Chapter 94: The Battle of Hisfil Castle (4)—
After making the prediction that we would win, I began more intense training in preparation for the future. Unlike Airen, who became busier, my schedule didn’t change much. My task was to assist Reika.
“Do you really think this kind of thing improves my skills…?”
“Indeed, it does. Who better than you, Miss Reika, would feel the improvement in your skills?”
“Well, yes, but… Ah, I’m not doubting Lord Swen…!”
What Reika and I were doing was maintaining balance in a posture where one leg supports the body, and the arms are stretched out forwards and backwards.
It was part of various attempts I was making, since doing nothing but meditating seemed likely to raise doubts. Thankfully, Reika’s skills were improving day by day despite such bizarre training.
Having opened up during this strange training, Reika began to share her stories with me, feeling a peculiar camaraderie.
“Did you always stay inside the mansion?”
“Yes… My father didn’t allow me to go outside…”
After our session, which could be termed as training or a peculiar activity, listening to her stories became part of my routine.
We sat side by side in the garden, sharing conversations.
“So, when we first met, you had sneaked out, right?”
“How did you know…?”
Reika looked at me in genuine surprise.
Considering the atmosphere, her subtle expressions, and her appearance of being in trouble, it wasn’t hard to guess.
“Well, it was quite obvious.”
“I see… Ugh.”
“Don’t worry. I’m not going to scold you, and I won’t mention it to anyone else.”
Reika didn’t respond, partially burying her face in her knees.
“Why did Jenor confine you inside the mansion?”
From what I observed, Jenor didn’t seem to have much affection for Reika.
Not that he disliked her, but it seemed he valued her more as a strategic tool than as a family member.
“Is there another reason?”
As I pondered, Reika softly broke the silence.
“Still…”
“Still?”
“These days have been enjoyable. I could go outside with Lord Swen… Not only did my magic improve, but it was also the first time my father allowed it… So, I guess, thank you… for everything.”
“You don’t need to say more.”
I smiled at Reika, who struggled to find the right words.
“I enjoyed it too. You’re worth teaching.”
“Th… Thank you…”
She buried her face in her knees again, her ears turning red.
Then, a thought occurred to me.
“Right, Reika. Have you thought about what to do regarding the marriage issue?”
“Marriage!”
She bolted upright, then exclaimed in shock.
“It’s just a question. No rush, but don’t feel pressured.”
I tried to ease her concern gently.
“It’s your life, so I’ll respect your decision. If you don’t wish for it, just say so, and I’ll cancel the arrangements.”
Reika didn’t respond but kept looking at me before finally speaking softly.
“What do you think, Lord Swen… about marrying me?”
I hesitated, feeling a complexity in my heart. Was it just my imagination, or did her eyes seem especially bright?
And my hesitation, was that also just my imagination?
Marrying Reika?
Of course, it wouldn’t be bad.
But as I contemplated, I realized my feelings for her might have evolved beyond seeing her merely as a talented magician.
While I hadn’t answered yet, Jenor arrived.
“Swen. You were here.”
“Father…!”
“Jenor?”
Jenor looked at us seriously, a rare visit during our training.
“I have something to discuss. Are you free now?”
“All important tasks are completed.”
“Good. Come with me, then.”
He dismissed Reika to rest, and as we headed to his study, the topic shifted to an unexpected military move by Aeshers Army, leading to a deep strategic discussion.
Ultimately, I realized the “win” prediction might not cover the whole picture, suggesting a potential defeat for Aeshers Army in a broader strategic sense.
