Unedited*
Lucius nodded… in a way, they were both looking forward to the next official match that would elevate them in rank.
"If I'm lucky, I could jump a few hundred spots in the rankings all the way up to Rank C," he thought.
Although that doesn't bring any immediate benefits, being a Rank E fighter positioned within the Rank C rankings makes him more attractive to major guilds and the academy's administration, which works greatly to his advantage.
"Later on, I'll teach you how to fight on your own, using your skills and magic. If you manage to stand out in the next tournament—and as a Rank E fighter, make it into the Rank D or C rankings—you'll have many advantages for the future," he said.
"Huh? G-get into Rank C, even though I'm Rank E? T-that's way too hard!" she exclaimed.
"It is," Lucius admitted. "That's why I'm aiming for you to make it into Rank D—to try to reach my current rank. That will be enough."
