Morning classes ended. Though teachers rotated constantly, Rebecca had no clue what was taught. She hadn’t listened at all, buried in the Alchemy Codex instead. Instructors ignored her; this was a problem class where fights broke out daily. Compared to Rebecca reading extracurricular books, the eerie silence today puzzled every teacher after their lessons. What’s wrong with these kids? Are they sick?

Rebecca couldn’t care less. She’d intimidated them through action, not worrying if her behavior got out. Fighting? No big deal. Her grandfather was a duke; what was a little brawl? She wasn’t afraid of the Ruta Family finding out. To them, she’d grown up among the Demon Race, so bad habits were expected.

Lunch break began. Rebecca had to eat in the cafeteria, as Kami had explained before she arrived. Kami gave directions too. Though still unclear, it was easy to find—just follow the lunch crowd.

Packing her things under awed gazes, Rebecca left the classroom. Outside, she followed groups of students to Hobi Academy’s cafeteria.

“Rebecca~ my dear sister~~” At the entrance, Carina, waiting there, hugged her tightly.

Rebecca enjoyed the softness of the girl’s body, even mischievously squeezing Carina’s butt. But Carina, oblivious, felt nothing and pulled her instead. “Hurry in~ I’m starving flat!”

Rebecca nodded and entered Hobi Academy’s massive cafeteria.

Many students wore uniforms, but some, like Rebecca, wore nun habits. Hobi Academy had its own uniforms, yet this world respected religious beliefs and ethnic traditions. Children of the Norna Faith could wear their attire; Kasmo Empire minorities and foreign students wore traditional clothes. Still, most wore uniforms.

Thanks to Hobi Academy allowing special attire, otherwise… Rebecca eyed Carina’s knee-length skirt and black tights. If forced to wear that uniform, she’d stuff it into a dragon’s mouth! Burn it! Absolutely burn it! Nun habits were better—simple and modest.

“Rebecca~~~” A familiar voice called, and Rebecca was pulled into a familiar embrace. “I’ve missed you so much~ Been too busy to visit lately~”

It was Lilia… and her chest, so soft…

“Senior Lilia~” Carina greeted obediently.

“Mm~ Carina~” Lilia smiled but didn’t release Rebecca. One pulled Rebecca’s hand; the other hugged her tight. They headed to a private room on the cafeteria’s third floor.

Hobi Academy’s cafeteria had private rooms, even custom meals—for a price. But what did that matter?

“Rebecca~ how were morning classes? Professor Monise is one of our academy’s most famous lecturers~” Kami waved as Rebecca arrived.

Rebecca scanned the room. Oh~ everyone was here: Kami, Laura, Lilia, Emily, and the sisters Anna and Carina.

“Hmm…” Rebecca gave a noncommittal reply. She didn’t want to discuss Professor Monise placing her in the problem class. She’d been annoyed, but after asserting herself, the class stayed quiet and left her alone—perfect. Switching classes? She didn’t know what to do. Problem students she could beat up; in a good class, polite suitors would be a nuisance. This was ideal. Rebecca was satisfied.

“Today’s Rebecca’s first day at school. Let’s celebrate~” Lilia announced, calling servants to serve dishes for nobles.

Rebecca hadn’t expected this. She also just learned the four heroes who “rescued” her all attended Hobi Academy.

“A toast to Rebecca’s enrollment~~” Lilia was as enthusiastic as ever.

Rebecca glanced helplessly at the enthusiastic Lilia and others raising their glasses. She raised hers too—filled with juice, as the academy banned alcohol.

“Cheers~”

“Wow~~ amazing~~ yay~ From today, Rebecca, you’re a true Kasmo Empire girl~ You’ve found your family, have a home, and now attend school like other girls~ Congrats on your new life~” Lilia beamed.

Rebecca froze, then looked at their smiling faces. Her heart twisted with guilt; she’d lied, gaining trust for ulterior motives. “I also… have… you all…” Despite guilt, she truly saw these younger kids as friends now.

Sometimes, physical age affects one’s mindset…

Rebecca had planned to keep reading during lunch. But today, she stayed with the girls. Mostly listening, she felt unusually peaceful. How long since she’d been this relaxed? Years, probably…

“Oh, right~ Though Rebecca’s priority is mastering the Hobi language, testing her ability value is crucial too~” Laura suddenly interrupted the chatter.

“Hmm? Necessary. If Rebecca has high ability value, the academy will nurture her specially!” Kami nodded in agreement.

“Ability value…?” Rebecca was stunned.

She knew ability value—a human term for all powers. Testing hers? She didn’t know human methods, but her talent? Off the charts!!

But… Rebecca just wanted to read quietly. Don’t mess with me!