The training grounds were located near the estate gym, which was strategically positioned for easy access by the stationed knights.
Naturally, a few of them had taken advantage of their allotted free time and were already present, testing out equipment and going through individual drills.
As Vanitas stepped through the doors, the atmosphere shifted almost instantly.
The clang of metal paused and conversations were cut abruptly short as all eyes turned toward him.
"....Hello?" he said, eyebrow raised.
——Lord Astrea!
The knights scrambled to attention, stopping whatever they were doing and bowing in unison. The sound of equipment hitting the floor echoed awkwardly as they straightened their posture like that of the military.
Vanitas sighed inwardly.
"At ease," he said with a wave of his hand.
The knights hesitated for a moment, then cautiously returned to what they were doing—albeit far more stiffly than before. No one dared meet his eyes directly. The gym was quiet now.
