Chapter 10

"Next, it's my turn."

Alphonse released a small fireball.

Several fireballs flew in arcs, like arrows.

Mina released water spheres to extinguish them, but new fireballs quickly came again.

Although a single fireball was small and had weak power, it required considerable concentration and skill to release multiple fireballs simultaneously.

This was a technique that only an excellent magician could perform.

But Alphonse manipulated the fiery arrows with ease.

"If you keep extinguishing them one by one, it'll never end."

Saying this to Mina, Alphonse smiled.

In contrast, Mina's mouth turned downward, and her eyes took on a strong light.

Alphonse released a large number of fireballs.

In the next moment, Mina's body was enveloped in a blue light.

The fireballs disappeared upon touching this light.

"...You can even use defensive magic."

Alphonse's smile deepened.

"Then, next is..."

"Stop there!"

The teacher's voice echoed.

"I've seen your skills. We'll continue this tomorrow, so go back."

As the two returned, Professor Leibniz looked at the other students, who had tense expressions from watching the battle.

"Don't be discouraged, they're the odd ones. With training, you can reach their level too."

The teacher said this with a wry smile.

"Wow... Mina is amazing."

Hearing Franziska's story, Hanna's eyes widened.

"I want to be able to use magic like that too."

"What's it like in Class 3?"

When Mina asked, Emma and Hanna exchanged glances.

"In the morning, we only did introductions and learned the basics of magic..."

"...But a little bit..."

"A little bit?"

"Yesterday, someone was complaining about the crystal results, remember?"

"...Yes."

The image of the heroine flashed in Mina's mind.

"That person was complaining in class too, saying it was unfair to be in Class 3."

"Well, with that level of magic, it's a good thing they're in Class 3."

Franziska spoke.

"If you're dissatisfied with Class 3, you should increase your magic power and become better at using magic."

"Can magic power be increased?"

"Yes, with training."

Hearing Franziska's answer, Emma and Hanna exchanged glances.

"Great!"

"Let's work hard!"

"Do you two want to join the magic corps?"

"Yes! ...Will you, Lady Franziska, also join the magic corps?"

"———Actually, I wanted to be born a boy and become a knight."

Franziska sighed.

"Other countries have female knights, but this country doesn't. But since I have magic power, I decided to become a magician. The magic corps accepts women."

"...But, don't you have a fiancé?"

Mina recalled her morning conversation with Alphonse.

"Wouldn't you have to leave if you get married...?"

"Yes, I have an agreement with the other party that I can be free until I get married."

Franziska answered.

"But if I become a magician so valuable that the magic corps can't afford to lose me, I might not have to leave... The engagement itself might even be called off. I'll work hard."

"...You don't want to get married?"

"Do you dislike your fiancé?"

"My fiancé is a very good person and understands my feelings. But I don't want to give up on my dreams."

Franziska said this with a face full of strong resolve.