Chapter 147: Let’s Meet Again!
The academy graduation day had officially come to an end, closing with a grand event hosted by Headmistress Arsene, who had invited all graduates along with their families who had come to celebrate.
That lively night felt like a farewell party for all of us. I could see the students around me—some were overjoyed, while others looked melancholic. Those with average grades would most likely enlist as royal knights or continue serving as knights in guilds. But one thing was certain: tonight, we would all enjoy ourselves one last time before parting ways.
I spotted Marius having fun with Milly and the maids of my family. I had already informed them that Marius would be joining our household as a knight, and that news delighted everyone in the Blackmore family. Especially Vivin—she was particularly excited that there would be another great tank in the family besides herself.
On the other side of the hall, I noticed Julius and Termina dancing together. They looked surprisingly good as a pair. In my mind, I could hear Envi grumbling with jealousy—he also wanted to dance with the girls. However, I forbade him, considering that Lyra, Freya, and Amelia were busy spending time with their families.
"Let them enjoy their moments with their families," I reassured Envi.
"But Nao, you do realize that after tonight, we won’t see them for a long time, right?" Envi’s voice took on a rare, somber tone. "They’ll be heading off to three months of intensive training, and after that, they’ll be assigned to their respective positions. And tomorrow, they’re already leaving for the training center. Meanwhile, you’ll be preparing for the Hero’s Trial. So, you... I... we’ll definitely feel lonely."
"Of course, I know that," I replied. "We’re all going to walk different paths, each of us fighting our own battles. That’s just part of growing up, Envi—it’s natural. But I understand what you’re saying. I’ll miss them too."
I let out a small sigh. "To be honest, I still can’t believe I managed to make so many friends in this world. It’s so different from my past life on Earth. Back there, I only had a couple of friends—Senior Kai, and then Mamoru, who... is gone now."
A bittersweet feeling washed over me as I recalled my old life. But at the same time, I felt grateful for the friends I had made in this world.
Just as I was lost in thought, a familiar voice called out to me from behind.
"What are you thinking about, Naoki-sama?" It was Lyra.