Aunt

(Writing at home really was inconvenient. My hands were cold, my feet were cold, and even the keyboard was cold.)

"I see."

After listening to Maria's account, Bai Ye pointed at the suit of knightly armor set aside nearby.

"Nearl was certain you would enter the knight competitions. At first, I didn't believe she could be so completely sure, but now I understand."

Maria let out a soft sigh.

"I had no choice. Uncle holds competitive knights in utter contempt, and his stance is firm. And I can't just watch the Neirl Family's former glory gradually fade away and be trampled underfoot. So I only have one choice..."

The girl then turned her gaze toward Bai Ye.

"Bai Ye, what do you think? What do you think my sister would... think?"

Bai Ye smiled faintly as he looked at the blonde girl.

"I noticed your armor has quite a few new scars, though none of them are fatal. Looks like you've already begun special training. Since you've made your decision and are already walking this path, why care what others think?"

Then Bai Ye gave the girl a somewhat strange look.

"Besides, we've known each other for less than an hour. We can't even be called friends—just strangers. You don't need to care about a stranger's opinion."

"As for your sister... I don't know her all that well either, but judging from her attitude when she commissioned me, she would probably support your decision."

Hearing that, Maria let out a breath of relief.

"So that's how it is... My sister said in her letter that Bai Ye was the comrade-in-arms she trusted most, and also someone very strong. She told me to listen to your advice, so..."

Bai Ye blinked. He hadn't expected Nearl to rate him so highly.

"Ah,