Picking up after the end of the exam, the group now is asked to come to the Great Hall so that what happened can be investigated. It is a bit tricky because they need to protect Euini. Well, Olruggio does handle it well, but it is clear that Qifrey needs to explain some stuff when he wakes up.
One interesting note that we are introduced to as the group enters the main hall is that witches aren’t allowed to study medicine. While it makes sense spells that affect the human body are forbidden, as only those that erase memories are allowed by the Knight Moralies. Definitely not something you usually get in fantasy series because healing magic is a core concept of it.
The group is introduced to Lord Beldaruit, who is called the Wise in teachings. Interestingly enough, personality-wise he actually is similar to Coco because he purely loves magic like she does. Granted, it is no surprise those like Olruggio who are more straitlaced to the rules would find Beldaruit a bit difficult to deal with. It will be curious if we eventually meet Engendale the Wise in friendship and Vianna the Wise in principle. Well, the latter feels like a guarantee to be introduced.
Beldaruit, given what happens in the 2nd exam, allows the 4 students to retake it. Granted, both Coco and Tetia didn’t take the exam, but his logic for allowing them to take the exam is sound. After all, they rose to help both Agott and Richeh. The trick is having to impress Beldaruit, as one who is called the wise in teachings is definitely a tough task.
It’s interesting to learn that Agott was once in the Great Hall, but much like Richeh she has the circumstance to be an apprentice under Qifrey. It seems Agott tried to pass someone else’s magic as her own. Which, given what we know about her so far, feels pretty off. Though it is good that Coco doesn’t lose her faith in Agott, as she just doesn’t see her being capable of stealing another witch’s work. Could the events be fabricated? At the very least it is clear that Agott has a clear goal in mind.
It is great seeing the girls work together to impress Beldaruit. As the Great Hall is below the sea, they would never see rain. As rain would never make it. So the girls showing rain was an unexpected thing for Beldaruit because usually his students would try to innovate something new. Even better than being surprised a rainbow was created was joy for Beldaruit because it shows in magic, even in your own creations, you can make things beyond your expectations.
It is quite interesting to learn that Beldaruit was Qifrey’s master. I am curious about their relationship and why he moved out of the Great Hall.
