She had been a bit worried about whether she could manage the long journey on horseback. Therefore, she couldn’t afford to refuse, even if it was just empty words.

“Evenel!”

Just then, as Evenel was about to get into the carriage, Hibru approached, calling her.

“What is it?”

“I felt like we hadn’t said our final goodbyes.”

“It’s a bit late for that.”

“And there’s something I want to say.”

Evenel looked at Hibru as if asking what that was. Incidentally, Shuher next to her was also listening to their conversation.

“You’re strong.”

“Huh?”

“You’re not weak. You’re strong.”

She was puzzled by his sudden comment about her being strong. Then she remembered a conversation they’d had alone in the forest, and wondered why he was saying such a thing.

“Why do you think so?”

“You protected me until the end and didn’t pretend not to know. And because of what you told me, I’ve been able to face my father, and even myself. Meeting you was a blessing. Thank you.”

A pleasant smile spread across her lips at the sight of Hibru, who now exuded a strong will instead of the timid demeanor he’d shown when they first met.

It had been a while since she’d seen such a look—eyes full of genuine goodwill, and it made her a little emotional.

“I should be thanking you.”

“Huh?”

“You’re the first person in Karies to simply see me as Evenel. I think I’ll be able to gain strength from that, too. Let’s both do our best. I won’t run away either.”

Evenel held out her hand with a promise for next time, and Hibru took it without hesitation.

“Take care.”

“You be careful too. Let’s meet again if we have the chance.”

Both climbed into the carriage, and the group slowly moved away from the Earl’s mansion. She waved to Hibru, and Shuher, who was sitting opposite her, let out a snide comment.

“You seemed quite close with the young master.”

Evenel nodded right away.

“We’ve been through life and death situations together. He’s my first friend since coming to Karies. I hope we meet again.”

Shuher seemed to find it strange how quickly they had gotten comfortable with each other. How could they call each other by their first names so easily?

“You’re even on a first-name basis.”

“We naturally became informal. It’s no different from being comrades.”

“Just that makes you comrades?”
Evenel was busy heaping praise on Hibru, oblivious to the muttering voice that seemed displeased.

“Hibru’s bow was enveloped in a green light, transforming into an arrow. It was truly extraordinary. The light itself seemed to resemble Hibru.”

“He still lacks in many ways.”

“Next time you see him, he’ll be completely different. Just you wait.”

“You’re quick to assert.”

“Let’s call it confidence. Speaking of which, I didn’t expect you to be so impressed by my words yesterday. You even thanked the Count.”

Shuher awkwardly cleared his throat and averted his eyes to the documents he received from Lenel. Seeing his unmistakably embarrassed demeanor, Evenel also struggled to hold back her laughter.

Then she remembered something she had forgotten to say yesterday.

“I was happy you asked if I was alright when I returned safely.”

At this, he flinched and lifted his head. Evenel was already staring out the window. After briefly observing her, Shuher returned his focus to the documents.

However, a faint smile seemed to be forming at the corners of his mouth.

Having safely returned to the palace, Evenel resumed her life, much as before.

If anything had changed in the short interval, it was that Lia seemed a bit more lively. The time she spent learning from Emil while serving her had increased.

What had changed the most about her was that she had grown a little closer to the knights.

Of course, the emotional distance and walls remained, but unlike before when they ignored each other, now they exchanged light greetings. That was satisfying change for her.

Whispers and stares of contempt towards Evenel persisted, but her recent accomplishments during the subjugation began to spread. There were still many skeptical glances since they hadn’t seen it with their own eyes.

Today, like always, after finishing her training, Evenel was heading back to the palace when a group obstructed her path.

She couldn’t identify them, but they seemed to be young nobles.

Not wanting to engage, she tried to pass by with a courteous nod, but a voice stopped her in her tracks.

“Don’t get too cocky just because you distinguished yourself in this subjugation.”

Provoked first, Evenel finally gave up on leaving. Judging by the vibe, they seemed similar to Serena.

“What are you trying to say?”

“Don’t go out of your way to win the Emperor’s favor. Although looking at you, there’s no reason to.”

“Who would think you’re the offspring of a Duke’s family?”
Evenel’s attire was in stark contrast to the three of them. While they were dressed in flashy dresses and jewelry, she was in a black training uniform, her face even sweaty from training.

“Truly, the standard of Aodin is at rock bottom.”

“If you’re going to say things like that, may I go? I’m not as idle as you young nobles.”

She felt there was no more reason to listen. It was a sheer waste of time, hearing the same things every day.

Contrary to their expectations, the young nobles seemed somewhat taken aback by Evenel’s calm response. At this point, she was supposed to be embarrassed and blushing.

So, agitated, they raised their voices.

“What did you just say?”

“Do you think I don’t know that what happened in the Ferti territory is actually an exaggerated rumor?”

“Even if it’s true, making a fuss just because you saved a few knights.”

At the last comment, Evenel’s gaze turned icy. The young nobles, for their part, had no clue what was wrong with what they’d said.