Seeing the obvious anger in Helibel's eyes, Elana quickly said, "I'm very sorry, Miss Belle. We often joke around together, and there are no reservations between us."
"Please believe me, they meant no harm. They just wanted to joke with you, the way friends do."
Since Elana had put it that way, Helibel naturally found it hard to lose her temper. She could only force a smile and start looking for a chance to leave.
Elana casually added, "I heard your brother joined the Navy? That's truly impressive."
Sifa's image flashed through Helibel's mind. She gave a soft hum and said, "He's been in the Navy for over three months now."
"Oh, then he should be a Second Lieutenant by now, right?" Elana asked again.
Before Helibel could answer, Elana's friend—the brown-haired girl beside her—covered her mouth and giggled. "A Navy Second Lieutenant in three months? How is that possible? Elana, do you think everyone is like your brother, as capable as Mr. O'Neill?"
Elana smiled and shook her head. "O'Neill only became a Second Lieutenant after two years."
"Only?" said the black-haired, brown-eyed girl. "My dear Elana, what do you think a Navy Second Lieutenant is? Is it something anyone can become just because they want to?"
"Becoming a Second Lieutenant in two years means Mr. O'Neill has already surpassed eighty percent of people his age."
The brown-haired girl smiled reservedly. "Be bolder. I'd say Mr. O'Neill's achievements are enough to surpass ninety percent of his peers. Don't you agree, Miss Belle?"
Helibel proudly raised her head. "Although I don't know what rank my brother holds now, he joined the Kingdom Navy with the goal of becoming an Admiral."
"I believe that one day, he'll reach that position!"
The girls fell silent, staring at Helibel in astonishment. After a