Knights of Tezoth

— I am not one to foul my own nest. Therefore, instead of resorting to cheap dirty tricks, I prefer to prove my worth solely through useful deeds, — commented Stefania in response to the chocolate knight's words. — I hope you share this sentiment.

"Wow, what a bow!" — the girl thought with excitement. She would have examined it herself, or better yet, tried it out.

Meanwhile, as the conversation went on and the young heir was examining the interesting weapon, participation in various competitions was announced. The girl could not deny herself the pleasure of defending Valentine's honor, and so she decided to take part in every event she possibly could.

— Speaking of valiant deeds! — Stefania addressed Chonchonlia. — Right now, we are all being given the chance to prove our usefulness through quite worthy endeavors. Do you plan to participate?

Revan, I don't quite understand the mechanics of the historical contest. Will there be some kind of technical specification? Or are we just supposed to write some kind of essay off the top of our heads based on all the historical events you've laid out?

- Undoubtedly! And I am certain - the list of those who share this opinion is not limited to just our names. - For someone from a "rural" region, the Milk Chocolate Knight held herself surprisingly well in the kingdom's high society. - To be honest, I hadn't intended to, but since you're putting it so bluntly... I suppose I'll have to join in as well!

— It will be a pleasure to see you in action! — Stefania cheered. — It's always interesting to see the fighting styles characteristic of other regions. Especially since I see that, like me, you gravitate toward ranged weapons. That means it will be twice as fun.

Stefania averted her gaze from the foreigner and the young heir toward Adalard, to check how busy her lord was at the moment. Then she continued watching what the one-eyed man was doing. Since she was the only knight who had come from Guildaria, she would have to defend the honor of her homeland in all the available trials. Which meant that, willingly or not, she would have to divert her attention from the task Adalard had assigned her. And before diving headfirst into the competitions, she needed to discuss this with her lord.

- And may whoever wins, any possible grudges melt away like chocolate on the surface of the tongue!

Aldelion and the Mercenary shifted slightly, causing the details of their conversation to become much clearer to Stefania than before.

- Are you absolutely sure you don't want to take part in the archery contest? An archer of your caliber would surely put on a good showing!

- When you reach my level, you'll understand - it's better not to show off your skill unnecessarily; it will bring you nothing but envy and suspicion from ill-wishers, and both can be detrimental.

- ... You are magnificent!

Adalard, meanwhile, had just finished chatting with the ruler of Albus about something.