Published: August 2, 2025
Today, nine chapters are updated simultaneously.
This story is the fourth of the four chapters.
After school, the three of them were chatting idly in a corner of the courtyard.
Between the end of lunch break and returning to the classroom, they decided to take the opportunity to get to know each other better.
After learning a fair amount about each other, Michelle made a proposal.
“Both of you, if you don’t mind, why don’t we form a practical training group together?”
At the academy, classes like magic and swordsmanship include practical exercises conducted in groups of five or six students.
However, due to personality clashes, differences in values, lack of cooperation, and naturally, some noble students dislike being treated on the same level as commoners. Therefore, group assignments are decided through discussions among the students themselves, inviting each other to form their own groups.
Nobles with nobles only, commoners with commoners only. Or at least forming groups with those who mutually respect each other greatly reduces trouble and conflicts.
However, students who fail to join a group by the deadline, regardless of noble or commoner status, will either be grouped together or placed into an underpopulated group. In such cases, the student's status and wishes are not considered. The academy takes a stance as a place that “provides equal education regardless of social status.”
But it’s not hard to imagine that this could lead to a very uncomfortable experience. Outcasts grouped together can only hope they get along.
It’s unlikely that Elia and Michelle will be treated poorly, but if they find someone with a good personality who is enjoyable to be with, it’s obviously better to form a group quickly. That’s why Michelle proposed forming a group, and Elia and Miyabi agreed.
“But if that’s the case, we still need to gather two or three more people. Groups must be formed with five or six members, after all.”
“That’s right. Otherwise, students who can’t form groups themselves will be assigned somewhere else.”
“Well then, regardless of noble or commoner, can you think of anyone whose personality isn’t twisted and preferably doesn’t care about social status?”
“I can think of one person, for now.”
“Who is it?”
“Liera Clifford. The eldest daughter of Baron Clifford.”
“Baron Clifford’s family… If I recall correctly, they originally earned their title through achievements as knights, a lineage that has produced many outstanding knights, right?”
“Exactly. She has a bit of pride and is strict about rules, but she doesn’t look down on people because of their status and recognizes talent honestly. I think she treats all students equally.”
“She certainly sounds suitable. Do you know her?”
“We used to meet a lot at one time. I was busy with studies and hobbies, and Liera became busy with training, so we rarely met after that.”
With that, the three decided to invite Liera Clifford and set out to do so.
They headed for the swordsmanship training ground.
Upon arrival, Michelle pointed to a corner of the training ground.
“She's over there. Let’s go.”
Following Michelle, they approached a dignified female student with her hair tied back, diligently practicing sword swings.
She was tall for her age and strikingly beautiful, so she stood out.
Among many male students watching her from a distance, Michelle called out to Liera.
“Liera, can I have a moment?”
“Michelle? What is it? And who are these two with you...?”
“Wha—what’s with that guy?”
“He brought two girls along...”
“And he’s calling out to Ms. Clifford?”
“He looks so weak.”
“Looks almost like a girl. Wait, is that a guy?”
“O-oh... um... hmm?”
“…Anyway, let’s calm down and talk.”
Amused yet slightly awkward from the rude stares and misunderstandings, Michelle led Liera out of the training ground. Elia and Miyabi followed them, eventually reaching a quiet resting area.
They sat on a bench and explained how they’d come to this point.