### Chapter 52:
The room Estella-san directed me to was a smaller version of yesterday's strategy room.
And as expected—the three from the Tenth Squad sat waiting in chairs.
They'd been chatting until I entered—then instantly fell silent, turning tense faces my way.
Logan used to look down on me.
But after seeing me kill the black dragon with his own eyes—none of that remained.
If anything—he seemed awed.
"...Four days. Been well? You've probably heard—starting today, I'm your instructor. Looking forward to working with you."
I spoke deliberately bright.
They stood as one the moment I finished.
"We were incredibly rude the other day. We're truly sorry!"
"""We're truly sorry!"""
Logan led the apology—bowing deeply.
Sophia and Caroline followed.
Sophia didn't really need to...
Such a serious kid.
"We know you probably hate dealing with people like us... but please—guide us. We beg you!"
Logan pleaded earnestly.
...That deflated me.
I'd braced for disdain or fear—starting from minus.
This was way easier.
...Okay—what's the best response?
"I don't mind at all. The gap between us is like adult to child—so your barking was just puppy noise to me."
I said it mean on purpose.
"Ugh... Yeah... the difference really is that big..."
Logan's face twisted—my words hit hard.
"...During the guided expedition—our relationship was temporary. I gave warnings but mostly let you do what you wanted. —That's over now. As fellow clan members—and as your instructor—I'll take this seriously. I might say harsh things. I might push you away. But I'll always be on your side. So—give me everything you've got."
A declaration.
Saying it out loud steeled my resolve.
My teacher was Grandpa.
I wanted to be like him—watch warmly, be strict when needed, give advice when troubled.
Always stay an ally—no matter what.
That's the ideal teacher I aspired to.
Confirming their nods—I continued.
"I'll teach you everything I've learned—knowledge, techniques. But first—two things to keep in mind. ...Maybe three. First—always think. Problems have multiple solutions. Don't fixate on one way. Casual conversation, random sights—sometimes they spark unexpected answers. Second—don't assume everything I say is absolutely right."
All three nodded at the first.
The second left them puzzled—question marks floating.
"I'm not omniscient. Don't swallow my words whole. I've failed and been wrong plenty. Digest what I say—make it your knowledge, your experience. Ask anything you doubt. Got it?"
"""Yes!"""
Clear, enthusiastic replies.
◇
"So—first thing I'm doing... is lecturing you."
"Ugh..."
Logan reacted to the word "lecture."
"It'll hurt to hear—but listen. You three are overflowing with talent. You could become this clan's future representatives. But your attitude the other day was unacceptable. Not just toward comrades—treating outsiders that way damages *Silver Rabbit*'s reputation. Each of you carries the clan's banner. Realize that."
That behavior was outright rude.
Keep it up—you'd isolate yourselves.
Being alone is lonely. Painful.
If you can avoid it—why act to make it happen?
"Even if you reach S-rank—keep that attitude, and no one will help you. People who look down on others narrow their own vision. Respect others. Accept different views openly. People naturally gather around those kinds—and succeed. Don't you think?"
Who follows someone arrogant and dismissive?
No one lives alone.
To connect with others—you have to reach out first.
"'Never forget your beginner's spirit.' Why did you become explorers? To show off power and bask in ego? If yes—that's troubling. But it's not, right? Look at your actions so far. Are they suited to your goals? Think hard."
I'd said my piece.
Unlike before—my words seemed to reach them.
All three looked down—dejected.
I softened my expression—gentle voice.
"Good—looks like it hit home this time. Relieved. You're still in time. Reflect on your behavior from now on—your reputation will improve. You're starting from minus. Only way is up, right?"
"Ahaha... Yeah... true."
Logan gave a wry smile—agreeing.
"Since it's a good chance—mind telling me why you became explorers? Your dreams, goals. Sophia first."
"Y-Yes! Um... I want to be like my big sister—Selma Claudel. Not just doing what's given—deciding my own path with my own will! I... don't know what that is yet. Coming to this clan—meeting so many people—showed me how narrow my world was. So... to find my dream and goal—I became an explorer."
One thing about Sophia puzzled me.
She's Selma-san's little sister.
Meaning—Count Claudel's daughter.
So why isn't she in the Noble Academy?
Noble Academy educates noble children ages ten to fifteen.
Selma-san graduated before becoming an explorer.
Other noble explorers did too.
Nobles explore because deep-floor progress boosts status in noble society.
Details unclear—but.
The Claudel family probably has complicated circumstances.
"Good goal. In a clan—especially as explorers—you'll learn tons. I'll help too. Let's find your dream together, Sophia."
"Y-Yes... P-Please... take care of me..."
Sophia's face went bright red.
Maybe I got too cool...