sighed.

———

Not far from where Sigulf finally sits, Chelsea is happily picking some clothes, while Celina is a bit unsure.

“Hmm…”

“Oh, still not sure on what to pick?”

“I’m not well-informed on things like this…”

“Then how about this one?” Chelsea said as she showed Celina a dress. “This one looks cute.”

“Cute? I don’t think—“

“Or would you rather try this one? It’s a bit sexy, though.”

“S, sexy? …this one would be more appropriate for summer, don’t you think?”

Sigulf’s ears can’t help but to twitch at their conversation.

“Well, it’s not a bad thing to buy them in advance. Anyway, I picked up a lot, so let’s try them one by one.”

“Eh? But…” Celina trailed off before turning to Sigulf. “I’m sorry, but will you be fine by yourself?”

“Hm? I think I can handle it.” He answered, trying to ignore another shopgoers’ stare, who probably thought, ‘What is he doing with the council duo?’

“Then…”

“Don’t peek, okay?” Chelsea added while winking.

The girls then disappeared into a nearby changing booth, and Sigulf couldn’t really hear what they are saying.

‘Why am I getting excited on my own here?’

He could only hear their clothes shuffling and what he thought as Celina yelping “Eh!?”, probably from one of the dresses offered by Chelsea.

“…”

There was a temporary silence, before the two finally reappeared, with Chelsea saying, “Sorry to keep you waiting! What do you think?”

“…!”

The sight made Sigulf hold his breath. Chelsea in long-sleeved off shoulder dress wasn’t half bad; far from it. But Celina in a strapless rompers, coupled with her curvy figure is a bit too much for him, even though it’s covered somewhat by a white shirt on top of it.

“…won’t you say something?” Celina asked, slightly embarrassed.

“I guess the stimulation was too strong?” Chelsea laughed wryly.

“Eh!? Sorry, I mean, it’s just— Hm?” Sigulf paused as he noticed something trailing from his nose. “What the… Blood?”

“Eh!? Sigulf, are you alright!?” Now Celina asked in a panic.

“Waaah! Why are you…!?” Chelsea panics as well and tries to cover him up while looking for her handkerchief.

The ruckus obviously draws attention, but at this point Sigulf can only think, ‘Ah, it was refreshing… A bit too refreshing perhaps.’

 

Part 11

Spoiler

It was midday when the three finally left the shop.

“Nnngh, that was fun!” Chelsea exclaimed as she stretched her back.

“But you bought nothing.” Celina pointed out.

“That’s exactly why! Don’t you think trying many of them is fun itself?”

“Well, I can’t really deny that…”

“I know, right? Although,” Chelsea switched her attention towards Sigulf. “I guess it’s a bit too much for our little Mr. Pervert here.”

“…sorry.” He apologized while turning his face away out of embarrassment.

“Sheesh, if that one gave you a nosebleed, I’m worried about what would happen if you see us in swimsuit.”

“U, us?”

“S, swimsuit?”

“…wait, why are you reacting too, Cel?”

“Why would he see us in swimsuit?”

“When we inevitably go to beach some day? You don’t even plan to for, say, a Council-only gathering?”

“You do know I don’t even swim in public pool.” Celina sighed.

“What are you even embarrassed for? Even though you have this.” Chelsea replied as she suddenly grabbed and fondled Celina’s breasts.

“Ah, wait! Where are you—“

‘Th, this is…!’

Sigulf was stunned by the spectacle for a moment before regaining his composure.

“Wait, stop right there! And you called me a pervert earlier!” Sigulf retorted.

“Whoops. Sorry, I got carried away. Remove it from your memory, okay?”

“…how?”

“Anyways!” Chelsea said, trying to change the topic. “It’s already lunch time. Should we go eat somewhere?”

“…you’re running away.” Celina said while still covering her chest.

“It was in jeeest! Please don’t be mad. I’ll treat you something, okay?”

“…I wonder. Maybe you should go eat at the usual place. Sigulf and I will look for an alternative. Seems safer.”

‘Wait, could this be…!?’ Sigulf thought, trying really hard not to show his delight.

“I, impossible…!” Chelsea said in shock. “D, did I just ruin our friendship?”

“…not really, it was in jest. Well, kind of.”

“Celinaaa! I know you’re my best friend!”

“But I don’t know what will happen if you do it again.” Celina said with a chilling smile, enough to make Chelsea took a step back.

“Y, yes, Ma’am!”

‘Whoa, even Chelsea got scared.’

“And Sigulf, that goes for you as well. Understand?”

“…I’ll keep that in mind.”

‘Well, it’s not like I can or will do that casually. That’s asking for a suicide…’

“Good!” Celina continued. “Shall we make our way then? There’s some place I want to try.”

“Eh? We’re not going to eat at the usual?” Chelsea asked.

———

To Sigulf’s mild surprise, they end up stopping by at the café he frequently visits.

“It’s here, huh. So where do you two usually eat?”

“Lordshire. It’s that one.” Celina informed while she points at a building quite far from there.

‘Wait, isn’t that where I ate with the Principal?’

“Would you like to have lunch there instead?”

“Ah, no, that’s not it. Here is fine.”

“Hm? Well, if you say so…”

“Any reasons, Cel?” Chelsea asked.

“I always wanted to try a burger.”

There was a momentary silence before Chelsea spoke, clearly holding back her laughter, “P, pardon me…? A burger?”

“Yes. What about it?”

“It’s not like Auntie forbids you to from eating one, is it?”

“True; Mother did say that as long I don’t over eat them and balance it well, then it won’t be a problem. Yet, I end up never tried one for some reason.”

“I, I see…”

“I suppose you’re not a stranger to burgers as well, Sigulf?”

“Huh? Well, a bit. I did eat few of them; hot dogs are way more common in Iceland after all.”

“Ah, I see. I guess I’ll try them too.”

“…will you be okay?” Chelsea asked with worry.

“No need to worry. As long as I don’t overdo it.” Celina reassured. “Let’s go then.”

———

When their orders finally arrived, Sigulf swore he could see Celina’s eyes sparkled with joy.

“Ooh!” Celina gasped while she eyed her food. “And this is… The famed Icelandic hot dog…”

“I’m… glad that you’re having fun.” Chelsea laughed dryly.

“Well, let’s try the burger first.”

Celina took a bite and munched, while Sigulf and Chelsea anxiously waits for her reaction.

“…how was it?”

“It’s strong.”

“S, strong?”

“I like it.” Celina said before she turned her attention towards Sigulf. “Would you like to try?”

“Eh? But—”

“It’s alright. You said you rarely eat them, don’t you?”

‘That’s not the problem here… Oh well, as long as I bite on a different side…’

Sigulf relented and took a bite before commenting “…it’s good.”

“Fufu…”

“C, Cel? Why are you—” Chelsea hesitantly asked.

“Hm? Do you want some too?”

“…nevermind then.” Chelsea said before trying the burger as well. “Ah, it’s juicy.”

‘Of course she noticed…’ Sigulf thought.

“And now, for this one…” Celina said before chewing the hot dog. Again, the two eagerly awaits her response.

“So…?”

“This is so good!” Celina gleefully exclaimed. “The lamb tastes so fresh! How lucky of you to get to eat this often!”

“Glad you liked it. It’s organic, free-roaming Icelandic lamb, after all.” Sigulf responded.

“I see. Chelsea, you have to try this too!”

“I haven’t even started— Oh well, here, let me have a taste.” Chelsea replied before end up reacting “Hm!? You’re right, it’s delicious!”

“I know, right?”

‘Ah, there goes the hot dog… No more safe spot to bite.’

“Hm? Could it be you want some as well?” Celina suddenly asked as she apparently noticed Sigulf staring at it.

“Eh!?”

“Wait, wait, wait! Cel, don’t!” Chelsea quickly interrupted.

“Huh? What’s the matter?”

“You… don’t even realize it, do you? Okay, the burger was barely safe, but…” Chelsea began to whisper while leaning towards Celina.

Hearing her explanation, Celina’s expression went blank for a moment before turning red.

“I, I’m sorry, Sigulf! That wasn’t my intention! Please don’t take it the wrong way!” she apologized, while Chelsea merely sighed.

“I, it’s alright. I understand.” Sigulf responded while trying to drive the thoughts away by focusing on his lunch.

‘Ah, but I never thought she could be so cute when embarrassed… Wait.’

———

“Thank you for your patronage! Please come again!”

The three left the cafe behind, satisfied with their lunch.

“Despite looking deceptively simple, that was good!” Celina said happily. “Do you know any other I might have to try?”

“Wait, you still want to eat?” Chelsea asked with worry.

“Hm? If it’s just dessert, I’m pretty sure we can handle it.”

“…yeah, I can see where the fat goes.” Chelsea replied while staring at Celina’s chest.

“Stop it.” Celina retorted while covering them.

“I haven’t done anything, though?”

“Well, anyways,” Sigulf interrupted, trying to steer away the conversation. “How about we try some crepes, then?”

“Aah, crepes. I’ve always been curious with them. Do you have any recommendations?”

“I’m not sure. I always picked the chocolate one.”

“There’s a stall around the park, right? Should we go there?” Chelsea asked.

“To the park we shall be, then.” Celina decided. “Oh, and Sigulf, you’re not allowed to buy the chocolate one this time. You have to mix it up.”

“Eeh…”

———

Before long, they reached the crepe stall nearby the park. Celina bought the chocolate one, Chelsea’s blueberry, and Sigulf chose the vanilla cream crepe after some mulling.

“For a moment, I thought you’re going to pick the melted tuna.” Chelsea pointed out.

“Maybe next time. Gotta keep the dessert sweet.” Sigulf replied.

Meanwhile, Celina is amazed with the crepe in her hands.

“Ooh!”

“Oh dear…” Chelsea laughed.

“Sigulf, this is your favorite, right?”

“Eh, yeah…”

“Well then…”

Celina took a bite and her face quickly light up.

“This is so delicious!” she exclaimed with joy.

“That’s great to hear.” Sigulf said before munching his crepe. “Ah, this one’s good too.”

“Really? Then— …oh, wait, I can’t just ask for a bite, can I?”

Having understood what she meant, Sigulf went slightly red while saying, “Y, yeah. That would be… Troublesome.”

“Ah-hem.” Chelsea purposefully cleared her throat. “You can try mine, though. And buy another vanilla cream if you really want to.”

“Next time.” Celina sighed. “I have to finish this first, and I doubt that I can have another one.”

Both girls traded a bite off their crepes, before Chelsea said, “Hey, this is pretty good! I can see why Sigulf likes this one.”

‘Ah, how nice… Wait, don’t. Hold it together, myself.’ Sigulf mentally reprimanded himself before taking another bite.

“Oh, Sigulf.” Celina suddenly called him.

“Hm?”

“You got cream on your cheek.”

“Eh? Here?”

“Almost. Wait, let me wipe it. Keep still.”

“Eh—”

Sigulf didn’t have the time to fully process what just happened as Celina approached him, wiped the cream with her thumb and licked it.

‘Her touch feels so pleasant… Waaaait.’

“There you go.” Celina said.

“Wait, Cel, did you just…!?” Chelsea asked in surprise.

“Hm? I was just—” Celina paused before realization dawned upon her face. “…don’t tell me—”

“…eeh, technically, maybe not. Maybe. I guess…”

“Now you’re making me uneasy…!” Celina retorted while being slightly red.

Meanwhile, Sigulf can only freeze in silence.

‘This is already too much. Please no more nosebleeds…’

 

Part 12

Spoiler

The day flows further into afternoon, and with it, the air has slowly begun to get cooler. Having satisfied in trying the burger and crepes, Sigulf is about to part with the council duo.


“Thanks for inviting me today. It was really fun.” Sigulf said.


“No, no, the pleasure is mine. If you know more interesting stuffs, then please do tell us.” Celina replied.


“Aaand I’ll be there as well to make sure that Celina doesn’t do… Anything suggestive.” Chelsea added.


“T, that wasn’t on purpose.”


Sigulf merely chuckled.


“By the way,” Celina continued. “Are you going anywhere after this?”


“Hm? I guess I’ll return to the guesthouse. I’ll accompany my Master for a while before she goes home.”


“Master? Ah, as in your duel master?”


“Yes, and she’s my legal guardian too. She came for a short visit.”


“Hmm…”


“What do we do, Cel?” Chelsea asked. “This sounds interesting.”


“What? Well, I am a bit curious…”


———


In the end, though, the three didn’t part ways and goes to the guesthouse instead.


“I’m sorry, even though we said goodbyes earlier.” Celina apologized.


“No, it’s alright. I appreciate the company.” Sigulf reassured.


“You’re not thinking of going back early and do some papers, are you?” Chelsea pointed out.


“Ah, you read me well.”


“Well, duh. You should relax more on day off like this. Besides, we’re not actually falling behind in quota.”


“True, but… I feel kind of restless without working on it.“


“…yeah, I can see why the Principal pushed Sigulf for another helping hand.” Chelsea sighed.


“Huh? What, so it’s you guys.”


Another girl’s voice caught the three’s attention. Chelsea’s face light up upon recognizing her.


“Alba!”


“Wha— Stop right there or I’ll cleave you!!”


“Sheesh, how cold. It’s not like I’m going to glomp you or something.”


“So you were going to!”


“Yo.” Sigulf greeted her.


“Good afternoon.” Celina followed suit.


“Ah, yo.” Alba replied. “Hey, wait a minute.”


“Huh? What?”


“…double date?”


“Doub—“


“No, we just had a lunch together.” Celina quickly interrupted a flustered Sigulf.


“Ah, could it be you’re feeling lonely? You should’ve joined the Council in the first place.” Chelsea chuckled.


“I’m not! …where are you guys going anyway?”


“Guesthouse. Going to check on my Master. Wanna c— Oh, right, you’re probably fine by being alone.”


“…”


———


Munching her snack alone, Vigdis noticed that suddenly it became a bit noisy outside.


“Huh? That sounds like Sigulf just now.”


Curious, she got up and peeked from the door.


“I told you I have nothing better to do!” Alba protested. “And if Miss Vigdis is leaving today… Well, I have to see her off too.”


“Oh, Alba. You should be more honest.” Chelsea teased.


“…hm? Oh, there she is.” Sigulf suddenly said as he noticed her.


“Ah, you found me.” Vigdis responded as she stepped outside. “…wait.”


“Now what?”


Vigdis quickly realized that Sigulf has come to visit her accompanied by three girls.


“Good afternoon.” Celina greeted her.


Vigdis didn’t answer, however, prompting Sigulf to call, “Err, Master?”


“…boy, you’re going to make a harem now?”


“Master, please…”


“H, harem?” Celina asked in surprise.


“Ah, so we do look like his groupies.” Chelsea laughed wryly.


“…wait, am I being counted as well?” Alba pointed herself.


“But of course.”


“Why do people keep assuming that?” she covered her face in anguish.


“Because you worked well as a team.” Chelsea answered. “Plus, don’t you think he’s pretty good looking?”


“Oh, come on now!” Sigulf groaned.


“E, eeh… I don’t know about that…”


“Well, then… Ei!”


“Wha—“


“Whoa, watch it!”


Chelsea suddenly pushed Alba, forcing Sigulf to catch her from falling.


“Are you… okay?”


‘So close…! But, looking at her like this… She’s… Surprisingly cute… Wait!’


“I, I’m alright!” Alba responded while quickly pulls away from Sigulf.


“Ahaa~” Vigdis said, giving a sly look.


“Chelsea! What are you doing!? That’s dangerous!” Celina suddenly shouted.


“…ah, I think I overdid it. Umm, sorry…?”


“Seriously… Good thing nobody was hurt.”


“You two shouldn’t be in the same place.” Sigulf said while looking at Vigdis and Chelsea.


“I promise I won’t do that again! …I think.”


“You think?”


‘Whoa, he’s mad…!’


“Anyways,” the boy continued. “Celina, Chelsea, this is my Master, Vigdis.”


“Ahaha… Nice to meet you.”


“And Master… Well, these are the Council duo, Celina Bartram and Chelsea Kensington.”


“Pleased to meet you.” Celina greeted, now a bit cautious, while Chelsea smiled sheepishly.


“Umm… Thanks for looking after my boy.”


“Oh no, not at all. He managed by himself pretty well.”


‘…crap, I don’t know how to talk like a normal person!’ Vigdis lamented mentally.


“So, uhh… I guess that goes for his fighting as well, right?”


“Ah, yes. Especially that.” Celina replied, her face lit up somehow. “Along with Alba here, he’s among the exceptional 1st-year students. I can guarantee it.”


“That’s a relief, then! I mean he did fell into a bit of funk recently… Ahahah— …ah.”


Alba looks confused, while Chelsea, being at the practice together, looks a bit shocked. Sigulf, though, kept himself composed.


Celina took a second to realize what Vigdis meant before she chuckled, “There’s nothing to worry. Through his eyes, today I have ascertained that he definitely has the potential.”


Looking at Sigulf, she continued, “If he continues with all his abilities, I’m sure he will catch up in no time.”


“Celina…”


‘This kid is so mature!’ Vigdis tought while looking touched. ‘And she’s a real charmer! I can see while Sigulf likes her.’


“And I’m sure that is also because of what you taught. For that, I express my gratitude.”


“H, hey now, why are you thanking me!? …wait, that’s not sarcasm, right?”


“Hm? Well,” Celina sounds a bit hesitating. “I do admit that you and Sigulf act nothing alike.”


“I can’t disagree with that…” Sigulf commented.


“But my eyes recognize strength. And when I look at you, Miss Vigdis… I think I understand how Sigulf came to be like he is now.”


“…come on, I still can’t score a hit.” Sigulf responded while scratching his cheek.


“Oh? Are you getting disheartened now?” Celina teased.


“That’s not what I meant. Just stating the fact. Of course I won’t stop trying.”


Chelsea watched their exchange wordlessly, while Alba thought, ‘He… Could he be…’


“Huh? You’re still here?”


Another familiar voice caught the group’s attention.


“Hey, are you kicking me out now, Mel?”


“No, no, no. But I thought you’re the one who said that you’ll depart this afternoon?” Melanie replied.


“Eh? Master, are you leaving already?”


“Well, that’s the plan… But these chips are so good. Might as well finish them first.”


“…well, I did buy a lot of them so you don’t drink too much.” Melanie sighed. “Maybe share it with them?”


“Ah, so you are taking care of her.” Celina pointed out. “I presume you two are old friends?”


“Oh, hey you two.” Melanie said upon noticing Celina and Chelsea. “Yeah, pretty easy to tell, huh?”


“So, this lady is the school nurse?” Alba asked.


“Correct!” Chelsea answered. “Let me introduce you to Melanie Alderliesten.”


“Heya. Just call me Mel like these two. I don’t think we’ll see each other often though, since almost nobody gets injured. Not that it’s a bad thing.” Melanie laughed.


“Oh, so you are already that close with them?” Sigulf asked her, referring to the Council duo.


“Ah, right, I guess I forgot to tell. Well, the Council has been pretty nice from their first year. Plus, I don’t feel like being too formal with the students. It’s more fun this way.”


“I see…”


“Hey, hey, your little business is done, right? Let’s kill a bit more time.” Vigdis pleaded.


“That little business was for your sake, though.” Melanie sighed. “Oh well, let’s eat together. I don’t want to get fat from chips.”


“…but we just have lunch and more.” Chelsea lamented.


‘A doctor… Little business for Master… Must be for her legs.’ Sigulf thought.


———


About half an hour later, with the chips shared and her stuff packaged, Vigdis has finally arrived at the station. Eliot came running and joined them a bit later.


“Sorry, sorry.” He apologized.


“How could you? This is our best friend we’re seeing off here.” Melaine retorted while slightly nudged him with her elbow.


“It’s alright, Mel.” Vigdis laughed. “We know he’s busy.”


“You said it.”


“Of course. We’ve known the hardworking you for years!”


“Yeah…”


Vigdis paused for a bit before she continues, “So, uhh… I’ll probably come to visit again. And I’ll tell you in advance like it should be. So make sure you prepare a nice room, okay?”


“You better be.” Eliot replied.


“You better be what? Telling in advance or visit you again?” Melanie teased.


“Ugh…”


Laughed at the two, Vigdis then turned her attention towards Sigulf.


“What is it?”


“Err… You heard me. I’ll see you again some other time, and…”


“You don’t know what to say?”


“Ahahah, sorry about that…”


“No, it’s okay.” Sigulf reassured. “If anything, it’s because of you that I’m fine now so you have no more to say. Right?”


“Kuuuh! What are you trying to look cool for!?” Vigdis suddenly hugged him, clearly looking happy.


“Ma, Master! This is embarrassing!”


The spectacle earned a chuckle from the council duo, as well as Alba’s sighing. Vigdis finally let him go with a hearty laugh.


“Do your best, Son.”


“I will. And take care of yourself.”


“And… Celina, Chelsea, Alba.” Vigdis continued while looking at them. “Thanks for being friends with him.”


“The pleasure is ours.” Celina replied.


“Friends, huh…” Alba mumbled.


“Hey, next time I’m here, we should do some girls-only night! I want to listen to your stories!”


“Of course! I’m up for it!” Chelsea agreed enthusiastically.


“…it can’t be anything good if it’s from you two.” Celina sighed.


The sound of approaching Ocean Liner grabbed everyone’s attention.


“This is it.”


Approaching the automatic door, Vigdis turned back one last time.


“This is not the farewell!” she announced dramatically, earning few chuckles. “Well, take care!”


Together with the sunset, the Ocean Liner slowly disappears towards the horizon.


———


With Vigdis went home, both the Council duo and the teachers excused themselves as well, leaving only Sigulf and Alba.


“…”


Sigulf gazed towards where Vigdis returned without saying a word. Alba, on the other hand, seemed uncertain for a while before she decided to speak up.


“Hey Sigulf, can I ask something?”


“Huh? What?”


“It’s about Celina.”


“…!”


“Do you…”


There was a hint of hesitation before she continued, “Did you spar with her and got trashed badly?”


“Ah, that. Yeah.”


“I see. So she must be strong.”


“Crazy strong. I can’t even see an opening.”


Alba stole a glance and noticed that somehow, Sigulf looks happy.


“So she’s the summit you’ve been trying to achieve.”


“Pretty much. …wait, is this got something to do with what you said back then?”


“Sort of. I’m kind of pissed to be honest.” She admitted. “But, it’s not like I don’t understand. I guess… I’ll aim for her too from today.”


“I see.”


“But!” Alba continued. “I won’t forget my own words. Before her, I’m taking you down first!”


Returning her emerald gaze, Sigulf finally responded, “Likewise. I’m not going to lose.”


“Good! Then, see you tomorrow at class. Don’t forget to sleep early.”


Turning the opposite direction, Alba raised her hand and waved, but…


“Alba, wait!”


“Huh?”


“The dorm’s this way.”


“…oh, right. Sorry.”


———


That night, on Celina’s room…


“Phew… Well, I end up working on few papers after all.” Celina said while resting her head on the desk.


“…”


Recalling the week, especially the last two days, she began to think about a certain boy. An awkward boy who nonetheless have the quality of a fine duelist and quickly picks himself up with much ferocity after he went on a short-lived slump.


She likes him. Of course, she likes him; he’s not despicable. She has no reason to hate him. So why she got troubled by her own inadvertent actions and what Chelsea implied afterwards during their lunch? Couldn’t she just dismiss it?


“I… Really don’t understand… What is this?” Celina mumbled.


———


On about the same time, Alba’s room…


The girl was silently staring at the ceiling, apparently has done some sit-ups.


“If it’s true, then… He’s fighting and getting stronger to impress a girl?” she mumbled. “Isn’t it foolish?”


Getting up, she concluded, “Of course it’s foolish. One should be getting stronger for their own sake. I knew it.”


Yet…


“…”


Redness began to creep on her face. When he caught her, when she gazed into him, his snow white hair framing his face and icy blue eyes…


She put her hands to her own warm cheeks.


‘Dammit! This is all Chelsea’s fault!’


———


Chapter 2: Baptized in Sun Ray and Spring Air, end


Continued on Chapter 3.

 

Chapter 3: One Flight from Heimriki
Part 1

Spoiler

The beginning of a new week comes. Once again, hopeful young duelists prepared themselves after enjoying their well-spent first weekend on the island.

“Good morning, everyone!” Eliot greets the class after the bell rings. “How was it? Did you have fun and rest enough? I hope none of you has gone complacent over the weekend.”

The whole class responds to him before Eliot continues, “By the way, thanks to a certain pair, talks about tag-team duels have circulated and reached even the faculty.”

Some students turned to see the team in question; Sigulf looks a bit surprised, while Alba seems slightly embarrassed.

“Sir, does this means we will have tag-related practices as well?” Eurypha suddenly asked.

“Yes, I’ve been planning that down the line.” Eliot answered. “Of course, that’s after we revisit the basics, and let the first 18 pairs to try 1-on-1 duels first.”

The students began talking about it themselves, with Yuu engages Sigulf in a conversation as well, though seemingly for a different reason. Alba, meanwhile, tries to steal a glance at Sigulf from over her shoulders.

———

The ringing bell signals the lunch break. Almost everyone was about to leave the class when Walter suddenly shouted and grabbed their attention.

“Sorry to keep you waiting! Here it is, the moment of truth!”

Some boys who are in the know cheered, while others seem confused on what it is about.

“Presenting to you, our very first A-class Girls’ Popularity Contest!”

“Wha—“

Most girls are clearly infuriated now, with Eurypha leading them.

“Cut it out! What’s the meaning of this!?”

“Whoa, calm down, Hestianus!” Walter argued. “What’s with the outburst?”

“We never heard nor agreed with this in the first place!”

“Come on, this is a high-school staple! Besides, it’s just a pop vote, nothing harmful!”

“…really? You sure you guys didn’t talk about our sizes for consideration?”

“Geh…!” Walter, and somehow, Yuu, froze at her accusation.

“W, wait! So there were… Indecent things in this voting!?” Arthfael asked in surprise.

‘…wait, he voted?’ Sigulf retorted mentally.

“I’ve heard enough! Give it to me!”

“N, no way!” Walter said while dodging Eurypha’s attempt. “Besides, it’s as if you girls never talked about our junk!”

“W, why would I talk about that!?”

“Eep…!”

The soft whimpering made everyone fell silent, before Eurypha turned her attention towards the source; a girl wearing eyeglasses with a book in her hands.

“…did you?”

“Err… I’m sorry…!”

“You’re not helping our cause!” Eurypha screeched while confiscating her book.

Quickly skimming the contents, she sighed before facing Walter once again.

“Alright, I’ll admit that I’m being too one-sided here.”

Walter exhaled in relief. “Oh, cool. So can—“

“No, I’m still confiscating that! And no, no more popularity contests!”

“What!?”

“In exchange, I’ll allow you to have this.”

“…I don’t think that’s a fair proposition.”

“Well? Do you like it when people vote without you knowing?”

“What? If anything, I’m curious about the results! C’mon, don’t be such a killjoy.” Walter complained.

“You pervert! Hand me that, now!”

“No, you first!”

“No, you!”

Both of them got increasingly heated, with their own supporters only encouraged them even more.

“Guys, calm down!” Minato tried to intervene with no avail.

‘Should I say something here? …no, too troublesome.’ Sigulf thought.

“Hestianus, time out!”

“What!?”

“How about we trade at the same time?”

Eurypha paused for a moment before saying “…you better not trying to pull something!”

“I won’t, I won’t! I promise!” Walter reassured. “Ready, then? 1…”

“Wait! …2!”

“”3!””

In a blink of eye, the book switched places, while their owners quickly backed away from each other.

‘Using that speed for something so mundane…’ Sigulf mentally commented.

“But, how about the results!?” one of the boys asked.

“Let’s just hope she didn’t trash them…” Walter answered.

“Why would I need this?” Eurypha retorted.

“Oh come on, you peeked at men’s result first! Besides, aren’t you curious?”

“Ugh… Well…”

“That settles it! Alright then!”

Walter enthusiastically opened the book, while Eurypha did so reluctantly. Upon seeing the results, however…

“Whaaat!? How come I ranked so low!?” Walter protested.

“I told you, you should act more… Ah, subtly. You are too vulgar.” Yuu commented, followed by agreement from most girls.

“S, shut up…” he muttered while continues to read the results. “Oh, what the hell, you can talk because you ranked 2, you know?”

“Me? Number 2? Hee, I’m flattered.” The shorter boy looks mildly surprised while giving the girls a smile. “I wonder who’s the rest of top 3, then.”

“Ugh… Penndreic got 3rd…”

Some of the girls cheered, with one commenting “He’s a picture perfect knight!”

“Huh, m, me? Oh, thanks, I guess?” Arthfael seems not sure on how to react.

“And Amakawa is the winner.”

This one got an even louder cheer.

“Eeh!? Me!?” the boy in question pointed himself out of surprise.

“I’m not so sure myself, but…! He’s so courteous and gentlemanly, like when he fought Miss Hestianus! I want to be treated like that too!” another girl shared her opinion.

“Aah, too bad, I got beaten by Amakawa-kun…” Yuu gave a wry smile.

‘He’s that popular? I guess day 0 really left such impression.’ Sigulf mentally noted.

“Dammit…!” Walter lamented. “How is this possible? Do girls like those types now?”

The other boys then gather to see the results, while Walter sulks alone.

“Let me see…” Yuu mumbled. “Oh, Sig-kun, here’s your name, around the mid-low.”

“Hmm…”

True to his words, Sigulf didn’t manage to secure many votes, though he’s actually not bothered with the fact. From the other students’ eyes though…

‘He’s not going to snap, right?’ they thought.

“I know you are busy with Council duties, but how about you try to smile?” Yuu suggested.

“Eh, I wonder about that…”

Meanwhile, on the girls’ side…

“Boys… Why are they such perverts?” Eurypha grumbled.

“Even though you’re curious with the results? Or are you too afraid to find out?” Carmen taunted.

“I am not! Fine, I’ll gladly take that bait of yours!”

Furiously opening the book, her expression quickly changed to irritation.

“How…”

“Ohohohoho!” Carmen laughed as soon as she deduced the situation. “As much as I pity those with poor taste, in the end, it’s proven that I’m the superior one!”

“Shut up, this is just a beauty contest!”

“Oh, so you concede that I am, in fact, more beautiful than you will ever be?”

“Guh…! The one voting for you are probably just horndogs, anyway!”

“Yes, yes, stay salty. It doesn’t matter anyway, since he voted for me, right, Minato?”

“Eeh!?”

“What!? Mina— Amakawa, did you!?”

“No, I didn’t! I—“

“Minato, how could you!? So you voted for her instead!?”

“No! I can’t even decide on whom to vote!”

The ruckus died temporarily before Carmen and Eurypha ganged on Minato.

“”That’s even worse!””

“Idiots.” Ilma muttered.

“Umm, but what about the actual standings?” one girl asked.

“Let’s see here…” another said while carefully reading the results. “3rd place is Miss Hestianus, Miss Rosales came in 2nd—“

“Wait a minute!” Carmen interrupted. “I’m not on top? Who—“

“Umm, that would be Miss Hunter.” The girl motioned towards Alba.

“…eh?”

All attention now directed to her.

“Haah…” Carmen sighed. “If it’s her, I guess I can’t get mad…”

“Wait, why your attitude is so different!?” Eurypha protested.

“Y’know, the girls in this class are pretty cute and hot, but,” a boy suddenly said. “I must admit that her heroics won me over. Not to say she isn’t cute, of course.”

“…as much as I hate to agree with the boys,” another girl added. “If I get to vote, then I’ll choose her as well.”

“She inspired us all from that duel on!” yet another girl said.

“So, Alba?”

“Alba.”

Suddenly, most students cheered in unison “Alba! Alba! Alba!”

“S, stop it, all of you!” Alba responded with a beet red face.

“Good for you, huh?” Sigulf commented.

“Shut up…! Sheesh, how can you evade the spotlight like that…”

Meanwhile, Ilma was trying to leave the crowd, though Minato noticed her first.

“Hiltunen-san, wait! Where are you going?”

“Café. This is a waste of time.”

“What? Are you dissatisfied with the results?” Eurypha asked.

“Eh?” the boy quickly scanned the page.

“Umm, she’s here.” The glasses girl pointed the lower portion of the page.

‘This is…’

Minato said nothing as seemingly understands the situation.

“Who cares?” Ilma retorted. “This is a duel school. You must be a colossal idiot to think those useless shit matters.”

“Wha—“

‘She sure loves to pick a fight, huh?’ Sigulf mentally sighed.

“Hiltunen-san, maybe you are right.” Minato quickly responded, surprising almost everyone. “But that’s not the way to talk to everyone!”

“What, because I hurt their brittle feelings?” Ilma gave a sarcastic smirk.

“It’s not about that! I know there were some problems, but we are on the same school; the same class! We are all friends here! Comrades in arms who will grow together!”

The other students began talking among themselves again, while Ilma’s smirk faded.

“…do you seriously think that?”

“I am. Besides….”

“What?”

“I… don’t know why you chose to be a loner, or acting on the edge all the time, and I’m sure you have your own reasons, but… All those swearing and rude actions don’t suit your cute face at all!”

There was an awkward silence.

“…”

Ilma’s expression gradually changed from irritated, to neutral… to red out of embarrassment.

“Amakawa… You… You…!”

“?”

“Y, you dumb stinky head!”

“Huh!?”

“M, me!? C, c, c, cute!? H, hah! What a joke! D, did you bump yourself!? O, o, of course! You are a b, b, big dummy after all!”

“…”

‘Disabling her by kindness? Classic.’

Since Sigulf doesn’t know whether to laugh or facepalm, he decides to rub it in instead.

“Hee, so you lost your venom that easily? So ‘cute’.”

“S, shut up, Island dog!” Ilma retorted before quickly running away from the class.

“Ah, Hiltunen-san, wait!” Minato called to her. Unfortunately, he didn’t go far as two presence of wrath stopped him.

“Amakawaaa…! What’s the meaning of this?” Eurypha growled.

“I believe you never treated me like that, hmm, Minato?” Carmen said, barely masking her anger.

“Wait, that wasn’t my intention!”

“No more excuses!”

“Oh, not again!” Minato said as he quickly makes his escape.

“Come back here, Amakawa!”

“Minato, explain yourself!”

And as usual, Carmen and Eurypha chased after him.

“Well, there they go.” Sigulf commented before checking his clock. “…shit, do we still have time for lunch?”

As he turned to see Yuu, though, he seems to be thinking with most of the boys.

“…hmm, I think my opinion for her has improved.” Yuu said with a slight blush.

“…what?”

———

Meanwhile, on the rooftop…

“They are kind of late.” Chelsea said while eating her food.

“I wonder if something happened… Though, eating with their classmates is not a bad thing.” Celina added.

 

Part 2

Spoiler

After the whole class nearly skipped their lunch break thanks to the poll results, they proceeded to the mock duel session as usual, with Walter chosen as a volunteer and winning decisively.

“Wait, what’s with this treatment!?”

“Armstrong, who are you yelling to?”

‘In any case,’ Sigulf thought, ignoring Walter’s sudden outburst. ‘Those gauntlets do pack a punch. Due to his earth elemental, I kinda thought he would focus to grappling instead of striking.’

———

With practice out of the way, Sigulf and Minato’s group heads to the Council room after the bell rings. Of course the awkward, uneasy air from lunch break still accompanies them.

‘Feels like the girls could explode at any given time… It would be good if I can avoid the crossfire.’

“Ah, you’re all here. Good afternoon.”

That familiar voice. His favorite voice. It pulled Sigulf back to reality and prompts him to greet, “Oh, good afternoon.”

For some reason, Celina, and obviously Chelsea too, didn’t respond immediately, though Sigulf thinks that he has the idea why.

“Did something happen?” Celina asked while looking at Minato and his girls.

“N, nothing big!” Eurypha quickly answered. “It’s just—“

“Armstrong presented some kind of popularity contest’s result, and we nearly missed our lunch.” Sigulf interrupted, much to Ilma’s annoyance somehow.

“Aah, I see. So that’s why you didn’t show up earlier.”

“Sorry about that.”

“No, it’s alright. You don’t have to apologize.”

“Hee, so you held a popularity contest already? Isn’t it a bit too soon?” Chelsea chuckled.

“Eh, well… Wait, I don’t think that’s the problem…” Eurypha mumbled.

“Oh, you’re still hung up on the results?” Carmen taunted.

“I am NOT!”

“Alright, that’s enough, no fighting on my watch.” Chelsea intervened. “Sooo, did you win, Carmen?”

The redhead was a bit surprised with Chelsea addressing her, but replied nonetheless.

“Unfortunately, no. But then again, I’m against Alba, so 2nd place is good. For now.”

“I see! So Alba won… Fufufu.”

“Why are you looking so happy?” Celina pointed out.

“Why wouldn’t I? Ah, but if she joined the Council, then it will be even better for our PR.”

“Is that it…?” Sigulf retorted.

“Ruuude. Why are you always doubting me? Anyways… What about the boys? Did—“

“I’m below 9th to say the least.”

“O, oh… I see…”

“Please don’t look sad like that.”

“Amakawa came first, with Kanzaki and Penndreic following behind.” Eurypha sighed to conclude the results.

“I see. Congratulations then, Minato!”

“Eh!? Err, thanks, I guess.”

“…why are you getting flustered!?” the twintailed girl hissed.

“But, a popularity contest, huh…” Chelsea said while looking slightly nostalgic. “Do you think you’ll win again this year, Cel?”

“I wonder about that…”

“Oh, of course the seniors held it too.” Sigulf realized.

“Well, it was during the end of our first year—“

“And she won not only our class, but the whole first year too!”

“…something like that.”

“Hee…”

“I guess that’s to be expected from you.” Carmen commented.

“But aren’t you bothered by it?” Eurypha asked the duo, still unconvinced.

“Hm? Bothered by what?”

“What if they escalated? Like you know… A swimsuit contest?” she finished with a slightly red cheek.

“Ooh, I think I get where you are going.” Chelsea chuckled. “Don’t worry, school events are better regulated; no one is forced to participate anyway.”

“Wait, we had that? And it’s a school event?”

“I think we held one last year. Though, unfortunately, Celina and I didn’t participate.”

“Unfortunately? You do know well I won’t partake in the first place.” Celina protested.

“What are you saying? Even though—“

“Chelsea. Your hands.”

“Yes, Ma’am!”

‘She never learns…’ Sigulf thought. ‘But, aah… I want to see Celina in swimsuit too… Wait, what am I thinking!?’

“Knock, knock.” Another voice caught their attention. “Prez, we’re going to patrol. Can we have our rookies already?”

“Oh, Laine! I’m sorry about that.” Celina apologized. “Enough chatting for now. Let’s start working then.”

“You’re surprisingly diligent today.” Chelsea laughed at Laine.

“Eh, the sooner it’s done, the better.”

“Senpai, we’ll be on your care today!” Minato said while bowing.

“Yes, yes…” Laine sighed. “Alright, Lindy, rookies, let’s make sure our grounds is safe.”

“”“Ou!”””

Eurypha and Carmen followed Minato’s enthusiasm, while Ilma opted to stay silent, still evidently pissed with what happened today.

“Well then, we can’t keep standing here all day.” Celina said. “We’ll be counting on you today too.”

“Alright, leave it to me.” Sigulf replied.

———

Today’s council job is a bit different, as Celina started with sharing her ideas for autumn’s Free-for-All Tournament; namely testing the ground with the tag-team duels. Since there’s already Chelsea and another student who is the actual secretary in charge of recording things, Sigulf ends up mostly listening while making small memos if deemed necessary.

‘Ooh, so she goes for it after all.’ Sigulf thought.

Fortunately, almost everyone is willing to try the idea, having found that tag duels might be an interesting experience. Some gave their insight in case trouble happened, another offered to take care of the sponsors. All in all, it’s a good start.

‘About six months or so from now… I’m sure the Council will make it.’ He thought. ‘By then, I…’

———

After the meeting, Sigulf returned to clerical duties like usual. Much to his liking, there’s only him and the Council duo on the room now, increasing his work speed.

‘Alright, I definitely can do this!’

While working on his papers, some details on it caught his attention. As if to read his curiosity, Celina turned to him, asking, “So, how’s it going? Is there any problems?”

“No, not at all. Just small things I wanted to ask if you don’t mind.”

“Oh, sure. What is it?”

“This Automaton spare parts under maintenance… We have those?”

“Ah, that. Well, to be fair, I almost never used it to train myself. While I do think Automatons will never replace the unpredictability of human partners, if for some reason you want to try them, you can visit the facility nearby the training grounds. Just don’t forget your student ID.”

“I see. Maybe some other time.”

‘An automated sparring partner, huh? Quite interesting.’

“Anything else?”

“Umm, this one… The Pacific Representatives are going to visit?”

“Yes, next week according to the Principal.”

“I’m not even sure why, though.” Chelsea joined. “Well, anyways, we have to be as accommodating as possible.”

“Hmm…”

The Pacific Academy. Located on the other side of the pond, they are not a bad dueling institute by any means; far from it. But years of being considered second fiddle – either simply by establishment years or actual performance – has brewed a sense of fierce rivalry, mainly from their side.

‘And they are coming over next week… Is it something dramatic as a declaration of all-out war? …no, too far fetched.’

———

When the day’s share of paperwork is finally done, the three proceeds to enjoy afternoon tea time like before.

“Here’s your tea.” Chelsea said while handing the cups.

“Ah, thank you.”

Pleasant fragrance of their milk tea fills the air surrounding them. Along with abundance of delicious snacks, it was truly a refreshing after school break.

‘…this is bad.’ Sigulf thought. ‘I can’t stop stealing a glance. Is there anything else I can focus on!?’

“Hm? Is something the matter?” Celina suddenly asked and caught him off-guard.

“No, not at all.”

“If you say so…?”

Chelsea said nothing, meanwhile, and opted to simply watch the two; more so towards Sigulf.

“By the way,” Celina continued. “Are you going somewhere after this?”

“Eh? I’ve been thinking to try the Automaton facility, actually, but…”

“Ah, I see. Is it related to the Pacific visiting?”

“A bit, I guess. Well, that and I’m curious now on how it performs compared to actual humans.”

“Oh my, if you are that worried, then maybe we should intensify our training regime. Think we are ready to spar with no limiters?” she suggested half-jokingly.

“…please be gentle with me. Or rather, I’d ask, can we? Starting from next weekend?”

She chuckled. “Being steady is the key, but I must admit that I appreciate your enthusiasm.”

“Umm, thanks.”

Chelsea still being silent most of the time eventually caught her best friend’s attention.

“And what about you? You’ve been awfully silent this time.”

“Eh!? Well, no, it’s just… I think it’s been a while since I saw you having so much fun.”

Celina blinked.

“Me?”

“Mm-hm. From yesterday, actually.”

“I, I see…” Celina responded while lightly touching her own face, looking slightly surprised.

“But I guess it’s because of you.” Chelsea continued, now shifting her attention to Sigulf.

“Huh? What do you mean?”

“Hmm… How should I put it… Feels like you have becoming more of our part during this week. I think that’s why she could ease herself.”

Sigulf barely managed to express his delight, saying, “Well, I just wanted to help…”

‘That’s good to know, but more the reason I shouldn’t slack off after this.’

“Hm? Wait, now that you mentioned it…” Celina suddenly realized something. “Starting this Thursday, you will be working with Laine’s team, right?”

“Ah…”

“Too bad, just as we are getting used with you around…” Chelsea laughed wryly.

“…it’s alright, that’s how the agreement goes.”

“So I guess you get to scout the Pacific representatives. While here… Paperworks will be livelier with Minato’s group around.”

“Err, Cel? You would be more careful with him.”

Celina took a second to realize what she meant. “…oh, right. Then I will leave accident prevention measures to you.”

“Ceeel!”

“W, well, that aside, he will be with Hestianus and the others. Hopefully they can do something.” Sigulf added. “Anyways, did you want to go somewhere first?”

“Oh, right, I nearly forgot. Actually I wanted to grab some crepes before we go to check the Patrol squad. Would you mind if we come along to the facility? We can eat after that.”

“Oh, sure. I don’t mind.”

“Thank you!”

‘Ah, her smile is so bright…’

“Cel… You’re addicted to those crepes already, aren’t you?” Chelsea retorted.

“I, I can’t help it…”

 

Part 3

Spoiler

Having finished their tea time, Sigulf, Celina and Chelsea finally heads to the Automaton facility and arrived few minutes later.

“Here we are.” Celina said. “Let’s show your ID to the employee over there.”

When they approached, the employee recognized them and greets from her counter.

“Oh, if it isn’t the Council. Good afternoon!”

“Good afternoon.”

“Can I help you?”

“Yes, I’m showing him around the place, and he wanted to try the Automaton.”

“I see.” The employee responded, now looking at Sigulf. “So this is the rumored Icelander… Do you have your ID card?”

“Huh? Oh, here it is…” he said while handing his card. “By rumors, I hope it’s related to dueling.”

“Don’t worry, it is.” She laughed. “I heard this year’s freshmen are exceptional, with you and the other two particularly stands out among them.”

‘The other two… I think I know who they are.’

“Alright, here’s your card. Thank you, and do your best training!”

“I will.”

Entering the larger section of the building, Sigulf noticed there are some students around, though most of them have just finished practicing.

“Ah, that’s one unused.” Chelsea pointed at an empty booth.

A holographic interface pops out as the three reached their destination.

“Hmm… What should I do next?” Sigulf asked as he scans the options offered.

“You can set the timer here, like this. And then what kind of weapon the Automaton will use, its behaviour, difficulty level…” Celina answered.

“Huh, it’s like a video game.”

“I guess you can say so. Have you decided on something?”

“Well then… Normal timer, weapon and behaviour set at auto, and highest difficulty level, please.”

“Oh, a rocket start already?” Chelsea pointed out.

“I believe you two are better. And stronger.”

“Aww, you’re exaggerating…”

“Ehh… Anyways, can I begin?”

“Yes, you’re good to go. Step inside the area to continue.”

“Alright, here goes…”

With the preparation finalized, Sigulf took steps forward and watched as the mechanical construct way across him glows before it began moving. The Automaton then wordlessly summoned a pair of swords as its weapon.

‘Interesting. Then…’

Sigulf took his usual pose and summoned his Fenrir without any chanting.

“Oh, he’s going with safety mode?”

“Well, we did the same thing back in our first year, though.”

Back in the field, Sigulf braced himself for the inevitable clash, while the Automaton stood motionlessly.

“En garde.” The system finally announced. “Begin.”

In the blink of an eye, both combatants have already dashed all the way to the center of the area.

‘So fast.’ Sigulf thought as he glared towards the Automaton’s featureless face. ‘But…!’

Twisting his body, Sigulf evades a horizontal strike aimed at his midsection and then swings his axes upwards.

‘I have faced much faster opponent before!!’

Sigulf’s attack connects and knocked the Automaton off balance. Spinning once more, now’s his turn to unleash a horizontal slash and sent it flying. However…

“!”

The Automaton managed to recover mid-air and landed safely before charging in again.

“Battle points, down by 25%.” The system announced.

‘Well, that’s a machine for you.’

Sigulf jumped away in time to evade its attack. The Automaton followed with yet another swing, not willing to give him a chance to breathe.

‘Trying to rush me down? But…!’

Instead of moving out of the way, Sigulf took a short step forward and quickly swung his axes outside, forcing the Automaton’s arms apart.

“Gotcha!”

He followed with a powerful kick and managed to make it stumble, before continuing with a downward slash. The force knocked the Automaton away, but again, it recovered and got back to its feet successfully.

“Battle points, down by 20%.”

The Automaton rushed once more towards Sigulf, seemingly gaining speed. Merely shifting his stance, Sigulf waits in place even as it already approached him with swords raised.

‘Now!’

Taking a half-turn, Sigulf pulled his body and axes away… But its attack didn’t come; the Automaton backed away at the last moment with a mechanical precision, and cancelled its previous swing into a thrust. However…

‘Just as I thought!’

Completing his turn, Sigulf then kicks the ground as hard as he can, somersaulting over the Automaton and its swords.

“Raaah!”

His X-shaped strike connects, violently hammering the Automaton, before rebounding off the ground. And this time, it did not manage to secure a recovery.

“Battle points, down by 20%.”

‘Alright! …ah, wait, Celina and Chelsea totally saw that. I got carried away…’

The Automaton slowly got up and both his eyes and whole body began to glow red.

“Oh, come on…” Sigulf growled.

The Automaton took a pose and crossed his swords. And less than a second later, it already zoomed across the room, reappearing behind Sigulf.

Fortunately, he had already anticipated this.

“Predictable!”

With one powerful swing, he deflected the Automaton’s swords. While it tries to regain its footing, Sigulf dashed for the kill and vanished.

Sensing danger within its computation, the Automaton forcefully stamps one of its feet and swung backwards… Only to hit empty air as Sigulf has already circled it; the same feint he used against Arthfael.

“Hunt’s over!”

Without any means to defend itself, the Automaton ends up receiving the barrage of Sigulf’s Fenrir, before thrashed away on the last hit.

“Battle points 0. Cannot continue duel. Winner, Sigulf Hrimgard.” The system voice announced.

“Whew…”

Withdrawing his True Arms, Sigulf silently watched as the Automaton loses its red glow. Its swords disappear into thin air as well, before it begun to slowly get up.

‘Poor thing… Of course it would need constant maintenance.’

“Good work out there.” Celina congratulates him. “How was it?”

“Hmm… Not bad, but… Yeah, I think I’ll learn more from you two.”

“My, quite good with words, aren’t you?” she chuckled.

“N, no, I’m serious.”

“Oh, that somersault,” Chelsea joined. “Is that a new maneuver of you? Looks nice!”

“Geh…! Err, thanks…”

“Ah, so we are not supposed to know about that.” Chelsea laughed.

“I guess you will be alright then, if you have to fight their representatives as some sort of exhibition. Assuming you keep your pace that is.”

“I wonder… Is it possible to intensify or add our training session?”

“Hm? Do you mean—“

“You know, something like… Sparring after council duties?” Sigulf asked with uncertainty. “…I guess it’s impossible, huh?”

Chelsea looked at him, her expression hard to read.

‘Shit… Why the fuck did I say that?’

“Well, true. I would advise against that as well.” Celina answered. “So the best I can do is extending our weekend practice a bit. Is that fine with you?”

“Yes, thank you very much!”

“Ah, but that doesn’t mean you can forget or slack on your daily training, alright?”

“Yes, Ma’am!”

“You don’t mind, right?” she asked her best friend.

“Not at all. I’ll gladly stick with you all the way.”

“Thank you.”

“Don’t mention it!”

Celina then return her attention to Sigulf, happily talking about food, but Chelsea carefully watched the boy for some reason.

———

The three left the facility to buy some crepes as previously agreed. On their way to the stall, they met the unlikely pair of Lindorm and Minato.

“Good work, you two.” Celina greeted them.

“President.” Lindorm replied, while taking off his headphones and then nods to her, Chelsea and Sigulf.

“Good afternoon.” Minato added.

“Ah, what’s with this combination? So you guys split up?” Chelsea asked.

“Yes. For efficiency.”

“Lill-senpai and the others should be regrouping here anytime soon, though.”

“Hmm… Any troubles so far?”

“No. Catfights aside.”

Lindorm’s answer made Minato sigh, while Chelsea laughs wryly.

“Oh my, that sounds rough. You might want to be careful. Maidens in love can be unstoppable. And scary.”

”…oh.”

“Good for you, huh?” Sigulf quips towards Minato.

“Come on now…”

“Ah, that’s right, one more thing. Did, um, some accidents happen?”

“No. Seems it only happened around girls.”

“I, I see…”

Both Celina and Chelsea took a step back.

“Se, Senpai!?”

———

Few minutes later, the rest of the Patrol Squad returned. Predictably, there’s an air of uneasiness between the Eurypha and Ilma pair. On the other hand, Laine and Carmen seem to be getting along well, surprisingly.

“Thanks for your hard work!” Chelsea greeted. “So, anything to report?”

“Yes, Ma’am!” Laine responded with a salute. “We’ve managed to collect samples of what might be good for summer fashion—“

“Not to mention there were no problems on our end.” Carmen quickly added.

“…I see. Well, window shopping is permitted as long as you don’t forget your on-hand duty.”

“”Ma’am, yes, Ma’am!””

“And, how about you two?”

“Fortunately, nothing.”

“At all.”

“I, I see…”

“Are you three always like that?” Celina suddenly asked, catching them off guard.

“Eh!? Well… About that…”

“Sooner or later, something must be done.”

“…r, right.”

“Ah, I think I have an idea.” Chelsea said.

“Huh?”

“Since we’re done for today, how about we grab some crepes?”

“…pardon me?”

———

And so, all of them went to the crepes stall and picked their favorite flavors.

“Alright, let’s enjoy our food while gazing at the sunset!” Chelsea cheerfully exclaimed. “Minato, it’s ‘itadakimasu’, wasn’t it?”

“Eh? Yeah…”

“Well then… Itadakimasu!”

“I, itadakimasu…?”

Almost everyone was unsure but followed her lead anyway, before chomping on their own crepes.

‘How is this going to help all of us get closer?’

Sigulf took a peek and saw the 2nd-years seemingly took it easier.

‘Well, of course they are used to her antics already…’

His sight continues to trail until he saw something that caught his attention.

“Mm, Celina.” Sigulf called.

“Hm?”

Sigulf said nothing and simply pointed at the left side of his own lips. Celina quickly understood and wiped a bit of vanilla cream with her thumb.

“Oh, is this all?” she said before putting it in her mouth. “Thank you.”

“You are welcome.”

‘Aah, daaamn, I’m so happy I must contain myself…’

Meanwhile, on the girls’ side…

“Hestianus.” Carmen suddenly called.

“…what?”

“Yours is sweet cinnamon, right? Can I take a bite?”

“Wha—“

That was definitely out of the blue for her. Of course there’s no way she will share it, but… Looking at Celina and Chelsea nearby, Eurypha can only sigh.

“…what’s yours?”

“Green tea.”

‘Huh, I’ll admit that’s a unique flavour.’ She thought.

“Just a bite.” Eurypha said while reluctantly handing her crepe.

“I know, I know.”

Carmen took a small bite and munched for a while, before commenting, “…too sweet. I’ll get fat from this.”

“Don’t complain.” Eurypha growled. “Give me yours.”

“Yes, yes.”

She bit into Carmen’s crepe.

‘Urk… It tastes a bit strange. Does Minato really like this?’ Eurypha thought. ‘I, I have to get used with this taste…’

“…I’ll definitely order some Japanese green tea.”

“Huh?”

“Sheesh, you guys…” Ilma sighed.

“Don’t say that.” Carmen retorted. “What’s yours, Hiltunen?”

Ilma paused for a moment before answering, “Coffee. But a bit too sweet for my taste.”

She quickly offered her crepe without hesitation, to which Carmen bit on it without a word.

“What the— That’s too much.” Ilma growled.

“Huh? I thought you don’t like it? Here’s mine, so we can go even.”

Ilma shot her a look of annoyance, before taking a big bite. However, her expression lightens a bit upon tasting the flavour.

“…not bad.” Ilma commented.

“Likewise.” Carmen referred to her coffee crepe.

“Really?” Eurypha joined as well and took a nibble. “Huh, I guess so.”

“Nobody gave you permission…!” Ilma screeched before she retaliates by gnawing Eurypha’s crepe.

“Ah— Hey!”

“…sweet. Not in a good way like ES.”

“What’s an ES?”

Without them realizing, Chelsea watched them happily.

“Ah, I guess it worked!”

“…is it?” Laine asked in disbelief.

———

After they all have done with their crepes, the group decided to stay a little bit longer. Moments passed as they enjoyed Atlantic’s setting sun wordlessly.

“President.” Eurypha suddenly said, finally breaking the silence. “Words of the street said that the Pacific is going to visit next week. Is that true?”

“Ah, so news do travel fast. Indeed they are.” Celina confirmed. “What about it?”

“No, it’s just… We have to prepare ourselves, both as the host and the home team, right?”

“Of course. We must show them our very best.”

Eurypha didn’t say anything and merely nodded, before returning her attention back to the sun.

‘Hosts… But I wonder if we’ll be okay on that, considering those three keep fighting for Minato…’ Sigulf retorted mentally. ‘Putting that aside, I wonder what kind of duelists they will bring?’

A gentle afternoon breeze flew by as Sigulf joined the group’s silence before Atlantic’s sunset.

 

Part 4

Spoiler

The next day, on warmup session before the actual mock duel…

“Raaah!!”

“Tch…!”

Loud steel ringing born from dummy weapons’ clash pulled the attention of almost everyone.

“They are really into it…!”

“It’s just a warmup, right…!?”

Both Sigulf and Yuu ignored the spectators, however, and stay focused on their own sparring.

“Getting fired up, huh, Sig-kun?”

“I have to. Guests from across the sea are visiting, after all.”

“Yeah, I get what you are saying. That’s why, I too…!”

Once again, both of them rushed in and locked blades.

———

After enjoying after-class teatime like usual, Sigulf, Celina and Chelsea heads back to the dorm together. On their way home, they spotted an all too familiar girl being on her own.

“Hey, isn’t that Alba?” Chelsea pointed out.

“Ah, you’re right. Is she still training?” Sigulf wondered aloud.

“That’s quite the dedication, if I must say.” Celina added.

“But, sheesh, why must she insists on practicing alone? I wouldn’t mind joining her.”

“That’s because you’re too aggressive, Chel.”

Sigulf ignored the following banter between the Council duo and watched Alba wordlessly for a moment.

“Celina, Chelsea, I’m sorry, but can you go back first?”

“Sigulf?”

“Looking at her, I kind of want to train now.”

Celina looks a bit surprised before responding, “Very well. Just don’t overexert yourself.”

“I won’t. Then…”

“Yes. See you tomorrow at school.”

Giving a slight bow, Sigulf then goes over to Alba’s place. Chelsea looks puzzled but decided to say nothing and followed Celina back to the dorm.

———

Sigulf managed to catch up with Alba, who was taking a short break. Before he had the chance, she noticed him first.

“Hey…”

“Yo. Training hard?”

“Yeah… What are you doing here?”

“Naah, I was just thinking to ask you out for an early dinner.”

“Wha— Did you hit your head or something?” Alba went slightly red. “…wait, don’t tell me…”

“?”

“Is this a ruse so I train less and thus take a hit on my duel performance?”

Sigulf almost faceplanted.

“Why would I do that!?”

“Well, true. You seem to be the type that sucks at deception.”

“…”

“So, what’s the real reason you’re here?”

“Ahh, how should I put it… Maybe I’m worried about you.”

Alba narrowed her eyes.

“…no need. I know my own body better.”

“Oi, oi…”

“This is not the time to fool around. Not when—“

“The Pacific team is visiting soon? Yeah, I know. I must give it my all too.”

“That, and our… Monster of an upperclasswoman.”

Sigulf instantly knows who she alluded to.

‘She did really leave such an impact…’

“If you know, then—“

“Not with that condition.” Sigulf cut her off.

“…! Sigulf, you…!”

‘…wait, what? Shit, why is she getting pissed?’

Alba quickly summoned her Braveheart without chanting before getting into battle stance.

“Draw your Fenrir. Now.” She growled.

“What? Here?”

“Don’t make me repeat myself.”

“Tch…!”

Sigulf had no choice but to comply. Summoning his dual axes, he readied himself for the unexpected challenge.

“Hey, what are those two…?” some passerbies who are still around commented.
Not paying attention to the spectators, Alba rushed towards Sigulf.

‘Here she comes…!’

Reacting accordingly, Sigulf took a step forward and intercepted her attack.

‘This is…’

They broke apart for a second before locking blades once again.

‘Just as I thought. Powerful swings, yet…’

Sigulf leapt backwards, surprising Alba a bit.

“What’s the matter? If you’re not coming, then—“

“I forfeit.” Sigulf announced, raising his hand.

“What!?”

“Acknowledged. Duel’s over. Sigulf Hrimgard lost b—“

“Cut that shit out!” Alba roared. “What do you mean by you forfeited!?”

“Alba, you said that you know your own body better, right?”

“…!”

“Then I’ll tell you why. Your muscles are crying. Even I know your strikes shouldn’t be… Not so forceful like those previous two.”

“…tch.”

Alba finally conceded and her claymore disappeared into thin air.

“C’mon, let’s get something to eat first.”

“…I don’t want to.”

“My treat.”

“I said—“

“Munchy box.”

“…”

———

Not long after, on the usual nearby café…

“Munch, munch, munch… Crunch!”

“Good to see you’re back to the Alba we all know.”

“S, shut up…”

As promised, Sigulf treated Alba a serving of munchy box… While he himself settled for a chocolate pudding.

“Will you be okay with just that?”

“Can’t spend too much for a day.”

“I see…”

“So, have you calmed down?”

“Sort of…”

There was a slightly awkward silence between them.

‘Damn, what am I supposed to say again?’ Sigulf mentally lamented.

“Hey, Siggy…”

“Yeah?”

“Why are you doing this?”

“I’m… Not so sure myself. It’s just… I feel like I have to.”

“…huh?”

“Well, it wouldn’t be fun if I won simply because you got sore muscles, right?”

Alba blinked once.

“Pfft… Yeah, right.” She finally responded. “As if you’d win even with that handicap.”

“Hey now…”

“But… I think I got what you are trying to say.”

Sigulf said nothing as he watched Alba took a solemn expression.

“Training hard is important. We all know that.” She continued. “But…”

Alba paused for a moment, seemingly searching for words.

“Every time I remembered the extent of Celina’s strength, I become agitated. It’s as if—“

“You just wanna rush, train even harder and get much stronger, right?”

“Eh!? How did you know!?”

‘Uwa, her reaction is kinda cute… Wait, that’s not the point here!’

“Well, I spar with her. I know how’s it feel like fighting her first hand, so yeah, I can relate.”

“I, I see…”

“I know you worked really hard, to the point declining Chelsea’s invitation just to train some more.”

“That’s… Well…”

“And I kinda noticed you’re the one who observed the hardest every mock duel session. You didn’t go back on your own words after all.”

“Look your surroundings and watch your steps, huh…”

“Uh-huh. But it seems there’s one step you’re missing. I mean, what if you collapsed out of exhaustion?”

“I know.” Alba sighed. “To think you’ll get back at me with that…”

“That wasn’t even my intention, though…”

“But yeah… Practices should be efficient. Even though I knew we must both train and rest equally hard, my anxiety got the better of me…”

“I feel you. If it not for my Master, I won’t be calmer like now and probably still panicking in fury.”

“So just ‘calmer’ instead of totally calm, huh…” Alba chuckled. “…thanks, Siggy.”

“Don’t mention it. We’re friends and good rivals after all.”

“Weirdo. Shouldn’t you be happy if your rival got disadvantages?”

“It depends. And definitely not for ‘good rivals’ like you. It’s not fun.”

“You sure like that phrase.”

“…I’ll admit, I was kind of happy when you declared me as your rival.”

‘Gah! What in Nastrond did I just blurt out!?’

“…idiot.”

“Well, sorry for saying strange things…”

“You are really an idiot.” Alba finally laughed. “But it’s fine like this. As the hero, having an idiot rival is a normal thing, right?”

“Dammit, enough with the ‘idiot’ already.” Sigulf growled in protest.

————

After done eating, Sigulf and Alba left the café at last.

“Feeling better?”

“Yeah, no thanks to you.”

“Oi…”

“Umm, Siggy… Sorry for snapping at you like that.”

“Ah, it’s cool. No harm done, after all.”

“…say, you are sparring with the Council two, right?”

“Well, mostly with Celina on weekends. You wanna join?”

“Maybe not.”

“Eh? Why not? Chelsea will be sad, you know.”

“Well, that’s one of the problems…” Alba retorted. “A, anyways, to compensate that…”

“Hm?”

“May I tag with you on daily practice?”

Sigulf blinked about three times before grasping what she said.

“For a moment, I thought it was something big… Well, I don’t mind, but first come first serve. Yuu is usually there.”

At his answer, somehow, Alba’s face got brighter.

“You said it!” she grinned, before happily taking a step away across Sigulf.

“Eh?”

“Sorry for troubling you. And thanks for today, Siggy! See you tomorrow at class!”

“Alba, wait!”

“Huh?”

“…you do know that the dorms are this way, right?” Sigulf pointed to the opposite direction.

“O, oh, sorry.”

 

Part 5

Spoiler

On the following afternoon, just as everyone is preparing for their usual sparring session…

“Siggy!”

“Oh, hey.”

“Hmm? What’s this, what’s this?” Yuu asked.

“Sorry, Yuu. I’m borrowing him for this time.”

“So, she said.”

Yuu looked at them both before sighing, “Aah, I see how it is…”

“Eh?”

“Of course you’d pick a cute girl over fellow guys. Right, right…”

“Oi, Yuu…!”

“I’m disappointed. Maybe I should just train with someone else…” he said while leaving the two.

“Yuu!” a girl suddenly called him. “W, would you mind practicing with us?”

“Not fair! I’m the one who came up with the idea!” another protested.

“Please don’t fight, you two. Well, it would be hard to actually spar, but how about I coach you instead?”

“Really!? Thank you!”

Sigulf and Alba watched as Yuu left for their own spot.

“…sorry, Siggy.”

“Don’t be. It’s not your fault. I just never thought he would react like that.”

“Well…” Alba is a bit unsure on what to say. “So, umm, can we begin now?”

“Oh, right. Let’s take it easy for the time being.”

“Eeeeh?”

“If you want to strain yourself, then I don’t mind, though…”

“Tch, fine, fine.”

“You can make up for it later.”

Meanwhile, from Yuu’s own place, he glanced at the pair and let out a small grin.

“Well, it’s more interesting this way, isn’t it?”

———

After class, Sigulf was tidying his belongings when Alba called him.

“Siggy!”

“Yeah?”

“Good luck with Council duties.”

‘Huh, this is new.’ He thought.

“You t— Oh, wait. It should be ‘don’t overdo it’.”

“I know!” She retorted before sticking out her tongue. “See ya tomorrow, then!”

“Oh, yeah.”

Alba leaving with a cheerful smile made Sigulf wonder, but before he had a chance to mull it through, Yuu gently elbowed him as he made his way out.

“What?”

“Hehe… Good luck, Sig-kun!”

“Ah, wait…!”

Yuu didn’t comply and merely waved at him.

“…did I take a wrong step?”

Sigulf tries to dismiss the thought and finally heads to the Council room.

———

Helping with the papers like he usually does, Sigulf handed a document he just finished to Celina.

“President, here.”

“Ah, thank you.”

“Is there anything else I can help?”

“That would be enough for today.”

“Eh? Then—“

“It’s time to party!” Chelsea suddenly interrupted, and even surprised Celina.

“…let me guess, we are eating out again?”

“As expected of my best friend! You understand me well.”

Celina sighed, “Wouldn’t it be more appropriate after Sigulf done his trial week with the Patrol team?”

“This and that are different matters entirely!” Chelsea protested. “Besides, what’s wrong with throwing parties for joyous occasions?”

“You just wanted to eat, don’t you?”

“And you don’t want to? Remember those delicious hot dogs and crepes?”

“Eh!? Well, I, umm…”

“It’s decided then! I’ll contact Laine’s team and Alba.”

“Speaking of Alba,” Celina remembered something and turned to Sigulf. “How was yesterday? I hope all went well?”

“Oh, that. Well… She’s been overexerting herself. While it’s still just sore muscles, I don’t think it will be funny if it got worse, so I convinced her to relax a bit.” Sigulf explained.

“I see.” Celina sighed. “Her heart is in the right place, but in the long run it may hamper her growth as a duelist. I’m glad you did the right thing.”

Sigulf scratched the back of his head in embarrassment. “I just want to keep the competition heated…”

Looking a bit upset, Chelsea was silent for a moment before she suddenly spoke up, “Umm… I’m sorry, but can you two go and wait at the usual place first?”

“Hm? I don’t mind, but is something the matter?”

“I remembered that there’s someplace I need to drop by. I’ll catch you later.”

“Chelsea? …she left already.”

“I wonder what it is about…”

“In any case, it seems to be something she wants to do by herself. So, let’s go and wait for the others.” Celina said while getting up from her seat.

“Roger that.” Sigulf responded. “…ah, wait. How is she going to contact Alba? She got her number already?”

“Either that, or most likely, she accessed the students’ directory.”

“…I see.”

———

Waiting with just the two of them proves a bit too awkward for Sigulf. Sure enough, some students who passed by looks at the seemingly unusual pair, making him even more self conscious. Still, that doesn’t stop him from stealing some glances.

‘She’s cool as usual. Well, I guess that’s expected of her…’

“So you won’t be with us starting from tomorrow, huh…” Celina suddenly said.

“Eh? Yeah…”

“Seriously, that Chelsea,” she chuckled. “Even though it’s not like we are not going to see each other anymore.”

“Ahaha, true… If anything, I guess everyone will get used to my face.”

“But still… I feel like… It’s going to be a bit lonely without you around.”

“Eh…?”

Unfortunately for Sigulf, someone interrupted them before he had a chance to process, let alone react.

“Ooi, Preeez.”

Laine’s familiar way of talking caught her attention first.

“Thanks for the hard work. I assume all went smoothly?”

“Yes, Ma’am! All is well around the grounds!” she saluted. “So, what is this about?”

“To be honest, Chelsea wanted to celebrate the 1-week trial. And I’m pretty sure she will do it again next week.” Celina explained.

“I knew it would be something like this…” Eurypha sighed, despite the rest of the Patrol team seems to be delighted at this. “So, where is the Vice-President?”

“She got something to take care of first.” Sigulf added.

“Hmm…”

“Hey, hey, sorry to make you wait!”

Another voice joined them, and Eurypha’s expression turned to disgust upon seeing the speaker.

“…Armstrong? Why are you here?”

“What? You don’t know? Amakawa invited me.”

“…you idiot.” She facepalmed. “Of all people, why this ape?”

“A, ape!? Oh come on, that’s going too far!” Walter protested.

“Eh? Why not? He’s our friend, right?” Minato asked obliviously.

“It’s just you…!” she screeched, earning collective sighs from Carmen and Ilma.

Meanwhile, Yuu ignored Minato’s group and approached Sigulf.

“Yo, Sig-kun.”

“Oh, hey.”

“Sorry about before.” He laughed sheepishly.

“Huh? Oh, that. Yeah, I’ve been wondering what that is about…”

“Now, now, Sig-kun. It’s better if you don’t think too hard about it.”

“Oi, oi…”

Yuu simply laughed it off.

“Ah, I see everyone has gathered here.”

Finally, the master of ceremony made her appearance, accompanied by a highly familiar figure.

“Welcome back, Chelsea. So where were you?” Celina asked.

“Sorry about that one. I need to catch this girl first.” Chelsea explained, tapping Alba’s shoulder.

Said girl looks slightly embarrassed while holding a large brown paper bag.

“So you met her on the way?”

“It’s destiny!”

“…ugh, without practice, I’m clueless on what to do on free time.” Alba lamented.

“More the reason to join us and eat, then! You need to relax a bit, you know.”

“By the way, what’s with the bag?” Sigulf pointed.

“Oh, I bought her some fruit cookies and extract. You know, cherry, poms, pineapples… They are good for sore muscles.”

“Hee… Good for you, huh?” he shifted his attention to Alba.

“You got pried, didn’t you?” she retorted.

“Well, it can’t be helped.”

“Alright,” Chelsea clapped her hands to get everyone’s attention. “Since everyone is already here, then let’s begin our Council Newcomer’s First Week Celebration, part one! Yaaay!”

“U, um, yay? There’s a part two?” Minato’s reaction mirrored his girls’ bewilderment.

“Yeeeeah! Let’s party!” Walter gets hyped on his own.

“…by the way, who are you?”

“Seriously, what’s with people’s treatment against me!?”

“Maybe if you actually care to polish your image, people will care.” Yuu sighed.

———

Inside the usual café, the one which almost everyone has gotten used to its atmosphere, they joined tables to accommodate all 12 people. Sigulf excused himself earlier to the bathroom, and when he returned, everyone has already settled on their own seats.

“Let’s see, mine is—“

“Ah, Sigulf, over here!”

“Siggy, here!”

“””…eh?”””

The only seat left unoccupied was the one between Celina and Alba, and both girls called him at nearly the same time.

“O, oh, I’m sorry about that…”

“Eh!? No, no, no, I should be the one…!“

‘…I swear I could see Yuu snickering just now.’ Sigulf thought as he made his way through.

With him sitting down, it only took a moment before the air around the three turns awkward.

‘Dammit, now why am I being overly self-conscious here!?’

“Umm, you three,” Minato suddenly asked. “What’s wrong? Are you not feeling well?”

“We are cool.” Celina answered abruptly and sternly.

‘…that’s definitely unnatural, yeah.’

“Guys, guys,” Laine interrupted. “Let’s just order already. I’m starving here…”

“Oops! She’s right, let’s not waste our time, then.” Chelsea said in agreement.

Thus the group shifted their attention to the menu book and what will they have. On the other hand, Sigulf, being engrossed with his own thoughts of being between happy and embarrassed, didn’t even notice that Chelsea is watching him from the corner of her eyes for some reason.

 

Part 6

Spoiler

Thursday, after class. It will be Sigulf’s first time working with the patrol team. As he’s not quite sure on what to do, Sigulf decided to ask someone who had prior experience.

“Amakawa.”

“Yes?”

“Where do I go next?”

His way of speaking obviously confused Minato, though he managed to grasp what Sigulf tried to say a moment later.

“Ah, right. You will be helping them for a week. They haven’t messaged you or something?”

“No. So it’s by mail, huh. Wait, I haven’t— Oh, right, gotta be the student registry.”

“Yeah, I was surprised at first when they found our numbers.” Minato laughed. “But, I see, no contact yet…”

“If you want to, you can wait in the usual room. Though, I’m sure they’ll get to you before long.” Eurypha added.

“Well, I guess I’ll stick around for a while, then.”

Sigulf is pretty sure Ilma reacted with displeasure on him tagging along, but he decided to ignore her and left the class with Minato’s group.

————

Just outside the council room, they met with Celina and Chelsea. Both of them seem to be just arrived as well.

“Oh, good afternoon everyone.” Celina greeted them.

“Good afternoon!” Eurypha returned the greeting with a salute. “Please take care of us!”

“Likewise. Let’s do our best together this week.”

She then shifted her attention to Sigulf, prompting him a slightly awkward “Umm, good afternoon.”

“Good afternoon. …I presume Laine haven’t contacted you yet?”

“Yeah, something like that…”

“I see…” Celina sighed. “She should have briefed you yesterday after we done celebrating.”

“Now, now, don’t say that. Having fun and be happy is a part of students’ well-being… Right?” Chelsea laughed sheepishly.

“This is why I said we should save it for later.”

“Eh? Even though you did have fun like the rest?”

“U… No one can’t deny good food; that’s a fact of life.”

“Good food, huh…”

The council duo’s conversation made Sigulf a bit red as he recalled how he was sandwiched between the upperclasswoman of his affections and his admittedly kind of cute friendly rival. Sigulf probably spent more time being self-conscious about it than actually enjoying his food.

“Geh, so he’s already here… Sorry for being tardy!”

“Ah, there you are. Where were you two? You shouldn’t make the new recruit wait.”

Chelsea reprimanded Laine and Lindorm, who finally showed up. Both of them are catching some air, presumably from running a bit.

“She forgot that we are supposed to wait for Sigulf instead of the usual group.”

“Wha— Lindy, don’t tell them that!”

“…so, why didn’t you message him?” Chelsea asked.

Lindorm blinked before looking at Laine and asked as well, “Why?”

Laine simply palmed her own forehead.

‘She completely forgot!? I wonder if I will be okay here…’ Sigulf mentally retorted.

“Well, I did say having fun is good and all, but you are taking it too much…” Chelsea sighed. “On the other hand, I can’t just hand Eurypha’s group to set things straight.”

“W, well, it can’t be helped.” Laine responded. “I do know they are good workers, dude’s slipping aside.”

The last bit made Celina and Chelsea took a step back, while Minato nearly faceplanted.

“I nearly forgot about that!” Eurypha quickly interrupted before the boy had a chance to protest. “But don’t worry, Ma’am! We will make sure he won’t lay a finger on you!”

“Oh, not this again!” Minato retorted.

“Silence! For the week, you will help the council on a lone, separate corner! President, I’m sorry, but please bear with it. It’s for our own good.”

“Umm, if you say so…” Celina responded, clearly surprised at Eurypha’s sudden burst.

“…I wonder what will it take to clear my name?”

“Oh, I wonder too.” Ilma sarcastically replied. “Maybe if you didn’t pull someone’s skirt off in public like the offender you are…”

“…and how many times I have told you it’s an accident?”

“There, there…” Carmen tries to defuse the tension. “If you’re that wary, then I can volunteer on working alongside Minato. On the corner of the room, just the two of us…”

“Wha— No, no, no! You are working with us!”

“Ehh, why can’t I?”

“Feigning innocence at a time like this…! You’re probably thinking something… L, lewd like usual!”

“Hmm? Where did that come from? I’m pretty sure nobody said such things. Or is it actually your own projection? Per-vert.”

“KIIIIIIIIIIH!!”

Once again, the girls began their hijinks, forcing Chelsea, and Minato to a lesser extent, to calm them down.

‘It’s like looking at a train wreck… Wait, what are we doing here?’

“Ma’am, shouldn’t we, uhh… Start patrolling?” Sigulf asked Laine.

“Just a bit more. Shame, if only I have some popcorn here…”

“…”

———

Finally leaving the school, the patrol squad gathered at the front gate.

“Brother, don’t be sad.”

“Eh? What is it?”

Lindorm’s sudden question confused Laine. Being the recipient of said question and knowing what he meant, Sigulf slightly panicked.

“I, it’s nothing! Rather than that, how about the patrol? Like, what should I do?”

“Oh, right, right, that…”

While Laine is busy looking for some words, Sigulf glared at Lindorm out of surprise and irritation. The Norwegian metalhead responds by giving him a puzzled look.

“Ehh, since I don’t like being too complicated,” Laine continued her explanation. “I’ll just cut to the chase. First, since we’re on less numbers compared to Slippy Boy’s group, we’ll have to split and go on 3 different areas at once.”

“O, OK…”

‘Slippy Boy…’

“Then this is the most important thing. While you can call this glorified afternoon stroll, you have to be more… You know, serious than when you’re with the Prez. Be aware. Concentrate. Pay attention to your surroundings. Watch the remaining students. Ask them whether they need assistance or something. But don’t scare them with your look.”

“Understood.”

‘She got serious all of a sudden. Quite a far cry from the usual airhead we all know.’

“Hey, did you just think of something rude?”

“…admittedly, I did. I’m sorry.”

“Tch, kids these days…” Laine grumbled. “Ah, well. Anyways, what next… Hey Lindy, did I miss something?”

“Contact number.”

“Oh, right. You do that.”

Lindorm shot her a look of annoyance, but did so anyway. Sigulf’s phone beeps not long after.

“That’s our numbers. Use it to report stuff. Or something. You can record it on your Organizer too if needed.” She explained. “You already have Prez’ and the others’ number, right?”

Sigulf paused for a second.

“Eh? Actually, no…”

“Whaaaaaat? What were those two thinking? Even though we’re on the same spec-ops unit… Wait, let me send it to you.”

Laine’s offer made him freeze.

‘Wait wait wait. Celina’s… Number? Is it even alright for me to have it!?’

Sigulf suddenly got very nervous and went red.

“O, oi, are you alright?”

“I, I’m fine. Please continue.”

“Well… And there you are.”

Another beep. Sigulf takes a look this time and silently scanned his phone screen. Yep, the names and numbers of the special unit members.

“Oh, I sent yours too to the rest, by the way. Just be careful not to spam them, especially the Prez. And definitely don’t send random sex jokes at night.” Laine added.

“…”

‘Why would I send those!?’

“And that takes care of it. All’s left is… The actual patrolling, right?”

Lindorm silently nodded.

“A’ight, we’ll meet here again an hour later or so, unless there’s a change in plans. Report anything to us. Understood?”

“Yes, Ma’am!” Sigulf saluted.

“Alright then, let’s… Afternoon stroll.”

“Yay…?”

———

With the group splitting, Sigulf found himself walking around the entertainment district on his own.

‘Easier said than done… Wait, is it even the proper term here?’

By putting more effort into the patrol, he feels more tense than usual. Even though he did manage to grasp a better awareness of his surroundings, the fact that most students are either busy practicing on the fields or already went back home to the dorm made it a bit pointless.

‘Can’t really relax despite being relaxed… Strange.’

Passing by a game center, Sigulf took a peek inside. Among the many UFO catcher machines, he noticed a pair of boy and girl huddled in front of one of them.

“?”

Upon the boy’s success in catching a prize doll, the girl seemed happy and glomped him on the spot.

‘A couple, huh… This is not something worth reporting.’

Sigulf returns to his patrol.

‘But… Having fun… I did tell Alba something like that. Speaking of which, I wonder if she properly rests from training.’

He didn’t have a chance to continue mulling, however, as he came across a group of students whose leader seemed mortified upon seeing Sigulf.

“Y, you…!”

“Ah…”

‘Aren’t these guys those nobles from back then?’

There was a strange silence before the ringleader finally spoke up, “W, what do you want!?”

“Nothing…? Just doing voluntary patrol.”

“Hmm, I see…”

“So, uhh… Is there any problem?”

“What?”

“I mean… Is there anything I can help you with?”

The noble went silent for a second before exploding, “The nerve! After you humiliated us like that, now you’re offering us help!?”

Sigulf resisted the urge to facepalm.

‘By Loki… People like this…’

“S, Sir…!” one of his lackeys whispered. “We should just retreat!”

“Silence! He’s all alone on his own! What can he possibly do!?”

“But that’s exactly how it was, Sir…! Then his reinforcements will—“

“…”

Again, the noble went wordless for a moment.

“Enough! Then I will just challenge him for a boxing m—“

“I refuse. This is not a part of my job. Besides, I prefer American kickboxing.”

“You don’t get to decline, you godforsaken peasant!!” the noble shouted while suddenly charges.

‘For Loki’s sake, seriously!?’

Sigulf managed to dodge in time. The noble is surprisingly fast. He would surely spell trouble against the average man.

“You…!”

Except Sigulf is nowhere near average. Evading his multitude of punches, Sigulf managed to secure an opening to grab his phone, and quickly called Laine.

“Yo, Laine’s here. What’s the matter, Wolfhead?”

‘Wolfhead? It’s my callsign now? But anyways—‘

“I got attacked by those nobles again.”

There was a brief pause before Laine regained composure.

“What!? That stupid-looking yellow mushroom-head again!?”

‘He’ll cry if he hears that…’

“Uh huh.”

“Where are you!? Are you being ganged on duel again or—“

“Near the game center.” Sigulf answered in-between evading the noble’s punches. “Fortunately, no. He insisted on challenging me on boxing, for some reason.”

“Oh.” Laine responded, her tension suddenly gone. “So… It’s something personal?”

“Eh?”

“If it is, then I’m pretty sure you can handle it. Later!”

“Wai—“

She ended the call.

“…”

‘…are you kidding me? How carefree can she be?’

“Ha! So no cavalry to save you today!” the noble taunted. “Then… This duel is mine!!”

The noble charged in with greater ferocity, but Sigulf was unfazed.

‘Enough. This got to end soon…!’

Anticipating his punch, Sigulf stepped aside and grabbed the noble’s arm.

“What!?”

Sigulf jerked his hand to the other side, making the noble almost losing his balance and passes by him…

“!?”

Yet Sigulf didn’t let his grip go. Using the momentum, Sigulf pulled in harder one last time before releasing his hand at the last second.

“Wait, st—“

Sigulf drives his fist right to the noble’s face, sending him spinning from the sheer impact.

“No! Not the face!” one of his underlings lamented.

“Gh…”

Amazingly, the noble managed to stay conscious.

“Let’s just stop here.” Sigulf said. “You can’t win.”

“S, silence…! I—“

“Cut. It. Out.”

Sigulf’s growl unnerved him, finally.

“E, eep…! F, fine! I’ll let you bask in glory, but just for today! M, men, let’s go!”

The noble quickly scrambled to his feet before quickly scurried away, followed by his lackeys. Sigulf stay alerted until they disappeared completely from his sight.

Letting the tension go at last, Sigulf merely sighed, “…I’m mentally tired already.”

 

Part 7

Spoiler

Later that day, when Sigulf finally reports to Laine, she raised her eyebrow slightly.

“Well, I did say you could handle it by yourself,” she commented. “But I never thought you would actually slug him on the face.”

“…oops?”

“Well, it can’t be helped against them. Just don’t snap against our guests from Pacific.”

“Oh, we’re in charge of them?”

“Together with the official security team, that is. So don’t forget that, a’ight?”

“Yes, Ma’am. I’ll keep that in mind.”

“Aaand, that’s it for today. Dismissed.”

“Good work, Brother.” Lindorm added. “See you tomorrow.”

———

Night falls, and Sigulf, just got out from shower, lies in his bed.

‘Considering those bunch, it’s safe to put them on low priority… Right?’ he thought, recalling his encounter with the noble.

He redirects his attention to his phone, after which he stared at the screen in silence.

‘…and just like that, I got everyone’s numbers. Celina’s number included. Easily.’

Sigulf suddenly gets a bit red.

‘Is it really OK for me to have it!? …wait, wait, wait, calm down. And don’t even think of sending some useless chit-chat.’ He mentally reprimanded himself.

But not long after, his phone vibrates. Seeing the sender’s name made him a bit excited.

“To every member of the Council,” the message begins. “Good work for today. I’m looking forward to work with all of you tomorrow. Student Council President, Celina Bartram.”

‘Ah, I should’ve expected something like this.’ he thought. ‘…then again, it reads funny. Did she just want to send encouragement messages? I wonder if she’ll keep doing it…’

He paused for a while before finally making up his mind.

‘Damn, it won’t hurt just to reply, will it!?’ Sigulf thought, slightly upset while typing his message.

“Thank you, and likewise, good work for today. I too will do my best.” His message reads.

‘…this is good enough, isn’t it?’ he thought, slightly embarrassed before sending it. Whether she reads or responds is another story.

Setting his phone aside, his consciousness slowly drifts away.

———

The next morning, on the classroom…

“Eeh!? You got attacked yesterday!?”

“Well, yeah, during my patrol—“

“Why didn’t you tell me!? I want to beat down some nobles!”

“Oi, oi… And it was more of a personal fisticuff.”

During his way, Sigulf earned curious looks from fellow students, which piqued Alba and Yuu’s concern.

“But I see. If that how it goes, then I guess that’s quite a relief.” The Japanese boy commented. “They basically have lost the will to reinforce their position on a grander scale.”

“Aww, but I have rested for too long…” Alba lamented. “Me and my claymore are itching for a good fight!”

“What do you mean too long, it’s not even three days yet…” Sigulf retorted. “And don’t purposely stir some chaos just to find some good duels.”

“I, I won’t go that far! …maybe.”

“Oi…”

“Ugh, my apologies… If only I was there, I could have helped in some way.” Arthfael suddenly joined.

“No, that’s why I said it’s nothing big. I handled him myself. Why are you apologizing anyway?”

“I did nothing the first time around, and I’ve been thinking to atone for it.”

“You… Got quite the hero syndrome, don’t you?”

“I don’t quite get the ‘hero syndrome’ here, but as I aspire to be a knight, then that’s the natural thing to do.”

“The Chivalry Code, huh…”

“You could say that. Don’t you have something similar? Like Warrior’s Way or—“

“Not that I remember. If anything, being a ‘warrior’, I thought the stereotype is ‘aim at victory at all cost without going outright dishonorable’?”

“Well, I guess so. Sharp in a wild way without being too rogue-ish.”

“That, and,” Sigulf trailed away while eyeing Alba. “This lady over here added ‘Aim high, but never forget your steps and surroundings’.”

“Huh? Isn’t that obvious?” Alba retorted. “And why did that one sounds like you’re being sarcastic?”

“…it wasn’t, though?”

“No, no, pretty sure it’s different from how you talk with… those two.”

“Those two? Oh… Well, with their aura, it can’t be helped—“

“Well sorry for being unrefined, unlike them.” She pouts away.

“…I didn’t say that.”

“Hahaa… Is this jealousy I smell?” Yuu snickered.

“Wha— Why would I!?” Alba screeched at him.

“…Hrimgard, I’m disappointed. That’s not how you treat a lady.” Arthfael commented.

“…and how it’s my fault now?”

———

At lunch break, just as Sigulf was about to leave the class…

“Hey, Siggy, wait up!”

“Huh? What’s the matter?”

Alba caught up and stopped him on the way.

“You’re not going to leave your teammate behind, are you?”

Sigulf looks a bit surprised.

‘Huh, again, this is new…’

“Not going to avoid Chelsea like usual?”

“Ugh… A, at least not this time. She did buy me some food, so…“

“Aah, right, that. I see… Well, feel free to tag along, then.”

Alba’s expression brightens.

“But of course I will!”

Alba skipped her way past Sigulf before turning to him.

“Come on! We don’t want to let our lunch gone cold!” she said with a wide smile.

“Uh, sure. Let’s go.”

‘…she’s being unusually cheerful. But well, I guess it suits her more.’

And when they reached the rooftop, Chelsea’s face lit up upon seeing Alba, causing her to flinch, though she kept her word and stood ground.

Sigulf, meanwhile, nodded at Celina and greeted Celina, “Umm, good afternoon.”

“Good afternoon.” She smiled. “Let’s make our lunch and duties today count.”

‘Ah, did she…?’

“Yes!”

“Besides, I’m pretty sure it was a bit draining after snapping like that.” Celina chuckled wryly.

“…I’ll be more careful next time.”

‘Duh, of course she knew about that too.’

“Well, I’m sure Laine already said something about it.” Chelsea added. “And I heard he attacked you first. So, we can chalk it up as self-defense. Just remember to keep a cool-head in front of our guests, okay?”

“Yes, Ma’am.”

“Alright! Now let’s eat before lunch’s over!”

Opening his lunch, Sigulf took a good look at the three girls in front of him.

“What is it?” Celina asked as she noticed his gaze.

“Ah, it’s nothing.”

‘…I wonder if this is what Amakawa feels with his group.’

Sigulf is silently feeling grateful as he digs into his food. Indeed, it was another pleasant lunch break for them.

———-

After a mostly uneventful class, Sigulf is back on the road with the patrol team. Since it’s the day before weekend, there are obviously more students around, especially the 1st-years.

‘Stay alert. Keep your eyes and ears open. Don’t let up just because it’s almost off-day!’

Recalling Laine’s words, Sigulf carefully observed the area around him while munching a chocolate crepe.

‘Even though the nobles could be considered unimportant, we still have to make sure everything’s safe for our visiting guests. Or something like that.’

On the way, he noticed a pair of students wearing red armband around their left arm. Realizing what it meant, Sigulf gave a slight bow when they faced his way. Smiling, the pair returned the gesture before they went on their own way.

‘So that’s the official Council security. Or was it the disciplinary committee? In any case…’

Sigulf takes a look at his own left sleeve.

‘We’re supposed to be a secret unit, but considering the ruckus surrounding our members in just a week…’ Sigulf mentally lamented, remembering his encounters with the noble leader, as well as Minato’s misfortunes in public.

“Yo, good work there!”

“Hm?”

Someone suddenly calling him made Sigulf look up. Standing in front of him is none other than Walter.

“On a patrol, huh? Where are the others?”

“Paperwork, since yesterday.”

Walter paused for a while before finally letting a loud, “Whaaat!? So—“

“Yeah, it’s just me, Laine and Lindorm. You know, those 2nd-years.”

“Dammit, Amakawa hogs the girls again…!” Walter gritted his teeth. “Wait, but that means he’s—“

Sigulf caught on what Walter’s getting at, and he wasn’t sure whether to growl or sigh. Probably both.

“I know. I can only hope those three can keep him in check. Especially Hestianus or Rosales. And surely there’s no way someone can slip while sitting still?” Sigulf responded, getting uncharacteristically talkative out of irritation.

“What kind of idiot could manage that? But this is Amakawa we’re talking about…”

“…for Loki’s sake.”

“Ah, wait. That’s not what I came here for. When will you guys hold a party again?”

“Party? Oh, most likely next Wednesday. That’s when our trial week ends. Though I don’t know yet how will our final work positions be.”

“Aah, I see, I see. Next week, huh? Don’t forget to invite me too, yeah?”

“Eh, don’t wanna. I’d rather not to get into a conflict with Hestianus. Though, Amakawa probably will do that anyway.”

“Whaaat? You’re not fu— Huh? Wait a minute.” Walter suddenly stopped as if he realized something. “If Amakawa… Then Eury will… Heheheh…”

“…what?”

“Oh, it’s nothing! I’m sorry, you are right. I should wait for Amakawa first. Heheh…”

“If you say so…?”

A group of boys could be heard calling for Walter.

“Oh, crap, it’s almost time! Catch ya later!” he said while leaving for his friends.

“Huh, sure…”

Walter joined his friends and quickly disappeared from his sight.

‘What was that just now?’

———–

For the better or worse, there was nothing of importance to report. Thus the night rolls in, and Sigulf finding himself a bit restless above his bed.

‘I shouldn’t think about it too much, but…’ he mentally lamented. ‘And there’s those representatives from Pacific… But at least I get to practice during the weekends. Speaking of which—’

His phone suddenly vibrates. Sigulf quickly reached for it and opened the message.

‘Oh, so she’s doing it after all.’

He replied with a message similar to yesterday’s before putting it aside, ready to sleep…

…only for it to vibrate again, surprising him.

‘Eh?’

Sigulf got a bit more awake and checks his phone once more.

“Thank you, that was reassuring.” The message from Celina reads. “Don’t forget to sleep earlier. We have some workout to do tomorrow morning, don’t we?”

‘Uooooh!’ Sigulf got excited and a bit red at the same time. ‘…wait, calm down. It’s still too early. Reply, reply…!’

He struggled for minutes before finally settled with, “Yes, Ma’am! Let’s do our best, both Council duties and dueling! Good night!”

‘…uwah, what is this?’ Sigulf hung his head low, though he still sends the message all the same.

“Ufufu, then prepare yourself. Good night!” came another reply.

“…”

Sigulf put away his phone and buried his face in the pillow.

‘…dammit, I’m too excited to get sleepy now.’

 

Part 8

Spoiler

Sun rises over Atlantic Academy as another weekend comes. Despite having difficulty initially, Sigulf managed to drift off sleeping in the end, and thus woke up refreshed to face the day.

“Alright, let’s make it count…!” he said to himself.

Celina promised him extended practice sessions. That alone hyped him enough.

‘…wait, I shouldn’t be only thinking about that! It’s for improving myself in general, and preparing against the guests in particular, assuming a duel breaks out.’ Sigulf mentally reprimanded himself. ‘…and to catch up with her, obviously.’

He momentarily paused to take a deep breath and calm himself down.

“Enough, time to get serious. Let’s go, myself…!”

Feeling determined, Sigulf left his room and heads for the usual hill.

———

Sigulf arrived at their training spot minutes later, with Celina and Chelsea talking to each other, waiting for him.

“Oh, good morning.” Celina greeted him with a smile upon noticing him. “Did you get enough sleep?”

“Good morning.” Sigulf responded while trying to keep his cool. “I think I did…”

“Hmm, that doesn’t sound very convincing…” Chelsea chimed in. “How can you survive the bone grinding?”

The boy blinked at her words.

“…it’s going to be THAT intense?”

“Actually, no. …or so I wanted to say. But I believe it would be better if you think of it that way.” Celina answered. “Makes it more interesting, don’t you think?”

“…well, might be.” He gave a nervous laugh.

“So, shall we begin?”

Sigulf look at her in the eye and replied, “Yes! I’m in your good care today!”

His answer and enthusiasm surprised Chelsea a bit. Celina, meanwhile, simply chuckled and responded, “That’s good to hear. Prepare yourself then.”

———

After the initial warmups are out of the way, all three are doing preparations for their sparring.

“Alright, for now… Should I go against Sigulf like before?” Celina asked.

“Aah, about that…” Chelsea raised her hand. “I actually wanted to have a go as well. You don’t mind, right?”

“Oh, that’s a bit unusual from you. Well, normally I would not have problem, but I called first.”

“…what? You’re not even going to budge for this, are you?”

“Hm? Why would I? I want to fight him on his best too.”

Sigulf can only watch them with a little nervousness.

‘…calm down, they are not fighting over me. They just love to fight that much, yeah.’ He tries to mentally reassure himself.

“OK, then how about we settle this with rock paper scissors?” Chelsea suggested.

“…that’s not a contest of strength.” Celina retorted.

“Oh, but isn’t luck supposed to be a part of greater strength? Or… Are you too afraid to try?”

“U…”

Celina was hesitant at first, but she finally relented and brought out her arm.

“That’s more like it. Now…” Chelsea said while readying herself. “I’ll use paper.”

“…is this a mind game of yours, or—“

“Fufu, it’s up to you on how to interpret it.”

Celina said nothing and simply got into position.

“…ready?”

“Whenever you are.”

“Alright, rock—“

“Paper—“

““Scissors!””

There was the moment of silence as Sigulf and the girls confirmed the results.

“…you actually believed me?”

“Of course.” Celina sighed. “You are my best friend; how could I not to?”

“…alright, I actually feel bad now. It’s as if I’m the villain here…”

Chelsea ends up winning as she used rock instead of paper as previously said.

“That was a villainous thing to do, wasn’t it?”

“Th, that’s why… A, anyways!” Chelsea tried to change the subject. “You don’t mind practicing with me first, Sigulf?”

“Huh? Well, I guess…”

‘…yeah, I should be a bit more careful around her.’ Sigulf mentally noted.

“Alright, let’s do this! …so, umm, Celina. Can you—“

“It can’t be helped. I’ll watch you two first.”

“…augh, how can I make it up for later?”

While looking slightly worried, Chelsea stepped to the middle to face Sigulf for their sparring.

“300 seconds, standard rules.” Celina announced. “Get yourselves ready.”

Without any chanting, both of them summoned their weapons in safety mode before getting into combat stance.

‘Come to think about it, I haven’t even actually sparred against her, right?’ Sigulf thought. ‘A sword and shield combo… Those are usually simple but effective.’

“Think you can go easy on me?” Chelsea joked.

“…can’t do that. I have to be prepared against the Pacific.”

“Or you just wanted to show off your cool side, right?”

“Eh—“

“Begin!”

Chelsea’s words, coupled with Celina’s cue, caught him by surprise, not giving him enough time to think over it nor to take a start dash. He only barely managed to block her sudden strike.

“Gh…!”

“Oh my…”

“Sigulf, stay focused!” Celina shouted from the sidelines.

“I’m sorry…!”

He quickly broke away and took a huge leap back.

‘Right, I should focus on fight at hand! First things first, her fighting style…!’

In retaliation, Sigulf charged towards Chelsea and swung his axes, only to be cleanly blocked by her shield.

‘Just as I thought…!’

Chelsea returns with a slash, forcing Sigulf to guard against it.

“Oh, almost…!” Chelsea commented.

Sigulf reacted with a strike, but again, it merely grazed her shield.

‘While her attacks are not as strong, she makes up for it with a solid defense.’ He thought in between exchanging strikes. ‘That, and her lower speed means nothing if I can’t get around her shield. Talk about precise reaction…!’

Sigulf jumped away from her thrust and took a bit of distance.

‘…well, that’s to be expected from this Academy’s number 1 and 2.’

Strengthening his grip, Sigulf rushed in once more towards Chelsea.

————

“300 seconds passed. That’s enough, good job both of you.”

“Phew…”

Sigulf let himself drop down sitting on the ground while his axes instantly dematerialized.

‘As expected, while I have far greater movement freedom and offensive, I still can’t get a hit in.’ he mentally noted. ‘And she only looked slightly tired there…’

“Sigulf, here’s your drink.”

“Ah, thanks…”

Chelsea had approached him and hands a water bottle with a smile, though he got a feeling that it wasn’t as genuine as it seems.

‘She…’

“What’s the matter?”

“No, it’s nothing…”

“We’ll have a break for another 5 minutes. And then… Who should I spar with next?” Celina asked.

“Me, me!” Chelsea raised her hand. “I can still go for another round!”

“Then so be it. Are you fine with fighting last?” she turned her attention to the lone boy.

“I don’t mind. I’d rather not overestimate myself.” Sigulf answered. “Plus, I want to study how both of you fight.”

“So that’s how it is.” Celina chuckled. “Well, that’s good to hear.”

For some reason, Chelsea reacted to her words and glanced at Celina from the corner of her eyes. Before she can follow with it, though…

“What, so you guys are here after all.”

“!?”

Alba, seemingly just done jogging and looking a bit sweaty, came over to the hill.

“Err, yo…?” she greeted, albeit a little unsure.

“Yo…” Sigulf greeted back, slowly getting up on his feet. “Your muscles okay now?”

“Yep! Well, I did limit myself from going overboard. …and Chelsea did have a part in it too.” Alba answered, and somehow mumbled the last part. Unfortunately, Chelsea caught that.

“Ufufu, glad to be some help.”

“…so,” Alba continued, and upon shifting her attention back on Sigulf, she grinned. “I’m guessing they kicked your ass?”

“Badly.” He responded quickly and bluntly.

Alba blinked before saying, “…dammit, you’re supposed to get provoked and mad.”

“What can I say? You’ll know if you spar with them.” Sigulf simply shrugged. “Wanna give a try?”

Alba glanced at the council duo, before saying, “I don’t know, I thought this is supposed to be your super secret cool kids club?”

“Ah-hem.” Celina cleared her throat. “…well, it was supposed to be a secret. How did you find out?”

“Eh? Last week’s loud boom coming all the way from here… Just connect the dots.”

“Loud boom…? Wait, don’t tell me—“

“I told you.” Chelsea sighed. “Why did you use that move anyway?”

“But it would be impolite for him if I wasn’t serious!”

“But there’s no need to overdo it, though…”

“Ugh… So everyone heard that?” Celina asked Alba again.

“Yeah.”

The blonde covered her face.

“I got carried away…”

“But wait, there’s nothing from the newspaper club, right?” Sigulf tried to reassure her.

“Well, yeah. I think because it’s about you two, the club decided not to publish it. Or so I hear.” Alba explained. “And even knowing this, the boys gave up anyway.”

Chelsea sighed out of relief.

“Thank goodness, no paparazzi.”

“Ah, but if were you,” she continued and shifted her attention back to Sigulf. “I would be careful not to be found out.”

“Huh? Why’s that?”

“They do know it’s her sparring, but what they don’t know is who was her partner. Most people thought it’s Chelsea, so…”

“I’ll be targeted, again, and this time out of jealousy?”

“Something like that.”

Sigulf facepalmed.

“For Loki’s sake…”

“I, I’m sure it won’t be anything big…” Chelsea tried to steer away the conversation. “Rather than that, shouldn’t we start sparring?”

“O, oh, right. Let’s go then.”

“Then I’ll watch you two from here.”

“Please do.”

So Celina and Chelsea moved towards the center, while Sigulf sat back down at the sidelines.

“…you’re not going to spar with her?” Alba asked him.

“With Celina? Later, after this. This is a good chance to study them. Assuming I can catch anything, that is.” Sigulf replied.

“…I see. You’re really serious about this.”

“Hm?”

Alba sat down right beside him. It’s a bit too close for his comfort.

“Oi…!”

“Don’t mind me. I want to see how the top 2 fights as well!” she grinned.

Sigulf wasn’t sure on what to say, but he ends up dismissing it and returned his focus to the duo’s sparring.

“5 minutes, standard rules. Get ready, you two.” He announced.

At his cue, both Celina and Chelsea summoned their True Arms and get into fighting stance.

“It’s been a while, hasn’t it?” Celina chuckled.

“It is.”

“Should we go all out for today?”

“Mm, I would rather pass on that. I prefer saving the surprise for the big moment.” Chelsea winked.

“I knew you are going to say something like that. Well then…!”

“Ready…!” Sigulf gave them the signal. “Fight!!”

Faster than Sigulf and Alba can follow, the two suddenly has dashed all the way to middle and locked their blades. Even on safety mode, the 1st-years can feel the sheer impact and vibration from Celina and Chelsea’s steel ringing.

‘It was almost all blur…! By Fenrir, this is another whole level…!’

‘So this is the summit of this Academy…!? Dammit, I will get stronger! I won’t lose, especially against those two…!’

Celina’s strength and speed meets Chelsea fortitude and precision. On this day, Sigulf and Alba witnessed a spectacle which ignites another flame within.

 

Part 9

Spoiler

Silence fell upon the hill as both Celina and Chelsea finally stopped moving. Sigulf and Alba can only hold their breaths at the spectacle before them and would continue to do so if not for the timely intervention of the system’s beeping.

“A, ah, right. 300 seconds passed. Great work!” Sigulf announced.

The tension between them eased, and both combatants withdrew their Arms.

“Aah, as I expected.” Chelsea laughed. “I can’t catch your movement.”

“What are you saying? You are doing pretty well yourself.” Celina replied with a chuckle. “I can’t get through your defenses either.”

‘Chelsea looks a bit tired, but she did spar first.’ Sigulf thought. ‘And still they managed to be playful on an otherwise intense training…’

He stood up from his place and approached the girls to hand them their water bottles.

“Here.”

“Ah, thank you.” Celina said. “I’m up against you next, right? Should we get started already?”

“Eh? You sure you don’t need some rest?”

“Oh? Getting confident, I see.”

“Err, that wasn’t—“

“Ufufu, I know. That was in jest. Give me 5 minutes, alright?”

“Oh, yeah, sure…”

Meanwhile, Chelsea watches alternately between the two and Alba, who barely moved from her spot. Sighing, she decides to call her.

“Hey, you! The girl over there!”

“Wha— Who, me?”

“Who else?”

Chelsea approached her with a sly grin, making Alba slightly wary.

“What do you want?”

“There’s no need to be that prickly, you know. You are just like a hedgehog sometimes…”

“H, hedgehog?”

“Well, anyways, I’m sure just watching from there is boring. So, how about you spar with me next? What do you say?”

“Huh? Why would I— …hey, wait a minute.”

Alba suddenly went silent and seems to be thinking, earning a curious look from Chelsea.

“…alright, let’s do it. I have to study how you fight, after all.”

“Ah, that’s good to hear.”

“But that doesn’t mean I’ll hold back just because you had 2 sets, alright!? I’ll knock your sorry English ass off!”

“I… Don’t know where or how I should respond to that, but okay.”

———

Another 5 minutes passed, and Sigulf found himself standing around the middle of the hill, this time facing Celina. Not far from them is the pair of Alba and Chelsea.

“So she’s finally up for it.” Sigulf noted. “Are you okay with this?”

“It can’t be helped. I figured someone will find out sooner or later.” Celina responded. “Not to mention Chelsea will probably say something like ‘The more the merrier!’”

“Ahaha, true. That just sounds like her.”

“I can hear you two!” the girl in question retorted.

“Oops.”

“Ufufu… Well then, let’s not waste any more time and get started. Shall we?”

“Alright, let’s do this…!”

Both of them shift into their fighting stance, waiting for the system’s cue.

“…”

It’s been two weeks and an additional two bouts with Celina, yet Sigulf can see his winning chance is only barely rising.

‘But it’s alright.’ He reassured himself. ‘One step at a time. Surpassing should be my endgame. For now, concentrate on improving so I don’t embarrass myself in front of Pacific’s representatives…!’

On almost the same time, Alba watches them silently from her own spot.

“Hey, Miss! Focus!” Chelsea suddenly reprimanded her. “…you won’t win against me like that, you know?”

Having been pulled back to reality, Alba shook her head.

“…right. I should focus on taking you down first!”

“Good, that’s more like it! Suits you better!” Chelsea said with a smile. “Don’t think I will go easy on you though!”

“As if I need a handicap!” Alba retorted, now with an almost feral grin.

When the system’s signal finally came, the 1st-years charged towards the insurmountable walls of their upperclasswomen with burning passion in their hearts.

————

About half an hour or so, after their morning practice has finally wrapped up…

“Uuugh… I’m beat…”

“…was training always this tiring?”

“Now, now, don’t get disheartened. We still have tomorrow.”

The four of them went to have a late breakfast at the usual café.

“I think I get what you felt now…” Alba mumbled while her chin comfortably rests at the table.

“Told ya. Won’t be so smug again, will you?”

Alba glanced up towards Sigulf.

“…nah, you still deserves my snobbery?”

“Huh, and why’s that?”

“Because you’re stuuuupid.”

“…what? Nevermind that I’m not one; I don’t see any correlations between your statements…”

Their exchange earned a chuckle from Chelsea.

“So I guess this is the secret behind Gallowglass’ teamwork.”

“Huh?”

“You know they say, ‘best friends fight all the time’.”

“I… Don’t think we fight that much, though.” Alba responded.

“Eh, really? Or maybe it is a good thing, after all! You got good teamwork, it made me a bit jealous.”

“Umm, so why don’t you try to pair with her?” Sigulf asked. “And make a unit maybe called something like… Union Crown?”

“Eh!? Why would I pair with her!?”

“Oh! That sounds nice! …ah.”

““…eh?””

Both Alba and Chelsea realized that what they said were the complete opposites of each other. The older girl then started to get teary-eyed.

“Uuu…”

“Wait, why are you crying!?”

“I guess that goes to both of you too.” Celina chuckled.

Still, Sigulf barely reacted and tries to steal a glance at Chelsea, hoping not to get caught.

‘Chelsea, could she be—‘

Celina’s phone suddenly rings and surprised all four.

“The Principal…?” Celina said as she looked at the screen before answering it. “Yes?”

There was no immediate answer which confused her.

“…?”

Chelsea gently poked her shoulder and pointed towards outside the window.

“Oh, I see…”

There stood the Principal, who waved at them as soon as she noticed.

“Good morning.” Victoria greeted upon entering the café. “I see you all are here.”

“Good morning, Ma’am.” Celina returned the greeting. “How did you—“

“Oh, I simply know what my students do and where. Don’t worry about that.”

Both Celina and Sigulf looks worried at her statement, while Chelsea can only let out a wry laughter.

“Uhm… I presume you just done morning practice?” Sigulf asked her.

“Yes. I have to set-up an example after all. Not to mention, shedding a bit of sweat is never a bad thing.”

“It certainly is…”

Sigulf takes a good look at Victoria while wondering whether she has a personal training space.

‘Now that I think of it, seeing the Principal not wearing the usual get-up feels kind of… fresh.’ He mentally mused. ‘Well, she is a Duelist too after all…’

“My, young man. If you stare at me intensely, even I get embarrassed too.”

“Eh!? No, I was just—“

Unfortunately, it’s a bit too late.

“…perv.”

“Peeeeerv~”

“I’m… A bit disappointed there…”

“…”

There was nothing Sigulf could say under the girls’ judging gaze.

‘I, it’s over…!’ he mentally lamented.

“Well, putting that aside,” Victoria chuckled. “Since you are here, there is something I need you to relay to the rest of the Council members regarding Pacific’s visit tomorrow.”

“I see. Then what is it?”

“They are expected to arrive after lunch, so I need all Council members to stand by, especially the ones concerned with security.”

“So slightly past midday… Understood. Is there anything else, Ma’am?”

“I guess that’s all for the moment. If any you have something scheduled or a date coming up, I suggest you reconsider the time.”

“D, date?” Alba reacted for some reason.

“Umm, I’m pretty sure we have nothing else besides morning practice, but thank you.” Celina answered, sounding a bit unsure.

“That’s good to hear. Or if you really want to, you can shift your appointments to this afternoon.”

“We’ll think about it…”

Not long after, the waitress brought their food, as well as giving a slight nod upon noticing Victoria.

“Oh, that’s right. Maybe I should order something while I’m here.” She said while pulling a chair.

“Are you eating here?” Chelsea asked, slightly surprised.

“Yes. You don’t mind, right? Or… Did I disturb a tender moment?”

“Oh, no, no! It’s alright, nothing of the such here!” Chelsea feigned acceptance before the other can react.

“I see. Well then, pardon the intrusion.”

Victoria quickly scanned the menu before making her order.

“So,” she faced Sigulf after the waitress went away. “I gather that you have been practicing hard with Celina and Chelsea?”

“Eh, yeah… Even putting aside the fact that they are the top 2, they have been really nice and supportive, so…”

“I see, I see. Touched by the kindness of the fair maidens, yes?”

“Eh? Well…”

“…Ma’am?” Celina questioned her.

“Fufufu, don’t worry, I understand. Besides, facing various opponents and studying their fighting style is important, don’t you think?”

“Right, that too.”

“Hmm, if that’s the case, then how about you spar with me some day? I do have access to an exclusive training area, after all.” Victoria invited with a wink.

‘Oh Gerdr…!’

“Ma’am.”

Victoria turned to face a smiling Celina… Yet the air around her is anything but.

“Don’t you think it’s inappropriate to talk about that on the dining table? With your own student, even?”

Chelsea, meanwhile, goes to use a less discreet way.

“Alba, guard!”

“Grrr!” the Scottish girl growled towards Victoria. “…hey, wait, why am I listening to you!?”

Victoria looks a bit surprised but then brushed it off with a chuckle.

“Oh my, I think I see what it is all about now.”

 

Part 10

Spoiler

As the sun goes a bit higher, the whole group finally left the café after done with their breakfast.

“It was nice dining with all of you.” Victoria chuckled. “We should do this more often.”

The students flinched.

“Err…”

“My, how cold. Did I really bother you that much?”

“Actually, no.” Celina quickly answered. “However, we would appreciate it if you refrain from talking about ‘that’ again.”

“Oh, I wonder what you meant by ‘that’. Ufufufufu…”

On one side, Celina masked her tranquil fury with a smile. On the other, Victoria didn’t budge and kept her composure.

‘Scary…’

“Putting that aside, don’t forget about your duties tomorrow. Make sure you get enough rest.”

“…yes, Ma’am.”

“Well then, have a nice day.”

The students gave Victoria a slight bow as she left. And when she finally vanished from their sight, Chelsea let out an exasperated sigh.

“What’s with her? She’s not even trying to keep it subtle anymore…”

“Nevermind that, how did she manage to keep her job!?” Alba added.

“As far as I know, she did exceptionally well as the Principal. Not to mention the amount she invested to this school, taken straight from her business’ profit.” Celina explained.

“Huh, so she ran one?”

“So I heard. …still, she should be able to discern what’s private and what’s not.”

“Eh, yeah, that… Wasn’t really good for my heart…” Sigulf said.

“What, even if you looked somewhat happy about it?” Chelsea teased.

“I, I’m not…!”

“…say, Sigulf, you’re not actually considering her… Offer to train together, are you?”

“…actually, I am—“

The girls promptly gave him a look of disdain.

“…what happened with ‘fight against various opponents to study their style’?”

“…well, that’s not exactly wrong, but…”

Celina went quiet and seems to be thinking.

“Cel?”

“Alright, it’s decided.” She suddenly said. “We will double the amount of our practice tomorrow!”

“I don’t think that will cover the problem of the Principal’s flirting, though.” Chelsea pointed out, making Celina froze for a split second.

“The best way to fight distraction is to keep yourself busy.”

“I wonder if it works that way…”

“No, it’s alright. Actually, I don’t mind.” Sigulf assured. “I just have to work out twice as hard, yeah?”

“Oh, that’s quite the positive way of seeing it. Then I’ll see you hold on those words tomorrow.”

“But of course, Ma’am.” Sigulf saluted playfully.

“And how about you?” Celina switched her attention to Alba.

“I’m in. I’m not leaving until I got my revenge!” Alba exclaimed.

“She’s all fired up, alright.”

“I’m glad you’re taking this seriously.” Chelsea said gleefully. “Maybe we should pair more often, after all!”

“…no, no, no. I’m here to learn the holes on your defense, not to get chummy.”

“Shock! Ceeeel, I’m being rejected again… Sob, sob.”

“There, there.” Celina comforts a fake-crying Chelsea.

“…what’s with you and your tendency to declare hostility right on people’s face?” Sigulf asked.

“It’s not hostility! It’s sportsmanship!” Alba retorted. “And, well, it’s more heroic like that…”

“I… Kind of get it and don’t at the same time…”

“It’s okay, just don’t think too hard about it.” She laughed it off.

“So,” Chelsea spoke up, pulling everyone’s attention back. “What do we do now?”

“Hmm… Considering we have to prepare for both practice and Council duty tomorrow, I suggest we should call it a day.”

“Yeah, I thought so too. We don’t want to be too tired when the guests came.”

“But that doesn’t apply for me, right?” Alba points at herself.

“Well, yeah.” Sigulf quips. “But no overworking, remember?”

“Did that just cross your mind? Bad girl!” Chelsea jumped and grabbed Alba’s shoulders.

“I won’t! Sheesh… Why are you that concerned anyway?”

“Hm? Do I need any reason to?”

“Err…”

“Union Crown, confirmed.” Sigulf commented.

“No, no, it’s not.” Alba quickly retorted while Chelsea simply chuckles.

“So, I guess that’s it for today, then.” Celina announced. “Great work, everyone. Let’s keep up the pace for tomorrow as well.”

“”Yeah!”” the first years responded in an enthusiastic unison.

“Don’t forget to relax and get enough rest, okay?” Chelsea added.

“Well then, if you excuse us.”

Celina gave a slight bow, followed by Chelsea, before turning away. But just as the Council duo is about to left…

“…hm? Ah, wait a minute!” Sigulf suddenly stopped them.

“What is it?”

“…we’re all going home to the same dorm, right?”

There was an awkward silence before Alba finally facepalmed, uttering, “Duh!”

“O, oh, right, now that you mentioned it…”

“Cel, get a grip of yourself.” Chelsea gave a wry laugh.

“Well, let’s go back together, then.”

———

On the way home, they met Yuu, who apparently just left the dorm.

“Yo.” Sigulf greeted him.

But there was no answer as Yuu seemingly froze upon seeing them.

“Err, hello…?”

“Oh, my bad. Good morning!” he finally responded. “You trained until this time?”

“We did a bit longer than usual. You know, for Pacific’s visit. Maybe there will be a duel or something.”

“Hee…”

“How about you? Enjoying day off?”

“Well, something like that.” He grinned. “By the way, could you come over here?”

“Huh?”

Obviously, Sigulf and the girls were kind of confused, but he goes along with it… Only for Yuu to suddenly whipped out his arm and caught him in a headlock.

“Gah…! What are you—”

“Sigulf!”

“Eeh? I wonder why?” he feigned innocence without letting Sigulf go. “I don’t know. For some reason I got pissed looking at you.”

“…I think I have an idea why.”

“Ah, as expected from you. Not that I’m letting go.”

“…enough. Your headlock sucks, it barely hurts.”

“…you don’t have to be that blunt, you know.” Yuu protested while finally releasing him.

“Umm, I’m not sure what’s going on here, but at least you two are not fighting, right?” Celina asked the boys, sounding slightly worried.

“We’re not. I think.” Sigulf replied.

“True, true. It’s more like boys bonding over boys talk.” Yuu added.

“B, boys talk?”

“It’s probably something stupid…” Alba sighed.

“Ouch, that’s mean, Alba-san.”

“B, boys bonding…” Chelsea uttered while going a bit red for some reason.

“C, Chelsea…?” now Celina turned to her best friend out of concern.

“But seriously, why did you do that? Suddenly, even.” Sigulf questioned Yuu while trying to keep his voice low.

“Why wouldn’t I? I mean it looks like you’re having a harem.”

“Har—“

Sigulf promptly went red.

“That wasn’t even my intention…!”

“And that’s what they always say.” Yuu sighed. “Sig-kun, you began to sound like Amakawa.”

“…shit.”

———

Leaving Yuu on his own way and then making it back safely to the dorm, Sigulf finally parted with the girls.

“Phew… I guess I’ll need an early nap today.”

Sigulf stepped out from the bathroom, drying his hair with a towel before sitting on the bed.

“…”

He grabbed his smartphone and looks at the screen silently.

‘No messages from Master yet. Well, she’s probably busy…’

Sigulf set his phone aside.

‘…damn, I’m sleepy. I should get dressed first before I hit the sack.’

Seeing no other alternatives, Sigulf decided to spend the rest of the day leisurely.

———

The next morning, on the same usual hill…

“Haah!”

“Kh…!”

As Fenrir and Celina’s great spear clashed, a metallic ring echoed across the field.

“Stay sharp!” Celina shouted. “Hasten your reaction speed, and strike back without hesitation!”

“R, right…!”

With a blinding speed, Celina took a short step back and lunges forward with her spear, forcing Sigulf to block again.

‘No joke, this is intense…!!’

“What’s the matter!? You can’t land a hit if you keep running away!”

“I know…!”

Gritting his teeth, Sigulf jumped away before rushing towards Celina. Sensing movement from her, he took off by kicking the ground with all of his strength and performs a somersault attack, only for Celina to cleanly block his strike.

“Tch…!”

“That’s more like it!” she commented.

Not far from them, Chelsea watched their duel and sighed.

“That’s not even doubling the intensity anymore.”

“Hey, where are you looking!?”

A sudden downward swing coming her way, though she managed to guard against it.

“Whoops, I’m sorry.”

“Tch, looking down at me like that…!”

Alba expected a shield-push and quickly backs off. Holding her claymore horizontally, she took few steps forward before delivering a large slash.

“Oooohh!!”

Chelsea read her, however, and simply jumped over the claymore’s path with sword raised high.

“Wha—!? Then…!”

Still off-balance from her prior swing, Alba decided to launch herself aside, managing a haphazard but otherwise successful evasion.

“Oh, that’s a good one! But you won’t be so lucky next time!”

“Dammit…! What do I do now…!?’

Under the cold morning air, the first years’ struggle on their intense training against their seniors continues.

————

Signal beeping from the system marks the end of their sparring session. Exhausted, Sigulf lets himself fell to the ground.

“Gah…”

Nothing else came to his mind. Doubling the intensity wasn’t just for show after all. While he thinks he got a better look on their movements, it’s still not enough to keep up, let alone to score a hit.

“Thanks for the hard work.” Celina said upon approaching him. There was a hint of concern under her smile as she hands him a water bottle.

“Ah, thank you…” Sigulf responded while trying to sit up. However, he lost a bit of balance and nearly fell sideways.

“Whoa—“

“Sigulf!” Celina managed to stop him in time. “Are you alright?”

“Y, yeah, I think so…”

Celina slowly lets go, while Sigulf quickly downs the bottle out of embarrassment.

“Will you be fine for later?”

“Don’t worry. I just need some meat and power nap.”

“Hmm…”

Clearly, she wasn’t convinced, so Celina walks behind him, sat down, and leans her back a bit against Sigulf. The gesture only flusters the boy even more.

“Wait, what are you doing!?”

“Hm? I thought you needed to rest a bit, so…”

“Y, yeah, but…”

“But what?”

“I’m drenched in sweat…”

“So am I.”

“E, eeh…”

“At times like this, you should just be honest and accept others’ helping hand. This is a mere small favor, after all.”

‘It’s quite a big deal for me though!’ Sigulf mentally retorted.

All this made him can’t even think of something coherent, thus he gave up and lets his back relax.

‘…she smells nice. And her hair… I wonder what kind of sham— Wait, stop, what am I thinking?’

Of course they kind of forgot that the other pair is still there. Chelsea looks at them wide-eyed and nearly said something, if not for Alba suddenly downed her drink and approached Sigulf.

“A, Alba?”

“Yo, Siggy. Still alive after all that?”

“As if I would kick the bucket that easily.” He retorted, even though unable to face her. “And you’re out of gas yourself.”

“I know. That’s why, lend me a shoulder will ya?”

“Huh?”

Without giving him or Celina chance to react, Alba sat down and leaned between Sigulf and Celina’s shoulders.

“Oh…”

“Oi, oi…!”

“Come on, don’t be so stingy! It’s fine, isn’t it?” Alba grinned in triumph.

Chelsea watched from nearby and can only let out a wry laugh.

“Oh, that girl…”

The brunette followed suit and plopped herself on the opposite of Alba’s side.

“Hey, this looks fun! You don’t mind if I join, right?”

“Ufufu, sure.” Celina chuckled.

As much as he’d like to, there’s no way Sigulf could relax in this situation.

‘Aah, I can smell everyone. And they all smelled nice…’ Sigulf mentally lamented. ‘…dammit, and I can’t even stop the thoughts now.’

“This feels nice.” Celina suddenly mumbled.

Sigulf was caught off guard, but he agreed with her sentiments nonetheless.

“…yeah, it is.”

Even though the sun just barely rises, this morning doesn’t feel cold at all.

————

Past midday. Dressed in his uniform, Sigulf stepped out from his room. He had already shifted gears, thanks to the much needed late breakfast, short nap and some warm bath.

‘Fully recharged. Let’s do this.’

On his way outside, he met Minato and his girls, exchanging slight nods.

“Let’s do our best, Hrimgard-kun.”

“Yeah.”

Leaving the dorm, the rookies head to the park first, to regroup with the waiting second years.

“Ah, there they are.” Laine pointed out before waving at them. “Yooo…”

“Good day.” Celina greeted. “Is everyone here?”

“Yes, Ma’am!” Eurypha quickly replied with a salute.

“Very good. Well then, let’s head to the landing pad and proceed as briefed.”

Lead by Celina, the Council members, both official and shadow, make their way to the designated area.

Reaching the pad minutes later, the group noticed that the Principal is there, accompanied by the other staffs. They promptly gave her a slight bow, which she returned.

‘So she’s here… Ah, I can see Sir Fortier and Miss Melanie too.’

Far in the horizon, all of them noticed a dark gray object, gradually closing in. American made flying carrier, model LM-CL-0122, though Sigulf wouldn’t know that.

The whole group watches silently as the carrier hovered above and slowly descends towards the pad.

As the carrier finally lands, the hatch door opened, revealing five figures. To Sigulf’s surprise, all of them seemed to be their students with no teaching staff in sight.

‘What’s the meaning of this…?’

Still, this doesn’t seem to perturb the Principal.

“Thank you for coming all the way here.” Victoria greeted. “We welcome you to Atlantic Academy.”

———

Chapter 3: One Flight from Heimriki, end.

Continued on Chapter 4.