* * *
Just like when Doter used his skill, he could see someone else’s skill window.
Originally, Ranshel could only see the system window when he used a skill.
When Petro analyzed the ingredients of Merck’s medicine using his skill, nothing appeared to Ranshel at all.
‘What’s the rule behind this?’
If this was happening just because he got transported into the game world, shouldn’t he be able to see everyone’s skills?
Ranshel tilted his head in confusion as Frey spoke.
“It’s done. The wound should be completely healed now.”
As soon as the words left Frey’s mouth, Ranshel was yanked backward.
Zavad had pulled him behind him, causing Frey’s hand to fall away.
“Thank you. There was no need to trouble yourself for a mere servant.”
“…It’s nothing. It was only right for me to do it.”
“As expected of the Saint. You’re endlessly compassionate. But for your own sake, I suggest we don’t mention this during the families’ discussions. Healing a lowly servant might tarnish your reputation.”
“…Thank you for your considerate advice.”
Ranshel could’ve sworn Frey frowned slightly.
But that gentle heroine?
Showing irritation?
That’s impossible.
Maybe Frey was upset because Zavad kept pestering him under the guise of seeking attention?
‘He’s just bad at expressing his feelings.’
Ranshel suddenly wanted to defend Zavad.
He considered stepping in to explain, but thought better of it, not wanting to interfere clumsily.
“The entrance ceremony is about to begin. Shall we head over?”
“Of course. I look forward to seeing you again.”
“Yes, let’s meet before the flowers wither.”
Zavad offered a polite farewell, and Frey answered sweetly.
Ranshel quickly turned and trotted after Zavad, who was already walking briskly away from the chapel.
‘I’m supposed to bring those two together.’
It’s not like he could outright confess it, but playing Cupid a little shouldn’t hurt.
A servant as valuable as him ought to be at least this competent.
Keeping pace beside Zavad as he strode down the hallway, Ranshel offered a subtle suggestion.
“You’ll get to see him again soon.”
“…What?”
“There’s that tradition where the top student at the entrance ceremony receives a flower from the Saint, right?”
Zavad was bound to be the top student anyway.
Things didn’t go smoothly just now because he was awkward, but there would be another chance.
That was the intention behind Ranshel’s words.
But suddenly, Zavad let out a bitter laugh.
“What, you want me to give the flower to you if I get it?”
“…No?”
“Then why say pointless things? Just keep your mouth shut and follow me.”
What the hell?
I’m trying to help your love life, why are you getting mad?
Ranshel pouted in frustration and shuffled after him.
The entrance ceremony began shortly after.
Rather than a solemn, formal event, it had the atmosphere of a lighthearted party.
The noble students entering the Academy mingled at the center, enjoying snacks and exchanging greetings.
Servants like Ranshel sat in designated corners, waiting for the event to end.
After the principal’s speech, Frey appeared on the stage.
At the same time, whispers spread around them.
“Which family’s child came in first this year?”
“Probably someone from the Goz family. She’s been famous for her brilliance since she was little.”
“No, I heard the Crown Prince showed up during the practice run.”
The Crown Prince… Ranshel frowned.
Upon closer inspection, he could see glimmers of silver hair beside Frey.
He was another love interest in this game.
Though, this was the Zavad route, so he should only be a side character.
‘The Empress’s son must be pretty smart too.’
Not that it mattered. Zavad was obviously smarter.
Still, it seemed the Crown Prince got lucky during this test.
Following tradition, Frey handed flowers to the top-performing students.
Strangely, Zavad never went up to the stage.
Not as the top student, not even as runner-up.
Well, that can happen.
He’s still young — it’s natural to be nervous and make mistakes.
Nodding to himself, Ranshel slowly crossed his arms.
“He made a mistake just because he got nervous during the entrance exam? That Zavad Formel?”
‘…Something must have happened after all.’
Well, he got admitted, didn’t he?
What does the ranking even matter?
It’s not like he’s planning to become a professor.
Besides, Zavad grew up shut away in a small room at the top of the tower without even a private tutor.
He made it here solely by studying books on his own.
He was bound to outperform those students getting flowers right now in every way.
It wasn’t a big deal.
Except maybe worrying if Zavad’s pride had been hurt.
After the ceremony ended, the servants scattered to find their masters.
Ranshel also rose and moved without delay.
Zavad was chatting with some other students.
He kept his usual painted-on smile as Ranshel approached, but the moment he turned away, his expression completely disappeared.
This time, Ranshel could understand the irritation on his face.
Ranshel gently tried to comfort him.
“It’s alright, young master.”
“What is?”
“Even though you confidently declared you’d take first place but ended up messing up the exam, there’s no need to feel ashamed.”
“……”
Zavad looked at Ranshel like he couldn’t believe what he was hearing, then pinched his cheek lightly.
“Ow.”
“I had my reasons. Don’t spout nonsense and irritate me.”
“Why? Was someone shaking their leg nonstop next to you? Maybe coughing loudly? You don’t have to bother explaining how you weren’t in top condition to me— Ow!”
The hand pinching his cheek tightened.
This time, it actually hurt.
“You shouldn’t take your frustration out on your servant just because you’re embarrassed…”
“When have I ever taken my frustration out on you?”
“Right now.”
“I never do that to you.”
“…Young master, I think it’d be good if you took some time for self-reflection.”
‘Know thyself.’
Wasn’t that exactly the kind of advice Zavad needed right now?
Zavad shook his head wordlessly and left the hall.
Ranshel followed without much thought, but suddenly realized something and spoke up.
“Sir Petro and Sir Hans are still meeting with the apothecary, I think. Should I go bring them?”
“Why bother? They’ll manage themselves. Just stick close behind me.”
“But we’re headed to the same place anyway. Wouldn’t it be better to meet up and go together?”
“They’re not children, why would I babysit grown men? Quit fussing and walk closer. We’ve got a stop to make before going back to the estate.”
Ranshel wondered what Zavad was up to this time but obediently walked closer as instructed.
But instead of heading toward the carriage, Zavad turned deeper into the school grounds.
Past the large, grand main building, they came upon a tree-lined path.
The leafy trail stretched ahead, the leaves rustling softly in the wind.
“Ranshel.”
“Yes?”
“What would you do if people started calling me an incompetent noble?”
“…Sorry?”
“Would you still have a reason to follow me, or not?”
What kind of question was that now? Ranshel blinked slowly.
“To be honest… I already think you’re a bit lacking in character.”
“Don’t joke around. Answer properly. I’m asking if you’d stop following me.”
Was this because of the entrance exam?
Ranshel thought about how harmful entrance exam stress could be, then reluctantly answered.
“I first met you when you were holed up in that dusty tower, remember? You were already acting like a lunatic possessed by evil spirits back then. So even if you ask me now, I don’t have anything new to say.”
“……”
“Then and now, you’re… my young master.”
When had he ever been perfect?
Zavad Formel had never once been flawless.
Difficult, eccentric, demanding—but to Ranshel, there hadn’t been a single moment when he didn’t find him endearing.
* * *
