The orientation for new students concluded without further incident.
There were no more interruptions—such as Prince Rodel barging in halfway through—and the session covered everything from school life regulations to elective course selection.
Because the Royal Academy utilized a credit system similar to a university, students were able to attend lectures with those from different classes or even different departments outside of their core requirements. This meant there was a distinct possibility of sharing a classroom with Rodel and his sycophants.
(It was fortunate that Viola and Primula had stepped out earlier, but I need to ensure they aren't targeted when we're together.)
Rest resolved to coordinate his elective schedule with the sisters as closely as possible. Neither Viola nor Primula would likely mind, and he wanted to avoid any situation where the two were harassed by Rodel in his absence.
"It looks like we're finished for the day," Viola said as she stood. "Shall we go, Rest? Primula?"
"Yeah, let's head out."
"Yes, let's."
As the guidance ended, Rest and the Rosemary sisters rose from their seats. It was still shy of noon, but their first day of school was effectively over.
"Since we have the time, why don't we grab a bite to eat on the way back?" Rest suggested.
"I agree. My sister and I were planning on doing just that," Primula replied.
"I’ve already informed the family chef that we’ll be dining out, so there's no need to rush home," Viola added with a smile. "Let's look for a cafe."
She then turned to her new friend, offering an invitation. "Would you like to join us, Yuri? We could have a little welcome party."
"Ah, I’m honored you’d ask," Yuri replied, her expression softening with regret. "But unfortunately, I already have a prior engagement. I have a commitment to have lunch with my uncle and aunt today. I’d love to join you next time, though."
"I see... well, that can't be helped. We'll do it another time."
"Right. See you later, Rest, Primula."
"Yeah, see you."
"Yes, goodbye."
Yuri departed the classroom first, and Rest and the Rosemary sisters followed shortly after. As the three of them stepped out of the school building, a voice called out to them.
"Pardon me, everyone. Do you have a moment?"
They turned to find a female student who had just become their classmate.
"Lady Celestine?" Viola’s eyes widened slightly.
Standing there was Celestine Crocus, the daughter of the Duke Crocus House and Prince Rodel’s fiancé.
"I would like to thank you for what happened earlier. If you don't mind, could you spare me a bit of your time?"
"Umm... as for thanks, if anything, I was the one who was helped..." Rest started.
"In that case, let’s call it an apology. It seems my fiancé caused you a great deal of trouble."
Celestine looked up at the school building with a meaningful sigh.
"Prince Rodel has gone to protest directly to the Academy Director. He claims he cannot accept being assigned to Class D. I’m sorry for the trouble, but I’ve decided to leave him to the Director's discretion."
"That sounds like quite a handful. He really is exactly like the rumors say," Primula said, her voice laced with concern.
Primula had already heard about the earlier confrontation and was quite indignant that Rest had almost been forced to give up his seat.
"Indeed. I know a lovely cafe restaurant nearby. Why don't we go there so we can talk more comfortably?"
"Is it all right with you two?" Viola asked, looking toward Rest and Primula. Both of them nodded in agreement immediately.
"In that case, please allow us to join you."
"Excellent. My family’s carriage will lead the way, so please follow us."
The four of them boarded their respective carriages from the Duke Crocus House and the Marquis Rosemary House and made their way through the city. They arrived at their destination in about ten minutes: a stately, high-end cafe restaurant with an impressive storefront.
"This is one of the many establishments managed by the Crocus family," Celestine explained. "They have private rooms here, so we can speak at our leisure."
Led by a middle-aged waiter in an impeccable tuxedo, they were shown to a private room on the second floor.
"Please, make yourselves comfortable."
"Thank you."
Rest took a seat at a table set for six, with the Rosemary sisters flanking him on either side. Celestine sat across from them, offering a gentle smile as she presented the menu.
"What would you like to drink? And would you be comfortable letting me handle the food selection?"
"Yes, we'll leave that to you. I’ll have an iced tea," Rest said.
"That sounds good to me as well," Viola agreed.
"The same for me, please," Primula added.
"Then it's settled."
Celestine gave the order to the waiting staff, who bowed with a professional "Certainly" before withdrawing soundlessly. A short while later, drinks and appetizers were served.
"Now then... I would like to begin our meal, but before that, allow me to offer my formal greetings and another apology."
Celestine sat up straight and gave a polite bow.
"I am Celestine Crocus of the Duke's house. Lady Viola, Lady Primula—we have encountered one another on several occasions, have we not?"
"Yes, it has been quite some time."
"It is a pleasure to see you again..."
"And... Rest-sama, I believe? Am I correct in understanding that you are the one engaged to both these ladies and are to be the Marquis Rosemary House Matrilocal Husband?"
"Yes, that's correct. I’m surprised you knew."
"The Crocus family serves as a coordinator for the nobility, you see. Most information eventually reaches our ears. I had been wondering what kind of man the famously doting Marquis Rosemary would allow to marry both his daughters."
Celestine wore an elegant, probing smile.
"You’ve actually saved me twice now. Once when Prince Rodel accosted me in the classroom, and again at the entrance ceremony when that mud bullet nearly struck me."
"......!"
It was clear that Celestine had seen through Rest’s subtle actions. When Rest blinked in involuntary surprise, Celestine gave a knowing, wry smile.