At the same time, in the Moon Tower's room of the Golden Princess.
"Professor, let us go into battle."
"Professor, let them see what we're capable of."
It was only in moments like these that Flat and Svin would come to an agreement.
Waver didn't immediately respond to their eagerness. Instead, he turned to the elderly woman beside him. No matter how much of an advantage he and his students might have, they were still guests. Before the host spoke, unnecessary actions should be avoided as much as possible.
"Lord Valualeta, what do you think?"
"My opinion is that I have no opinion."
Even as storm clouds began to surround the Twin Tower, Lord Valualeta remained calm, seemingly unfazed by the ritual magecraft that was capable of altering the weather.
"How can you be so indifferent? Isn't this your territory?"
Flat grumbled in dissatisfaction.
Svin quickly tried to rein in his tactless comment.
"Flat, you should speak more respectfully to the Lord!"
"No need to worry, I don't mind," the elderly woman said with a smile. "But you're mistaken on one point—this is not my territory; it belongs to Iselma. While Iselma is indeed a branch of the Valualeta family, his land is independent within the Clock Tower and doesn't technically fall under my jurisdiction. Although Galliasta's methods are somewhat crude, they don't violate the rules among magi. More importantly, his approach aligns with the principles of democracy."
"Beauty is sublime. Even if it's only momentary, simply existing has value. All we need to do is pass through this fleeting moment. —Similarly, this era should be managed by those who live in it now, without clinging to the bloodlines of the past. That is our belief."
This was what Lord Valualeta had said during last night's social gathering, reflecting the eternal ideals of the Creation Department. Now, how to judge value? The current situation provided the best opportunity. Atrum Galliasta, aware of the Lord's presence, still dared to display his power. If Byron couldn't showcase his strength, there would be no reason to pity him if he were defeated.
In a way, this was fair, but in another sense, it was cold and ruthless—a stark contrast to the relaxed atmosphere of the El-Melloi classroom, leaving its two students feeling uneasy.
Svin hesitated before speaking. "But Iselma is still a branch of the Valualeta family..."
"That's why I didn't say I wouldn't intervene at all," Lord Valualeta replied with a more joyful smile.
"Professor Velvet, I'd like to commission you to assist Lord Byron."
"What?"
The two young men couldn't keep up with the old woman's thinking, and even Waver was puzzled by her intentions.
"Lord, what are you..."
"Don't understand why I'm doing this? And you're the Head of the Modern Magecraft Department? Oh, it seems the rumors are true that your sister handles all the administrative work for the department."
"Ugh..."
"Brother, this commission is beneficial for us. It not only allows us to showcase the strength of the El-Melloi classroom, but it also provides an opportunity to make Lord Valualeta owe us a favor. As for the payment... Lord Valualeta has always been generous; we won't suffer a loss."
"Even though I know you're flattering me, it's still nice to hear," Lord Valualeta said, resting her chin on her hand.
"Let's do this—if you can resolve this incident satisfactorily, I'll ensure the Silver Princess joins the El-Melloi classroom."
"This..."
What kind of reward is that?
Reines frowned but quickly realized the opportunity it presented—the possibility of reaching the Root was an irresistible lure for other magi.
"I understand. Lord Valualeta is indeed generous. Brother, please make the decision. When I arrived, Lord Byron had already gone to meet the enemy."
"If you've already said this much, what's left to decide?"
Waver looked at them, who had come to an agreement, and naturally didn't hesitate any longer.
"Flat, Svin, Gray—you're up first."
"Sir, yes sir!"
Flat exaggeratedly saluted, showing his enthusiasm, which was typical of someone who loved B-movies and easily picked up on various references.
"Yes, Master."
"Leave it to us."
After responding, the three of them sprinted out of the room, each moving as swiftly as a professional athlete. Undoubtedly, they were using magecraft.
Watching them leave, Lord Valualeta's eyes gleamed with curiosity.
"Three different methods of using magecraft, and none of them require incantations. The El-Melloi classroom's reputation is well-deserved."
Waver smiled; only at times like this did he allow his pride to show—look, those are my students.
"Reines, Levi, let's get ready as the second wave. There are many enemies, and Gray and the others lack experience, so we must be prepared to assist at any time."
"In that case, Mr. Levi and I will suffice. Brother, you should stay here." Reines shook her head at Waver.
"The commission is to resolve this incident satisfactorily, not just the attack but also the Golden Princess's case. As you often say, everyone has their area of expertise. Solving mysteries is yours, while combat is ours. Leave it to us."
Waver looked at his single remaining white glove, then at the calm Shinji, and finally nodded.
"Then I'll leave it to you. Levi, you're the eldest—take care of the others."
"Don't worry, Professor," Shinji said as he casually smashed a sculpture in the room.
"The other enemies might be difficult to deal with, but Galliasta is nothing. Lightning magecraft is powerful, but its flaws are equally apparent. If you approach it scientifically, it's easy to handle."
Waver glanced at the shattered sculpture pieces.
"Brass—I see what you're planning. Using science to counter magecraft, huh?"
"You taught me well," Shinji said, lightly complimenting Waver.
"If there's nothing else, we'll head out."
"Stay safe."
"Will do, brother."
Reines walked out with a different, more determined stride, shedding the elegance of a noblewoman and embracing the sharpness of a magus.
"The El-Melloi Classroom, take the field!"