Volume 2, Chapter 20: Raiden Mei's Courage

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During this period, it wasn't just Xia Chen who made progress.

Ever since her embarrassing defeat, Kiana had been striving to improve herself. Although she often tended to be lazy, indulgent, and enjoyed hanging around pretty girls, her determination remained unwavering, even earning Bronya's admiration.

It's worth noting that at this time, Bronya still occasionally teased Kiana about her mecha obsession.

Kiana, being very conscious of her reputation, preferred practicing late at night when no one else was around—usually during hours when Xia Chen wasn't present.

Thus, he was slightly taken aback by Kiana's advancements.

But only slightly.

In this world, there are numerous overpowered individuals, and having advantageous lineage is considered the least significant cheat code.

Having already encountered Durandal, nothing much surprises Xia Chen anymore.

However, others perceived it differently, particularly Raiden Mei, whose feelings were mixed and complicated.

"I've always thought about improving my strength but never took action."

She lightly bit her lip, her expression conflicted.

Raiden Mei was excessively indecisive. She constantly hesitated, unsure where to start or when to begin, often worrying if she would have enough time for cooking. Her talent gradually diminished amidst these uncertainties.

If not for finding Kiana later in Nagazora City, she might never have realized what she truly desired.

Bronya couldn't help but glance at Mei and whispered softly, "Big Sister Mei, whatever you decide to do, Bronya will support you."

"Thank you."

On the training ground, Xia Chen once again defeated Kiana.

"You possess good natural talent; there's not much guidance needed," he said sincerely. "If possible, I recommend using the Memory Battlefield to spar with Captain Durandal. She can better identify your weaknesses than I can."

Xia Chen didn't concern himself with the potential consequences of Kiana encountering Durandal earlier than planned. That was Otto's worry, not his issue. He merely offered advice as a teacher.

He simply offered his advice as their teacher.

"Thank you."

After venting her frustration, Kiana expressed her heartfelt gratitude sincerely.

Initially, her dispute with Xia Chen stemmed from the Kaslana Gunmanship techniques. However, at this moment, it was more about proving herself out of pride. Sirin's influence also played a role; if Sirin felt fear, so would Kiana, and if Sirin harbored anger, Kiana unconsciously mirrored that anger.

Nevertheless, Kiana remained true to herself and wouldn't be constantly swayed by Sirin.

She declared, "I will still defeat you someday. My goal has never changed."

Xia Chen smiled warmly.

Then, he proceeded to engage with the next student in combat training.

Following his match with Kiana, the subsequent battles were not particularly noteworthy. Even Raiden Mei and Bronya displayed numerous vulnerabilities against him.

Raiden Mei undoubtedly possessed exceptional talent, but she had yet to fully harness its potential. She couldn't even master the power of her innate Stigmata, leaving her open to many weaknesses in front of Xia Chen.

As for Bronya, perhaps due to holding back and not giving her all, she quickly acknowledged her defeat after briefly clashing with Xia Chen. This mechanical girl seemed most competitive only when it came to games.

The others exhibited even more vulnerabilities.

However, these students displayed remarkable resilience. Despite Xia Chen pointing out numerous flaws, they remained undeterred and actively sought guidance on how to improve.

Theresa's teaching approach had its merits; at least, it didn't demoralize them amidst such a daunting skill gap. Should one say they were resigned, believing they could never catch up with the Immortal Blades? Or perhaps their positive mindset led them to view temporary shortcomings as merely correctable issues?

Xia Chen felt somewhat regretful.

These students possessed exceptional talent and character, yet while Saint Freya provided safety, it also deprived them of opportunities to truly shine. When Theresa later raised the flag of rebellion, what would be their thoughts then?

He couldn't know for sure.

The five-hour training session ended swiftly, with many guided students gathering around to express their gratitude.

"I've always heard about the Immortal Blades' prowess, but I never understood where our differences lay. Today, everything seems clearer."

"Thank you."

This sentiment echoed among most of them. Instead of feeling disheartened by the gap, they were thrilled to have found ways to narrow it. Even after class, they lingered, reluctant to part.

Himeko remarked with some emotion, "They've never shown this much enthusiasm during my classes."

Just then, she noticed Raiden Mei and Bronya approaching together.

Himeko paused momentarily before asking, "Mei, Bronya, is there something you need?"

Raiden Mei lightly bit her lip and spoke, "Teacher Himeko, I would like to request some time off from classes. I'll catch up through self-study without affecting my exams."

Himeko felt puzzled, "Is everything alright?"

"I want to address my shortcomings while Teacher Xia Chen is still here."

Gathering her courage, she finally voiced her concern.

Kiana's rapid progress had genuinely astonished Mei, even reaching a point where Kiana surpassed her significantly without her noticing.

Although Raiden Mei wasn't overly competitive, she also didn't wish to fall too far behind.

Himeko responded solemnly, "Mei, your talent is already exceptional, and your training has been diligent; becoming an A-rank Valkyrie is just a matter of time."

"Intense training can be burdensome for you, considering your unique situation."

Raiden Mei was the host vessel for the Herrscher of Thunder.

While gifted, one reason limiting her achievements stemmed from this aspect.

Himeko feared that excessive competitiveness might trigger negative emotions within Mei, given the 'Conquest' Herrscher Core residing inside her.

However, it was now clear that Raiden Mei was no longer content with her current status.

"Teacher, I carry three million lives on my shoulders."

Himeko fell silent.

On this point, she had no argument to offer.

"I understand; don't put too much pressure on yourself." Forcing a smile, she turned toward Bronya. "And what about you?"

"Big Sister Mei needs someone to spar with and help manage her stress," Bronya said earnestly.

Himeko didn't know whether to laugh or cry. "It seems like your bond is truly strong. All right, I approve of that as well. Leave it to me to speak with Theresa."

"Thank you, Teacher Himeko."

"Don't mention it. Oh, by the way, since you'll be focusing on training, why don't you let me handle cooking? My skills may not match yours, but they're decent enough."

Himeko spoke cheerfully.

Later that evening, Kiana criticized Himeko's meal.

"Ew, Aunt Himeko's food is so salty! Why isn't Mei making dinner tonight?"

Himeko replied with a forced grin, "Kiana, listen up—I'm not just cooking tonight. Tomorrow, the day after, and every single day from now on, it'll be my turn in the kitchen."

"Why?" Kiana felt like crying but held back her tears.

Casually, she replied, "Because I want to become a good woman and eventually find a suitable man to marry."

In just two more years, it would be time for her to apply for retirement.