The sound of clashing steel and panting breaths filled the training yard as Isla, Sylveria, and Isao engaged in a fierce three-way sparring match. Instructor Elric, Ozwell and another renowned sword master named Greff observed with keen interest, their eyes darting between the combatants as they assessed their skills.

Isla grunted in frustration; her attacks consistently thwarted by her opponents' lightning-fast reflexes. Every time she managed to land a blow, the others swiftly retaliated, leaving her winded and struggling to maintain her footing.

"Hah...you two are too fast!" Isla panted, her brow slick with sweat. She lunged at Sylveria, only for the princess to sidestep and deliver a crisp strike that sent Isla stumbling back. Meanwhile, Isao had been egging them on, darting between the pair with a mischievous glint in her eye.

Greff's eyes widened in astonishment as he watched the trio's fluid, almost choreographed movements. He turned to Elric and Ozwell, his voice laced with incredulity. "Are these...children truly only nine years old?" Elric chuckled, a note of pride in his tone. "Indeed, they are. And I'd venture to say they've surpassed my own abilities at their age." The sword master shook his head, marveling at the display before him. "Their coordination, strength, and technique are exceptional. It's as if they've been trained by masters since birth."

As if to underscore his point, Isla, Sylveria, and Isao continued their relentless exchange of blows, their movements a blur of grace and power. The air crackled with the energy of their combat, a testament to the remarkable growth and potential they embodied. As the maids arrived with a tray of refreshments, Isla, Sylveria, and Isao sprang to their feet, their exhaustion momentarily forgotten in the face of impending snacks. However, their enthusiasm was short-lived as they saw Elric, who had quietly stepped closer to observe their reactions.

Sylveria's eyes widened as she realized her instructors had witnessed her uncharacteristic display of childish exuberance. A flush crept up her neck, and she froze, her usual composure cracking under the weight of embarrassment. Elric, Ozwell, and Greff's hearty laughter only served to intensify her mortification.

"Oh, Elric, please don't tell anyone about this." Sylveria pleaded, her voice barely above a whisper. She glanced at her friends, hoping they would understand her distress and keep the moment private. Isla and Isao, however, merely grinned at each other, clearly amused by their friend's predicament. A mischievous spark ignited in Isla's eyes as she look at Sylveria, her words delivered in a teasing tone. "Sylv, if you don't hurry up, I'll gobble down this entire cake!"

Sylveria's exasperation grew, her annoyance morphing into a panic-stricken pursuit. "W-what!? Isla, stop this instant! Come back here!"

But it was already too late; Isla darted away, her lithe form weaving effortlessly around the room as she clutched Sylveria's treasured cake close. The chaotic chase unfolded in a delightful ballet of movement, punctuated by Sylveria's anguished cries and Isla's infectious giggles. Isao, meanwhile, seized the opportunity to snatch Isla's own snack, causing the normally stoic swordswoman to erupt in a frantic pursuit. Sylveria's cries of indignation mingled with Isla's disgruntled shouts, while Elric, Ozwell and Greff observe and exchanged delighted smiles. For Ozwell, witnessing this carefree, childish behavior from the usually composed princess was a heartwarming sight, a reminder of the precious innocence she still possessed beneath her calculated exterior.