She swung her left sword down and was blocked by a wooden sword held horizontally. However, a sword poised to withstand an impact from above was, in contrast, vulnerable to attacks below.

She used the sword in her right hand and flipped it up, thus Sven’s sword went flying as well. The sword twirled around, drew a circle in the air, and then fell to the ground and rolled.

“Haa, haa, ha…”

Since they’ve lost grip of their swords, it was deemed impossible to proceed.

That ended the sparring.

The two were somewhat stunned. Rishe swung both swords in her hands and then smiled at them.

“It’s exactly how I felt yesterday from the match. You two have chemistry in battle.”

“Oh, I and Fritz …?”

“Yeah. I wanted to see the two of you team up, so I’m glad this opportunity came up so soon.”

Perhaps both of them were talented and have a similar view of swordsmanship. Otherwise, they wouldn’t have moved like that even with some pointers from Rishe.

If the two of them were to become knights together, they would surely become remarkably strong. Rishe smiled imagining such a future.

On the other hand, Fritz and Sven were still at a loss for words.

“Lu-Lucius, are you referring to us, not your own skills and tactics?”

“Yeah. I had so much fun and I’d love it if we could do it again tomorrow!”

When she said that, Sven looked somewhat bitter.

“…You’re…”

“Huh, hahaha!”

Contrary to Sven, Fritz burst out laughing like a fool.

“Well then, let’s meet for morning practice again tomorrow, Sven!　Let’s have a strategy meeting together so we can beat Lu.”

“Damn!… I’ll come. I’ll come even earlier than Lucius! I don’t know what time you come in and start warming up, but I’ll never lose next time!”

I really do clean up before flexing, but it’s just a habit so I’ll keep that to myself…

She was thinking about this when Sven bowed down and said in a strained voice.

“…I’m sorry. You know, for a lot of things.”

“I already told you. I don’t care.”

“!”

When she reiterated, Sven looked on the verge of tears once more.

“–Hmph, I’ll beat you one of these days.”

“Yeah. But I’m not gonna lose.”

“Shit!”

Rishe laughed at such an exchange, then sensed a strange look on her. When she turned around, she saw Fritz staring at her.

“Fritz? What’s wrong?”

“…Huh?! Oh, it’s nothing! I just thought, what the heck, Lu laughs a lot!…”

“Well, thank you. You’re the one who’s always smiling and cheerful.”

In truth, Rishe would have liked to smile more, but if she let her mind wander, she would be reminded of her worries. She gently focused her attention on the entrance to the training grounds while trying to keep the two from noticing.

There was no sign of anyone so far, probably because it was still early.

Count Rovine will be here soon… I have to make sure I’d gather information during this drill for tonight!

Rishe was inwardly fired up for the upcoming evening party.