I got up with a stretch, exhaling as the warm light entered my cold room through the window. However, while doing that, a prickling pain came from under my belly.

"...ah. So it's already That Time again." I muttered, slightly dispirited.

Huff... thankfully, I had honed my body so this much of pain is fine. Also, giving inscriptions on my underwear was another excellent idea. As expected of Alia. With this Comfort Zone, I could work out just fine.

"Still... why now of all time?" I grumbled while recognizing how irregular my period is.

While I didn't notice during my first cycle, when I heard of the maids chatting about it I became inclined to know more. In the end, I consulted with Alia as she seemed to stay the same even if the sky fell down.

But... to think that Anise said she endured through willpower alone, I was reminded of a character that always shouted 'You lack guts!' while striking a pose.

"Haa... aren't there normal people in this world...?" I put a hand on my face.

After a moment, I shook my head, dispelling my mind boggling matters and changed my clothes.

-

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-

-

Once done changing and taking the needed items with me, I joined with my friends in the cafeteria. There were Alia and Anise yet they were somehow glaring at each other. Again.

"...hey, aren't you two arguing a lot more than the usual? What happened?" I asked with drooping eyes.

" "It's nothing important!!" "

...right. Whatever you say. And enough with the exchange of glares!

I sat down with a toasted bread, muffin and a cup of fresh milk, choosing the easy to digest menu for the day. It might be not much but I don't want to get fat as it will hinder my movement nor do I want to have stomachache this early. Also...

"Where's Leon? Is he not up yet?" I asked upon noticing the absence of a certain red boy. A beat later and I realized a certain little flower isn’t here either.

Then I heard an 'ugh!' coming from Anise and a snort coming from Alia. The two were back in bad mood. They glared at each other again and after a while... Alia sighed, seemingly accepting her defeat.

"Leonhardt. He is... still asleep." She said. "And it is Lily's turn to wake him up."

"Huh?"

What did... what did she just say? Lily has a turn to wake Leon up? Wait, I probably mispelled it. If Lily has a turn, then...

"Wait. Are YOU three waking him up every SINGLE night!?" I half-shouted in shock.

The duo averted my gaze and sweats dropped down their temples. Anise even dared to do the whistle act! Classic! But not effective!!

"Well, now... aren't you all as close as sticky rice? Hmm?" I smiled a cold smile, causing the two to shudder with pale complexion.

"No no no! We take turn! And we don't do anything!" Anise shouted in defense.

“Indeed. We have not done anything wrong.” Alia put up an excuse.

"Yet, but anyway... Something really happened while I was gone huh? I can't believe the three of you compete for my younger brother." I said while rubbing my temple.

Then I sighed, more or less in resignation and worry as I couldn't believe how aggressive these three. I didn't really mind though but for Leon's case...

"You know... Anise, Alia. I won't say anything against this. You all are my friends, and if you believe what you do is right, then I'll help you to the best of my ability."

"...I thought you'd scold us." Alia said.

"I would, had you bothered to conceal what your real purpose is." I replied with a slight glare.

The two yet again shuddered and almost leaped from their seats. Anise though was more or less surprised while Alia... to think she was agitated. Well, this is an interesting sight but...

"Don't worry. I don't even know what you want to do, but it's probably not rosy, much less legal." I said with a wave of hand.

Ah, seeing you two staring blankly at me like that proved my theory as correct. Sheesh, these girls have no knack in acting covertly.

"How...? Since when?" Alia asked.

"Alia, did you know that your hand when holding your staff trembled when you faced off with Anise?" I answered. "You never hesitated when casting magic before."

The blue girl gasped in surprise, her azure blue pupils rounded and her shoulders shook visibly. She's shaken huh? I'll leave her alone so next is...

"And Anise. Your aura resembles Leon's now. I dare say the two of you has a private time or... Something happened that it caused your aura to change. No?" I asked for confirmation at the maroon-haired girl next.

She was silent, very uncharacteristic of her who always smiled dumb smiles every time and everywhere. Seeing how the two acted in a counter-opposite manner, I once again sighed. Maybe I talked too much. But I can't help it.

"...to be honest, I don't mind if you won't talk about it. You have the right to protect your secrets. But I also have the right to protect my family." I put emphasis on the last two words, showing how serious I was.

Anise curved her lips awkwardly, showing a bitter smile while Alia hung her head down. Her arms still trembling and...

"...even though... even though he's a demon...?" She asked in a low voice, almost inaudible.

Oh my. Looks like the Aqua Mage has realized. I guess this would happen as inevitable since mages are all more sensitive to the change of mana in the air.

Demons actually don't need to eat as they are born as magical entities rather than flesh and blood creatures. All they need is raw external mana to suck in and they could live off it for centuries. However, blood and flesh is needed to hold down their insane instincts and greed for destruction.

Leon's a demi-human so he rarely had time to go berserk. Not to mention... he still has the thirst for revenge. It's almost like a curse dragging him away from hoping for a future beyond it.

"Leon is my younger brother. We're family and I am the one who took him in. The fact isn't going to change even if he wanted to become a Demon King." I finally answered.

Alia did not say anything at first, her shoulders still trembling and it even caused Anise to stare with worry.

"Ali-" Anise’s words were cut off the moment Alia steadied her bearing, glaring at me with a gaze fervent of suspicions and hatred, also distrust.

"Why? How can you put so much trust in him?" She said with cold tone colder than the arctic.

Hm... I guess it's far simpler than you want to know though. But judging from her words... I exhaled and rested my head on my hand.

“If someone is crying, why can't I help them?" I answered with a smile.

"...how can you be so carefree...?" Alia asked again.

"Then - do you think it's wrong to have faith? To believe in someone even if it's your friend... or family?" I asked again.

We were silent, I observed as the two’s eyes cast down in contemplation though Anise looked like a kicked puppy now. I feel bad for ruining the atmosphere. But I can't joke around when the situation calls for it.

Finishing my breakfast, I tidied them, placing the plate and glass on the tray and stood up off the seat.

"Well - I'm going to go now. Have a fun day and... please take care of my little brother." I said, flashing a warm smile at them.

Without waiting for an answer, I turned my back and left the duo to their own devices. Of course... I know that there's a limit for what I can do, even as an older sister. But... if Leon can find that which I found... I'm sure he will stumble on the right path.

That's why I'm leaving him in your care, my friends.

-

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"Sorry! Did I make you wait?" I rushed to the front gate.

A young man leaned against the gate and when he noticed my arrival, he greeted me.

"You're on time. Just like always." Fei smiled.

The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

Uh...! So dazzling! I know that he rarely smiled but isn't this just way too bright of a change!? It's not good for my psychological health! The throbbing from below my stomach is killing me!

"...what's wrong? Charlotte, your face is red." Fei pointed out.

"I-It's nothing...! Really!" I replied while taking a step back and waving my hands.

Uuu... as expected, I can't get used to it. His honest smile is like... 1000% greater and more fabulous than his usual smiles full of cynical signs. Hauu... I'm getting lightheaded!

"Calm down, me! Don't let it distract you...!" I scolded myself.

While chanting mantras, I began to check on my Soul Essence, mana flow and aura. Finding nothing was out of ordinary, I calmed down but they're in excitable state.

Uuh... better be safe than sorry. I decided and focused myself to mend them back to default.

"...it suits you." Fei suddenly commented as he gazed at me.

I was taken aback at first, but I huffed and said, "Un... it took me a while. I don't think I'm used to it yet though."

I twirled and the Battle Dress's tail followed me. It's nothing more than an armor set with modified clothes under it providing magical resistances and slight placebo effects. It consisted of metal breastplate, sleeveless uniform, something similar to sode (sleeve extension usually seen in kimono or miko outfit) wrapping my right arm while a shoulder guard and scale gauntlet covering my left arm. There were also a short skirts, black knee socks, greaves complete with foot plates for protection.

Hm... I dare say it's quite adequate though a bit jumbled together. Considering how I wielded my sword recklessly, any armor covering my dominant arm would fly off. Although I do have some problems with the length of skirts or the extension of the dress tailing me behind like under cloak, they worked well in following my movement, also short enough to not let me trip around.

My only concern is the sleeve part resembling a certain Youkai Exterminator’s. She’s got no luck in gaining donation after all.

"As expected, the Master's handiwork is splendid." Fei commented as he appraised my appearance. "But... is it fine for you to use only sword?"

Ah, he noticed. I looked at the swords hanging on my waist. From the note delivered along with the set of equipment, it seemed I was better off using two-handed sword rather than dual-wielding. One reason being my strength aside, I could block incoming attack with my left hand.

From thickness and sturdiness alone, it seemed the gauntlet was made as an alternative of shield too. So yeah... it'll be like shinken shirahadori (blocking slash with clapping hands).

"I'm not that good in defending but I guess I'll try. Also... I have Radiata as a spare."

"...is that alright?"

I smiled at that, "I have you at my side. I'll leave what I can't do to you."

Fei's cheeks went red for a bit because of my words. He exhaled and shook his head.

"The same goes for me. I'll leave what I can't do to you, Charlotte."

"Of course. I don't like others leering at my back so make sure you do your job as my backup." We both exchanged bashful smiles and began conversing.

"Come to think of it, what about our attendance?"

"Because of a certain someone, this Field Assignment turned into Royal Decree and since the school is technically located under the domain of the kingdom, we've got freepasses."

Oh, so that's it. But if it's Royal Decree, wouldn't common sense dictate that there's a need for troops to mobilize? Not to mention we do have two persons who're from the Royal Family and an illegitimate descendant of a noble household.. After a while...

"Whaaat. . I thought it's something like a doll but to think you got yourself a rare breed... It seems you like to show off, Empty."

Hm? I felt the air tingling for a moment. Turning to the left, there was a shadow of a person with small frame and medium stature.

Though saying that, she's probably two heads taller than me. Her flowing glossy brown hair swayed as she approached us. Wearing a dress with needless amount of skin exposure, even I was embarrassed and I found myself narrowing my eyes upon that bombshell body. She even had intimidating gaze as if everything was below her.

Now this… is no good. I'm sure she's not a good woman.

"......it took you quite a while. I'm tired of waiting." Fei said without any sort of formality or politeness.

"Be quiet. I'm not like you who are fond of commoners. As a royal blooded noble, it is your responsibility to never complain in front of me." The lady replied.

...Uwaah. I thought it's just a mere false alarm but... so it's a seriously Rich Girl type of person. After that ugly spaghetti, it's his female version now? Hm? She looked at me and smiled.

"And you? Are you his Servant? Or nothing more than a filthy whore in need of touch?"

...that's it. She's downright rude like a bitch. My first impression of her was as such that I didn't hesitate in putting up a facade. I bowed and curtsied as I introduced myself.

"Pleased to meet you. My name is Charlotte Augmund. I shall accompany the two of you in this travel this time." I introduced myself with no shred of intention in getting along.

The lady stilled for a second. She looked as if she wanted to say 'is this a joke or something?' but with my greeting... she was forced to return it else it probably would degrade her image.

"Hmph. A mere impostor taking up the revered bloodline's name?" She snarled, "Whatever your petty trick is, I - Eliza Sanctum Raumia is not one that will ever believe your words."

Yes yes. I expected this coming but she really is blood-related with Fei huh? They don't look similar, have nothing in common and to be honest...

Her personality is repulsive. Fei was a prick at first too but not so much like her. Well, fine. Since she's an ’ally’ then I will simply ignore her insults. I'm used to being badmouthed now not to mention this bitch isn't older than me. Heck, do you think you can fool a 30-years old reincarnated person like me?

Fei was about to scowl but he turned around and interjected, "The steeds are ready."

"Oh?" The brown haired lady tilted her head. "You have done your preparation well. I'll praise you for that, Empty. To think ‘something like you’ can do what a stable boy can do has earned you my praise."

"........."

...Urgh. The silence. It hurts. And I want to punch this bitch. Why's she calling my knight as 'Empty'? Is it because of his past or is it because she too treated her as nothing but a meaningless existence?

As I thought, this won't be a pleasant job.

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A/N: I'm sorry! For the tardiness AND the lateness!

To be honest, I didn't expect to be stuck in my family home for THIS long (about +two weeks). And the internet, the computer, the cpu also the printer were all busted by thunderstrike. When I found out, I dropped my bag and cried for AAALLL of my personal data including hard-earned visual novel 'clear' save files were wiped out clean, also the installed paid programs.

After the Hysteria, I ended up being lectured for no good reasons. Not that I think I am innocent but I simply... somehow, feel disconnected the more I talk to my family. Haa... anyway, sorry everyone. Now I have to deal with booking for clinic queue, going back to relative house (where I currently freeload at), university semester bill ALSO guidance counseling test in a matter of two days at most.

Any further delay will probably make my parents strangle me. Or probably a massive beatdown. The only irony was just BECAUSE they asked me to pay a visit that ALL this happened.