Chapter 74: Dancing
The “Swordsmanship” class had concluded, though whether it could be deemed a success was still up for debate. After Rest and Daniya’s match, mock battles continued between the students of the Department of Knights and those from other departments. However, unlike the earlier rounds, the students from other departments were no longer subjected to a one-sided beating.
In fact, the students of the Department of Knights held a grudge only against those from the Magic Department. They seemed indifferent towards the students from the Departments of Civil Affairs and Clergy, taking them down without inflicting serious injuries.
In the end, a staggering ninety percent of the students from the Department of Knights who participated in the “Swordsmanship” class emerged victorious. The remaining ten percent consisted of students from other departments, including the Magic Department, who were allowed to participate in the class. Those who lost would likely face nothing but running on the grounds until the end of the semester, enduring their share of humiliation.
“Is that really what happened? That sounds tough,” Viola sighed, a mix of admiration and exasperation in her voice as she listened to Rest’s account.
With the “Swordsmanship” class behind them, they were now in the midst of the final class of the day—”Dance.” In the dance hall within the academy, Rest held both of Viola’s hands, stepping awkwardly to the rhythm of the music. He was doing his utmost to avoid stepping on Viola’s feet while recounting the events of the earlier class.
“Yeah, I never imagined there would be such a rift between the Magic and Knight departments,” Rest replied.
“Well, magicians and knights have never really gotten along. Both believe they are the true pillars supporting the kingdom. Fortunately, my father and the Knight Commander, Marquis Cattleya, are on friendly terms, so it hasn’t led to any major conflicts,” Viola explained.
Viola’s father, Marquis Albert Rosemary, served as the Court Mage Director and was the highest-ranking magician in the kingdom. It seemed that the Knight Commander, Marquis Cattleya, was a friend from their school days, maintaining a relatively close relationship.
“Of course, just because knights and magicians don’t get along doesn’t mean they’re actively trying to sabotage each other. Well, they might compete over achievements, but that’s about it,” she added.
“Ah, I see. That makes sense,” Rest mused, a wry smile creeping onto his face as he recalled memories from his previous life. Just because they belonged to the same nation and faction didn’t mean they shared the same beliefs. Whether true or not, he had heard that the American military had its own divisions, with the Air Force and Marines often at odds, leading to friendly fire incidents in the past. Even in pre-war Japan, there had been rifts between the Army and Navy, resulting in significant losses due to a failure to share crucial military intelligence. Even when fighting under the same flag, their aspirations could diverge greatly.
(Hmm… From the perspective of the separation of powers, perhaps a bit of factional conflict is beneficial. But to think I’d get caught up in it during my student days…)
“Well, not all knights hate magicians, but… Oh, Rest! That step is wrong!” Viola suddenly interrupted.
“Oops!”
At her prompt, Rest hurriedly corrected his dance steps. While Viola had been trained in dance since childhood as part of her noble upbringing, Rest was a complete novice. He had received some basic instruction at the Rosemary Marquis House, but his focus had always been on exam preparation and honing his magical skills.
“Sorry, I messed up,” he apologized.
“It’s fine, really. Besides, you’re not lacking in athletic ability, and you have a good sense of rhythm. You’ll improve quickly,” Viola reassured him.
“I hope so…” Rest replied, a hint of doubt in his voice.
“Don’t worry. You have plenty of partners to practice with. You’ll have ample opportunity to improve today,” she said, casting a meaningful glance to the side.
Following her gaze, Rest noticed Primula and Yuri waiting at the edge of the dance hall. Since more females than males chose to take the “Dance” class, one male student often ended up dancing with multiple female students.
“Primula is better at teaching than I am, and Yuri is probably worse than you, Rest, so she might actually be a good practice partner. No need to rush; just improve little by little. After you finish dancing with them, it’ll be my turn again!” Viola declared cheerfully.
“…Can’t I at least get a break? Seriously,” Rest groaned.
No matter how much magic could alleviate fatigue, exhaustion was still exhaustion. With a strained expression, Rest completed his first dance with Viola.