The morning after Ria arrived at the base, she joined the knights’ training just as she had declared. Starting with basic physical conditioning, Ian was surprised by Ria’s stamina and athletic ability.

With this, she should be able to start sword training right away. Thinking so, Ian began teaching Ria the fundamental stances. She had a natural talent, but there was something slightly unusual about her form. When he asked, she said it was a habit from the swordsmanship used by “Kaname.”

Ian asked her to try fighting using that style. She turned out to be quite strong—of course, for a child. Ian asked which style she wanted to master. She said she wanted to learn the swordsmanship of the Holy Knights. It seemed she believed that being skilled in both would make her stronger. Ian was impressed—Ria really was sharp.

Meanwhile, Rosaline was hard at work. The day before, Lil’s twin sister had arrived at the base.

Rosaline desperately wanted to make matching outfits for the two sisters.

She took the designs she had made for Lil and added ones for Ria.

Apparently, Ria had said she didn’t really like skirts. So instead of making completely identical outfits, Rosaline created something that fused the lightness of men’s clothing with the cuteness of girlhood.

She designed matching outfits and accessories for Lil, Ria, Kohaku, and Marron. With her “Sewing” skill, finishing the clothes in a single day was a breeze for Rosaline.

When Ria tried the outfit on, she and Lil looked just like a prince and princess standing side by side. Ria was delighted with Rosaline’s creation. Lil was also thrilled to be matching with her sister and held Ria’s hand happily.

Just like that, Ria quickly adjusted to life at the base. She was serious and didn’t shy away from work. She always volunteered to help, which impressed the knights. And since arriving, she had begun to show more of her childlike side. Whether it was because she was influenced by Lil or simply because she had relaxed, no one could say for sure—but everyone agreed it was a good sign.

About a week after Ria’s arrival, Livian Wilson arrived at the base riding Merlin. Ria guided her to the commander’s office. Livian narrowed her eyes as she looked at Ria—her expression had become more expressive since the last time they met, which was a relief.

Livian ordered Ria to go fetch Lil.

Sensing something ominous, Ria fetched Lil but stayed in the commander’s office herself. When Ria showed no intention of leaving, Livian gave a wry smile.

“I have a request for Lil today. I want you to go to the First Holy Knights’ base right away.”

Lil tilted her head. The First Holy Knights were supposed to guard a small forest near the royal capital.

“There’s something odd about the divine beasts. The weaker ones refuse to leave the area near the base. Some of the larger ones have been seen covered in wounds. In winter, the knights have to be extra careful when entering the forest—it’s dangerous. That’s why I want you to go talk to the divine beasts and find out what’s going on.”

Lil wanted to help the divine beasts if they were in trouble.

She looked to Ian, who nodded.

“You should go with Ian and Ria. Ian’s skill will be especially useful this time.”

Lil tilted her head again. She didn’t know what Ian’s skill was.

“My skill is ‘Healing.’ It doesn’t do much for illnesses, but it works great on injuries. That means I can heal the wounded divine beasts.”

Lil was impressed. It was the perfect skill for a kind father, she thought.

“As for Ria, she doesn’t really have a job on this mission, but she probably doesn’t want to leave your side, does she?”

Ria nodded as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

“Fortunately, there’s no one in the First Holy Knights who might recognize the Saint’s face. So do as you like.”

And so, Lil and her companions hurriedly departed the base. This time, they were allowed to bring Kohaku and Marron along.

They boarded the carriage prepared by Livian, along with Ian, Louis, and Ria. It was a little cramped for Louis and Kohaku.

For Lil, it was her first expedition. She felt a little guilty, but she couldn’t help being excited.

“Wow, look, Lil! That’s the royal capital!”

Peeking through the gap in the carriage curtain, she saw a city surrounded by massive walls. Marron was staring out at the scenery the entire time. He probably wanted to jump out and explore—he was an adventurous mouse, after all. But he stayed by Lil’s side, always gentle. Lil peeked outside with him, full of wonder. Come to think of it, the only places Lil had seen were the underground, the base, and the nearby town. Everything she saw now was brand new.

Ria and Ian watched Lil with warm smiles.

At last, they arrived at the First Holy Knights’ base.