43: Inside Camp

Yolan displayed remarkable calm upon assuming the proper stance of drawing the bow.

Defolta watched in anticipation as she observed the body language of the fox-girl in hopes of mimicking and putting this lesson when she got the opportunity herself to learn the ways of the bow.

Expecting a normal but accurate shot like the rest of the Ranger Archers, Yolan blew Defolta's expectations and instead, the fox-girl quickly aimed her bow above and fired the arrow.

As the arrow made its horizontal arc, the arrow suddenly freeze and shattered upon reaching at its highest point, causing numerous icicles to be conjured on the spot and making a deadly rain that fell right at where the many targets were, decimating them in an instant.

Upon finishing her attack, Yolan appeared proud to herself when she assumed a grin, nodding satisfactorily at her accomplishment.

Her fellow archers watched in astonishment at the feat she performed. They were no doubt impressed and some even clapped their hands in cheers.

The Drill Master of the Archers, a male elf, sighed at one of his subordinate's antics. No doubt, the fox-girl's action was unpermitted and rather, a surprising act that was not included in the agenda of today's drills.

"Yolan." The Drill Master said her name with a stern voice, "While I acknowledge your incredible talent with both magic and bow, our schedule dictates that we perform the usual drill to hone our basics and fundamentals."

Yolan sheepishly scratched the back of her head in response, "Ahaha, sorry, sir. I just can't help in showing off, especially in front of our guests."

"Guests?" The Drill Master asked, and Yolan pointed at the direction where Defolta and June were watching.

Just moments before Yolan fired her shot, she spotted the two guests in advance and instantly recognized their silhouettes. Thus, she opted to show them what she was all about, all in the hopes to amaze the pair and perhaps, entice Defolta to join the Rangers, maybe even just a little.

"Ah, forgive me." The Drill Master swiftly shifted his tone and faced the newcomers, "I did not realize that you two were here."

"It's alright." Defolta smiled in return, "We were just passing by and happened to be curious at the spectacle of the Archers in training."

"I see." The Drill Master nodded in understanding, "I'm Captain Ayduin Varel, head of the Archer corps."

"Defolta, and the kid here is June." The Magical Girl introduced.

"A pleasure, Ms. Defolta and June." Ayduin assumed a smile of his own.

While the two were talking, Yolan bravely interjected between their conversation and joined in.

"Ms. Defolta and little June, hello again!!" Yolan greeted with utmost enthusiasm.

"Hey, fox-girl." Defolta briefly waved his hand to acknowledge her while June simply nodded timidly as she clutched behind Defolta's waist on the right, "Cool trick you did there by the way.

"Thanks." Yolan smirked in triumphant at being complimented, "I'm awesome, I know."

"This girl..." Ayduin sighed once more at how brash Yolan really was, but he was used to her at this point, and despite her antics, Yolan is his best archer and trusty lieutenant. He could excuse an antic or two, despite the militaristic nature of this place and their entire organization.

"What sort of magic is that?" The Magical Girl's curiosity was piqued by the fox-girl's attack.

"Elemental Magic, Ice Magic for instance, incorporated in my archery." Yolan replied to the Magical Girl's inquiry, earning a nod of understanding from the latter.

"So, I believe you two already met, correct?" Ayduin rejoin the conversation and questioned his lieutenant.

"Yes, sir. As a matter of fact, I'm on a grave assignment in recruiting her to our cause!!" Yolan answered cheerfully and turned her attention back to Defolta, "So, Ms. Defolta… I can't help but hear that you're curious about the Archers here, yes?"

"Yup." Defolta replied.

"So, is it safe to assume that you want to learn archery then?" Yolan asked in anticipation.

"I would be lying if I say no." Defolta said, and she saw the smile on Yolan's face turn wider by her answer. She looked at Ayduin and asked him, "I mean, is it possible for me to train here? Being locked up here inside for two weeks, I wanted to use my time for something productive rather than being cooped inside the barracks."

"Hmm, I believe it's possible, provided that it won't get in the way of the soldiers' training, then I don't see why not." Ayduin agreed, "But you may only do so after our drills have concluded, when the archers have departed from the range."

"Sure, no problem." Defolta approved the elf's condition, "It would be nice though if I have someone who can teach me archery, but I don't want to impose with your schedule, so-"

"I volunteer!" Yolan did not even let Defolta finish her statement and raised her arm, "I'll teach you, Ms. Defolta."

"Really?" Defolta was pleasantly surprised by the fox-girl's offer, "Wait, is that even allowed?"

"There's no issue, only if you and Yolan train after the soldiers' training, just as I mentioned earlier." Ayduin saw no reason to disagree, especially if Yolan was willing to be a teacher, "She's my best archer, and you would do well under her tutelage."

"Aw shocks, Captain, you flatter me." Yolan was touched by her superior's praise.

"I give credit where it's due, Lieutenant." Ayduin simply stated like it was a natural thing for him, "And we still have some drills to conduct. You may rendezvous with your new friend after the conclusion of today's drills."

"Yes, sir!" Yolan saluted and faced Defolta, "Well then, duty calls, Ms. Defolta. See you at five in the afternoon."

"We'll take our leave for now." Ayduin said to bid his farewell, "I hope you enjoy your stay here in our camp."

"Thank you." Defolta replied with appreciation while she saw the two Ranger Archers returning to the training area.

"Well, that was easy." Nekowa said when Defolta and June were left alone to their devices again. "These soldiers sure are quite accommodating so far."

"Yeah, too accommodating, in fact." Defolta frowned a bit before shifting his expression back to a more positive vibe, "Not that it is a bad thing. Well… hopefully."