A Different World? Trading Between Worlds - Ch 2, Ep 48 - Old Friends
Old Friends
The Royal Academy operates like a combination of high school and university.
For elementary and middle school-level education, students either attend private tutors or have home schooling, then proceed to higher education. This approach fits the aristocratic society’s norms.
During their childhood, children are educated in their territories. Before reaching adulthood, they move to the capital to participate in social gatherings. But a sole focus on academics is insufficient; they must expand their social circles, consider their status, territories, and factions, and seek suitable marriage partners. Leaving heirs is one of the duties of the nobility.
The firstborn sons and daughters who inherit the territories search for spouses, while those without inheritance rights look for positions in service.
Non-noble students also search for positions or build networks for their future careers. As not everyone in the country can attend university, those admitted must have at least a minimum lineage or broad talents. The academy provides education suitable for running a state or territories.
At this academy, Mariel reportedly achieved excellent grades. As she headed towards the faculty office, she appeared very composed. Her earlier tension in the carriage seemed like an act.
Watari thought, “If anything, I’m more nervous.”
He had never liked the kind of quietness found in places like schools or museums, where one could almost hear footsteps and breathing.
“You seem very relaxed.”
“Yes, thanks to you, I feel much better. Now that it’s over, I wonder why I was so anxious in the first place. It seems silly now.”
“You can think that way because you’ve overcome it. I know how that feels.”
“Even you, Ea, have felt like that?”
“Hey, Master, that’s mean! I do have worries, you know!”
“And what do you worry about? Dinner tonight?”
“Yes, like whether to have meat or fish… Not that!”
Fugaa! Ea made a threatening noise, which made Watari and Mariel laugh.
Their restrained laughter echoed in the corridor. Whether it was class time or classes had ended, there was no sign of anyone in the hallway.
“What kind of person do you think I am?”
“Strong and worry-free.”
“Not at all. I worried a lot when I first went to the battlefield, when I became a slave despite winning in the arena, and when you bought me.”
“I see. I’m sorry. I’ll be kinder to you.”
“I don’t want that either.”
“You’re being picky!”
Ea laughed with a high-pitched giggle.
Although they continued their joking conversation, Watari knew that Ea, too, had her worries. Even if she appeared strong and unaffected, she still had her struggles and wounds. He wanted to support her by being more aware of her feelings.
“Alright, we’re almost there. Let’s stop joking now.”
“I’m not joking! I’m serious!”
“Shh.”
“Mmm…”
Ea glared at Mariel with a resentful look but fell silent. It was fortunate that she understood when to speak and when to be quiet. This ability must also be part of her training as a bodyguard.
“Oh, Mariel… Is that really you?”
“Feena…”
Just as they were about to reach the faculty office, a girl noticed Mariel and called out in surprise.
Mariel’s eyes widened in shock, and she looked far more nervous than when she faced Laura earlier.
Despite having said she had overcome her fears, Mariel now appeared visibly shaken.
〇
Dislike or disdain from someone you weren’t close to in the first place does not weigh heavily on your mind. It’s not a big deal if someone like Laura looks down on you; you can always console yourself with the thought that their opinion doesn’t matter anyway.
But it’s different with a friend. Being disliked or scorned by someone you once trusted and connected with leaves a deep emotional scar.
For Mariel, Feena had been a very close friend during their school days. Feena, the third daughter of a viscount, was the same age as Mariel. She was intelligent, exceptionally talented, and highly regarded by their teachers. Her beauty and graceful manners were remarkable.
Their personalities meshed well, so they often studied and ate together. Mariel was confident in their bond, to the point that Feena once jokingly suggested being employed by Mariel when she returned to her territory. Feena couldn’t inherit her family’s estate and had to either marry or find employment on her own.
Mariel’s sudden departure from the academy without explaining the reason to Feena left the latter feeling possibly betrayed and confused. It wouldn’t be surprising if Feena was hurt and demanded an explanation. This uncertainty about Feena’s reaction terrified her.
“Feena, it’s been a while. How have you been?”
“I’m so glad! You’re safe!”
So when Feena, with tears in her eyes, embraced Mariel, pure joy erupted from Mariel’s heart.
“I was so worried about you!”
“I’m sorry. I missed you too.”
“It’s okay. We’re together now. Is this a dream? You’ve become so impressive and beautiful.”
“Yes, and you look just as beautiful, Feena.”
Her voice trembled, barely forming words. She was relieved Feena had been worried about her. The overwhelming feelings of happiness, guilt, and relief intertwined.
Feena was truly a friend Mariel could trust wholeheartedly. Tears streamed down her face despite trying to hold them back, filling her heart to the brim.
Her dress was getting soaked with tears. A part of her mind registered this trivial worry while she hugged Feena tightly, feeling the undeniable reality of her friend’s presence. Her precious friend still possessed the same warmth and kindness, welcoming her back with open arms.
How happy she felt. She never wanted to betray Feena again. She hoped they would remain close friends, trusting and caring for each other.
With tears streaming down her face, Mariel’s expression remained a smile.