In the spacious living room, the two sat quietly on the sofa waiting for Miss Kallen. Soft light glowed from the magic stone above. Servants occasionally brought steaming tea and pastries.

Lorin lounged leisurely in the room. With a teasing tone, he slowly spoke, then lifted his teacup for a light sip. A satisfied smile touched his lips.

"I never expected Count Carlos to be so thorough. This tea is exceptional."

"True. It’s been ages since I tasted such fine tea. Must be terribly expensive."

Kurt couldn’t help but tease back. He didn’t press the topic further. Lorin used subtle magic to scan the area. Confirming no spies nearby, he casually began.

"Headmaster, how did you find this place? I’m rather curious."

"Lorin, some things... I’ll tell you after I retire. You’re my most trusted person. I’ve watched you climb from the commoner exams step by step."

Kurt gently patted Lorin’s back. A comforting expression softened his aged face as he spoke meaningfully.

"Alright, Headmaster," Lorin replied helplessly. Secret questions always got dodged by the headmaster.

Nearby, a door swung open. Kevin stood draped in thick, layered coats—so bulky they dragged on the floor. Only her face peeked out.

"Sorry to keep you waiting," she said coolly. Her eyes mirrored their figures. Without waiting for replies, she sat down silently.

"Long time no see, Miss Kallen."

Lorin spoke first, his gaze locked on Kevin. A hint of gentle smile played on his face.

"Hmm, Lorin. Long time. What do you two need?"

"Oh! You know each other? That saves time. Miss Kallen’s here to announce the Imperial Academy’s opening—seven days from now. Supplies will arrive soon."

Kurt Stoudenmire nodded silently. Since they knew each other, he gestured toward Lorin.

"Miss Kallen, this is Mr. Lorin. He’ll be your teacher at the Imperial Academy. I hope you two cooperate well. I’ll go discuss matters with Carlos now."

Kurt stood and left, giving them space. Their old era was fading. It was the young generation’s turn now.

"Oh, really?" Kevin replied nonchalantly. She plucked grapes from the table, popping them into her small mouth. Red juice trickled down her neck, oddly alluring.

"Miss Kallen, it’s an honor to see you."

"Sure, sure. Lorin, didn’t expect you to chase me down. So eager, huh?" She spoke sarcastically. Her slender hand lifted the scalding teapot, filling his empty cup. She didn’t shoo him away.

"If I offended Miss Kevin—no, Miss Kallen—I apologize. Please forgive me."

Lorin lowered his head slightly in apology. He revealed a blue pendant. It caught her eye briefly before she looked away.

"It’s fine. You’ll be my teacher now. Take care of me, teacher~."

Kevin said this politely, though she knew Lorin had nothing to teach her—she could teach him. But manners held her tongue. Ugh, that fake voice nearly made her gag. She’d avoid it next time.

She sensed Lorin’s magic aura had strengthened. Calmly, she spoke with a trace of admiration. Breaking through to the eighth rank at his age promised great things.

"Lorin, did you break through? Congratulations."

"Oh? Miss Kallen noticed?" Lorin’s tone held mild surprise. He didn’t dwell on it—noble girls often had detection trinkets. Normal.

"Hmm. You’re good, Lorin." Her praise sounded senior-like. Finding the coats stifling, she loosened a few buttons, releasing warm steam.

"Nothing. Miss Kallen, this isn’t proper. Button up quickly."

Lorin turned his head away, flustered. He explained carefully—some things shouldn’t be seen.

"Huh?" Kevin frowned slightly. She pitied the blushing Lorin. His mind was full of dirty thoughts.

Maids had brought three coats for her to choose from. Not wanting to trouble them—and feeling chilly—she’d worn all three. Now overheated, couldn’t she shed two? Ignoring Lorin, she peeled off layers. Clothes thumped to the floor. Relief washed over her.

"Lorin, what’s on your mind all day? Thinking I’d do something... indescribable?"

"Well, Miss Kallen, let’s talk about something else." Lorin covered his flushed face, embarrassed. He pleaded weakly for a topic change.

"Fine, fine. What do you want to discuss?"

"Hmm? Have you eaten?"

"............" Her silence stretched. The conversation ended quickly.

Kevin leaned against the window, watching the carriage fade into the distance. Helplessness flickered in her eyes.

She’d attend the Imperial Academy next. Without that system guy, she’d never set foot there.

[System: Need anything, host?]

"Nothing."

[System: Complete your task soon, host.]

A hundred-year-old bullying greenhorn kids? Shameful. She’d never had formal magic training. After fleeing her family at eighteen, she’d stumbled into adventuring. Her skills were self-taught, plus what that old man taught.

Kevin felt a ripple from her hometown—Divine Spirit Mountain. No doubt it was Gali. Who else could climb up there?

"Can’t even let me rest for a moment."