As the identity of the boy Mezzlen had fallen for remained unclear, my life continued as usual, including my magic swordsmanship classes with Ethan. After a week of rest following our return from the dungeon, I was feeling in good shape. Unfortunately, so was my sparring opponent.

The only issue: my opponent was in just as good shape as I was.

The moment the bell rang, Natalie, one of the Four Elite of the swordsmanship division, came at me with rapid, precise thrusts of her rapier. She might not have been able to use magic like I could, but her …