Aresia was oblivious to the discussions around her as they arrived precisely on time. After them, some significant guests had arrived, including Osweid, the Sixth Imperial Prince, among others.

Soon they met the hostess of the banquet, Alice Howard, a talented and attractive eighteen-year-old.

Alice Howard was indeed admirable, although her looks didn’t match Aresia’s. However, compared to Aresia’s youthfulness, Howard was more mature. Her dressing sense accentuated her strengths and downplayed her flaws, making her a favorite among the school’s admirers, drawing a fair share of suitors.

“Welcome, Miss Rogest. I was almost regretting your absence,” Alice greeted.

Before they could see her, a fragrant breeze swept in. A young woman with brown hair, dressed in a vivid crimson gown, akin to a fiery spectacle, approached. Her attire hugged her figure alluringly, the dress adorned with roses and pearls, enhancing her femininity.

Alice Howard, though petite, stood around 1.6 meters tall. Despite Aresia’s towering presence, their heads almost aligned when together.

Aresia smiled warmly, “It’s an honor to attend this banquet, Miss Howard.”

In contrast to Aresia’s reserved politeness, Alice Howard appeared more enthusiastic. “Call me Alice! Can I call you Aresia?”

Without any refusal, Aresia respond, “Yes, you can.”

“Aresia, this is your first school banquet, right? Let me introduce you to some people.”

Alice seemed familiar and overly affectionate, hooking Aresia’s arm as though they were close friends, surprising Aresia as it was their first meeting.

Uncomfortable with the warmth, Aresia sought Karina’s help, silently. Karina, feeling constantly watched, especially due to rumors about Alice, intervened by grasping Aresia’s other arm, preventing Alice from taking her away.

Just as Jorgus was considering whether to step in, his attention shifted towards the entrance, noticing someone, “Miss Howard, Prince Osweid is here. You should greet him first; we wouldn’t want the Prince to feel ignored.”

Alice, already considering her next words, amended, “Indeed, please excuse me.”

The fiery presence swiftly drifted elsewhere.

Aresia glanced to the side and recognized Wendy, who was wearing a blue ceremonial gown beside Osweid. She must be the new second grade chief leader of the Magic Department. Wendy, despite being from a common background, possessed exceptional talent that some attributed to her association with the Emperor, owing to her mother’s connections.

Her magical abilities were nurtured within the palace, providing her with resources and education far surpassing typical noble upbringing. Wendy’s demeanor and grace made it hard to believe she wasn’t of noble birth.

Aresia withdrew her gaze and offered an apology to Jorgus “Sorry about that and thank you.”

Jorgus shook her head, “No worries.”

He felt it was time to leave, but Karina interrupted, “Jorgus, I’m not entirely making excuses. Aresia and I need to participate in the upcoming trial together. Although the trial spans two months, it’s challenging to synchronize, so we thought we should talk and understand each other to avoid being strangers, potentially affecting the trial.”

Karina knew well that in this incomplete trial group, Karina herself were somewhat of a burden. However, she thought a proactive approach was necessary, considering Jorgus’ influence.

Just as Jorgus was about to depart, he glanced at Karina, then at Aresia, and suggested, “Shall we find a quieter place nearby to talk?”

“Sure.”

The hall was quite spacious, meant for accommodating the entire school population, which now felt empty for hosting a hundred guests. Alice had strategically placed potted plants around, creating designated spaces, blocking the emptiness, making the ambiance more lively and comfortable.

Among the potted plants were tables and chairs placed at intervals, offering resting spots. This arrangement provided some quieter spaces for those seeking a break.

They found a secluded area amidst the plants. Aresia sat next to Karina, and Jorgus sat on the other side.

As they settled, Karina stood up, “I’ll get some food. Jorgus, would you like something?”

“I’m good, thank you.”

Karina quickly declined, “No, please let me get something for you. I’ll pick something.”

“Do you need company?”

Aresia stood to follow but was stopped by Karina, “No need, I’ll bring something. You all stay put.”

Aresia wasn’t hungry, but she requested, “Just get me a drink, please.”

“Sure thing.”

Karina went to get food, she looked graceful in her crimson gown, and with her current attire, she seemed like a high-ranking figure. As someone approached her to strike up a conversation, Karina, unfazed, engaged in a conversation. The person left with regret, and Karina resumed selecting items.

Sensing Karina might take a while, Aresia withdrew her attention and began discussing the upcoming trial with Jorgus.

She inquired, “Have the remaining team members been chosen?”

Jorgus nodded, “Apart from us, there are three others: a new warrior, a scout-like assassin, and an archer who doubles as a shield warrior.”

Three combat roles without defined positions, coupled with Karina and herself as mages, along with Jorgus, who, despite being a knight, also trained heavily in heavy swordsmanship. The team was now well-equipped with a blend of ranged and melee combat, defense, and support abilities.

Acknowledging this, Aresia suggested, “Since everyone’s found, shall we set a time to get to know each other better? Maybe arrange a practice session to foster teamwork?”

Karina’s words held weight. Their team of strangers needed to establish a rapport, especially with Karina’s newfound determination. The upcoming trial seemed fitting for their training. Aresia was willing to invest time to cooperate.

Jorgus hesitated but eventually agreed, asking, “Where would be convenient? Won’t it interfere with your plans?”

“Plans?”

Seeing Jorgus nod, Aresia smiled. She admired the younger Jorgus for his considerate and stable nature, a rarity among people his age.

“No problem. I’ll make time for that.”

Subsequently, they discussed suitable timings. Jorgus had already inquired about their preferences, arranged compatible training sessions, and even conducted one.

Aresia realized that besides their weekend gatherings for fostering teamwork, Jorgus had diligently trained himself. His honor and skill weren’t just gifts; they were the result of hard work.

“Monday to Friday, we’re all busy with school. But how about this Saturday?”

“What about Saturday?”

Karina asked, returning with a tray, she placed two drinks on the table. One selection aligned with Aresia’s taste, while the remaining choices were set aside.

Karina glanced at them and inquired, “What were you talking about just now?”

“We were arranging a meeting for the team. How about this Saturday?”

Karina, acknowledging the school’s weekend policies, nodded, “Sure, since we don’t have classes on weekends, might as well stay on campus. If you’re fine, I’m on board.”

Both sides agreed to this plan.

After this exchange, Jorgus excused himself and left. Once he was gone, Aresia turned to Karina, “Why don’t you have some fun? You don’t have to keep me company all the time.”

Karina enjoyed lively events like banquets and had a penchant for dancing. Initially hesitant, she finally relented, “Sure, just a bit, but stay here and don’t leave me.”

“Got it.”