Ep 8. Selection

Rito and Lilith are discussing their battle in the previous episode when the school raises the barrier that separates them from the rest of the world. This indicates that the selection process for the upcoming festa is about to take place. Everybody is required to participate in the selection unless they have a valid reason. Rito and Lilith wonder if the festa would be a great opportunity to prove themselves to the school.

The selection process requires students to compete against each other in various events, such as hand-to-hand combat, target shooting, obstacle courses, and magic casting. Participating in these events helps determine which students will participate in the festa as a representative of their class.

However, there's a catch. The students require a partner to participate in the festa. Also, the partners are predetermined by the school administration. So, whoever doesn't have a partner is automatically disqualified from participating in the festa. Rito, Lilith, and the other students realize quickly they must form partnerships if they are to participate in the festa.

Several students ask others to be their partner, but most of them end up being rejected. Rito asks his partner, Julie, but she already has someone in mind. Lilith is also looking for a partner, but nobody seems to be a good fit for her. Then, Imari, a new student, approaches Lilith and asks her to be his partner. Lilith declines his offer, but Imari persists. He explains to her that he is good in magic casting and can support her well in battle. After considering his offer for a while, Lilith agrees to be his partner.

Rito and Lilith continue to practice their battle skills, and Lilith tries to teach Rito some new moves. However, Rito is still struggling with magic casting, which could be a problem during the events. Lilith becomes worried about their performance, and Rito feels like he is letting Lilith down.

The day of the selection arrives, and the students gather in the school's courtyard. Each event is announced, and the students are led to the respective locations. Lilith and Imari perform exceptionally well in magic casting and finish the event with an impressive score. Rito, on the other hand, struggles with target shooting and hand-to-hand combat.

Despite Rito's struggles, he and Lilith make it through the selection and qualify for the festa. It is revealed that Rito was chosen for his exceptional skills in defense, which will allow him to protect Lilith during battle. Lilith is overjoyed that Rito was chosen and praises him. Rito feels grateful for Lilith's encouragement and support.

The episode concludes with the students celebrating their success at a party. However, they are unaware of the obstacles that await them in the upcoming festa.