Author: Eltria	Original Source: Syosetu
Translator: Mui	English Source: Re:Library
Editor(s): Robinxen

Project GB is an official initiative by Re:Library.

The preparation of the equipment was completed, and the measurements commenced as scheduled.

The aptitude test for piloting a Mecha Soldier involved comprehensive evaluations through simple actions using the mecha. First, the participant would board a mecha in a crouched, parked position, stand it upright, circle the designated area, imitate basic martial arts forms demonstrated by Mr. Tanutanu, and then park the mecha to complete the test. Speed contributed to additional points, so running the mecha or quickly responding to Mr. Tanutanu’s martial arts forms could raise the upper limit of the aptitude score.

“All right, let’s get started. I’m looking forward to seeing how many scores exceed 80,” Mr. Tanutanu declared.

The maximum aptitude score for piloting a mecha was 100, and students scoring above 80 were eligible to apply for the Zersteller—Canalford Cup. After submitting an application, they would undergo a second screening, and only 15 teams, each consisting of three members, would advance to the main competition.

Class A, which had started the tests earlier, had already seen more than half of its members finish. Their reactions—ranging from joy to disappointment—were clearly visible.

“Are they from the military department?”
“Most likely. Considering the curriculum, this seems like the kind of evaluation that determines class rankings.”

In the military department, a high aptitude score for piloting Mecha Soldiers provided a significant advantage. However, the score of 80 mentioned by Mr. Tanutanu was well above the median. Most students aiming for that score often failed to reach it. The disheartened expressions of some Class A students likely indicated they hadn’t achieved it.

Even so, students who performed well in the Zersteller—Canalford Cup often received recommendations for university programs or appointments to the Imperial Army. As such, even students outside the military department aspired to participate in the competition.

Though it differed from St. Salaius, Canalford Academy was similarly meritocratic. The student council consisted of top-performing students, and naturally, their aptitude scores for piloting mechas were among the highest. This earned them seeded positions in the Zersteller—Canalford Cup.

With that in mind, Hom would surely secure the right to apply for the competition. After all, I designed her to achieve such results.

“…Hom, do you want to participate in the Zersteller?”
“If it means I can be of service to Master, then yes.”

Our turn was coming up soon. Wanting to confirm her intentions, I asked, and Hom replied instantly with a smile.

“That’s reassuring to hear.”

The question now was whether any other students in Class F would achieve aptitude scores as high as hers. My own measurement using Arkecius would likely yield a decent score, but if it came down to combat, I’d need to upgrade Arkecius further¹.

As I thought ahead, my gaze shifted to the Legion, where I spotted Farah running through the designated area. While most students struggled even to get their parked mechas to stand, Farah had already captured attention by casually making hers walk. Seeing her effortlessly run the machine was nothing short of astonishing.

What’s more, the image projected on the display showed Farah looking completely composed. I had heard she inherited her father’s beloved machine and was familiar with mechas, but her aptitude seemed to exceed expectations.

Farah smoothly imitated Mr. Tanutanu’s martial arts forms and gracefully guided her mecha into a parked position.

“No way, that’s amazing!!” A loud shout from Vannabelle, the class president assisting with the measurements, cut through the air just as the score appeared.

“Farah, 98! A 98, indeed!” Isaac, his excitement clear, called out her score, and the murmurs spread rapidly as students from other classes gathered around.

“Hehe, guess I didn’t hit 100,” Farah said with a sheepish laugh as she began exiting the cockpit. Her remark hinted at the confidence she must have had going into the test.

“Next, Leafa and Hom.”

Ah, since I’ll be using Arkecius, it looks like we can undergo the test simultaneously.

“I’m going, Master.”
“Just as usual, Hom—no need to overdo it.”

After seeing Hom off, I climbed into Arkecius for the first time in a while. The murmurs from outside faded slightly once I was inside, but before long, an explosion of cheers erupted from the crowd.

Good grief. Judging by the class’ reaction, Hom would probably score a perfect 100.

“All right, Arkecius, let’s give it our best, too.”

As I spoke, I activated the mecha. Arkecius responded as if it were an extension of my own body, moving effortlessly in sync with me.

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