I Was Reincarnated As The Older Brother Of A Villainess Destined to Die, So I Want To Change The Future By Raising My Younger Sister With My Own Hands. I Am The Strongest In The World, But My Little Sister Must Be The Cutest In The World - Volume 4 Chapter 5.1
Intermediate Exam (1)
After escorting the headmaster to the academy, I returned to the mansion.
It was midday, and I had returned earlier than anticipated. I decided to spend the extra time with Caron and the others, to rejuvenate my spirits.
“Welcome back,”
The staff, led by Shion, welcomed me at the mansion.
Their orderly bows reflected their well-rounded education. I was genuinely pleased that they were genuinely happy about my return.
Especially Shion, her delight was particularly evident. Though she tried to maintain a cool expression, her emotions were dancing within her. If she were a beast-person, her tail would likely be wagging vigorously. It’s these kinds of contrasts that I find most endearing about her.
Thanks to Shion and the others, the tense feelings within me were somewhat eased.
“I’m back,”
As a gesture of gratitude, I gently stroked Shion’s cheek.
Instantly, her face turned bright red.
“E-eh!?”
She’s still weak to this kind of playfulness. Well, let’s leave it at that for now. There are others around.
After a quick pat, I inquired, “How about Caron?”
“C-Caroline-sama is currently in a mock battle at the training grounds with Nina-sama. Minerva-sama is meditating with Marina-sama, supervised by Noma-sama. Lastly, Orca-sama is overseeing Dan-san and Miria-san’s studies.”
As expected from Shion, she quickly reboots and answers my question.
It’s mostly what I expected, but… I wonder if Dan and Miria are here.
“Studying for the exam, I presume?”
“Yes. The two of them came to Orca-sama seeking help.”
“Ah, I see. I can imagine.”
Both of them were disastrous during the entrance exam’s written portion. It’s hard to believe they possess the academic skills to pass the intermediate exam. Moreover, the fact that they’re seeking guidance the day before the exam speaks volumes.
On the other hand, Minerva and the others are probably training in magical techniques. Meditation is a fundamental practice, boosting magical power and refining magic manipulation. While it might be essential for Minerva, it’s crucial training for Marina.
Marina, due to my influence, possesses a higher concentration of magical energy than usual. It might sound like an advantageous trait, but it’s actually different. The higher the density of magical energy, the more challenging it becomes to manipulate, making it a hindrance for Marina, who is almost a novice in magic. Currently, she can barely handle magic properly.
Although she aims to become a Spirit Mage in the future, it doesn’t mean she can neglect regular magic. Moreover, even when transferring magical energy to spirits, a certain level of magical manipulation skill is required. Therefore, to acquire at least a minimum level of proficiency, she has been focusing on meditation recently.
By the way, in Foranada, there is a qualification line for magical manipulation skills set by me and Noma. It’s divided into three grades: “Proficient,” “Master,” and “Grandmaster.” Currently, only Shion and Orca have reached the “Grandmaster” level. I believe Minerva is probably aiming for “Grandmaster.” Keep up the good work.
But I digress.
“I’m going to check in on the training grounds.”
Because I was a bit concerned about Nina, I decided to go see how they were doing.
Of course, Shion wanted to come along, but I declined her offer.
“There’s something I’d like you to do, Shion.”
“Please, tell me anything.”
“Take the usual three with you and investigate this person. If possible, within three days.”
I handed her a piece of paper. On it was the minimum profile of a certain individual…
Having received it, Shion tilted her head in confusion.
“The deadline is not an issue, but… Are you planning to involve Galna and the others?”
“I believe they have the necessary skills. In fact, Galna is quite suited for this task.”
“Since it’s a covert mission, I agree.”
“I’m counting on you.”
Her scepticism was valid, but she didn’t need to worry so much. In fact, it’s about time she started pulling her weight… It’s becoming a bit of a problem on our end.
Although Shion seemed dissatisfied, she eventually nodded. Time was limited, so she promptly took action.
Now, it’s my turn to move.
Once I saw Shion off, I headed to the training grounds as I had announced.
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