Published: September 6, 2025
The day after talking with Eglantine, I passed the lecture and returned to the dormitory, where Brynhildr came running up to me. Apparently, there was an offer from Classenburg to discuss the joint research before the dedication ceremony. But today was already the day of the event—the day before the dedication ceremony. There was absolutely no time to have a proper discussion before the ceremony.
“What should we do? Even if they want to talk before the dedication ceremony, the only time we can spare is probably tomorrow morning. While the priests of the Central Temple are preparing, I think it would be possible to meet and have a brief talk, but wouldn’t that be a bit rude?”
I asked Wilfried and Charlotte for their opinions about Classenburg’s request. Both of them looked troubled.
“There are still two more dedication ceremonies after this one, so it’s not absolutely necessary to meet before the first ritual. However, since you represent the rituals at Ehrenfest, I think what they want is a discussion with you.”
It was better to discuss before the ceremony how to explain things to the students gathering for the dedication and what areas would fall within Classenburg’s scope. There were many things to clarify beforehand.
“During the social gathering, weren’t your aides called out? Didn’t you finish the discussion then?”
“We did discuss the arrangements for the ritual, but the students haven’t even met each other yet. It can hardly be called joint research. So, it’s true that we want to at least have a meeting first. Besides Lady Jansiane, whom I greeted at the social gathering, I don’t recognize the other students from their side.”
Wilfried and Charlotte also seemed unfamiliar with the students from Classenburg.
“Lady Jansiane from Classenburg will attend your brother Wilfried’s ritual, but are you sure it’s okay not to meet beforehand?”
“Hmm? Indeed, I would like to meet before the dedication ceremony. That means next week, right? It’s very hard to find the time.”
Wilfried would have the longest interaction with Classenburg during this dedication. Since he and Charlotte were performing the rituals on my behalf due to my health, I couldn’t just show up uninvited.
“Older sister, older brother, even if you only have time tomorrow morning, wouldn’t it be better to arrange a meeting? If Ehrenfest refuses to set aside time despite Classenburg’s request, they might say Ehrenfest wasn’t accommodating. Even if it’s a sudden meeting tomorrow morning, it would be safer to show that Ehrenfest made an effort.”
Charlotte suggested leaving it up to Classenburg to accept or decline the sudden invitation. Socially, it seemed better to at least set a meeting with Classenburg.
“I see. If it’s too sudden and they refuse, then we can schedule a discussion next week. If Classenburg accepts, I will also accompany you. After all, I’m the one who has to meet them, and you’ll be busy preparing, right? It’s hard for you to handle Classenburg on your own.”
Charlotte nodded in agreement, saying, “Since Lady Jansiane is a woman, I should accompany you as well.” Although repeating the dedication ritual was draining mana-wise, they would come to the auditorium just for the meeting. That helped a lot.
“Then, tomorrow morning, after breakfast and before the third bell rings, we’ll have the meeting in the auditorium, and we can discuss details later at the tea party. Is that alright? Brynhildr, please respond.”
“Yes, understood. ...I’m going.”
When Brynhildr spoke, not only Berthilde and Grethia but also Melchior’s attendant apprentice followed. It was obvious they were still in training.
While discussing the meeting with Classenburg, Charlotte suddenly looked up.
“Lady, just before you returned, a wooden tag arrived from Ehrenfest. One attendant and one civil official from Melchior will come to tomorrow’s dedication ceremony.”
“Huh?”
“Melchior requested that his aides get some experience before the temple dedication ceremony, and Father permitted it. They will wear blue robes so they can blend in with your Guard Knights.”