The Academy’s Crude Pink-Haired Martial Artist

A day since I heard the nonstop chatter of Yurasia.

We spent the night at an inn located between the Duchy of Eustetia and the islands.

We finally arrived at the islands.

“Wow…”

Capital Rascal of the Herman Empire.

Just like the pictures, at its center stands the Sun-like Imperial Palace, its roots firmly planted, while the quiet river flows around it, holding its breath.

From the palace extend pathways dividing into four directions, and the academy is said to be located to the south of one such area.

There was no need to turn my eyes in search of the academy.

It was the second most dazzling building after the palace.

By the way.

“Wow…”

Has the world changed this much?

The palace. When did it get that big?

When did the river wrapping around it even come here?

Could anyone grow ducks there without being eaten?

…Can I catch one?

They’d taste amazing if I buttered and roasted them.

Alright, let’s have duck for dinner.

If I ask Sara, she should know a place that cooks duck well.

As I licked my lips and looked up at the sky.

There floats another strange object.

A diamond-shaped body made of crystals, topped with a round disc. Low buildings lined up over that disc.

I know that it’s something like a temporary magic tower, but seeing it in person is undeniably a different experience.

That giant object floats in the sky without a sound; how could that not be fascinating?

I’d like to ride it someday.

A flying fortress?

A guy just can’t resist those things.

Whoa… But still.

I read about it in books, and I knew from various rumors, but the world really has changed a lot.

400 years ago, nobody could have imagined such things, always fearing the demon race’s invasions.

It was all about sturdiness and practicality, not putting importance on appearances like this.

Shouting about peace, only for development to happen so rapidly—was even a false peace the real deal for humans?

“The world has become a better place…”

My mood wasn’t exactly great, though.

But it seems Yurasia is just so excited.

“Wow! Wow!! Young lady! That soufflé shop is supposed to be famous! It’s said to require a reservation a week in advance to eat there. Shouldn’t we make a reservation?”

Yurasia’s lively voice resonated through the vibrant streets of the islands.

Hearing that voice, a few people smiled warmly at Yurasia’s sparkling eyes, but quickly changed their expressions upon seeing my hair color.

I expected it, but I didn’t think it would be this famous.

After all, pink isn’t a common color, so it’s not strange to be recognized.

Sara said to take pride in this hair color, but I don’t appreciate this unnecessary attention.

And I don’t like the oddly fearful atmosphere.

I have no idea why they’re acting like that when I haven’t done anything, but I just assumed it was because I’m a noble, the daughter of the Duke’s Family with unappealing eyes.

Still, I need to wear the hood.

“Let’s write the enrollment application first.”

“Gasp! Then we should also check out the pancake shop over there!”

“That counts as enrollment—”

“Wow! Over there’s a crepe shop! It’s rumored to be a favorite of the princess!! Young lady!!”

“Enrollment—”

“Wow wow! That pasta shop is said to be visited by the Blue Tower Lord at least once a day! Their carbonara is supposed to be amazing! How about carbonara for dinner?”

“Enroll—”

“No. Young lady should have lasagna! I’ll have carbonara! Sara, would you prefer oil pasta?”

I’ve held back three times.

I, who have held back three times.

Huff—just as I was about to lose it.

Looking at Yurasia’s eyes sparkling with excitement, I couldn’t bring myself to speak.

Yeah, she can be excited.

She’s still a kid.

Sighing internally, I spoke softly.

“Alright, let’s write the enrollment application first and then take our time browsing.”

“Yes! So, can we check out that alley first? There’s a super famous designer over there! It’s incredibly expensive, so I can’t take any pictures, but I still want to take a look!”

“Sure. Do whatever you like.”

“Yes!”

The cheerful Yurasia answered, while the quiet Sara kept pace a step behind me.

I felt quite burdened when I saw them like this.

Leading two long-legged individuals made my short legs move even harder.

…This is overly distracting.

“Sara, go on ahead to the lodging and unpack. I’ll finish the application quickly and join you.”

“There are many people on the islands, so we never know what might happen. I’ll stay with you.”

“It’s fine. You’ve got heavy luggage; what do you need to follow for?”

“I’m fine as well. I’ll stay with you.”

“Then, at least hire a porter.”

“I too am a porter working for a fee.”

Shivers—I glanced at Sara, but she maintained her usual expressionless demeanor.

“…Fine. Do whatever you want, Sara.”

“Thank you very much.”

I clicked my tongue and continued walking.

From then on, the path to the academy was easy.

Although the crowd was bustling, whenever people saw my hair color, they quickly parted to let me through, so my steps never faltered.

Even nobles, dressed in expensive clothing and accompanied by servants, made way for us.

For a moment, I thought my hair color might be useful as a ticket of sorts, but I shook my head.

It was certain that annoying things would pile up someday.

The descendant of the Hero, Eustetia.

Being a direct descendant, I could easily become a target for demon worshipers, or degenerate Dark Mages could carry out foolish deeds.

Sure, the Dark Mages in the islands have passed various examinations and are claimed to be perfectly normal humans.

But I don’t trust those guys.

There are no ordinary Dark Mages, only dead ones, and the same goes for demon worshipers, monsters, and the demon race.

They’re all the same.

“Wow… It looked amazing from afar, but it’s even more breathtaking up close!”

“Indeed.”

Arriving in front of the academy, we marveled at its splendor, brilliantly adorned in all kinds of colors.

About 350 years.

That’s the academy’s age.

It means it was built about 50 years after I died. Still, it’s just too magnificent.

Unless they used the heart of a demon—what they called the magic stone—that technology was unlikely back then.

Incredible.

But.

“Is it really possible to apply today?”

I clicked my tongue as I looked at the endlessly long line stretching in front of the academy.

“W-well? Did we arrive too late?”

Yurasia’s complexion darkened too.

I guess she wanted to finish the enrollment application as quickly as possible to go have fun, but it seems those plans are dashed.

“It’s alright.”

But Sara quietly smiled.

“The Eustetia Duchess doesn’t need to wait in line like commoners.”

“What, are you saying since I’m Eustetia, I just have to walk in as I please?”

Though I questioned it half-heartedly.

Deep down, I thought it sounded pretty good.

Not bad at all? Should I just walk in?

“I expected you to say that, Lady Ellie, but that’s not it. Even if we stand in line, someone will come to personally escort you.”

Sara’s eyes shifted to my hair.

“Cherry blossoms bloom beautifully wherever, whenever.”

Where on earth did she learn such cringeworthy phrases?

“Alright then. Let’s wait here.”

And just as I finished saying that, a woman approached and bowed.

“I am Wivir Arkand, affiliated with the Blue Tower and serving as the lead professor at Karela Academy. It is an honor to meet Lady Ellie, the spring of the empire and cherry blossom of Eustetia.”

Arkand.

I know that name.

Four hundred years ago, in the depths of the Demon Realm, a crazy yet brave family of mages that detonated with hundreds of demons.

I thought their lineage had died out, but it seems there are children after all.

As I stared blankly at her head wrapped in blue hair, memories from that time floated to the surface, drawing attention from the people around us.

The brief moment of silence.

Then the whispers began.

-That hair color is really pretty.

-So cute!

-How does it suit her so well?

-Look at her fair skin. There’s probably no blemish. So envious…

-But her eyes are really unappealing. Guess she is a noble after all?

-But with such a short height, she seems merely cute. Must be around our age, right?

-She might be here for a tour.

-Oh, that could be.

Crap. Is this an assassination attempt?

“…Uh, yes. It’s nice to meet you. I’m Ellie Eustetia.”

In the midst of uncomfortable gazes and murmurs, I awkwardly greeted as the woman with blue hair lifted her head.

“And this person beside you is…”

“Hello. I am Yurasia Espirot, a member of the Eustetia Knight Order, appointed as the personal knight of Lady Ellie Eustetia.”

“Ah, yes. I’ve heard the rumors. You are said to possess remarkable talent. It’s an honor to meet you.”

“Ah, hehe… It’s not that great, really… Hehe.”

As Yurasia returned a soft smile at the stiff introduction, she was suddenly all cheerful again.

Her body was twisted and in a mess.

“I am Sara, in charge of service for Lady Ellie Eustetia.”

Sara, true to her nature, offered a brief greeting and slightly bowed.

But there was grace and poise in that motion.

Wivir received the same smile she had given Yurasia and then turned to me.

“I wish we could talk more right away, but given the circumstances, I must guide you inside first.”

“Sure, go ahead.”

“I apologize for any inadequacy on my part in leading you.”

“…No, it’s fine.”

With an elegant gesture, Wivir turned her back to me. Her heels clicked loudly, the sound indicating how uncomfortable she might be as she walked in an uncoordinated rhythm.

Thanks to that, I had to pick up the pace with my short legs.

*

The process of entering the academy was quite complicated.

It started with personal item inspection followed by several inspections of varying nature.

It was a bit annoying, but I nodded in satisfaction.

Most were tests for identifying demons.

That’s right. No matter how peaceful the era may be, it’s only right to be thorough in places where children are.

I don’t know who made the rule, but I find it quite favorable. This deserves commendation.

The subsequent proceedings were uneventful.

Making pleasantries with someone of lower rank in place of the busy dean, I was shown around the academy facilities.

We strolled through the academy as if we were tourists.

Among the facilities, a few that particularly stood out:

First, there was a special class that gathers only talented students.

It was said to be determined through voting by lead and special professors based on examination results. I’ve heard they usually assess talent more on practical skills than written ones.

It’s called Signia.

Well, we have to take common general education courses, but for the remaining classes, we can create our own schedules and receive additional benefits.

And the special building used by the Signia class was extravagantly decorated compared to the regular class buildings. The dorms were the same way.

Of course, the building for the general class, “Frunt,” isn’t shabby either.

It’s just that Signia is particularly extravagant.

And another thing:

The training grounds for both Frunt and Signia.

Both were so spacious and elegant that it was hard to imagine students used them.

The Frunt training ground was larger than the training ground of the Eustetia Knight Order, while Signia’s was smaller, but the facilities looked even better.

There appeared to be many fun things to train on.

While I nodded satisfactorily looking around, Yurasia was hopping around with a bright smile, making all sorts of fuss.

But even if the academy claims there’s no discrimination based on social status inside, is it really okay to be treated to such extravagance at this level?

Glancing at Sara with a look that asked if that was permissible, she leaned down and whispered into my ear.

“Since you are not yet a student of the academy but the noble Lady Ellie Eustetia, such luxuries are normal now that you are in the islands. You must get used to this treatment.”

After hearing that, I made a resolve.

I’d never leave the academy grounds.

I have confidence in that.

After spending the last seven years cooped up at home, going through a cycle of meals, training, and sleep, I’m sure I can handle life here.

Anyway.

I should start writing the enrollment application soon.

As the day grew darker, so did Yurasia’s expression.

Toward the third-ranked gentleman still sweet-talking us in front, I said,

“It’s getting late; we should return and alleviate our dullness. Thank you for the guidance today, Professor William.”

“…It’s Wilrack. Ahem, ahem. It was an honor to meet you, the descendant of the Hero, the spring of the empire, and the cherry blossom of Eustetia, Lady Ellie Eustetia. I hope to see you again at the academy.”

“Ah… Yes, Professor Wilrack. See you next time.”

With me starting to rise, Wilrack, Yurasia, and finally Sara followed suit behind me.

We arrived at the registration desk for the enrollment application.

“I’m sorry, but what was your specialty again?”

“Martial Arts.”

“Martial… Arts, you say?”

“Yes.”

“…Understood. Please wait a moment.”

Click-clack—click-clack—scratch-scratch—bang—!

“It’s done. The date for the entrance exam is noted under the second item, so please confirm and participate without delay. Thank you.”

Having completed the enrollment application while receiving the regretful but careful gaze of the registration desk lady,

The exam was in two days.

The results would be announced three days thereafter.

Enrollment would be a month after the results announcement.

It’s a long time, but with various trainings, it feels short.

So, I’ll rest completely until the exam and then resume my training afterward—

“Lady! Lady! Carbonara! It might close soon! Hurry!”

Alright then. Let’s eat that damn carbonara first.

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