From Akira's perspective

"Still planning to go deeper!? Haven't we practically secured our spot in the intermediate class already?" Allegro exclaimed.

"I really want to copy a certain magic by ear. I need to reach that level," I replied.

"Hmm," Allegro looked me up and down.

"Acting all high and mighty, huh? I don't know what magic you're after, but good luck, comrade!"

"Yes!"

"Both of you, do your best. I'll leave you two alone now, go on like a married couple," Sonata teased, as if setting up a blind date.

"What...!" Elize's exaggeratedly bashful reaction actually helped me relax and listen to the comment calmly.

"It's not like that..."

Elize turned robotic.

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"Hehe, good luck, Akira-kun. We're seriously rooting for you guys," Sonata said, casting a dungeon escape spell, and then they faded out.

Time to express my feelings.

"Elize!"

"Yes?"

"Um, you know, I was thinking of saying this once we made it to the intermediate class. Since we can continue our studies next year without worries, um, you and I..."

I could hear Elize nervously swallowing.

She seemed to anticipate what was coming.

"Marry me!"

In this world, marriage among students isn't unusual.

In fact, about one in ten pairs at school get married while still studying.

Back in Japan, where I come from, our age would be considered too young, but apparently, it's different here.

I want to grow up with Elize, to have children with her.

Reflecting on our adventures made me feel this way.

"Akira-kun..." Elize using "kun" is rare; she usually calls me by my name without it.

"I need some time to think, can I respond within ten days?"

"Ten days then?"

"Yes. I need to face myself and my future... I'm sorry. It's not that I dislike you, Akira."

"I understand. Sorry for bringing it up during our adventure."

"Don't worry about it. Yeah. I knew boys felt this way, and I shouldn't have led you on. I should have seriously considered that such a day would come."

I wondered.

What if Elize rejects me?

It's unlikely our pair would dissolve, but would we end up continuing our student life awkwardly burdened?

I regretted my impulsiveness a little.

And so, we headed to the 32nd basement.

We recognized a familiar face ahead.