No one's POV

Eugeo: It's been 3 days. It feels weird that nothing's happened after they hinted of mischief.

3 days ago, Eugeo was practicing his sword skill alone in the training area. Where he was approached by the first and second seat disciples, Raios and Humbert. Thing ended up with Eugeo having a sparring match with Humbert with a draw as a conclusion. But what Eugeo couldn't make out of was their intention. Eugeo was prepared for any kind of petty revenge scheme, but for the next few days after the impromptu duel, Raios and Humbert stayed quiet. When he passed them at the disciples' dorm or the central building, Humbert would give him a hateful look, but not so much as a word otherwise. Just in case, he told Zora about the incident at the training hall and warned him to be on guard, but the nobles hadn't bothered him at all.

Zora: I don't think they've had a sudden change of heart, either. But if you think about it, it's got to be difficult to pull off their kind of trick here at this dorm.

He sipped his cofil tea, black and unsweetened. It was nine thirty at night after a wild week, with the day of rest ahead. They'd finished with their daily practice, dinner, and bath, and at this time on a weekday, they'd be in their beds sleeping—but it had become their custom to spend this one night a week in the common room, sipping tea and talking things over.

Zora: Also, the Taboo Index forbids it, exactly. 'Thou shalt not intentionally damage the life of another without a reason listed elsewhere.' Isn't stealing also a terrible taboo?

Eugeo: Stealing means to take another's possessions and make them your own without permission. It takes twenty-four hours for the sacred text in the Stacia Window that indicates ownership to pass from person to person once the item has been moved or placed in the other's home. That's why, even if you have an agreement to give something to another person, you can still fairly request its return within the day. And if it's removed without permission, you can place the item anywhere that's not your own home, which will not overwrite the ownership and thus doesn't count as stealing. You aren't telling me... you've forgotten such a basic tenet of the law, are you?

Eugeo stared at Zora, the infamous lost child of Vecta, but the other boy merely ruffled his black hair and laughed in embarrassment.

Zora: Oh, r-right, of course. No, I haven't forgotten. I remember...but wait. What about in that story, then? When Bercouli tried to steal the Blue Rose Sword from the dragon's lair—wasn't that breaking a taboo?

Eugeo: A dragon isn't a person.

Zora: Ah...gotcha.

Eugeo: Back on topic, while it's not a taboo to hide someone's belongings for a prank, if left out in the open on nobody's territory, the item's life will start to dwindle, so if it's not returned before then, that's damage to another's property. So no matter what, my shoes would always be back by the evening. But...what does this have to do with Raios and Humbert behaving themselves?

Zora blinked, apparently forgetting that he had brought it up in the first place.

Zora: My point is, this school has a bunch of its own rules in addition to the Taboo Index, right? And there's an entry about going into the private rooms of other students or faculty without permission. That means they can't get in here, and all our property is inside our room. We'd have to forget something important out in a public... space...

He trailed off for some reason, but then regained his train of thought.

Zora: And we haven't done that, of course. So it's essentially impossible for Raios and Humbert to play pranks on us the same way that Zink picked on poor little Eugeo back in Rulid Village.

Eugeo: Don't you 'poor little' me. Hmm...but now that you mention it, I guess you're right that at the disciples' dorm, there's no way to harass someone worse than simple insults.

Zora: *grin* And if the insult crosses a line, it becomes subject to disciplinary punishment.

Disciplinary punishment was a special right of the elite disciples, a kind of staff-proxy authority to uphold the rules. If a student committed some rudeness or slight that was not against the rules but deemed worthy of discipline, the elite disciple could choose to punish the student at his or her own discretion. Zora himself had recently been the subject of this system, when he got mud on the uniform of Volo Levantein, previous first seat of the academy. Volo used his disciplinary punishment privilege to challenge Zora to a duel.

This privilege was customarily used on primary and secondary trainees, but there was no stipulation in the school rules that it couldn't be used against another disciple. So it was theoretically possible for a disciple to punish another disciple, and this was the reason that Raios's and Humbert's japes and insults had decreased since the new school year started. Hearing that made Eugeo lost in thoughts.

Zora: If they can't mess with our stuff, then they'll have to go after us. The most direct method would be starting a duel and landing a blow, but you've already proven you can work a draw against them. The only other thing I can imagine is...tempting me with promises of wealth and turning me against you.

Eugeo: Huh...?

Eugeo whimpered, then clamped his mouth shut, but Zora just smirked.

Zora: Have no fear, young man. Big Bro will never abandon you.

Eugeo: I—I wasn't worried about that! But if not money...I wonder if a big plate of Gottoro's special meat buns would tempt you.

Zora: That would definitely work.

Zora admitted, deadly serious, then laughed before his expression got tense again.

Zora: But enough jokes. I think we can rule out the likelihood that they'll try to mess with us or our belongings. But that does mean they could try anything that doesn't fall under the Taboo Index or school rules. I highly doubt they have any intention of handing over the first and second seat...Let me know if there's anything we're overlooking, Eugeo.

Eugeo: Yeah, I'll think about it. It's less than a month to the first testing match, after all. We need to make sure we're in the best possible condition to face them.

Zora: Right...On the other hand, maybe they were threatening us with no intent to follow up, just to keep us nervous and on edge. Don't lose your head —stay cool!

Eugeo looked confused.

Eugeo: What's that? S-Stay...

Zora: That's the first innermost secret of the Aincrad style. I guess you could say it means 'be calm.' You can also use it as a farewell. Kind of like "See you".

Eugeo: Ahh, I see. I'll have to remember that. Stay cool, stay cool.

The unfamiliar phrase was in the same sacred tongue as the special Aincrad techniques, but he found it surprisingly comfortable once he tried it out. He repeated it over and over under his breath, until Zora started looking awkward and clapped his hands together.

Zora: Well! The ten o'clock bells will ring soon, so I guess we should call it a night. As for tomorrow, I actually have an errand to run...

Eugeo: Oh no you don't, Zora! You can't slip your way out of this one. We're spending tomorrow's Day of Rest with Tiese and Ronie, and heading into the campus forest for a get- together, remember?

Eugeo said, glaring at his partner. Based on Zora's reaction when the idea was brought up, Eugeo had been expecting him to come up with some reason to weasel his way out of it.

Eugeo: Listen, it's been a month now since we started tutoring those two. Sortiliena was nice to you last year when you were her page, right?

Zora: Whenever we weren't training, yes. Wow...that name brings back memories. I wonder how she's doing...

Eugeo: Don't go off into a flashback. My point is, now it's your turn to be the good tutor. They're coming over at nine in the morning, so make sure you're ready by then!

Eugeo commanded, jabbing a finger at Zora. He gave an easy affirmative and got up from the couch.

Zora: Okay, wake me up at eight o'clock, then. Good night, Eugeo.

Eugeo: Eight is too late! Seven thirty! Good night, Zora! Stay cool.

His partner turned to look over his shoulder with a smirk, just short of his bedroom door.

Zora: Listen, I know I said that it's a farewell of sorts, but not before bed every night. Save it for a proper parting.

Eugeo: Sheesh, this saying is more complicated than I thought. Fine...see you tomorrow, then.

Zora: Later.

Zora said, waving and retreating into his room. Eugeo blew out the lamp on the wall and opened the door on the opposite wall.

(Timeskip)

The Swordcraft Academy grounds, surrounded by tall steel fences, contained a forest that occupied a third of its space. The ancient trees were covered in golden moss, and the way the sun filtered down to the green undergrowth reminded Eugeo of home, but being located so much farther south meant that the wildlife was more varied. Here and there were new creatures he'd never seen up north soaking up the sun: tiny foxes, for instance, or long, narrow snakes colored blue-green. He'd been here over a year now, but the sight still fascinated him.

Tiese: Eugeo-senpai, are you listening? Senpai?

Eugeo then was brought out his thoughts and he looked over at Tiese.

Eugeo: Sorry, I'm listening. Um....what were you saying?

Tiese: So you weren't listening!

Tiese said with a puff as she looked away clearly annoyed, and Eugeo could only laugh awkwardly.

Eugeo: I-It's just that the forest is so beautiful, so I couldn't help it. There's rare animals here, too.

Tiese: Rare?

Eugeo: Look, like over there.

Eugeo then pointed at a golden fox.

Tiese: That's just a Golden Fox. There's tons of them living in tree growing in the city.

Eugeo: Huh...? Come to think of it, Tiese, you're from the capital, right?

Tiese: Yes.

Eugeo: Is your home nearby?

Tiese: My parent's home is in District 8, so its a little far from the academy, which is in District 5.

Eugeo: I see...Hmm?

Eugeo paused and turned to Tiese. The primary trainee uniform, which he'd thought a bit ugly when he wore it last year, seemed strangely fresh and refined on her. That made sense; if they hadn't been fellow students, frontier child Eugeo would never have any connection to someone like her.

Eugeo: Tiese, you're a noble, right? I thought I heard that all the noble mansions were concentrated in Districts Three and Four.

Tiese ducked her head in embarrassment, then shook it.

Tiese: Technically, my father's a sixth-rank peer...but we're barely lower nobles as it is. Only the fourth-rank and higher nobles can live in the areas near the imperial government. There are lots of restrictions on the fifth- and sixth-rank nobles. Father likes to say, 'I wish we were commoners; at least they don't have to fear the higher nobles' judicial authority'...Oh! Oh my goodness, I'm so sorry...

She bowed, ashamed that she'd said something she considered rude to Eugeo, whose entire family tree was common.

Eugeo: Don't worry about it. Besides, I thought all nobles had that judicial authority thing.

Tiese: Not at all! Judicial authority only extends down to fourth-rank. The lower nobles are actually subject to the judicial review of the higher ones. My father's a scribe for the government, and he says that many of the fifth- and sixth-rank nobles working at the palace and government building have been punished for upsetting higher nobles over some insignificant thing or another. Of course, they're civilized adults, so it's not physical punishment but docked pay and things like that.

Eugeo: Oh, I see...I didn't realize things could be that hard for nobility, too.

Eugeo murmured, surprised. The red-haired trainee blushed for some reason.

Tiese: M-my point is, being the heir to a sixth-rank noble house is noble in name alone. Our lifestyle is pretty much the same as any regular family.

Eugeo: Ohhh...

Eugeo couldn't affirm or deny this, only murmur vaguely. He considered the workings of the empire. The government's Basic Imperial Law laid out the structure of Norlangarthian society. But because the higher Taboo Index covered all crimes and punishments, the imperial law mostly dealt with the regulations of the various classes of citizens—in other words, the rights of the nobles and the rights of the common people.

In the law class of their first year, a certain black-haired student had asked the elderly teacher why the empire had nobles and commoners.

As a lower noble himself, the teacher was initially at a loss for words. Then he said firmly.

Eugeo: According to the prophecies passed down by the Axiom Church since time immemorial, one day the forces of darkness will invade through the four great passages: the Northern Cave, the Western Ravine, the Southern Corridor, and the Eastern Gate. In order to vanquish the subhuman scourge, all those in the four empires who have the calling of guards and soldiers must rise up to fight as the army of humanity. Our nobility hone their skill, learn sacred arts, and discipline their minds and bodies so that they may lead those forces.

While Eugeo was thrilled and moved by this answer, part of him was still conflicted. Two years ago, Eugeo and Zora had fought a band of goblins in that very Northern Cave the teacher mentioned. Sadly, the goblin captain had knocked him out in the midst of the fight, but the terrifying appearances and raspy, bestial voices of the creatures were still vivid in his memory. He and Zora decided never to mention the incident while at school. If they did, he suspected that half the female students might pass out in fright.

Eugeo never wanted to repeat that experience, of course. So he was extremely impressed by the bravery of the nobles to stand at the lead and battle those goblins and the even more fearsome orcs and ogres.

On the other hand, 380 years had passed since Stacia created the world. In all that time, the forces of darkness had never once invaded the human realm.

The higher nobles of the four empires were freed from their daily labor, lived in huge mansions, and even used their judicial authority on lower nobles—all for this supposed preparation against an enemy they'd never seen and whose arrival was uncertain... Tiese seemed to read Eugeo's mind and sighed.

Tiese: As I'm the eldest child, Father is hoping that by putting me into this school, I might be conferred a fourth-rank title by the time I take over the house, so that I won't be subject to judicial authority. If I'm chosen as the academy's representative and get far in the Imperial Battle Tournament, it might not be out of the question...But given that I was only eleventh on the entrance exam rankings, I suppose it might be pointless to hope.

She stuck out her tongue and grinned. Eugeo had to narrow his eyes, she felt so radiant to him. He'd come here on a very personal quest—to reunite with his childhood friend—but Tiese was learning swordfighting for the purpose of improving her family's lot in life. In a way, she seemed to embody the true glory of nobility.

Eugeo: No, Tiese...You're doing great. You worked so hard to make your father happy that you achieved a place in the top twelve primary trainees.

Eugeo told her, full of emotion.

Tiese: Oh, n-no! I just got lucky that the demonstration portion happened to line up with my own expertise. And my rank came after a lifetime of training, ever since I was three years old. What you're doing is way more impressive. It's hard enough to get here on a garrison recommendation, and not only did you succeed at that, you're now the fifth seat disciple. I'm actually really honored to be your page.

Eugeo: Aw, geez...

He bobbed his head and lifted a hand to ruffle his bangs in embarrassment, then realized it was exactly the sort of thing Kirito would do and quickly took his hand down. Tiese claimed that it was an "honor" to be his page, but for her and Eugeo, and Ronie and Zora, the matchups were more like the guidance of Stacia: in other words, total coincidence.

The elite disciples determined the pages' assignments by taking their pick, in order of rank. That meant that as first seat, Raios picked his page out of the top twelve new students first, then Humbert. Eugeo would be fifth and Zora sixth. But oddly enough, the two talked it over and decided to wait until the end. They wanted the two students whom none of the other ten disciples picked.

In other words, the two options left to them at the end were Tiese and Ronie. They both seemed at a loss for words when they realized it was two girls—Zora looked especially uneasy—but Eugeo was ultimately glad for it. After all, the sole, pitiful reason none of the other disciples had chosen the girls was because they were the only sixth-rank nobles of the bunch.

The girls had no idea what went on during the choosing process, and the boys had no reason to tell them. Eugeo was happy with Tiese as his page, and Zora was the same way with Ronie.

So Eugeo cleared his throat and switched topics to his own experience.

Eugeo: Actually, I didn't have an easy time getting into the academy. I was super nervous. In fact, it was half because of Zora that I made it in and got to be an elite disciple this year...

Tiese blinked, her eyes the color of leaves reddening in the autumn.

Tiese: What?! So Zora senpai's...better than you?

Eugeo: I'm finding it very difficult to say 'yes' when you phrase it that way...

Tiese laughed pleasantly, and he looked over his shoulder, worried that his partner wasn't actually at his page's side after all. Fortunately, he soon heard Zora's voice on the breeze.

Zora: So you see, when they attack with a high slash in the High-Norkia style, there are basically only two trajectories you need to prepare for—either straight overhead or diagonal from the top right. Anything else and they'll need to change their footing, so you'll have time to adjust accordingly. As for how to choose between overhead or top-right...

Eugeo(mind): Well, it might be dry, but at least Ronie seems to be listening to him.

Eugeo noted with a smirk, and looked forward again. So his reason for learning the sword was to reunite with Alice, and Tiese's and Ronie's were to improve the standing of their families. Meanwhile, at every opportunity, Zora claimed that his goal was the same as Eugeo's.

Eugeo wasn't going to doubt his friendship, but there were times that he felt that Zora's reason for practicing wasn't to gain some tangible goal but purely to master the art of the blade. Such was the perfect mesh of Zora's personality and his Aincrad style. They were practically one and the same.

So far, Eugeo had focused his attention solely on Raios and Humbert in preparation for the official matches next month. But it occurred to him now that, depending on how the matches played out, he might end up facing off against his good friend and teacher.

He couldn't win, of course. But more importantly, he couldn't even imagine crossing swords with Zora and giving him a serious fight. How would he summon strength into his blade? How would he execute his techniques against a friend...?

Tiese: Oh, how about the side of the pond there?

Tiese said suddenly, pointing ahead and rousing Eugeo from his thoughts. He followed her slender fingers to a thick, short bed of grass along the bank of a beautiful pond. It was the perfect place to set out a picnic.

Eugeo: Yeah, that looks good. Hey, Zora, Ronie! Let's have lunch next to the pond here!

Eugeo shouted over his shoulder. His best friend gave him that typical dazzling smile and waved. The four of them laid out their blanket on the grass and sat down in a little circle.

Zora: Ahh...I'm so hungry!

Zora complained, rubbing his stomach theatrically. The girls giggled and opened their picnic basket to set up the food.

Ronie: Um, we made it ourselves, so I hope you like it...

Ronie Arabel, primary trainee, as she shyly set out the plates. She wasn't nearly as nervous as she usually was. Eugeo was hoping that through this leisure activity, she would finally realize that the black-clad elite disciple was hardly as imposing as he looked, and then eventually get used to his tutelage.

Inside the large basket was a veritable feast of white-bread sandwiches packed with thinly sliced meat, fish, cheese, and herbs; fragrant fried chicken; and cake packed with dried fruit and nuts.

Tiese examined the remaining life of each dish, then Ronie led a premeal prayer of "Avi Admina." The words were barely out of their mouths before Zora was reaching for the food. He stuffed a large hunk of meat into his mouth, closed his eyes, and chewed, then spoke in the tones of a teacher.

Zora: Ah, quite good. In fact, Ronie and Tiese, I might go so far as to say that this is the equal of the Jumping Deer.

Tiese and Ronie: Wow, really?!

The girls exclaimed, their faces shining. They shared a glance and burst into smiles. Eugeo took a thin sandwich of dried fish and herbs and dug in. Unlike the rustic food that Alice would bring to Eugeo every day in the forest back home, this bread was white and thickly buttered, a treat from the big city. When he first came here, the refined taste was too much for Eugeo's simple palette, but he thoroughly enjoyed it now. He wondered if he was just getting used to something different.

Eugeo: It's really good, Tiese. Wasn't it hard to get all these ingredients, though?

Tiese: Uh...well, actually...

Tiese mumbled, glancing over at Ronie, who explained.

Ronie: As you know, primary trainees are only allowed to leave the academy on days of rest, so we asked Zora-senpai to go buy the ingredients at the central market after class yesterday. You were busy in the library at the time, so...

Eugeo: Oh...oh, I see.

Eugeo replied, stunned. He glanced over at Zora, who was still chowing down.

Eugeo: I would have gone shopping if you'd just told me... And Zora, if you're that comfortable around them, you don't need to keep running away anymore! What was the point of all this trouble...?

Eugeo wondered, both relieved and annoyed. He reached out for the biggest slice of fruitcake and shoved it into his mouth.

Zora: Hey, I was going to eat that! Anyway, if anything, I was making things easier on you, Disciple Eugeo.

Eugeo: Well, you needn't have bothered.

Eugeo grumbled. He turned to Tiese and Ronie, who were watching in wide-eyed surprise, and groused.

Eugeo: He's always been like this. Before we joined the garrison in Zakkaria, and on the road here to Centoria, he always starts off as the target of suspicion or fear, and then the next thing you know, the wife and kids at the farm or inn are all hanging out with him and passing him treats. Be careful that he doesn't use this trick on you, too, Ronie.

However, his warning was probably too late. The girl with the burnt- brown hair shook her head, her cheeks darkening.

Ronie: Oh, no, it's not a trick... Zora-senpai might look scary, but I learned right away that he's really very kind...

Tiese: Oh, and the same for you, Eugeo.

Tiese hastily added. He gave her a weak smile and took another bite of cake. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see his partner chewing smugly, and he started to wonder if there was some way he could get one over on Zora—when suddenly Tiese and Ronie stretched and sat up formally.

Tiese: Um, Eugeo-senpai, Zora-senpai? I actually have a favor to ask of you.

Eugeo: Y-you do? What kind?

Tiese ducked her head humbly, red hair waving.

Tiese: Well, it's really hard to say this, but...it's about what you mentioned the other day, putting in a good word with the school management about changing tutors...

Eugeo: Wh-what?

He gaped, trying to recall the conversation in question. But it quickly came back to him: A few days ago, while Ronie was waiting for Zora to come back, he might have mentioned something to her about asking a teacher to get her switched to a different disciple, if she wanted. So this lavish picnic feast was a commemoration for their parting, he realized gloomily. But he needed to be sure.

Eugeo: So, um...does that mean you want to stop being my page...? Or Zora's...or both of us?

Ronie and Tiese looked up, momentarily stunned, then shook their heads violently. On Eugeo's left, Tiese leaned over and protested.

Tiese: N-no! It's not us —not at all! In fact, a bunch of others wish they could switch with us...Er, never mind. I mean, it's another girl from our dorm room who wants to switch. Her name's Frenica, and she's very honest, hardworking, and humble despite her skill...

Tiese's shoulders slumped, and Ronie took over the explanation.

Ronie: As a matter of fact...the elite disciple who chose Frenica as a page is apparently quite harsh. The last few days, even the most innocent little mistake ends up with hours of discipline, and she's being forced to do things on school grounds that are somewhat inappropriate. It's really weighing on the poor thing...

The trainees clutched their fists to their chests, red and brown eyes welling with moisture. Eugeo put the half-eaten chicken down on his plate and looked at them, barely able to believe it.

Eugeo: B-but...even elite disciples shouldn't be able to force their pages to obey commands that are outside the school rules...

Tiese: That's true. They're not being ordered to do things that break the rules, but it's not as though every possible activity is covered...It's a whole bunch of orders that aren't against the rules but are very difficult for a female student to bear...

Tiese said, her voice trailing off into a mumble, cheeks crimson. Eugeo could guess as to what kind of things this disciple was ordering poor Frenica to do.

Eugeo: I understand the situation. To change Frenica's mentor, she'll need the approval of her current mentor himself. What's the name of this troubling Disciple?

Tiese: Um...Humbert Zizek. The 2nd seat Elite Disciple.

Zora: You mean even after he challenged Eugeo to a duel and Eugeo hit him back, he's still messing around with this shady stuff? You'd better whoop him for good next time.

Eugeo: I'm telling you, I didn't 'hit him back.' But it's possible that that might have set him off...

Eugeo wondered, biting his lip guiltily. He looked at the girls and explained.

Eugeo: The truth is, I had a duel with Disciple Humbert in the training hall a few days ago. It came out as a draw, but Humbert didn't seem ready to accept that...So it's possible that his recent abuse of Frenica is related...

Zora: So just because he couldn't beat you, he took it out on his innocent page? The guy doesn't deserve to call himself a swordsman.

The girls still seemed not to understand the full importance of the situation. Her brow furrowed, Tiese murmured.

Tiese: So, um...Elite Disciple Zizek challenged Eugeo to a duel, which ended as a draw, and...

She came to a stop, and Ronie hesitantly finished.

Ronie: He's...taking it out on her, you said?

Eugeo: R-right, that's what I meant. So because he couldn't win, he's using his disciplinary punishment on Frenica out of frustration and forcing her to fulfill his humiliating orders...?

Despite both being nobles, the girls were the lowest rank and thus the closest to commoners, and they were finding it quite hard to understand the second seat's depraved actions. The thought was so alien to them that they were having difficulty even putting it into words.

Tiese: I don't understand. My father always told me that the Schtrinen family's claim to nobility came from some minor feat achieved by a distant ancestor, briefly earning him the attention of the emperor at the time. And because of that, we shouldn't take it for granted that we live in a larger house and have more rights than common people. He says that being a noble means that when the battle finally comes, we stand with our swords at the front and die first, so that the commoners below can live in peace and stability...

Tiese moved her maple-red eyes south—to the heart of Centoria. She looked at the imposing outline of the imperial government building, just barely visible above the trees, then turned back to Eugeo.

Tiese: The Zizeks, meanwhile, have a huge mansion in District Four and their own holdings outside Centoria. So doesn't that mean Elite Disciple Humbert should be working even harder than the lower nobles for the happiness of all? Even if it's not written in the Taboo Index, a noble should always consider if his actions will cause misfortune to others, Father said. Humbert might not be breaking the Taboo Index or the school rules...but...but Frenica cried herself to sleep last night. How...how can such a thing be allowed?

When she finished her long, impassioned speech, there were large drops in Tiese's eyes. But Eugeo had no answer for her—he'd been grappling with the same question. Ronie extended a white kerchief to Tiese, who put it to her eyes.

Zora: Your father's a great man. I'd like to meet him someday.

That was Zora, his voice calm and even. It took Eugeo a while to believe what he just heard. The swordsman dressed in black, routinely feared and shunned by his schoolmates for his dangerous glare, blunt attitude, and legendary duel with Volo Levantein, was treating Tiese with sympathy and kindness.

Zora: What your father taught you, Tiese, is what's called in Eng...I mean, in the sacred tongue, the 'noble obligation.' It's an idea that the noble, or the powerful, should use that power for the sake of the powerless...It's a kind of pride, in a way.

Despite an entire year's worth of lessons in the sacred tongue, Eugeo had never heard this phrase before, but for some reason, the definition fit squarely into his mind. It made perfect sense. Zora's quiet voice rode the spring breeze.

Zora: That pride is more important than any laws or rules. There are things that aren't illegal but should never be done, and sometimes there are things that must be done, even when they are forbidden by law.

In a way, the latter half of that statement was a refutation of the Taboo Index—and the Axiom Church as a whole. Tiese and Ronie gasped. But Zora fixed his unwavering stare on them and continued.

Zora: A long, long time ago, there was a great man named Saint Augustine. He said that an unjust law is no law at all. You must not put blind faith in any law or authority, no matter how powerful. Humbert might not be breaking the Index or school rules, but his actions are wrong. He must not be allowed to bring an innocent girl to tears. That means someone has to make him stop, and if anyone here is going to do that...

Eugeo: Right...that's us. But Zora...who decides if the law is just or unjust? If everyone decides for him- or herself, then what becomes of the proper order? Isn't that why the Axiom Church exists, to decide that for everyone?

The Taboo Index did not determine the legality of every single human action. That was how Humbert got away with unfairly punishing his page. But just as Sister Azalia had scolded Zink for his pranks, Eugeo and Zora had the right to call out Humbert's actions as his classmates. That was a completely separate principle from casting doubt on the structure of the Church itself.

God created the world, and the Church was the holy agent. It had guided humanity correctly for centuries. It could not possibly be wrong. To his surprise, it was not Zora who answered this question but the previously silent Ronie. The quiet, shy girl spoke with a force of will that took Eugeo aback.

Ronie: Um...I think I know what Zora-senpai means. It's an important mentality that isn't mentioned in the Taboo Index—meaning that it's a type of justice that exists within ourselves. Not to blindly obey the law but to consult the law in accordance with our justice and think about why it exists. Maybe he's saying that it's more important to think than to obey...

Zora: Exactly, Ronie. The most powerful tool in a human being is to think. It's stronger than any sword or secret technique.

Zora replied, smiling at his page while patting her head. There was admiration in his eyes, and something deeper lurked behind it. Even after two years of constant companionship, there were still things about Zora that Eugeo didn't know.

Eugeo: But Zora, who was this...Saint Augus-whatever person? An Integrity Knight?

Zora: Hmm, more like a priest, I bet. Probably long dead. But back to the topic. Even if it doesn't violate the Taboo Index or school rules, what Humbert did is unquestionably wrong.

(Timeskip)

Once Ronie and Tiese had headed back to the primary trainee dorm, empty picnic basket in one hand and the other waving good-bye, Eugeo turned to look at his partner.

Eugeo: About Humbert...do you have a plan, Zora?

Zora: Hmm...something tells me that just commanding him to stop picking on the underclassman isn't going to work. But on the other hand...

Eugeo: On the other hand...what?

Zora: Humbert's one thing, but his boss, Raios, is nasty, scheming, and smart. He came out as first seat, so he has to have good marks in sacred arts, law, and history, too.

Eugeo: True. Better than whoever ended up in sixth seat.

Zora: You can say that about more than one of us.

They were on the verge of getting into one of their usual sniping wars, but Eugeo knew it was too important of a topic to get derailed.

Eugeo: And...?

Zora: Raios shares a common room with Humbert, right? Don't you find it strange that he would just sit back and allow this bullying to happen? Whether he suffers discipline or not, eventually bad rumors are going to get out, and that will affect the reputation of his roommate. That seems like just as much of a stain on Raios's honor as any punishment...

Eugeo: Still, it's a fact that Humbert is tormenting Frenica. Doesn't that mean Humbert's so upset that not even Raios can rein him in? If that's stemming from our duel, then I have a responsibility to say something...

Zora: There. That's it. What if this is their clever trap designed to ensnare you? What if you protest Humbert's actions, and they've set up some kind of trick that will cause you to break the school rules...?

Eugeo: What? You can't be serious. That's not possible. Humbert and I are still disciples. As long as I don't openly insult him, warnings and admonishment don't count as acts of rudeness. I'm more worried about you, Zora.

Zora: Ah, well...good point. I'd hate to accidentally splash mud on his uniform.

Zora said, straight-faced. Eugeo sighed. At the end of the previous school year, Zora committed that very act of rudeness against First Seat Volo and had to undergo the punishment of a first-strike duel with real, live blades.

Eugeo: Listen, when we go to Humbert's room, I'll talk first, got it? You just stand behind me and look menacing.

Zora: Sure thing, boss. I'm good at that.

Eugeo: Please, Zora. We'll try to be diplomatic this time, and if they don't respond to reason, we can petition the management to change Frenica's placement. They'll at least ask Humbert what he's getting up to, and that alone should have an effect on him.

Zora: Yeah...good point.

(Timeskip)

Once they arrived, Eugeo knocked on the eastern door of the third floor, and after a few moments, Humbert's voice asked who was there.

Eugeo: It's Disciple Eugeo and Disciple Zora. We'd like to speak with Disciple Zizek.

The sound of rough footsteps came from beyond the door, then it hurtled open. Humbert glared at them and shouted loud enough for anyone down on the ground level to hear.

Humbert: It is rude of you to call without a prior arrangement! Your first course of action should obviously have been to put your request for a meeting into writing!

Before Eugeo could answer, Raios Antinous's soothing voice came from farther in the room.

Raios: There, there. They are our fellow pupils and residents. Let them through, Humbert—though I'm afraid we cannot arrange for tea on such short notice.

Humbert: You'd better be grateful for Raios's generous nature.

Humbert snarled under his breath, then turned back from the doorway. Eugeo gave them a proper salute and walked inside, wondering what that little bit of theater was all about.

Zora: What in the—?

Zora started to say as he followed Eugeo in, so the other boy had to loudly clear his throat to drown him out. They proceeded to the couch in the middle of the room. The room was the same size as theirs, of course, but the internal decorations, from the rugs on the floor to the delicate window drapes rustling in the breeze, were of the highest quality.

Humbert sank into the right end of the couch, which was about three mels long, silk-bound, and stuffed with soft cotton. On the left end, Raios had parked his rear on the edge of the cushion, his head back against the headrest and his feet up on the table, such that he was very nearly lying down.

The noble heirs weren't wearing their school uniforms but lounging around in thin robes. Raios's was red, and Humbert's was yellow, both woven from lustrous southern silk and vivid to look upon. The scent of the tea from the cups sitting on the table suggested green tea from the east. Raios picked his up, gave a leisurely sip, then looked at Eugeo at last.

Raios: And so...my friend, Disciple Eugeo, to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit in the evening of our Day of Rest?

There was another couch on the other side of the table, but neither of them made any motion to invite the two guests to sit. Eugeo considered that to be in his favor and glared down at them from his standing position with as stern an expression as he could muster.

Eugeo: I happened to hear of disturbing rumor concerning Disciple Zizek there. With all due respect, I've come to warn you, before my fellow student's good reputation is maligned.

Humbert's face immediately screwed up to deliver a raging rebuke, but Raios reached out to still him. Raios grinned up at them, his lips surprisingly red.

Raios: Well, well. This is quite surprising, and also unexpected. To think you'd be concerned for my friend's good name. Unfortunately, I have no idea what rumor you speak of. From whom did you hear this rumor from?

Eugeo: I heard it from Lord Zizek's page, as well as from the Novice Trainees who share her dorm room. That Sir Humbert has been issuing deviant orders to Frenica, his page Trainee.

Humbert: How dare you!You—a miserable frontiersman without a name—dare to accuse me, a fourth-rank noble heir, of being vulgar?!

Raios: That will be enough, Humbert. We might be from different backgrounds, but we are all students under the same roof now. Here at this school, no statement can be taken as an insult and breach of decorum...but that will be a different story if the tale is found to be without merit or evidence. Where did you hear this bizarre rumor, Eugeo?

Eugeo: Let's not waste any of our valuable time, Antinous. You know full well that it is true. We heard the story straight from primary trainees who share a dorm room with Zizek's page.

Raios: Oh? So I take it that Humbert's page has officially enlisted you to argue on her behalf, through an intermediary dormmate?

Eugeo: Well...not exactly...

Eugeo muttered, promptly at a loss. They hadn't heard the story directly from Frenica's lips, so it would be difficult to dig their heels in if faced with charges of false accusation. But he couldn't turn back now, not with Raios mocking them from his lazy position and Humbert seething with barely contained rage.

Eugeo: So...you deny these charges? You deny that Humbert has been performing untoward acts upon his page, Frenica?

Raios: Untoward? That's a curious choice of word, Sir Eugeo. Why don't you be more clear, and call it a school violation of the school registrations?

Eugeo:......

He paused again. The school rules applied only on campus grounds, but to the students, they were just as important as the Taboo Index and Basic Imperial Law—no one would dare break them. Eugeo knew full well that Humbert hadn't broken the rules, and that was what made this so despicable. He was doing whatever he knew he could get away with. Eugeo took a deep breath to settle his nerves.

Eugeo: However... However, even if it's not forbidden by the academy, there are things that an Elite Disciple should never do as a Novice Trainee's mentor, right?

Raios: Oh? Well, Sir Eugeo, just what is it that you claim Humbert did to Frenica?

Eugeo:...W-well...

Eugeo couldn't answer that question. He hadn't wanted to press Tiese and Ronie for details, so he didn't know the exact nature of the "untoward orders." Raios spread his arms theatrically and shook his head from side to side.

Raios: What do you say, Humbert? Do you have any idea what Sir Eugeo is talking about?

Humbert: Not a clue! I have no idea of what he's going on about! But I do admit that I ordered her to preform several trivial tasks. Ever since thar duel with Sir Eugeo which shamefully ended in a draw, I've became a new man, immersed myself in training. And because I've avoided drills that would give me unsightly muscles, my entire body aches unbearably. I had no choice to ask Frenica to give me a massage every night at bath time, that's all. Also lest her uniform get soiled, I was kind of enough to allow Frenica to strip to her underwear!

As Eugeo watched Humbert chuckle delightedly, he sensed an unfamiliar emotion surging up from deep inside him. Was there any point in politely attempting to convince such a person? Was it really words that were appropriate now, or a striking blow with a wooden sword?

Eugeo's hand twitched, preparing to draw his practice blade and declare a duel on the spot, but then he realized he had not brought his weapon. He inhaled and exhaled several times, and with as level a voice as he could manage.

Eugeo: Humbert, do you think...you will get away with this? There might be no rule against demanding that of her—but only because it should not be necessary to point it out. Ordering your page to disrobe before you is utterly shameless—

Raios: Ha-ha-ha! Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!

Raios abruptly broke the silence, glee on his face. It was as if he'd been waiting for Eugeo to say exactly those words.

Raios: Ha-ha-ha! I never thought I'd hear those words from Disciple Eugeo's mouth! Ha-ha-ha-ha! Especially given that when he was a page, that common-born giant of a man had him remove his uniform every night!

Humbert: Why, what a curious tale! The man who happily stripped to his skin accuses others of being shameless for the same action! Ha-ha!

Eugeo felt his body tremble again with that unfamiliar urge. He was about to launch an insult that would surely get him into hot water with the school rules when Zora loudly clicked his heels, bringing him to his senses.

Golgorosso had indeed ordered Eugeo to take off his shirt once or twice a month. But that was only to inspect his musculature and provide more detailed instructions for exercise, nothing more salacious than that. But if he argued to that effect, it would only embolden them, and they'd start insulting Golgorosso, too. So he did his best to hold in the emotion and spoke in a quiet, suppressed voice.

Eugeo: My experiences are not the point here. All I know is that your page is undergoing great stress because she cannot refuse your orders. If her situation does not improve, I may be forced to petition a teacher to look into the matter. Keep that in mind.

Humbert: What?!

Raios: Do as you please, Disciple Sir Eugeo!

(Timeskip)

Eugeo turned and left the room, while the other boys laughed and urged him to go ahead with his plan. Once the door had shut behind him, he clenched his fist, ready to smash it against the wall—but he knew he had enough strength to put a dent in it, thus damaging the life of the building. Intentionally destroying school facilities or property clearly violated the rules and would be an example of that "temper tantrum" he'd been warned about. For a moment, he wished for that Gigas Cedar again, its bark so tough that he could smash all his frustration into it without consequence.

As a pathetic replacement, he stomped as hard as he could toward his own room on the west end.

Zora: You need to calm down, Eugeo.

The sound of that familiar voice cooled the burning-red furnace of his mind ever so slightly. Eugeo exhaled. He slowed down so that his partner could catch up.

Eugeo: I was sure that you would have exploded before me.

Zora: If we had our swords, it would have been a different story. But like I said earlier, I felt like they were up to something, so I held it in and watched them closely.

Eugeo: That's right, I remember you saying that. Well, now I do...So what did you notice?

Zora: Humbert is one thing, but I can say for certain that Raios was testing you. He probably figured that you'd heard about Frenica from Tiese and Ronie and was prepared to level the highest possible disciplinary punishment if you crossed a line with Humbert. You really can't underestimate the wicked cunning of the upper nobility...

Eugeo: You mean...you think Raios let Humbert carry on because he wanted me to come and argue about it? This is...crazy.

Eugeo mumbled, coming to a stop in the middle of the hallway.

Eugeo: And it all starts with my embarrassing Humbert in that duel. How many times did you warn me that nothing good comes from taking their bait...?

Zora: Don't be too hard on yourself.

Zora said, putting a hand on Eugeo's shoulder in a rare display of tenderness.

Zora: We've got the first testing matches coming up. You need to beat them to be the school representative anyway, so you were bound to run afoul of them at some point. I'm guessing that they're satisfied with this for now. Just make sure that the papers to request the faculty's involvement are all prepared, in case we hear that Humbert's still harassing Frenica.

Eugeo: Yeah...good idea. But if it came to that, I'd have had better luck just breaking down and crying in front of him.

Eugeo said, patting Zora's hand with gratitude. He felt the tension leave his shoulders.

Humbert and Raios were both skilled swordsmen with good scholastic marks as well. They got healthy allowances of shia coins from home each month, good for all the clothes or items they could want, and if they got tired of the cafeteria food, they could easily eat out at a restaurant every night. Eugeo couldn't help but be jealous, given how he was making ends meet with his savings from the Zakkaria garrison.

So why did they single out Eugeo at every opportunity, mocking him and attempting to dominate him? What did they think this was getting them? Eugeo knew there were good and bad people in the world, but whether noble or common, they were still human beings, weren't they?

The Axiom Church taught that "good" was the province of the human realm, which was created by Stacia, while "evil" belonged to the Dark Territory ruled by Vecta. That meant that no matter the personality, every human being possessed a heart that was essentially good—even Raios and Humbert.

If they crossed swords in a proper, official match, not one born of a grudge, and exhibited their techniques and skill to their utmost ability, surely they would find some common ground of mutual appreciation. Surely.

Eugeo opened the door to his room and went inside. Before his partner could disappear, he made sure to announce.

Eugeo: Zora, now that the sacred arts test is done, you're going to practice with me all day tomorrow!

Zora: You're not usually this excited about it.

Eugeo: Maybe not...but I've got to get way, way stronger. Raios and Humbert need to know that they can't just sit back without practicing and expect to win every time.

Zora smirked and nodded.

Zora: In that case, I must impress the hardships of training upon Disciple Eugeo.

Eugeo: That's what I was hoping to hear. Well...see you at dinner.

They waved to each other and retreated to their rooms to change clothes, but Zora paused halfway, his expression serious.

Zora: Eugeo, if those guys say anything to you again when I'm not around, try not to get so passionate like you did today.

Eugeo: I know already. Stay cool, right?

Eugeo said, remembering that the sacred language phrase was both a calming reminder and a parting statement. Zora smiled in embarrassment for some reason, and then repeated it back to him.

Zora: That's right. Stay cool.