Chapter 74: Let’s Dance

The “Swordsmanship” class ended, though whether it ended safely is uncertain, but it managed to conclude somehow.

Even after the match between Rest and Danila ended, mock battles continued between the Knight Class and students from other disciplines. However, there were no instances of students from other disciplines being systematically beaten as in the beginning.

In fact, the Knight Class students only held grudges against students from the Magic Class. There seemed to be no issues with students from the Civilian or Priest Classes, and they were defeated without causing significant injuries.

As a final result, ninety percent of the Knight Class students participating in the “Swordsmanship” class emerged victorious. The remaining ten percent included students from other disciplines, including the Magic Class, who were allowed to participate in the class.

The defeated students would only be allowed to do running exercises on the grounds until the end of the semester, undoubtedly a bitter pill to swallow.

“I had no idea such a thing was happening… How dreadful.”

Viola sighed with equal parts admiration and incredulity upon hearing Rest’s account.

After the “Swordsmanship” class, the students were currently in their final class of the day: the “Dance” class.

In the dance hall within the academy, Rest held Viola’s hands and awkwardly stepped to the music, making sure not to step on Viola’s feet as he recounted the events of the previous class.

“I never expected there to be such a rift between the Magic and Knight classes.” 

“Magicians and knights have never been particularly close. Each believes they are the protagonist supporting the kingdom. Fortunately, my father and the Knight Commander are on good terms, so it hasn’t led to any major conflicts.”.

Viola’s father, Marquis Albert Rosemary, serves as the Chief Court Magician and was at the top of the kingdom’s magicians. The Knight Commander, Marquis Catreya, was reportedly a childhood friend of Viola’s father, and they maintained a close relationship.

“Of course, even if there’s tension between knights and magicians, it’s not like they’re constantly sabotaging each other. Well, they might compete for achievements sometimes.”

“I see… That makes sense. There could be such dynamics, huh.”

Rest chuckled, recalling memories from his past life. Just because they belonged to the same country and faction didn’t mean they always upheld the same beliefs. Though he couldn’t confirm it, there were stories about conflicts between the U.S. Air Force and Marines, even incidents of friendly fire due to their rivalry. Pre-war Japan also suffered significant losses due to the lack of cooperation between the Army and Navy, which had caused a rift between them.

Even if they fought under the same flag, it didn’t mean they shared the same aspirations.

(Hmm… from the perspective of checks and balances, a bit of factional rivalry might actually be beneficial… but to think I’d get caught up in that during my student days.)

“Well, not all knights necessarily dislike magicians… Oh, Rest, your footwork is off there.” 

“Oops!” 

Rest quickly corrected his steps upon Viola’s guidance.

Viola, who had been taught dance as part of her aristocratic upbringing, was guiding Rest, who was completely inexperienced. Rest had received some basic instruction at the Rosemary mansion, but studying for exams and training in magic had taken precedence.

“I’m sorry, I made a mistake.” 

Rest apologized.

“It’s fine, really. Besides, Rest, you have decent athletic ability and some sense, so you’ll improve quickly.” 

“I hope so…” 

“Don’t worry. Rest has plenty of dance partners to keep him company. We can practice a lot today.”

Viola glanced meaningfully to the side.

Following her gaze discreetly, I noticed Primula and Yuri waiting their turn at the edge of the dance hall.

Since more girls tended to choose the ‘Dance’ class than boys, one male student would end up dancing with multiple female students.

“Primula is better at teaching than I am, and Yuri might be less skilled than you, but that could actually make her a good practice partner. Don’t rush, just focus on improving gradually. After you finish dancing with them, it’s my turn again!”

“…Can’t I get a break, please? Seriously.”

Even though magic could alleviate fatigue to some extent, exhaustion was still exhaustion.

With a strained expression, Rest concluded the first dance with Viola.

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