Side Story : Shortly before the evening party

  “Why do we have to attend too……”


  While I muttered, Ryle creased his eyebrows.

  “There’s nothing we can do about it Dida, Master even requested that we attend.”


  “Even still, doesn’t our training today have nothing to do with us?”


  Today’s training was a mock battle against the Military and the Chivalric Order. A representative from each side would be chosen and pitted against each other in a match. It was usually something that has no relation to us, but Master Gazelle requested that we participate. In reality, I wanted to tag along with our princess to the evening party. Especially since its Baron Messi’s party, there would’ve been no worry of having to use formal language, and no danger to the princess since we sent out our specially trained guards. In the worst case scenario, Tanya’s there as well. I’m sure that I’m not the only one as of recent who’s been wondering where Tanya’s been off to.

  Anyways, if I were given the choice between staying here with a bunch of sweaty people or going to the party, I’d choose the latter.

  “It’s irrelevant to the present, but this is a good time to gauge the difference in strength between the Chivalric Order and the army. Make sure you properly observe.”


  “I’m okay with that…… But was there really a need for us to be here? In a place that makes us feel so uncomfortable.**”


  Today’s exercise is used to relieve a bit of pressure between the Order and Army. The Army is adamant in thinking that the Order are a bunch of spoiled brats who have no real experience, while the Order is equally convinced that the Army is all brawn and no brains. In my opinion both sides are rather equal. But for that reason, we use a mock battle to exchange ideas.

  Most of this mock battle is thanks to Master though. Speaking of Master, he probably wanted to go to Baron Messi’s party considering that he was once one of his trusted men. But he probably understood that he must deal with the weird tension that rises between the Order and the Army. Unfortunately, since Baron Messi understands that he has a duty to fulfill and cannot stay much longer in the capital, today was the only day the party could be held. I understand the trouble it puts Master in, but I’d wish he didn’t include us.

  Furthermore, just observe the match? That’s boring as all hell.

  When I glanced over at the Princess’ practice grounds, I saw that the Order and the Army were all ready to go. I scanned across the field and happened to glance Master.

  “Yo, you guys came too huh.”


  Master walked up behind us. Upon hearing his voice, everyone turned towards him. As expected of Master.

  “Ah…… General Gazelle, excuse my rudeness, these two are?”


  “These two are my apprentices. They happened to be at the capital so I called them over.”


  “General Gazelle’s apprentices……”


  Hearing Master’s words, the atmosphere around us changed. Seems like they’re trying to challenge—no, ascertain our abilities. As expected of Master’s popularity. Well…… We’re probably being stared at because there aren’t too many who can withstand Gazelle’s lessons, nor have any chance to anyways.

  “Well shall we begin, Knight Captain?”


  “We’re ready whenever, General Gazelle.”


  The Knight Captain…… If I remember correctly his name is Doreina Kataberia, his son should’ve been in the same class as the princess.

  Anyways, after that the 1v1 matches began. One after another, nothing but elites were sent out making the matches really entertaining. Both parties were also relatively evenly matched. However, a select few from the Order side were surprised by the ferocity of the Army.

  After 4 matches, the finale was about to begin. From the Order’s side came the Knight Captain’s son, and from the Army’s side a single person came out.

  “Wait just a second!”


  In the midst of all the cheering, Master shouted out.

  “How about we try a 2v2 for this match?”


  “A 2v2?”


  Everyone was confused by Master’s remark.

  “That’s right! We’ll have you guys form a pair and fight against my apprentices!”


  I was surprised by his sudden exclamation. I stood there gawking while Ryle, who was next to me, who had either expected it or just given up, stood there emotionless.

  “General Gazelle’s apprentices…… That seems interesting.”


  Unexpectedly, the army’s representative quickly accepted the challenge. Wait, wait, wasn’t this mock battle supposed to be so that the Army and the Order could dispel their misunderstandings? Aren’t both sides currently at 2 wins and 2 losses? The crowd too raised a roar signalling their agreement to the challenge.

  As I glanced at the Knight Captain’s son, he was also nodding in agreement. Ah…… Well, there’s nothing I can do about this situation anymore.

  “We’re going, Dida.”


  “Okay.”


  Ryle stood up quietly and slowly made his way to the stadium. Sighing, I followed.