"Let's start with why she's here. The other day, there was a Knight Killer."

"The 'Knight Killer'?

Listening to me, Aria and Aena each reacted with surprise.

I couldn't help being surprised... I couldn't hide my surprise when I heard from Helen myself.

"'Knight Killer'... in this neighborhood?

"It's not near the school. And it's happening everywhere, not just in this area. That's why the Knights are on special alert. The reason she's here is to respond to the" Knight Killer. "At least two knights above the rank of first class will act."

"... hmm, I see. I mean, at least you're a first class knight."

"Ah, yes. I belonged to the Knights of Armor...."

"I understand the situation. So Alta's basically going to act with Helen... is that it?

I asked her to confirm.

I nod to the question. [M] Beyond being an order, I can't act alone on the grounds that I'm okay.

After all, Helen came here on Remille's orders.

If you refuse it, she will be in trouble.

"You don't know who did this, do you?

"That's right. If you look at what's happening all over the country, it must be a multiple offender. However, none of the knights have committed crimes against the mighty, and we have been successfully destroyed. You can think of your enemies as quite capable."

I see. Yeah, I'm convinced. "

"That's right... I can't help it in such a situation. I know why you're acting together."

"We appreciate your understanding. That's all I can tell you."

At least that's the end of what Aria wanted to hear.

At least the knights aren't here because they're targeting England - and she'll be relieved to know that.

Anyway, I'd like to talk to you about something more than just this.

"... but that means that the teacher will also be targeted, right? Like before."

"It used to be aimed at me, but this time it's a little different. Looks like you're targeting the knights indiscriminately. That's a lot of talent."

"That's even more true. Sensei... at least, the strongest person I know. That's why there's a good chance they'll come after the teacher."

"I can't deny it. However, it would be more convenient if you targeted me. [M] I want to keep the damage to the knights to a minimum."

"Sensei... well, I'm sure you can win. But if you say there are many enemies, I'm worried. Me too..."

"Aria, you are a student. I know what you're capable of, but I can't let you walk around in the middle of the night... that's dangerous."

"Ah, but...."

Aria doesn't seem to agree with me. [M] I knew she wanted to help.

However, the situation is different this time. The target is a knight, and it is unlikely that England will be targeted so far.

In that situation - involving Aria, a student, is not something that can be done as a lecturer or as a knight.

"It would also be helpful if you could understand this."

"I-I don't understand."

It was Aina, not Aria, who answered my words. [M] Everyone on the spot turned to Aina.

Ana continued her words with a serious expression.

"I was watching the training earlier. England and Aria are not as powerful as I am, but they must both be. Not to mention that Aria has the ability to search for enemies alongside Merche? I think that would be more useful than those knights."

"That... might be so. But..."

"Is she a student? Fuhah, I heard the reason earlier. Then what are you doing practicing for them? To make it stronger, I guess. And they're strong enough - but they're dangerous enough to stay back? Of course you're not convinced. Alta, to be perfectly clear... you're too protective. I think it's the same as" insulting "to say back to someone who can fight."

With Anna telling me so much, I feel a little surprised. [M] ― ― From what I have just said, it seems that Aena intends to welcome England and Aria as allies.

It seems that what we were watching earlier was not just a tour.

--Certainly, the strength of England and Aria is guaranteed by me who is practicing. Neither of us is a man who would never be late, even if his enemies were skilled.

And yet, it's 'insulting' not to let them fight...? I didn't stop anyone who decided to fight as a swordsman. [M]

I may have changed my mind a little. [M] Should I say - especially this time?

"Sensei, I'm fine. I can fight, and I can decide to run if I think it's dangerous. At least I think I'll be useful to the teacher."

Following Aena's words, Aria said with a resolute expression.... I didn't originally expect her to back off. I wanted to convince you somehow, but I can't help it any more than Anna told me to.

I sigh and raise my hands to calm them down. [M]

"... hah, I see. It may be impossible to keep your mouth shut for as long as you've heard the story. Aria, as I said before..."

"Don't do anything on your own, right? Yeah, I know that."

Really? Well, I'll let you help me. Is that all right? Aena. "

"Well, as far as I'm concerned, I really wanted him to help me."

"... thank you for convincing me, but I'm not convinced that you're stronger."

"Hmm? What, you want to try it?

Fine, I'll give you another one.

"Yes, please calm down. We're friends, so don't fight here. Understood?

"... yes"

Hmm, I can't help it.

"... Er, I mean... Aria and Aena over there? So you're glad you're gonna help us, right? Uh, okay, this? Students and Empire princesses!?

Helen.

"Yes, yes!"

Anna called out the name of the upset Helen.

With a sharp gaze on Helen, Anna opens her mouth.

"I recognize the strength of Alta and Aria. Not here, including England. But I still don't know what you're capable of. I'm a first class officer, but I don't intend to work with people who don't have the strength. Helen, show me what you can do."

"Yeah, yeah, let me see what I can do."

In a moment, Helen's words were cut off.

Anna stood up and pointed the knife out of her pocket at Helen.

However, Helen took hold of the blade by pinching it with her index finger and thumb.

"Ah, I'm glad it's not dangerous."

"... fuha, that's a good reaction rate. I like it - you can stay here."

"Oh, thank you, thank you? Eh, that...? Was that what you said...?

"Mr. Helen, first of all, will you calm down and listen to me? Aena, from what I've just told you, I'm going to continue with yesterday's story, including the members here."

"Oh, that's what I'm talking about. No matter how many strong people there are, it won't hurt. But... that's it. Let's get England on the spot."

"Then I'll..."

"No, Mr. Aria, please stay put."

"! Sensei...?

"I will accept your cooperation. But Mr. Iris isn't here. Don't get involved if you don't know it. Is that all right with you?

I shouted at Aina. [M]

Ana takes it and sighs small.

"... that's fine. It is not like asking questions. I'll leave the decision to you. Now, let's continue the conversation. It's about our enemies."

That's how I got to hear from Anna.

I decided not to worry about the line of sight from Aria to me at this time.